1-Day Outdoor Adventure with Friends in Riga for Locals

Riga, Latvia

1 days

Outdoor activities

Friends

For locals

View from the tower of St. Peter's Church

National Academic Opera and Ballet Theater house

About Riga, Latvia

Discover the charm of Riga, Latvia's vibrant capital, known for its rich history and culture. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Riga's Old Town, with its medieval architecture, cobblestone lanes, and iconic landmarks like the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral. Visit the Central Market for a taste of local delicacies. Enjoy the city's thriving arts scene, with a plethora of museums, galleries, and theaters. Take a leisurely stroll in the verdant parks or along the picturesque Daugava River. Don't miss the Art Nouveau district, showcasing one of the world's largest collections of Art Nouveau buildings. Riga's nightlife is equally enticing, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Experience the perfect blend of tradition and modernity in Riga, a city that promises an unforgettable journey.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Riga's Parks, Art, and Night View

Morning

Start your day with a brisk walk in the beautiful Mezaparks, one of the largest and greenest parks in Riga. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, take in the fresh air and admire the beautiful scenery. It's a great place to relax and unwind with friends.

Lunch

After a refreshing morning, head to a local restaurant in the city center. Try some traditional Latvian cuisine, such as rye bread, smoked fish, and grey peas with bacon. It's a great way to experience the local culture and taste.

Afternoon

Post lunch, visit the Latvian National Museum of Art. Explore the rich collection of classical and contemporary art. Later, take a leisurely stroll in the nearby park and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Dinner

For dinner, choose a restaurant that offers a variety of international cuisines. Whether you're in the mood for Italian, French, or Asian, you'll find plenty of options in the city center.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Freedom Monument, a symbol of Latvia's independence and sovereignty. It's beautifully lit up at night, making it a perfect spot for some evening photography. Then, take a leisurely stroll along the Daugava River and enjoy the beautiful night view of the city.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

1
Mezaparks

Mezaparks is one of the most prestigious residential areas in Riga and also a district where the beautiful Riga Zoo is located. It's a great place for leisure activities such as walking, biking, and picnicking. It's also known for the Dziesmu Hill, which hosts the Latvian Song and Dance Festival.

Parks

Neighborhoods

2
Latvian National Museum of Art

The museum holds the richest collection of national art in Latvia. It houses more than 52,000 works of art reflecting the development of professional art in the Baltic area and in Latvia from the middle of the 18th century till the present time.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

Architecture

3
Freedom Monument

Standing at 42 meters high, the Freedom Monument is a symbol of the freedom, independence, and sovereignty of Latvia. It's one of the most important landmarks in Riga.

Monuments

Landmarks

4
Daugava River

The Daugava River is a major river in Latvia, flowing through the heart of Riga. It offers beautiful views of the city's skyline and is a popular spot for boat tours.

Attractions

Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Rupjmaize

A traditional Latvian dark bread made from rye, it is a staple in Latvian cuisine and is often served with meals in Riga.

Piragi

A traditional Latvian pastry filled with bacon and onions, it is a popular snack or appetizer in Riga.

Rasols

A traditional Latvian salad made with potatoes, carrots, peas, pickles, and mayonnaise, it is a common dish in Riga.

Sklandrausis

A traditional Latvian dessert pie made with a rye crust and filled with potato and carrot, it is a unique sweet treat in Riga.

Kvass

A traditional Latvian fermented beverage made from rye bread, it is a popular non-alcoholic drink in Riga.

Jāņi cheese

A traditional Latvian cheese made with caraway seeds, it is often eaten during the midsummer festival in Riga.

Speķa pīrāgi

A traditional Latvian pastry filled with smoked bacon and onions, it is a popular snack or appetizer in Riga.

Zirņi ar speķi

A traditional Latvian dish made with peas and pork, it is a hearty meal often eaten in Riga during the winter.

Kāposti ar cūkgaļu

A traditional Latvian dish made with cabbage and pork, it is a common meal in Riga.

Biezpiena sieriņš

A traditional Latvian dessert made with curd cheese, it is a sweet treat often enjoyed in Riga.

Black Balsam

A traditional Latvian herbal liqueur, it is a popular alcoholic drink in Riga.

Maizes zupa

A traditional Latvian dessert made from rye bread, it is a unique sweet treat in Riga.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Riga, Latvia as a tourist is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September. During this period, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city's beautiful architecture, parks, and outdoor markets. The city also hosts numerous festivals and events during these months, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. However, if you're interested in winter sports or want to experience the city's Christmas markets, December to February is also a great time to visit.

How to get around

Walk

Riga's city center is compact and easily walkable. Most of the main attractions, including the Old Town, are within a short walking distance from each other.

Bicycle

Riga is a bike-friendly city with many bike lanes and bike rental services available. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

Public Bus

Riga's public bus system is extensive and reliable, covering the entire city and its suburbs. It's a cost-effective way to get around, especially for longer distances.

Tram

Trams in Riga are a convenient way to travel around the city. They run regularly and cover many of the main tourist areas.

Trolleybus

Trolleybuses are another form of public transport in Riga. They are similar to buses but are powered by overhead electric wires.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Riga and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or via a mobile app. They are a convenient but more expensive option for getting around.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services like Bolt are available in Riga. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can book a ride using a smartphone app.

Train

Riga's central train station offers connections to other parts of Latvia and beyond. It's a good option if you're planning to explore outside the city.

Boat

Boat tours are a unique way to see Riga, especially the city's beautiful waterfront. There are several companies offering river cruises on the Daugava River.

Car Rental

Renting a car can be a good option if you're planning to explore outside of Riga or prefer the flexibility of driving. However, parking in the city center can be challenging.

Airport Shuttle

For getting to and from Riga International Airport, there are regular shuttle services that provide a convenient and cost-effective transport option.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 03; Fire: 112, 01; Police: 112, 02

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Riga, Latvia as a first time visitor

1

The official language is Latvian, but English is widely spoken in Riga, especially by younger people and those working in tourism and hospitality.

2

Latvia is part of the European Union and uses the Euro as its currency.

3

Credit cards are widely accepted in Riga, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

4

Riga has a temperate seasonal climate. Summers (June to August) are warm with temperatures around 70°F (21°C), while winters (December to February) can be very cold with temperatures often below freezing, around 23°F (-5°C).

5

Tipping is customary in Latvia. It's typical to leave around 10% of the total bill in restaurants and cafes.

6

Public transportation in Riga is efficient and affordable. It includes buses, trams, and trolleybuses.

7

Riga is known for its Art Nouveau architecture. Don't forget to look up and around as you walk through the city.

8

Latvians are generally reserved and polite. It's important to respect their customs and traditions.

9

Riga is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

10

Latvia has a high standard of healthcare, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

11

Riga's tap water is safe to drink, and bottled water is readily available.

12

Latvia has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol.

13

Riga has a vibrant nightlife, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure.

14

Latvian cuisine is hearty and features a lot of meat, potatoes, and dairy products. Try local dishes like 'Rupjmaize' (dark rye bread) and 'Piragi' (bacon and onion stuffed rolls).

15

Riga's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a pedestrian-only zone, so be prepared to walk.

16

Latvia is one of the greenest countries in the world. Enjoy the parks and green spaces in Riga.

17

Riga has free Wi-Fi in many public areas, including parks, squares, and public transportation.

18

Latvians celebrate 'Jani' (Midsummer) with great enthusiasm. If you're visiting in late June, you may witness this unique cultural event.

19

Riga's Central Market is one of the largest in Europe. It's a great place to sample local food and buy souvenirs.

20

Latvia operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz. Make sure your devices are compatible or bring a travel adapter.

Basic Latvian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Sveiki	Svay-kee	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Uz redzēšanos	Ooz red-zeh-sha-nos	Leaving or saying goodbye
Please	Lūdzu	Lood-zoo	Making a request
Thank you	Paldies	Pal-dee-es	Expressing gratitude
Yes	Jā	Yaa	Agreeing or affirming
No	Nē	Neh	Disagreeing or denying
Excuse me	Atvainojiet	At-vai-no-yet	Getting attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Es atvainojos	Es at-vai-no-yos	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	Vai jūs runājat angļu?	Vai yus roo-na-yat ang-loo	Asking about language proficiency
I don't understand	Es nesaprotu	Es ne-sa-pro-too	Communication difficulties
Where is the bathroom?	Kur ir vannas istaba?	Koor eer vannas istaba	Asking for directions
How much does this cost?	Cik tas maksā?	Tsik tas mak-saa	Asking about price
Can I have the menu, please?	Vai varu saņemt ēdienkarti, lūdzu?	Vai varu sa-nyemt eh-dyen-karti, lood-zoo	At a restaurant
I would like...	Es gribētu...	Es gree-beh-too	Making a request
Water	Ūdens	Oo-dens	Ordering a drink
Beer	Alus	Alus	Ordering a drink
Wine	Vīns	Veehns	Ordering a drink
Help!	Palīdziet!	Pa-lee-dzyet	In an emergency
Call the police!	Zvaniet policijai!	Zva-nyet po-li-tsi-yai	In an emergency
Good night	Labu nakti	Laboo nakti	Saying goodbye in the evening

Packing List

Clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing
Warm sweater or jacket (depending on the season)
Raincoat or umbrella
Sunglasses
Hat or cap

Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
Travel-size body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Travel-size lotion or moisturizer
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Hand sanitizer

Travel documents and essentials
Passport or ID
Boarding passes or e-tickets
Hotel reservation confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contact information
Local currency (Euros)
Credit and debit cards

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Headphones or earbuds
Camera (optional)
Adapter plug (if needed)

Miscellaneous items
Snacks and water bottle
Travel guide or map of Riga
Notebook and pen
Travel pillow and eye mask
First-aid kit
Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

Riga, the capital of Latvia, experiences a temperate maritime climate, which means the weather can be quite unpredictable. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. The winter months, from December to February, can be quite chilly with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging between -6°C (21°F) and -2°C (28°F). Snow is common, so if you're planning a winter visit, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and boots. Spring, from March to May, sees a gradual increase in temperatures, ranging from 4°C (39°F) to 15°C (59°F). It's a beautiful time to visit as the city starts to bloom, but it can still be quite cool, especially in the evenings, so a medium-weight jacket is advisable. Summers, from June to August, are generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 22°C (72°F). However, it can occasionally get hotter, so it's a good idea to pack light clothing, but also a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or unexpected showers. Autumn, from September to November, can be quite wet, with temperatures dropping from 15°C (59°F) in September to around 2°C (36°F) in November. It's advisable to pack a waterproof jacket and umbrella. Riga is known for its high humidity levels year-round, which can make the weather feel colder in winter and hotter in summer. Therefore, layering is key to ensure comfort during your visit. Lastly, don't forget that Riga is a coastal city, so it can get quite windy. A windproof jacket can be a good addition to your suitcase, regardless of the season.

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	1° / -8°	January is the coldest month in Riga, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time for indoor activities and exploring the city's rich history.
February	1° / -8°	February is still quite cold in Riga, with temperatures similar to January. It's a good time to visit museums and enjoy the city's indoor attractions.
March	7° / -3°	March sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still chilly. The city starts to come alive with the onset of spring.
April	13° / 1°	April brings warmer weather, making it a good time to start exploring the city's outdoor attractions. The city's parks and gardens start to bloom.
May	18° / 6°	May is a pleasant month to visit Riga, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions and enjoy its vibrant nightlife.
June	22° / 10°	June is one of the warmest months in Riga, perfect for outdoor activities. The city's parks and gardens are in full bloom.
July	24° / 12°	July is the warmest month in Riga, with long, sunny days. It's a great time to visit the beach and enjoy outdoor festivals.
August	22° / 12°	August is still quite warm in Riga, making it a good time for outdoor activities. The city's festivals continue, and the beach is still a popular destination.
September	19° / 8°	September sees a slight drop in temperature, but it's still warm enough for outdoor activities. The city's parks and gardens start to show autumn colors.
October	14° / 4°	October brings cooler weather and the start of the autumn season. It's a good time to visit museums and enjoy the city's indoor attractions.
November	8° / 0°	November is quite cold in Riga, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit museums and enjoy the city's indoor attractions.
December	4° / -4°	December is a festive month in Riga, with the city beautifully decorated for the holiday season. It's a great time to explore the city's Christmas markets and enjoy its festive atmosphere.