Riga: attractions, restaurants, itineraries

Cozy Riga - the pearl of the Baltics

The enchanting Riga is located on the shores of the Baltic Sea and divided into two parts by the River Daugava. Riga is one of the best places for a romantic weekend getaway or a family vacation. To understand and feel the atmosphere of this city, it’s enough to visit its main square. The ancient "gingerbread" houses, St. Peter's Cathedral, the statue of Roland, a symbol of Latvia's independence, and the Cathedral of St. Mary - all are attractions of Riga that every traveler should see.

The capital of Latvia seems to be specially designed for leisurely strolls through medieval streets and conversations over a cup of coffee. But what truly makes Riga unique is the ease with which one can combine sightseeing with beach leisure. The city beaches are wide and clean, some even awarded the Blue Flag. In the summer, the coast is dotted with tourists, but in autumn and spring, one can walk along the deserted beach, breathing in the cool sea air.

If you want to diversify your visit with a trip to a museum, then consider the National History Museum of Latvia and the National Art Museum.

When to go?

To fully enjoy your visit to Riga, including sunbathing on the beach and splashing in the Baltic Sea, it's best to choose the summer months for your trip, when the thermometer typically reaches an average of +25°C (77°F). However, if you’re not interested in sunbathing, and plan to dedicate your time to exploring the culture and historical sights of Riga, then spring months and early autumn would be the most comfortable.

Winter in the city is quite cold and damp. The temperature drops due to cold air masses from the sea. But if the cold doesn't deter you, then consider visiting Riga during the Christmas holidays.

What to buy?

Shopping in Riga hails from the Soviet Union era. Back then, everyone dreamed of Latvian cosmetics, stocked up on Rigan sprats for the New Year's table, and adorned their sideboard with a bottle of Riga Balsam. These legendary products have not lost their relevance today.

True Rigan sprats, of a rich golden color, made from fresh Baltic fish and neatly arranged in cans, are sold everywhere in the Latvian capital - from small grocery stores and markets to large supermarkets.

Among the must-buys is cosmetics from the company "Dzintars." Many stores in Riga specialize in the sale of this brand's cosmetic products. An unchanging symbol of the city and Latvia as a whole is the Riga Balsam. This alcoholic beverage is attributed with medicinal properties, as it consists of an infusion of various local herbs. Look for antiques at the flea market in the Latgale area, while traditional souvenirs are sold in shops and stalls near the main attractions.

What to try?

The culinary capital of Latvia goes far beyond just sprats. The menu of Riga's restaurants boasts an impressive selection of fish dishes. Locals love herring prepared in various ways. It's fried with vegetables, marinated, made into sandwiches, and salads. Smoked fish is particularly popular among tourists: salmon, eel, flounder, cod. Thanks to special preparation methods, these smoked delicacies can be enjoyed during the trip and even taken home.

Latvian rye bread deserves special attention. It is made in its classic form and with various additions: dried fruits, nuts, seeds. Rye bread is used to prepare soups, appetizers, and even desserts.

In authentic Latvian cuisine restaurants, you will certainly be offered dishes with forest mushrooms and berries, blood sausage, meat steaks, and charcoal fish. For dessert, head to the nearest supermarket - there you will definitely find the legendary Karums sweet cheese curds.

Where to stay?

In the Latvian capital, there are plenty of hotels and hostels for all tourists. The city is among the most popular destinations in Europe, and there's always a demand for the best hotel rooms. That's why it's advisable to book a hotel in Riga in advance when planning a trip here.

For the most demanding travelers, there are numerous 4 and 5-star hotels in the center of Riga. Luxury hotels will cost on average 150-200 euros per night. A budget-friendly option is hostels, which you can easily find both in the Old Town and in other districts. The middle ground is represented by 2 and 3-star hotels.