Riga-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Charms of Riga

This itinerary offers a balanced mix of history, culture, gastronomy, and relaxation to make your Riga trip unforgettable.

Things To Know:

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Latvian (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
  • Best Time to Visit: May-September for pleasant weather. December for Christmas markets.
  • Getting Around: Riga is walkable, with efficient public transport (buses, trams, trolleybuses). Consider purchasing a Riga Pass for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.

Accommodation Recommendation:

  • Boutique Hotel Neiburgs: Charming, centrally located with historical charm.
  • Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & SPA Hotel: Modern hotel with stunning city views and spa facilities.

Day 1: Old Town Charm

  • Morning: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Riga’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Admire the colorful Art Nouveau architecture, including the House with Cats and Alberta Street.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Latvian cuisine at “Folkklubs ALA Pagrabs,” known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious dishes like potato pancakes (cepelīni) and grey peas with bacon (pelēkie zirņi ar speķi).
  • Afternoon: Visit St. Peter’s Church for panoramic city views. Explore Riga Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
  • Evening: Dine at “Vincents,” an elegant restaurant offering modern Latvian cuisine with seasonal ingredients.

Day 2: Art Nouveau & Market Delights

  • Morning: Take a guided walking tour focusing on Riga’s stunning Art Nouveau district. Marvel at intricate facades and decorative elements.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a quick bite at “Central Market,” one of Europe’s largest markets housed in repurposed Zeppelin hangars. Sample local cheeses, fresh produce, and smoked fish.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Latvian National Museum of Art for an overview of Latvian art history. Alternatively, explore the unique KGB Building museum for a glimpse into Latvia’s Soviet past.
  • Evening: Experience Riga’s nightlife scene with a visit to “Skyline Bar,” offering breathtaking city views and signature cocktails.

Day 3: Parks & Relaxation

  • Morning: Escape the hustle and bustle with a leisurely walk through Bastejkalna Park, Riga’s green heart. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and admire the fountains.
  • Lunch: Have a picnic lunch in the park or try “Lido,” a traditional Latvian self-service restaurant with affordable and tasty dishes.
  • Afternoon: Relax at one of Riga’s numerous spas. Consider “Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & SPA Hotel” for luxurious treatments.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at “Milda,” a popular Latvian restaurant known for its cozy ambiance and classic dishes like pork knuckle and blood sausage.

Day 4: Day Trip to Jurmala

  • Morning: Take a train (30-minute ride) to Jurmala, Latvia’s charming seaside resort town.
  • Afternoon: Stroll along the sandy beaches, soak up the sun, or take a refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea. Explore the charming wooden architecture of Jurmala’s historic district.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Jurmala’s many seafood restaurants. Consider “Restorāns Dzintari” for fresh catches and stunning sea views.

Day 5: Farewell to Riga

  • Morning: Visit the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, a unique outdoor museum showcasing traditional Latvian rural life.

  • Lunch: Enjoy a final Latvian meal at “Kalnciema kvartāls,” a complex offering various culinary options in a charming setting.

  • Afternoon: Depart from Riga International Airport (RIX).

Tips:

  • Purchase the Riga Pass for free public transport and discounts on attractions.
  • Learn a few basic Latvian phrases – locals appreciate the effort.
  • Embrace the local culture: try black balsam, Latvia’s traditional herbal liqueur.
  • Be prepared for unpredictable weather; pack layers and an umbrella.