Riga, the capital and largest city of Latvia, is also home to more than a third of the country’s population. Located on the Gulf of Riga and bisected by the Daugava River, Riga is a major administrative, financial, and cultural hub for the Baltic region.
The city’s strategic and beautiful location has made it a target for many different empires, from the Swedes and the Poles to the Soviet Union. Hence, the former Hanseatic League member has a rich history to explore and numerous remarkable historical sites to uncover.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Riga
In addition to its gorgeous mediaeval Old Town, where many of the city’s most popular attractions may be found, the city also has the largest concentration of Art Nouveau structures anywhere in the world.
Riga has plenty of places to hang out, what with its hip pubs, hip cafes, and wonderful restaurants, not to mention its proximity to the beaches of Jurmala.
1. Old City
The Old City of Riga, situated on the banks of the Daugava River, is home to some of the city’s oldest and most spectacular architecture as well as important historical and cultural sites. Locals refer to this area as Vecriga, and it’s full of fascinating little alleys and cobblestone paths that lead to ancient churches, opulent mansions, and charming plazas.
Several structures were damaged or destroyed during WWII, but thankfully the vast majority are still standing.
You’ll find charming cafes, restaurants, and taverns tucked among the impressive mediaeval architecture. The ancient and the new coexist harmoniously in the historic Hanseatic City of Riga, which is one of the reasons why the city is so enjoyable to visit.
2. House of the Black Heads
The House of the Black Heads, which the Nazis bombed to rubble during WWII, was painstakingly restored between 1996 and 1999. The bright red facade is now covered in magnificent statues and ornate decorations, making it appear even more regal than before.
The original structure was built in the 1330s and used as lodging for bachelor merchants and shipowners. That’s why it was such a vital hub for commerce and industry in the metropolitan area.
Anyone interested in learning more about the guild’s history and illustrious past can now take a tour of the building’s similarly beautiful interior. Situated in the heart of Riga on Town Hall Square, the House of the Black Heads is often regarded as the city’s most stunning structure.
3. Central Market
Riga’s Central Market is a hive of activity and a lot of fun to explore, as it is located amid a mammoth complex of pavilions that were previously German Zeppelin hangars. One area may focus solely on selling meat and seafood, while another may feature rows upon rows of stands selling fresh produce.
It’s also a fantastic spot to stock up on regional specialties and unique keepsakes. As you enjoy its various attractions, keep an eye out for the wonderful examples of Art Deco and Neoclassical design that can be found around the city. The Central Market in Riga is one of the largest and busiest in all of Europe, and was opened in 1930.
4. Town Hall Square
Town Hall Square may have been heavily damaged during World War Two, but you would never know it now thanks to diligent reconstruction efforts. The square is large and is dominated by the beautiful House of the Black Heads that runs down one side of it.
A magnificent statue of Roland, a legendary knight, stands at its centre. In mediaeval times, this symbol meant that a city was free and entitled to specific privileges, which explains why you can see it in a number of different places.
The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, however, is housed in a somewhat unattractive Soviet-era building that stands in stark contrast to the rest of the square’s charming architecture. In addition, there is a lot of beautiful architecture to admire and a dynamic vibe to soak up.
5. KGB Building
This unremarkable structure, often known as “the Corner House,” was originally home to the KGB. It is now home to several exhibits and displays that shed light on the cruel Soviet state apparatus for which it was once a symbol of oppression, occupation, and horror.
Visitors can go on a guided tour of the KGB’s underground jail cells, where political prisoners and assassins were held. The KGB Building is a must-see because of the essential insight it provides into Latvia’s difficult past, even though some of the exhibits are uncomfortable to watch.
6. Alberta Iela
This beautiful and attractive boulevard is named for Bishop Albert, who is credited with founding Riga in 1201. It is lined with some of the city’s most remarkable Art Nouveau structures. The homes, most of which were built between 1901 and 1908, feature beautiful architectural details such as intricate flower patterns, sculptures, and mythological figures.
Mikhail Eisenstein is responsible for the design of many of them, but Konstantins Peksens is responsible for others, such as the Musee Art Nouveau. With many of them now recognised as state monuments, it is well worth ambling gently along Alberta Iela and soaking in all the amazing art and architecture.
7. Museum of the Occupation of Latvia
The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia is a dismal and frightening look into a tragic period in Latvia’s history. The Soviet Union controlled Latvia from 1940 until 1991; Nazi Germany ruled the country from 1941 to 1944.
During these times, the Jewish community of Latvia was deported and eventually exterminated, while Latvian Nationalists were tortured and interrogated before being transferred to the Gulags.
The museum, which opened in 1993, houses a vast collection of objects, photographs, and papers that provide light on the crimes committed in Latvia and the heroic actions of the people who fought back against both totalitarian governments.
8. Riga Cathedral
Riga Cathedral, the biggest mediaeval church in the Baltics, is a major tourist attraction and a symbol of the city and country alike. It was constructed in 1211 and has attractive Baroque, Gothic, and Romanesque design elements as well as some Hanseatic touches.
The huge tower and weather vane aren’t even the best parts of the ‘Dome Cathedral,’ as it is commonly referred to. For example, its pipe organ has an astounding 6768 pipes, and its nave is adorned with elaborate tombs and a beautifully carved pulpit.
9. Freedom Monument
The Freedom Monument, which was built in 1935, is a memorial to the victims of the Latvian War of Independence and a symbol of Latvia’s freedom and self-determination. The bas-reliefs at the base of the 42-meter-tall monument are more interesting than the statue of Liberty at the top, which is likely to attract the most attention.
This is due to the fact that the statues, which are intricately carved, represent different moments in Latvian history and culture. The Freedom Monument looks majestic, but the Soviets almost destroyed it, so we still have it today.
10. St. Peter’s Church
St. Peter’s Church, with its 123-meter-tall spindly spire and steeple, is another prominent component of the city’s skyline and an instantly recognisable landmark. Located right in the middle of the historic district, this tower provides unparalleled views of the surrounding streets.
In addition to the breathtaking scenery, the church itself is well worth a trip; it is one of the Baltic region’s oldest structures. The impressive red brick structure was constructed between the 13th and 17th centuries and features aspects of Baroque, Gothic, and Romanesque architecture.
St. Peter’s Church is a short distance from many of the city’s most notable attractions, yet its interior is quite plain and austere.
