Riga

Old Town gems, markets & Soviet-era views

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Riga is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Vecaki Beach, Latgale Market (Latgalite Flea Market) and Rozena Street. Food lovers should not miss Gauja (Soviet-style bar) and Parunasim kafe'teeka. Below you will find 13 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Riga at a glance

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: spring and autumn
Highlights: Vecaki Beach and Latgale Market (Latgalite Flea Market)
Where to stay: Old Town and Zakusala
Local picks: 13 hand-chosen recommendations
Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Riga

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Local tipsBest Things to Do in Riga: A Local’s GuideThe best things to do in Riga, chosen by locals: top sights, where to eat, where to stay and the…

Where to stay in Riga

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Old Town

Rozena Street

One of Old Riga’s hidden gems – the shortest and narrowest street in the city (with long-enough arms you can touch both walls). Usually quiet, with a beer garden and a medieval-style restaurant at either end.

★ 4.5

Old Town

Rozena Street (Rozena iela)

One of the shortest and narrowest streets in Riga’s Old Town, a quiet hidden gem tucked between two historic ends.

Centrs

Skyline Bar

Riga’s classic high-altitude drink: a panoramic elevator whisks you to the 26th floor of the Radisson Blu Latvija, where glass walls give a 360° sweep over Old Town rooftops. Order a signature cocktail or a poke bowl and circle the bar for the best angles — sunset is prime time. Tip: there’s a small cover charge (around €5) Thursday to Saturday evenings from 20:00, so arrive earlier to skip it and grab a window seat.

Vecaki

Vecaki Beach

One of Riga’s three official seaside swimming beaches, in the leafy northern suburb of Vecaki – a summer sunbathing spot and, for locals, a year-round place to walk and clear the mind. Easy to reach by train (~25 min), bus or the Riga-Mezaparks-Vecaki cycle route.

★ 4.5

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Riga travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Riga?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Riga at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Riga?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Riga?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Riga guide.

What is the best time to visit Riga?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Riga is worth visiting year-round.