Riga on a Budget: Culture, Parks, and Flavors

Discover the charm of Riga without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Riga, Latvia on a limited budget is a perfect destination for budget-conscious travelers looking to experience Europe. The city is known for its charming architecture, rich history, and lively nightlife. With affordable accommodation options and a variety of free activities, a budget-friendly trip to Riga is easily achievable.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Old Riga

  • Check into Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel for a budget-friendly stay
  • Start the day at the vibrant Central Market, where you can sample local Latvian cuisine
  • Wander through the charming Old Town and marvel at the colorful architecture
  • Snap a photo at the iconic House of Blackheads
  • Learn about Latvian culture and history at the Museum of Occupation
  • End the day with a drink at Labietis, a unique brewery serving up creative beer flavors
Day 2

Art and Parks

  • Start the morning at the Art Nouveau Museum to admire the stunning architecture of the city
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque Bastejkalna Park and cross the charming bridges
  • Visit the Latvian National Museum of Art and marvel at the impressive collection
  • Stop by the charming Cat House, an iconic Riga building with a feline twist
  • Take in the views of the city from the top of St. Peter's Church
  • Dine on the terrace at Lido Alus Seta, a traditional Latvian restaurant with a great atmosphere
Day 3

Day Trips and Local Flavors

  • Take a day trip to Sigulda, where you can visit the picturesque Turaida Castle and adventure park
  • Stop by the small town of Ligatne and learn about the Soviet-era bunker hidden inside the hills
  • Sample traditional Latvian cuisine at Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs, located in the cellar of a historic building
  • Take a sunset walk along the Daugava River and watch the city light up
  • End the night with a drink at the trendy Bar Gunārs Kalniņš, a popular spot amongst locals
  • Riga is a city full of culture, history, and local flavors. From the colorful buildings of Old Town to the impressive art collections, there is something for everyone. Enjoy your stay on a budget at Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel, and make the most of your days exploring all that the city has to offer.

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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As a tourist in Riga, you can enjoy exploring the charming medieval Old Town with its cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Experience the bustling and colorful Central Market, offering a wide variety of local delicacies and goods. Finally, take a stroll along the picturesque canal that runs through the city and admire the stunning Art Nouveau architecture that Riga is famous for.

Riga, Latvia: A 2-Day Adventure for the Whole Family

Riga, Latvia is the perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with plenty of activities and sights to explore. Families can enjoy a visit to the Riga Zoo, home to over 4,000 animals from around the world, or take a stroll in the beautiful Jurmala Beach with its golden sands and shallow waters. Don't miss the chance to visit Riga's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where kids can marvel at the stunning architecture and join a guided tour to learn about the city's rich history.

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