Sights of Riga - 9 things to do in Riga

Writer: Helena Bergström

Riga is just a short boat ride or flight from Stockholm - perfect for a weekend or mini break! But which of Riga's attractions are not to be missed? We've visited this beautiful city several times and now we're gathering our tips for things to see and do in Riga.

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What is there to see and do in Riga?

Riga is a capital city that is perfect for a city break and can be visited all year round. There are beautiful buildings, good food, great spas and interesting shopping. Best of all, it's not too expensive, but relatively affordable. Today we offer our top tips on Riga's attractions, as well as nine things to see and do in Riga.

1. See the view from St Peter's Church

St Peter's Church dates back to the 13th century and has seen its fair share of events. The church was Catholic before it became Protestant, and the tower has been struck by lightning six times, causing it to collapse twice. Today, there is a lift so that you can go up to the viewing platform at a height of 72 metres. From here, you have a superb view of central Riga and its surroundings.

2. Admire the Freedom Monument

The Freedom Monument is one of Riga's landmarks and commemorates the soldiers who were killed during the Latvian War of Independence (1918-20). The 42-metre-high monument is now an important symbol of Latvia's freedom, independence and sovereignty. The Bastejkalns park area is also located here.

3. see the beautiful Jugendhusen

Jugend, or Art Nouveau as it is also known, is a style of architecture and design that was popular between 1890 and 1920. The style can be recognised in all shapes that resemble winding plants or perhaps slender female figures, on furniture and house facades.

Latvia's capital stands out in terms of Jugend architecture, and there is no other city on the Baltic Sea that can boast as many beautiful houses in this style in comparison.

The explanation for all Youth centre in Riga is that the city doubled its population at the end of the 19th century. The new residents naturally needed housing, and since Art Nouveau was modern, that's how they built.

It's relatively easy to spot these beautiful facades in Riga, but if you want to see some extra beautiful examples, head to Alberta Street, where they are located close together. You'll also find the Riga Art Museum nearby.

4. go to the spa

There are plenty of wonderful luxury spas in Riga, and the advantage is, of course, that the prices are lower than in Sweden. There are many different spas to choose from, and we have tried ESPA Spa, located in the Radisson Blue hotel.

This is an exclusive six-storey venue with a fitness centre, swimming pool, whirlpool, sauna, relaxation area and various treatments such as massages. One of the most delightful experiences was the whirlpool, where you can swim out and lie under the open sky. Great!

5. Enjoy locally produced food

Local ingredients and modern restaurants – Latvia has come a long way when it comes to food. When visiting this country 25 years ago, there was little variety on the menus, and the food served was intended to fill you up rather than satisfy your taste buds. Today, Riga is a city for modern foodies, with exciting and creative menus made from local and often organic ingredients.

There are many good and interesting restaurants in Riga. Since the prices are lower than at home, you can also treat yourself to some more luxurious restaurants.If you want tips on restaurants, please read our posts below:

READ MORE: 3 fantastic restaurants in Riga

6. shopping

Shopping for clothes and accessories is perhaps something you want to take the opportunity to do in Riga. There are quite a few large shopping centres in the city, such as Galerija Centrs, Galleria Riga, Origo and Spice. In these modern shopping centres, you will find both large chains that you recognise and some chains or shops that may be new to you.

There is also a cheap shopping centre next to the food market, and we enjoy browsing here. Most of the stalls here speak Russian and you can find clothes, shoes and bags for cheap.

7. Check out the food market

Riga's food market is located in several large halls, which were originally built as hangars for zeppelins. Today, this place is dedicated to selling food, and it is actually Europe's largest food market in terms of area. In addition to meat, fish, cheese and vegetables, you will find local specialities such as locally produced fresh cheese, lightly salted cucumbers and traditional rye bread. You can also find knitted mittens and other handicrafts.

8. Go to a Christmas market

Riga's Christmas markets are worth mentioning, even though it may seem a little strange to talk about Christmas markets at this time of year. Christmas markets These are quite small, but on the other hand there are three, one in the Old Town, one in Livu Square and one on the Esplanade. These are definitely worth visiting.

At all three Christmas markets you will find charming little stalls selling knitted mittens, all kinds of handicrafts and locally produced delicacies such as honey, jam and sausages. Here you can also try the famous and strong Latvian drink 'Black Balsam'. And if you can't find it here - you can find it at the Black Magic bar!

9. Take a boat trip on the Daugava River

The Daugava River is a 1,200-kilometre-long river that flows from the Valdai Hills in Russia, through Belarus, and then through the Gulf of Riga and into the Baltic Sea. The Daugava was used by the Vikings in the early Middle Ages to reach the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Today, there are plenty of tourist boats, and you can take a river tour lasting a few hours to see Riga from a different angle.

More to see and do in Riga

Of course, there is also more to see and do in Riga. Here are some more tips for activities if you have time to spare.

• The Russian Orthodox cathedral Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ
• Buildings House of the Black Heads, which is a replica of a historic Gothic-style building that once housed the city's squire.
• One way to experience the sights of Riga is, of course, to join the guided tours. Different themes include culinary tours, ghost tours and Soviet history.
• Visit the famous rooftop bar on the 26th floor of the city centre. Hotel Latvijas.
• Learn more about chocolate at Laima Chocolate Museum.
• Make a excursion to Jūrmala, where there are long sandy beaches and spas.

By motorhome to Latvia

This time we did not travel by motorhome to Latvia, but we would like to explore the whole of Latvia by motorhome in the future. Finally, we offer a photo from one of the paintings in the tunnel at the food market, showing a very adventurous motorhome.

Facts about Riga

• Country: Latvia (Riga is the capital of Latvia)
• Landscape: Livonia
• Region: Republic of Riga
• River: Daugava
• Population: 641 000 (2017)
• Location: Riga is located on the Daugava River, near its mouth on the Gulf of Riga in the Baltic Sea. 
• World Heritage: The Old Town of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travelling to Riga

• Flight: There are direct flights from Stockholm, including Norwegian, SAS and Air Baltic. The flight time is just over an hour.
• FerryYou can also travel by ferry from Stockholm to Riga with Tallink Silja Line.