Budget-Friendly Fun: 2 Days in Vibrant Riga

Experience the charm of Riga on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

A trip to Riga, Latvia on a limited budget can still be enjoyable and memorable. The city boasts plenty of free and affordable activities, such as exploring the Art Nouveau district or wandering through the central market. Accommodations can be found in budget-friendly hostels or Airbnb rentals, and local street food is both tasty and inexpensive.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Old Town Wandering

  • Stay at Seagulls Garret Hostel, a charming budget option with a great location in the Old Town.
  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Rocket Bean Roastery, a cozy cafe with a rustic vibe.
  • Explore the picturesque Old Town, full of quirky streets, stunning architecture, and hidden alleyways.
  • Admire the famous House of the Blackheads and climb its tower for panoramic views of the city.
  • Stop by the Riga Central Market for a taste of local fruits, veggies, meats, and cheeses.
  • Head to Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs in the evening, a rowdy cellar tavern with live music and cheap beer.
Day 2

Art and Parks

  • Have a leisurely breakfast at MiiT Coffee, a hipster cafe with great coffee and brunch options.
  • Visit the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia to learn about the country's turbulent 20th-century history.
  • Stroll around the Art Nouveau district and marvel at the ornate facades of the buildings.
  • Take a break in the tranquil Bastejkalna Dārzs Park, with its lush greenery and stunning fountains.
  • Enjoy a lunch of hearty Latvian cuisine at Milda, a cozy restaurant with classic decor.
  • End the day with a sunset walk on the city's waterfront, admiring the stunning views of the Daugava River.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Riga, Latvia by plane is to fly into Riga International Airport (RIX) with various airlines such as Air Baltic, Ryanair or Wizzair, from major cities like London, Madrid or Berlin.

Car

The easiest way to get to Riga, Latvia by car is by driving through Lithuania and traveling along the A2/E272 highway. Alternatively, one can also get to Riga through Estonia by crossing over the border on the E67 highway.

Train

Although there is no direct train to Riga, you can take the train to the closest city across the border in Lithuania, and then take a bus or taxi to Riga. The closest train station is in Šeštokai, Lithuania.

Boat

One can take a ferry from Stockholm in Sweden to Riga by using the services of Tallink or Stena Line. The ferry arrives into Riga Passenger Terminal.

Bus

The best way to get to Riga, Latvia by bus is to take an international bus from major European cities such as Berlin or Warsaw run by companies such as Ecolines or Lux Express which has a stop in Riga Central Bus Station.

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