2-Day Hidden Gems & Relaxing Shopping Experience in Riga, Latvia
Riga, Latvia
2 days
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.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Art Nouveau District and Kalnciema Quarter
Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to the Art Nouveau district, home to some of the best examples of this architectural style in the world. Take a leisurely walk and admire the intricate facades.
Lunch
Have lunch in a charming café in the Art Nouveau district. Enjoy a light meal of sandwiches or salads, paired with a cup of locally roasted coffee.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon in the Kalnciema Quarter, known for its beautifully restored wooden buildings. Visit the local market for some shopping, where you can find handmade crafts, organic food, and local art.
Dinner
Dine at a restaurant offering a fusion of Latvian and international cuisine. Try dishes like smoked eel, venison tartare, or quinoa salad with roasted vegetables.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Latvian National Opera for a performance. Enjoy the stunning architecture of the building and the world-class performances.
Attractions in Itinerary (7)
1Old Town
The historical center of Riga, filled with medieval buildings, churches, and narrow streets. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2Riga Cathedral
One of the oldest religious buildings in Latvia, known for its large organ and Gothic architecture.
3House of the Blackheads
One of the most iconic buildings in Riga, the House of the Blackheads is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It was originally built in the 14th century for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a guild for unmarried merchants.
4Central Market
One of the largest markets in Europe, offering a wide variety of food, clothing, and other goods.
5Art Nouveau district
A district known for its high concentration of Art Nouveau architecture.
6Kalnciema Quarter
A restored 19th-century wooden building complex, hosting a weekly market, concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural events.
7Latvian National Opera
Home to the Latvian National Opera and Ballet, offering a variety of performances throughout the year.
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.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Constituent Assembly Convocation Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labour Day/May Day |
May 4 | Sat | Independence Restoration Day |
May 6 | Mon | Independence Restoration Day observed |
May 12 | Sun | Mothers' Day |
May 19 | Sun | Whitsunday |
June 23 | Sun | Midsummer Eve |
June 24 | Mon | Midsummer Day |
November 18 | Mon | Republic of Latvia Proclamation Day |
December 24 | Tue | Christmas Eve |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Second Day of Christmas |
December 31 | Tue | New Year's Eve |
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.
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
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sweater or jacket (depending on the season)
Sleepwear
Swimwear (if planning to visit the beach or spa)
Weather-appropriate accessories (hat, gloves, sunglasses)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer
Travel-sized first aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal travel adapter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Bottled water
Travel guidebook for Riga
Notebook and pen
Reusable shopping bag
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
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. |
Did you know?
Places near by Riga, Latvia
Jurmala
Famous for its natural resources, resort hotels and villas.
Sigulda
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Cesis
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Salaspils Memorial Ensemble
A memorial to the victims of Fascism during World War II.
Liepaja
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Kuldiga
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Ventspils
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Rundale Palace
One of the most outstanding monuments of Baroque and Rococo art in Latvia.
Tartu
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Parnu
Popular summer holiday resort with many hotels, restaurants, and large beaches.