Best 20 things to do in Riga, Latvia

Step into the charming chaos of Riga and brace yourself for a wild ride of unforgettable experiences! Start your adventure with an epic stroll through the Old Town, where cobblestone streets will massage your feet as you dodge enthusiastic tourists armed with selfie sticks. For an offbeat thrill, hop on a local tram, an exhilarating opportunity to test your riding abilities while trying not to accidentally end up in Estonia. Wrap up your escapade with a visit to Riga Central Market, a sensory overload of tantalizing smells, loud vendors, and the ever-present risk of losing yourself in the maze of endless stalls. Brace yourself, Riga awaits!

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1. Latvian Museum of Pharmacy

4.5 (231)

Riharda Vāgnera iela 13, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to the Latvian Museum of Pharmacy in Riga, where historic herbs and hilarious health remedies await! Step inside to witness the medicinal marvels from yesteryears, where potions were concocted with a dash of "Eye of Newt" and "Unicorn Horns" - not for the fainthearted! Explore the wacky world of old-fashioned medicine, where you'll discover that laughter truly is the best medicine, especially when you learn that once upon a time, a sneeze was believed to be the soul trying to escape!

www.farmacijasmuzejs.lv

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2. Riga Central Market

4.3 (41044)

Nēģu iela 7, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to Riga Central Market, a bustling paradise where souvenirs, fresh produce, and the occasional stolen gnome can all be found under one roof. Get ready to embark on a journey through energetic aisles filled with treats that range from mouthwatering Latvian delicacies to a mysterious assortment of socks that seemingly materialize out of thin air. Just make sure to keep an eye out for the infamous group of pigeons who have mastered the art of shoplifting; it's like the Ocean's Eleven of the avian world!

www.rct.lv

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3. Jurmala Beach

4.6 (1656)

Gulf of, Rīga, LV-2015, Latvia

Welcome to Jurmala Beach in Riga, the perfect destination for beach enthusiasts who want to relax whilst dodging seagulls hell-bent on stealing their potato chips. With its stretch of golden sand that goes on for miles, Jurmala Beach offers visitors the chance to perfect their sandcastle-building skills or simply bury their unwanted souvenir fridge magnets. Don't be fooled by the chilly Baltic Sea though, swimming here is reserved for those with Baltic levels of boldness, or well-insulated wetsuits.

www.visitjurmala.lv

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4. Riga Zoo

4.5 (17514)

Meža prospekts 1, Ziemeļu rajons, Rīga, LV-1014, Latvia

Welcome to Riga Zoo, where animals roam freely, and visitors are given the illusion of actually being in Jumanji! Here, you can witness penguins waddle their way through the crowds of bewildered tourists, while orangutans masterfully mimic the confused expressions of lost travelers. Prepare yourself for the ultimate wildlife encounter, as the zookeepers organize daily games of hide-and-seek with the elusive Siberian tigers - adding some unexpected excitement to your visit!

www.rigazoo.lv

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5. Miera iela

Miera iela, Rīga, Latvia

Welcome to Miera iela, a fantastic street smack in the heart of Riga that exudes an irresistible charm. Prepare to be greeted by an eccentric mix of quaint boutiques, hip cafes, and street art that will make even the grumpiest traveler crack a smile. Don't be surprised if you stumble upon a karaoke bar where locals belt out tunes that could potentially break the sound barrier - just grab a microphone and join the cacophony!

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6. Latvian War Museum

4.5 (3277)

Smilšu street, Smilšu iela 20, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to the Latvian War Museum in Riga – where history buffs unite, and even casual visitors transform into passionate war-time investigators faster than you can say "military strategy!" This treasure trove of knowledge boasts a stunning collection of weaponry from ages past, which will make you feel like you've climbed into a time machine and landed in the midst of a medieval battlefield – minus the risk of getting sliced by a genuine 15th-century sword. Prepare to channel your inner Indiana Jones because this museum promises to unearth tales of heroism, jaw-dropping battles, and even the occasional historical fashion disaster.

www.karamuzejs.lv

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7. House of the Blackheads

4.6 (7805)

Rātslaukums 7, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to the House of the Blackheads in Riga, where a delightful blend of quirky history and architectural grandeur awaits your curious eyes! Don't be fooled by the name; these Blackheads were not some dubious skincare enthusiasts, but rather a fraternity of unmarried merchants, who, like most when left unsupervised, constructed a jaw-droppingly intricate Gothic-style building. Prepare to be bedazzled by the stunning façade adorned with more decorative features than an aunt's living room during Christmas! Step inside the House of the Blackheads and brace yourself for an interior more sumptuously decorated than a castle belonging to a Renaissance-era diva. Marvel at the ornate chandeliers, velvet-draped walls, and golden carvings that scream "chic—17th-century style!" Listen discreetly to your tour guide's stories of lavish parties thrown in the Great Hall, while imagining zealous merchants frolicking around, possibly profiting from their - ahem - ingenious trading ventures. As you exit this architectural gem, spare a thought for the poor Blackheads, who, over time, were probably desperately trying to scrub off the blackheads through misunderstood marketing. Regardless, they left us with this splendid building, proving that even medieval societies had their peculiar sense of humor and style. Now, venture forth, dear traveler, and continue your exploration of Riga, where comedic history awaits at every cobblestoned corner!

melngalvjunams.lv

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8. National Library of Latvia

4.6 (1000)

Mūkusalas iela 3, Zemgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1423, Latvia

Nestled in the heart of Riga lies the National Library of Latvia, a bookworm's paradise that promises more adventure than a suspense novel. This architectural marvel, also known as the "Castle of Light," is sure to light up your vacation with its impressive glass facade that will have you questioning whether you've stepped into a fantasy realm. Explore the library's vast collection of books and have a riveting "read-off" with your friends, or simply sit back and soak in the magnificence of this bibliophile's dreamland.

www.lnb.lv

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9. Latvian National Museum of Art

4.7 (4031)

Jaņa Rozentāla laukums 1, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1010, Latvia

Welcome to the Latvian National Museum of Art in Riga, where art meets quirky charm! Set in a regal building that looks like it could moonlight as an eccentric wizard's castle, this museum is an artistic haven waiting to be explored. Upon entering, you'll find yourself amidst a sea of paintings that will make you question whether the artists had more paint or imagination at their disposal. So, gear up for a hilarious journey through Latvian art, where even the wildest dreams of Salvador Dali seem like mere child's play!

www.lnmm.lv

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10. Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum

4.6 (4464)

Brīvdabas iela 21, Rīga, LV-1024, Latvia

Welcome to the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum in Riga! This delightful outdoor treasure trove allows you to step back in time, minus the pesky time machine. Roam through charming thatched-roof houses, feeling like an extra in a historical movie, but with free admission - so it won't put a dent in your wallet or your royal status wannabe dreams. Get ready to transport yourself to a Latvian Shire, minus the hobbits and magical rings (but if you have any, please refrain from using them on the locals).

brivdabasmuzejs.lv

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11. Riga Motor Museum

4.8 (8785)

Sergeja Eizenšteina iela 8, Vidzemes priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1079, Latvia

Welcome to Riga Motor Museum, where marvelous machines gracefully gather to impress even the most stubborn speed-o-phobes. This vehicular paradise, situated in Latvia's vibrant capital, calls forth motoring enthusiasts with its splendid display of vintage automobiles, unveiling a rich tapestry of automotive history that will leave you more car-crazy than a Bugatti on steroids! Whether you're a gearhead or just a mere mortal with a passing fancy for cool cars, this museum guarantees a rev-tastic adventure that'll make you want to embrace your inner speed demon.

www.motormuzejs.lv

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12. Old Town Riga

Vecrīga, Central District, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to Old Town Riga, where centuries-old cobblestone streets will not only charm your shoes, but also provide an excellent cardio workout! As you explore this compact area, marvel at the vibrant colored buildings, which may or may not be the result of local painters indulging in extra paint leftovers after they finished their works of art. Don't forget to keep an eye out for medieval churches, because nothing says "I'm in Old Town" like accidentally stumbling upon a 13th-century cathedral while searching for an ice cream shop!

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13. Latvian Academy of Sciences

4.4 (368)

Akadēmijas laukums 1, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to the Latvian Academy of Sciences in the lively city of Riga! Dubbed the "Supreme House of Wisdom" by locals (well, at least in our wild imagination), this majestic building stands tall and proud like a scholarly giant in the heart of the city. With its breathtaking Soviet-style architecture, it's the perfect place to marvel at the impressive facade and perhaps even imagine yourself as a genius of Latvian science, sporting the trendiest lab coat to hit the Baltic fashion scene.

www.lza.lv

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14. Art Nouveau District

4.7 (1170)

Alberta iela 13, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1010, Latvia

Welcome to the Art Nouveau District in Riga, where buildings put the "extra" in extraordinary! Brace yourself for a delightful overdose of whimsical facades, as if architects had a rowdy pajama party and unleashed their wildest dreams upon unsuspecting streets. Walking here is like diving headfirst into a visual explosion of swirling curves, tantalizing motifs, and the occasional statue that looks suspiciously like a disgruntled cherub saying, "Why am I even here?"

www.jugendstils.riga.lv

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15. St. Peter's Church

4.6 (5776)

Reformācijas Laukums 1, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Nestled amidst the charming streets of Riga, St. Peter's Church stands tall like a seasoned legend, winking at passersby with its enchanting medieval charm. With its spire reaching for the skies like a perpetually curious giraffe, you can't help but wonder if it's searching for cosmic secrets. Inside, be prepared to marvel at the impressive collection of ancient artifacts, which include everything from dusty hymn books to mysteriously missing socks of long-departed monks.

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16. Vermanes Park

4.6 (9846)

Tērbatas iela 2D, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to Vermanes Park, Riga's very own little secret garden where whimsy meets nature! Take a stroll through this delightful green oasis and discover locals sunbathing on the grass (nope, no shirtless mermen) or indulging in intense chess battles so fierce even the pigeons are taking notes. With its charming fountains, cozy benches, and the occasional majestic squirrel acrobatics, this park promises a delightful escape from the daily hustle, unless you count dodging Frisbees as an acceptable cardio workout!

www.riga.lv

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17. Riga Castle

4.3 (4441)

Pils laukums 3, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to Riga Castle, where fairy tales merge with reality! Located in the charming city of Riga, this castle is the definition of history meets quirkiness. Prepare to step back in time as you explore the medieval fortress, where knights once roamed and kings pretended they were invincible (until reality proved them otherwise). Marvel at the stunning architecture while secretly hoping to stumble upon a hidden dungeon, just in case you feel like playing princess or knight for a day!

www.president.lv

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18. Riga Cathedral

4.6 (4951)

Herdera laukums 6, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to Riga Cathedral, the majestic sanctuary that makes all other buildings around feel incredibly inadequate in terms of height. Built with bricks that defy gravity, this architectural masterpiece is where fairytales come to life – just don't expect any princesses or wicked witches to greet you at the entrance. Inside, you'll find yourself immersed in an atmosphere that's both divine and peaceful, interrupted only by the occasional mischievous pigeon who might try to swindle your lunch.

www.doms.lv

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19. Freedom Monument

4.7 (8998)

Central District, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to the marvelous Freedom Monument in the lively city of Riga, where even statues know how to make a statement! This towering monument, an absolute superstar in Latvia, effortlessly showcases a mix of architectural styles that tells a tale of confusion, making it a must-see for lovers of architectural chaos. Climb the stairs for a bird's eye view of the city, but be warned, this monument doesn't grant any magical powers, so no flying lessons here!

www.latvia.travel

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20. Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

4.2 (1198)

Latviešu strēlnieku laukums 1, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Welcome to the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia in picturesque Riga! Step into a time machine that'll whisk you away to an era when occupying forces were as abundant as seagulls begging for food at the beach. This museum chronicles Latvia's tumultuous past with impressive exhibits that make even the most blasé traveler exclaim, "Whoa, now that's a lot of tanks!"

okupacijasmuzejs.lv

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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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