8 Days in Riga: Unveiling the Hidden Gems of the Baltic Jewel

Bruce Buffer

19 Dec 2023

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting streets of Riga, where ancient history meets vibrant culture. Discover the captivating tales of Latvia's past, immerse yourself in architectural wonders, and savor the flavors of local cuisine. Get ready for an adventure like no other!

Trip to Riga

Get Your Guide

Viator

Day 1Unveiling Riga's Treasures: Central Market, Occupation Museum, and Powder Tower

Massive indoor/outdoor market with stalls selling fruits, veggies, cheese, meats & prepared dishes.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

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10 - 15 min

Directions

Educational space focused on the history of the occupation, plus archives & temporary exhibits.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

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7 - 10 min

Directions

Long-standing military history museum housed in a centuries-old fortification tower.

12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

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Free

Day 2Botanical Beauty and Majestic Landmarks: University Garden, Riga Castle, and St. Peter's Church

$10

$ 2

University botanical garden with an arboretum, plus a huge palm house & tropical butterflies.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

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Free

22 - 27 min

Directions

Home (!) backed cakes, Italian coffee, selection of international wines! The most romantic place for two...

No time set

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Free

Restored Neo-Classical Medieval castle with grand presidential apartments & a history museum.

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

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8 - 12 min

Directions

Imposing medieval church, dating from the 15th century, with a distinctive, 123m-high steeple.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

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13 - 20 min

Directions

Day 3Opera Charms and Architectural Marvels: Latvian National Opera, Cat House, and Three Brothers

$19

19th-century, neo-classical theater & home to the national opera & ballet companies.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

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$13

5 - 8 min

Directions

Built in 1909, this medieval-inspired building is known for its 2 cat sculptures on roof turrets.

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

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Free

4 - 5 min

Directions

Three Brothers, Latvian Museum of Architechture

Iconic trio of dwellings from the medieval era, also the site of the Latvian Museum of Architecture.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

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Day 4Cathedral Splendor and Artistic Delights: Riga Cathedral, The Small Guild, Bergs Bazaar

$17

Medieval Lutheran church with Romanesque, early Gothic & Baroque architectural features.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

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5 - 8 min

Directions

Completed in 1866, this Neo-gothic guild offers guided tours & music events in its grand hall.

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

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12 - 18 min

Directions

Renovated turn-of-the-century shopping arcade with stylish boutiques, chic dining & terrace cafes.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

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Free

12 - 18 min

Directions

Latvian Academy of Sciences Observation deck

City panoramas from a 17th-floor viewing platform atop a 1961 Stalinist-style building.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

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Day 5Monuments of History and Spiritual Serenity: House of the Black Heads, War Museum, and Freedom Monument

$13

Gothic-style property built in 1334, with medieval cellars & a presidential silver collection.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

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7 - 10 min

Directions

Free-admission military history museum in a 14th-c. tower, a remnant of the original city walls.

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

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5 - 8 min

Directions

42m statue dedicated to Latvians who lost their lives fighting for independence between 1918 & 1920.

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM

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Free

4 - 6 min

Directions

Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral

Orthodox cathedral dating to the 19th century with golden domes & ornate interior architecture.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

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Free

Day 6Wildlife Wonders and Art Nouveau Gems: Riga Zoo, Art Nouveau Center, and Architectural Marvels

$13

$ 2

Opened in 1912, this 16-hectare zoo features over 450 species of animals & birds, plus cafes.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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21 - 26 min

Directions

Visitors can tour this historic apartment with art nouveau architecture, art & furnishings.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

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1 - 2 min

Directions

Preserved mansion with an elaborate facade, part of a famed collection of art nouveau architecture.

1:00 PM - 1:30 PM

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Free

Day 7Journey through Latvia's Rich Heritage: National History Museum and Latvian National Museum of Art

$13

Long-running history musuem featuring exhibits ranging from archeological finds to artwork.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

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7 - 10 min

Directions

National museum of art housed in an imposing building with a Baroque & classicist-style facade.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

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Day 8Exploring Nature's Wonders: Latvian Museum of Natural History

Venerable museum of natural history & science, founded in 1845, with interactive exhibits & tours.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

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Budget breakdown: $101 In total

Activities & Food:$98

Transport:$4