What to do in Riga? A local’s guide to the best places to visit

What makes Riga unique, and where do locals actually spend their free time? Step beyond the standard guidebook to discover my personal list of places to see in Riga. Having grown up here, I’ve curated this list to help you add a bit more local character to your travel itinerary. Whether you are looking for something to do on a Tuesday evening or planning a full weekend, these are the places that make Riga feel a little more colorful.

What to do in Riga in Christmas time?

Twinkling lights, warm drinks, and a Christmas market — Riga knows how to bring back the Christmas magic.

Ziemassvētku tirdziņš Rīgā

Where to go for a walk

Walking trails and parks in Riga

​Looking to grab a coffee to-go and stretch your legs? Here are some of the most interesting green spaces in the Riga, perfect for a stroll and exploring.

Uzvaras parks Rīgā / Victory park in Riga

1 day

Victory park

Park has been transformed beyond recognition — and it’s worth every step

Daugavgrīvas cietoksnis

1 day

Daugavgrīva fortress and nature trail

Most impressive and spookiest fortress in Riga

Māja Latvijas Etnogrāfiskajā Brīvdabas muzejā

1 day

Riga open-air museum

Where centuries-old buildings have stories to tell surrounded by beautiful forest

Kur aiziet pastaigā Pārdaugavā Pārdaugavas parks

1 day

Dzegužkalns un Nordeķu park

Two quiet neighbourhood parks in Pārdaugava

History and culture

Best museums and indoor adventures in Riga

When you want to engage not only your eyes but also your mind, soak up some culture, or simply enjoy a unique atmosphere.

Rīgas Jūgendstila muzeja ēdamgalds

1 day

Riga Art Nouveau Center

A Riga apartment frozen in 1903 – and you can actually walk through the door.

Āgenskalna tirgus interjērs

1 day

​Āgenskalns market

Where the weekly shopping becomes a gastro adventure

Vēsturiskais pagrabs Rīgas Melngalvju nama muzejā

1 day

Ko darīt Rīgā lietainā laikā : interesantākie muzeji

Games, time travel, and art – all tucked inside its quirkier museums.

Want to travel beyond Riga?

Check out my ideas for longer and shorter trips from Riga