Riga-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Riga Itinerary: Exploring Latvia’s Charming Capital

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Latvian (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
  • Best time to visit: May-September for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
  • Visa requirements: Check with your country’s embassy regarding visa requirements.

Transportation:

  • Riga Public Transport: Efficient and affordable tram, bus, and trolleybus network. Purchase a “e-talons” card for convenient travel.
  • Walking: Riga is a very walkable city, especially the Old Town.
  • Taxis: Available but can be expensive.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hostel Riga, Wellton River Hotel & Spa
  • Mid-range: Hotel Neiburgs, Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel
  • Luxury: Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga, Hotel de Rome

Day 1: Historic Charm of the Old Town

  • Morning: Explore the cobblestone streets and medieval architecture of the Old Town. Visit St. Peter’s Church for panoramic views, House of the Blackheads (historical guild house), and Riga Cathedral.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the charming alleyways and discover hidden courtyards.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Folkklubs ALA Pagrabs (traditional Latvian cuisine) followed by a stroll along the Daugava River.

Day 2: Art Nouveau & Green Spaces

  • Morning: Admire the stunning Art Nouveau architecture on Alberta Street and Elizabetes Street. Visit the Riga Art Nouveau Museum for insights into the movement’s history.
  • Afternoon: Relax in the peaceful Vermanes Garden, enjoy a coffee break at a café, or visit the Latvian National Museum of Art.
  • Evening: Catch a performance at the Latvian National Opera or enjoy live music at one of Riga’s many bars and clubs.

Day 3: Market Delights & Soviet Legacy

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Central Market, exploring its diverse stalls selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and handicrafts.
  • Afternoon: Visit the KGB Building (Museum of the Occupation of Latvia) for a glimpse into Latvia’s Soviet past.
  • Evening: Indulge in Latvian cuisine at Lido (buffet-style restaurant) or enjoy craft beers at Labietis Brewery.

Day 4: Day Trip to Jurmala

  • Take a train from Riga to Jurmala, a charming seaside resort town known for its sandy beaches and wooden architecture.
  • Explore the Dzintari Forest Park, relax on the beach, or visit the Jurmala City Museum.

Day 5: Latvian History & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia to learn about the country’s turbulent history during World War II and Soviet rule.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, showcasing traditional Latvian rural life and architecture.

Day 6: Hidden Gems & Local Experiences

  • Morning: Discover Riga’s hidden gems, such as the Art Deco gems on Brivibas Street or the quirky Spīķeri Quarter (former warehouses now transformed into cultural spaces).
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Latvian dishes.

Day 7: Farewell & Shopping

  • Morning: Stroll through the Old Town one last time, pick up souvenirs at local shops and markets.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a farewell lunch at Milda (delicious Latvian pastries) before departing from Riga.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Latvian phrases – locals appreciate the effort.
  • Pack for all types of weather as Latvia can experience sudden changes.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions against theft.
  • Try black balsam, a traditional Latvian herbal liqueur.
  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and live music scene in Riga.