Riga, Latvia
Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a charming city with picturesque old town, Art Nouveau architecture and vibrant nightlife. Known for its history, culture and delicious cuisine, Riga is a must-visit destination in the Baltics.
Trip to Riga, Latvia
Day 1: Arrival and Riga Central Market
Welcome to Riga, Latvia! On your first day, you can start by checking into your hotel and heading out to explore the city. Riga Central Market is an excellent place to start. It is the largest marketplace in the Baltics and offers a wide range of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and local crafts. The market is located in an old German zeppelin hangar, which adds to its unique touch. Here you will not only find the freshest local produce but also the atmosphere of a real Latvian market.
Day 2: Old Town Riga
Today you will explore the Old Town of Riga, which is the historic center of the city, and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area features unique architecture, as well as many restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops. Visit the Cathedral of Riga, the oldest church in the city, to take in breathtaking views of the Old Town and the Daugava River. You can also stroll around the district and explore different public spaces, such as Livu Square, where you can feel the vibe of the city.
Day 3: Art Nouveau District
Today you will visit the Art Nouveau District, which has the largest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture in the world. The streets and buildings in this neighborhood are full of beautiful sculptures, colorful facades, and decorative elements that show the elegance of this architectural style. Visit the Museum of Art Nouveau, which is located in a restored 19th-century apartment, to learn more about the architecture and the style. The district is also home to many small boutiques and cafes, which make it a great place to grab lunch and go shopping.
Day 4: Jurmala Beach
Jurmala is one of the most beautiful beach resorts in Europe. Just a short train ride away from Riga, it is a fabulous spot for a day trip. This resort town has a long and wide expanse of white sand and crystal clear waters. Perfect for swimming and sunbathing, you can also opt to enjoy a spa treatment in one of the many world-class spas in the area. Later, you can visit one of the restaurants or beach cafes and enjoy a meal whilst watching the sunset.
Day 5: Riga Central Market and Beer Tasting
The Riga Central Market is one of the best markets in Europe and is worth visiting again. Browse through local cheese, smoked meats, seafood and more! After all, in the evening, you are going to take part in a unique beer tasting experience. You will learn about the history of beer making, different beer styles, and the best Latvian breweries. You will visit a selection of craft beer bars, where you can try various beer flavours, ranging from classics brewing to modern, new styles.
Day 6: Open-Air Art Museum
The Open-Air Art Museum is a place where the natural beauty of Latvia meets art in a big way. The museum features a massive collection of ethnographic architecture and art, along with old tools and craftwork. The open-air exhibition also presents temporary exhibitions, experiential activities, and events. You can walk around the museum, have a picnic in the garden, or enjoy a bath in a traditional Latvian sauna to relax.
Day 7: Latvian National Opera and Ballet
On your final day, you can plan a visit to the Latvian National Opera and Ballet, located in the historic city center. The opera house is known for its breathtaking architecture from the early 1860s and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Riga. Here you can catch an opera, ballet, or a classical music performance and experience the world-renowned Latvian opera culture. The ideal way to round off your Latvian trip.
