Top sights to visit

• Art Nouveau District Walk down Alberta Street and look up to see the giant stone faces, screaming goddesses, and intricate floral patterns. Bring your wide angle lens to capture the most concentrated collection of Art Nouveau architecture in the world. These buildings are a bold testament to the wealth and creativity of Riga at the turn of the twentieth century.
• Central Market Hangars Wander through these five massive former Zeppelin hangars to see one of the largest markets in Europe. Try some local smoked fish or Latvian hemp butter from the specialty stalls. It is the buzzing, authentic heart of the city where you can see the real daily life of the residents.
• Saint Peters Spire Take the elevator to the top of the church tower for a three hundred and sixty degree view of the medieval old town and the Daugava River. Spot the different colors of the historic houses and the massive market hangars from above. This is the best place to orient yourself before you start exploring the cobblestone streets.
• House of the Blackheads Admire the ornate red brick facade and the astronomical clock on this reconstructed medieval guild house. Step inside to see the grand ballrooms where wealthy merchants once held their legendary parties. It is the most beautiful building in the Town Hall Square and a symbol of the Hanseatic past of Riga.
• The Three Brothers Find these three adjacent houses on Maza Pils Street to see how the residential architecture of Riga evolved over three hundred years. Notice how the oldest building has a tiny window, which was a sign of the heavy window taxes of the fifteenth century. They are a charming highlight that tells a story of local survival and urban growth.
• Kalnciema Wooden Quarter Visit this neighborhood on a Saturday to explore the local craft market held among beautifully restored wooden houses from the nineteenth century. Grab a glass of local cider and listen to live music in the orchard courtyard. It is a community focused spot that shows the traditional side of the city.
• The Freedom Monument Stand at the base of this forty two meter high obelisk to see the allegorical carvings representing Latvian culture and history. Watch the changing of the guard and notice the three gold stars held by the female figure at the top. It is the most sacred symbol of national independence in the country.
• Bastejkalna Park Canal Rent a small pedal boat or take a wooden boat tour to see the parks and bridges of the city from the water. Walk the winding paths up the Bastion Hill for a view of the city moat and the romantic bridges. This park is a lush green ribbon that separates the medieval old town from the nineteenth century center.
• The Swedish Gate Walk through the only remaining gate of the original city walls, built in 1698 during the period of Swedish rule. Look for the tiny ghost markings on the stone and imagine the city when it was a fortified military outpost. It is a quiet spot that feels like a portal back to the seventeenth century.
• Latvian National Library Cross the bridge to explore the Castle of Light, a stunning modern building that houses the literary treasures of the nation. Go to the top floor for a panoramic view of the Old Town skyline reflected in the river. It is a bold, intellectual landmark that represents the future of Latvia.
• Miera Iela Creative Street Go down Peace Street to discover independent art galleries, vintage shops, and the famous Laima chocolate factory. Stop for a coffee at a cafe that doubles as a bookstore or a record shop. This area has a relaxed artistic vibe that makes it the perfect place for a slow afternoon.
• Riga Motor Museum Drive to the outskirts of the city to see an incredible collection of vintage Soviet cars, including the armored limousine used by Stalin. Use the interactive displays to learn about the history of the auto industry in the Baltics. This museum is a world class destination for any road trip enthusiast or history buff.