Riga on a Budget: Uncover the Magic

Explore the charming city of Riga without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

With its charming medieval Old Town and vibrant nightlife, Riga is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers. Stay in a hostel or budget hotel and explore the city on foot or by public transport to save money. Enjoy local cuisine at affordable prices and don't miss out on free attractions like the Latvian National Museum of Art and St. Peter's Church observation deck for panoramic views of the city.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Heart of Riga

  • Start your day off with a stroll through Old Town, marveling at the medieval architecture and colorful buildings.
  • Visit the iconic House of Blackheads and learn about its unique history as a guildhall for unmarried German merchants.
  • Head to the Art Nouveau District for a glimpse of Riga's beautiful and ornate buildings, featuring a unique mix of styles from the early 1900s.
  • For a budget-friendly lunch, grab some traditional Latvian snacks from a local market or eatery, like potato pancakes or a hearty bowl of pea soup.
  • Spend the afternoon wandering around the Central Market, one of Europe's largest and most impressive indoor markets. Browse the stalls for local produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
  • Finish off your day by taking in a stunning sunset view of the city from the top of St. Peter's Church, which is free to access on Mondays.

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.

More travel plans

Escape to Romance: 4 Days in Riga

Riga, Latvia is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, with stunning architecture, cozy cafes, and a rich history. Take a stroll through Old Town and admire the pastel buildings, visit the infamous Riga Central Market for local delicacies, and relax in one of the many spa centers. End the day with a romantic dinner at a traditional Latvian restaurant and sample some delicious food and drink.

Experience the Best of Riga in 4 Days!

As a tourist, a trip to Riga, Latvia promises to be an exciting journey filled with diverse cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the city's rich history by visiting old landmarks like the Riga Castle and the House of the Blackheads. Additionally, they can immerse themselves in the city's lively nightlife scene, enjoy local cuisine and indulge in the unique architecture that blends traditional and modern styles.

Budget-Friendly Fun: 2 Days in Vibrant Riga

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.

2-days of Culture, History, and Fun in Riga

A trip to Riga, Latvia promises to leave any tourist in awe of its diverse culture, rich history, and stunning architecture. From the historic Old Town with its cobblestone streets and Gothic cathedrals to the modern Art Nouveau district, Riga offers a unique blend of old and new. The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to every taste.