Riga is a city shrouded in legends and myths that have been passed down from generation to generation, giving every stone and street a special meaning. One such legend is the story of the Giants, who, according to legends, participated in the construction of the city.
Legend has it that long ago, when Riga was nothing but endless forests and swamps, giants lived there. One of them, named Lachplesis, was known for his incredible strength and courage. It was he, it is said, who decided to found a city that would stand at the crossroads of trade routes and be a defense for the locals.
Lachplesis, with his mighty crew, set to work. They lifted huge stones from the river and built strong walls to protect the future city from enemies. But the real miracle was the erection of the Dome Cathedral, a majestic building that is still the symbol of Riga. It is said that the giants built it in just one night, using their magic power.
But it wasn’t just the construction that brought fame to Lachplessis and his companions. Legend tells how they fought off an attack by evil spirits who tried to destroy the new city. In a decisive battle, Lachplesis defeated the spirits, and they left the land forever.
Since then, Riga has prospered and grown, attracting people from all corners of the world. Although the giants have long since disappeared, their spirit and power still live in the city, giving it a special atmosphere and energy.
Today Riga is a place where past and present, legends and reality intertwine. It is a city that knows how to surprise and inspire, inviting everyone to a fascinating journey through its streets and squares. Our list of the 25 best sights will help you discover all the facets of this amazing city and feel its magic.
Ready to go on a journey through Riga, full of mysteries and legends? Let’s get started!
Kalnciema kvartāls is a unique cultural and historical district of Riga, located on the left bank of the River Daugava. It is famous for its 19th century wooden buildings, which have been carefully restored and have retained their historical appearance. The quarter is a popular venue for various cultural events, fairs, exhibitions and concerts.
The neighborhood features beautifully preserved wooden houses that are a prime example of late 19th and early 20th century architecture. Weekly fairs offer visitors local produce, handicrafts, antiques and more. This is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and locally made products. Throughout the year, the quarter hosts various events such as concerts, exhibitions, theater performances and open-air movies.
Kalnciema Quarter is close to the center of Riga and is easily accessible by public transport. Buses and streetcars stop in close proximity to the quarter, making it accessible to visitors.
New Street (Jauniela) is one of the most picturesque and famous streets in Riga’s Old Town. Jauniela is famous for its magnificent architecture and atmosphere, which transports visitors to the past centuries. The street is often used as a filming location for movies and TV series due to its authentic appearance.
In Jauniela you can see buildings of various architectural styles, including Art Nouveau, Gothic and Baroque architecture. Particular attention is drawn to the brightly colored facades of the houses decorated with decorative elements. Walking along Jauniela, you can feel yourself in medieval Riga. The street is paved with cobblestones, and narrow alleys and cozy courtyards create an atmosphere of antiquity. Jauniela has been the filming location of many movies and TV series, such as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, due to its authentic look and historical atmosphere.
Jauniela is located in the heart of Riga’s Old Town, close to other famous sights such as the Dome Cathedral and Town Hall Square. The street is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
Konventa sēta is a historical complex of buildings in the heart of Riga’s Old Town. It is a cozy courtyard surrounded by medieval buildings that once served as a monastery and a refuge for travelers. Nowadays, the Convent Courtyard is a popular tourist spot known for its atmosphere and numerous stores, cafes and hotels.
The medieval buildings preserved in the courtyard give an idea of life in Riga in past centuries. Some of the buildings date back to the XIII-XV centuries. There is a small museum in one of the courtyard buildings, where you can learn more about the history of the place and its role in the life of medieval Riga. Souvenir stores, galleries and antique stores are located in the Convent courtyard, where you can buy unique items and works of art. In cozy cafes and restaurants you can taste local cuisine and enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.
The Convent Court is located in Riga’s Old Town, close to famous landmarks such as the Dome Cathedral and Jauniela Street. It is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
The Museum of Jewelry (Rotu muzejs) is a unique place in Riga dedicated to the history and art of jewelry making. The museum is located in an old building in the old town and displays a rich collection of jewelry from different eras, styles and cultures.
The museum has a rich collection of jewelry from ancient times to modern pieces. The exhibits include jewelry made of various materials: gold, silver, precious stones and enamel. The museum regularly holds thematic exhibitions devoted to various aspects of jewelry art, such as manufacturing techniques, use of materials and stylistic trends. Visitors can take part in workshops where they can learn more about the jewelry making process and try their hand at jewelry making. The museum offers guided tours that provide a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the pieces on display.
The Museum of Jewelry is located in the old town of Riga, close to the central sights. The museum is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
The Museum of Decorative Arts (Dekoratīvās mākslas muzejs) is a unique place where collections of Latvian and international decorative arts from the 18th century to the present day are presented. The museum is located in the building of the former St. George’s Church, which gives it a special atmosphere and charm.
The museum’s collection includes textiles, ceramics, glass, metal, wood and other materials. Here you can see the works of famous Latvian masters, as well as works of art from other countries. The main exhibition of the museum familiarizes visitors with the development of decorative art in Latvia and its important stages. The museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions devoted to different trends and styles of decorative art, as well as personal exhibitions of contemporary artists. The museum holds educational programs, master classes and lectures for all age groups, which makes it an excellent place for family visits.
The Museum of Decorative Arts is located in Riga’s Old Town, close to other popular attractions. The museum is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
The Art Nouveau Museum (Jūgendstila Muzejs) in Riga is a unique place dedicated to one of the most refined and popular architectural styles of the early 20th century — Art Nouveau. The museum is located in a building designed by the famous Latvian architect Konstantin Pēkšēns, which itself is a vivid example of this style.
The museum reproduces authentic early 20th century interiors, including furniture, household items and décor, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the Art Nouveau atmosphere. The museum’s collection includes art and everyday objects such as vases, paintings, lamps and textiles created in the Art Nouveau style. In the museum you can learn about the development and characteristics of Art Nouveau, as well as its influence on architecture and art in Riga and beyond. The museum offers guided tours, thematic exhibitions and cultural events that allow you to better understand and appreciate the Art Nouveau style.
The Art Nouveau Museum is located in the center of Riga, close to other Art Nouveau architectural masterpieces, making it easily accessible to visitors.
Town Hall Square (Rātslaukums) is the heart of Riga’s Old Town and one of the most visited places in Latvia’s capital. The square is surrounded by magnificent historical buildings and is a popular place for various events and celebrations.
The modern Town Hall was built on the site of the original, which was destroyed during World War II. The Town Hall houses the City Council and a museum dedicated to the history of Riga. House of Blackheads: A magnificent building that is a symbol of Riga. Built in the 14th century, it was home to the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a society of young, unmarried merchants and shipwrights. Monument to the medieval knight Roland, symbolizing the city’s rights and freedoms. The modern statue is a copy of the original, which was destroyed in 1941. On the square there is a museum dedicated to the history of the occupation of Latvia in the 20th century, which is also an important cultural and historical site.
Town Hall Square is located in Riga’s Old Town, which makes it easily accessible on foot. The square can also be reached by public transportation.
Slazds Gallery is a contemporary art space in Riga that provides a platform for young artists and contemporary art lovers. The gallery is known for its innovative exhibitions and cultural events that allow visitors to familiarize themselves with the latest trends in art.
The gallery regularly organizes exhibitions presenting works by young and established artists. The exhibitions include painting, sculpture, photography and other contemporary art forms. The gallery organizes educational events, including master classes and lectures, which allow for a deeper understanding of contemporary artistic processes and familiarization with the works of the exhibiting artists. The gallery often hosts concerts, theatrical performances and poetry evenings, making it not only an exhibition space but also a cultural center.
Slazds Gallery is located in the center of Riga, making it easily accessible to visit both on foot and by public transport.
The Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum (Latvijas Etnogrāfiskais Brīvdabas Muzejs) is one of the oldest and largest ethnographic museums in Europe. The museum is located on the picturesque shore of Juglas Lake, not far from Riga, and occupies an area of more than 87 hectares. It presents traditional Latvian peasant farmsteads, buildings and everyday objects collected from different regions of Latvia.
The museum presents more than 100 historical buildings, including dwelling houses, outbuildings, churches, windmills and watermills. All buildings have been brought here from various parts of Latvia and recreated in their original form. Visitors can see how craftsmen worked in the past: blacksmiths, potters, weavers. In some workshops you can try your hand at traditional crafts. The museum regularly organizes festivals, fairs and cultural events, such as Ligo (celebration of the summer solstice) and the Day of Craftsmen, which give a better understanding of Latvian traditions and culture. The museum offers guided tours to help gain a deeper understanding of Latvian history and culture.
The Ethnographic Museum is located about 30 minutes from the center of Riga. It can be reached by bus, shuttle bus or car.
The Riga Central Market (Rīgas Centrāltirgus) is one of the largest and oldest markets in Europe. It is located in unique pavilions that were originally built as hangars for airships. The market was opened in 1930 and is an important center of trade and culture in the city, offering a wide range of goods, from fresh produce to handicrafts.
The market pavilions are unique structures that have been converted from airship hangars. This makes the market an architectural landmark. You can find everything at the market: fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, fish, dairy products, bakery products, spices, textiles, souvenirs and much more. The market offers many opportunities for gourmets. Here you can try traditional Latvian dishes, as well as cuisines of other countries. Various cultural events, festivals and gastronomic fairs are often held, which makes it even more attractive for tourists and locals.
The Central Market is located in the center of Riga, next to the Central Station. It is easily accessible on foot, by public transportation or by cab.
The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia (Latvijas Okupācijas muzejs) is an important cultural institution dedicated to the history of the occupation of Latvia in the 20th century. The museum highlights the periods of German and Soviet occupation, which had a significant impact on the country and its people. The museum serves as a reminder of the difficult times in Latvia’s history and as an important educational resource for anyone interested in the history of the country.
The museum features a permanent exhibition on the German and Soviet occupation of Latvia from 1940 to 1991. Exhibits include documents, photographs, personal belongings and other artifacts illustrating this period. The museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions on various aspects of the history of the occupation and its impact on Latvian society. The museum offers educational programs, lectures and excursions that help visitors to better understand complex historical events and their consequences. The museum participates in organizing commemorative events and activities aimed at preserving the memory of the victims of the occupation and the resistance of the Latvian people.
The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia is located in the old town of Riga, which makes it easily accessible to the public. The museum can be reached on foot or by public transportation.
Līvu laukums is one of the busiest and most popular squares in Riga’s Old Town. The name of the square is connected with the ancient Finno-Ugric people, the Livs, who inhabited the territory of Latvia in the Middle Ages. The square is the center of cultural life and a venue for various events.
The square is surrounded by buildings of various eras and styles, including magnificent Art Nouveau and Baroque buildings. One of the most famous buildings is the House with Cats (Cat House). Livov Square is often used for concerts, festivals, fairs and other cultural events, attracting both locals and tourists. There are many cozy cafes and restaurants in and around the square, where you can enjoy both Latvian and international cuisine. The square is decorated with greenery and flowerbeds, creating a pleasant atmosphere for strolling and relaxing.
Livov Square is located in the heart of Riga’s Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
Riga’s Old Town (Vecrīga) is the historical center of Latvia’s capital and is one of the most visited places in the country. The Old Town is famous for its unique atmosphere, narrow streets, ancient buildings and rich history. It is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Dome Cathedral is one of the largest medieval cathedrals in the Baltics, famous for its organ and architecture. St. Peter’s Church is a Gothic church with a high bell tower, offering a magnificent view of the city. Ratushnaya Square — a historic square with the town hall and the House of Blackheads, where cultural events are often held. Jauniela Street is a picturesque street with beautiful Art Nouveau and Baroque buildings. Swedish Gate — the only surviving city gate in Riga, built in the XVII century. Many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can taste local cuisine and drinks.
Riga Old Town is located in the city center and is easily accessible on foot. It can also be reached by public transportation.
The Monument to the Musicians of Bremen (Brēmenes muzikantu piemineklis) is a bronze sculpture depicting characters from the famous German fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm. The monument was presented to Riga by its sister city Bremen in 1990 and quickly became a popular tourist attraction.
The monument is a composition of four animals — a donkey, a dog, a cat and a rooster — standing on top of each other. The sculpture is made in a realistic style and conveys the characters. According to legend, touching the noses of all four animals brings good luck. Many tourists follow this tradition, which makes the monument even more popular.
The monument is located next to St. Peter’s Church, making it easily accessible to visitors to the old town.
The Cat House (Kaķu nams) is a famous building in Riga’s Old Town, known for its unusual decorations in the form of cat figures on the roof. The building was built in the early 20th century and has become one of the symbols of Riga due to its original architecture and interesting history.
The building is in the Art Nouveau style and is decorated with two figures of black cats that sit on the turrets and look down. Legend has it that the owner of the building installed these cats as a protest against being denied membership in the merchants’ guild. The owner of the building, according to legend, was a wealthy Latvian merchant who was not accepted into the Grand Guild. In retaliation, he installed figures of cats with their tails turned toward the guild building. The cats were later turned to face the guild after the conflict was resolved. The Cat House has become a popular tourist attraction and photo opportunity. Numerous tours of the old town include this house in their itineraries.
The Cat House is located in Riga’s Old Town, close to Town Hall Square and other central sights. It can be reached on foot or by public transportation.
The House of Blackheads (Melngalvju nams) is one of the most iconic buildings in Riga, located on Town Hall Square. Built in the 14th century, it was the seat of the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a society of unmarried German merchants and sailors who made a significant contribution to the development of Riga.
The building is known for its ornate late Gothic and Renaissance facade. After being destroyed during World War II, the House of Blackheads was completely restored in 1999. Inside the building you can see magnificent halls decorated with tapestries, paintings and historical artifacts. Particular attention is drawn to the Great Hall, where cultural events and exhibitions are held. In the museum located in the House of Blackheads you can learn more about the life and activities of the Brotherhood of Blackheads, as well as the history of the building and its role in the life of Riga. Concerts, exhibitions and other cultural events are regularly held in the House of Blackheads, making it an important cultural center of the city.
The House of Blackheads is located on Town Hall Square in Riga’s Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot. It can also be reached by public transportation.
The Riga Porcelain Museum (Rīgas Porcelāna Muzejs) is a specialized museum dedicated to the art of porcelain creation and collection. The museum displays a rich collection of porcelain produced in Latvia, as well as porcelain imported from other countries.
The museum presents a collection of porcelain products, including dishes, figurines, decorative elements and much more. The exhibits cover the period from the late 19th century to the present day. The museum holds both permanent and temporary exhibitions, where you can see the works of famous masters and learn about different porcelain-making techniques. Visitors can take part in master classes on porcelain painting, which allows to better understand and appreciate this art. The museum’s expositions tell about the development of porcelain production in Latvia and its influence on the cultural life of the country.
The Porcelain Museum is located in Riga’s Old Town, close to the main tourist routes. It is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
St. Peter’s Church (Svētā Pētera baznīca) is one of the most famous and oldest buildings in Riga. This Gothic church, whose construction began in the 13th century, is an important architectural and historical monument. St. Peter’s Church is also famous for its high bell tower, which offers a stunning view of the city.
The church is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture with Baroque elements. Inside the church you can see the ancient altar and stained glass windows. The height of the bell tower is 123.25 meters. At a height of 72 meters there is an observation deck, which offers a panoramic view of Riga. An elevator takes visitors to the platform, making the ascent comfortable and fast. The church has been destroyed and rebuilt several times in its long history. It has served as an important religious and cultural center of Riga. St. Peter’s Church often hosts classical music concerts, exhibitions and other cultural events.
St. Peter’s Church is located in Riga’s Old Town, close to the main tourist routes and attractions. It can be reached on foot or by public transportation.
The Dome Cathedral (Rīgas Doms) is the largest medieval cathedral in the Baltic States and one of the main sights of Riga. Built in the 13th century, the cathedral is an important religious and cultural center of the city, known for its majestic interior and unique organ.
The cathedral combines elements of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque and Art Nouveau styles, making it architecturally unique. Inside the cathedral you can see magnificent stained glass windows, altar and paintings. The organ of the Dome Cathedral is one of the largest and most famous organs in the world. It was built in the 19th century and has more than 6,700 pipes. Regular organ concerts attract many music lovers. Around the cathedral is the cloister, a monastery courtyard surrounded by covered galleries where you can see ancient tombstones, architectural fragments and artifacts. In the cathedral museum you can learn about its rich history, from its foundation in the 13th century to the present day. The exhibition includes archaeological finds, church relics and historical documents.
The Dome Cathedral is located in Riga’s Old Town and is easily accessible on foot. It can also be reached by public transportation.
Vērmanes Garden (Vērmanes dārzs) is one of the oldest and most popular parks in Riga, founded in 1814. The garden is located in the city center and is a favorite recreation spot for locals and tourists alike. It offers picturesque alleys, flowerbeds, fountains and many monuments.
There are many trees, shrubs and flowers growing in the garden, making it a great place to walk and relax outdoors. In summer, beautiful flower arrangements can be seen here. In Vērmanes Garden there are monuments to famous figures of Latvian culture and art, such as the monument to Kristina Vorman, in honor of whom the garden was named. One of the main ornaments of the garden is a magnificent fountain, which looks especially beautiful in the evening when it is illuminated. The park often hosts concerts, fairs and various cultural events. In summer there are cafes and summer terraces where you can enjoy drinks and food. For the youngest visitors there is a modern playground in the garden.
Vērmana Garden is located in the center of Riga, next to Kr. Barona Street and Riga Circus. The garden is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
The National Library of Latvia (Latvijas Nacionālā bibliotēka), also known as the «Castle of Light» (Gaismas pils), is a modern architectural building that has become a symbol of Latvian culture and knowledge. The library was opened in 2014 and is an important cultural and educational center of the country.
The library building, designed by the famous Latvian architect Gunārs Birkerts, is a striking example of modern architecture. Its unique design is inspired by the Latvian folk tale of the Glass Mountain. The library houses more than 4 million books, periodicals and other documents. Both Latvian and international publications on various topics are presented here. The library regularly organizes exhibitions on books, art, history and other topics. Rare books, manuscripts and archival materials can be seen here. The library hosts cultural events, lectures, seminars and conferences. Meetings with writers and scholars are also often organized here. The library’s spacious and bright reading rooms provide excellent conditions for work and study. Both print and electronic resources are available.
The National Library of Latvia is located on the left bank of the River Daugava, opposite the old town of Riga. The library can be reached by public transportation or on foot across the bridge over the River Daugava.
Bergs Alley (Berga Bazārs) is a historical shopping and cultural complex located in the center of Riga. The alley was built at the end of the 19th century and is a fine example of the architecture of that time. Today it is a popular place for walking, shopping and cultural events.
The complex consists of several buildings connected by courtyards and passages. The buildings are decorated with elegant facades and Art Nouveau decorations. Bergs Alley houses many stores offering designer clothing, accessories, jewelry and art. Here you can find both international brands and products of Latvian designers. Bergs Alley has many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can taste Latvian and international cuisine. It is a great place to relax and meet with friends. Exhibitions, concerts, movie screenings and other cultural events are often held in the alley, making it a lively and dynamic place. The complex is home to the stylish Bergs Hotel, which offers high-class service and comfortable accommodation.
Bergs Alley is located in the center of Riga, close to the main tourist routes. It is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.
The Latvian National Opera (Latvijas Nacionālā opera un balets) is one of Latvia’s leading cultural institutions, hosting world-class opera and ballet performances. The opera house is located in a magnificent historical building in the center of Riga, built in the 19th century.
The opera building is a striking example of neoclassical architecture with rich interior decoration. Inside the theater you can see luxurious interiors, marble columns, exquisite chandeliers and gold decoration. The Latvian National Opera and Ballet offers a varied repertoire, including classical operas and ballets, modern productions and experimental performances. Local artists as well as international guest stars perform here. The theater was opened in 1863 and since then it has become an important center of musical and theatrical life in Latvia. In the museum at the theater you can learn about its history and outstanding productions. The opera offers guided tours of the building, which allow you to look behind the scenes and learn more about the process of preparing performances and the history of the theater.
The Latvian National Opera is located in the center of Riga, close to Vērmanes Garden and other central attractions. The theater is easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
Zaķusalas televīzijas tornis (Zaķusalas televīzijas tornis) is the third tallest television tower in Europe, located on Zaķusalas Island in Riga. With a height of 368.5 meters, it is one of the most prominent architectural dominants of the city and a popular tourist attraction due to its observation deck.
The TV Tower was built in 1989 and is an impressive structure in a modern style. Its unique design allows it to withstand strong winds and other natural phenomena. At a height of 97 meters, there is an observation deck offering a breathtaking view of Riga and its surroundings. In clear weather, visibility can reach 50 kilometers. The TV Tower offers guided tours to learn about its history, construction and operation. Visitors can also see the equipment used for broadcasting. There is a cafe and a souvenir store on the territory of the TV tower, where you can buy memorable souvenirs and relax after the tour.
The TV Tower is located on Zakiusala Island, which can be reached by car or public transportation. From the center of Riga, the TV Tower can be reached by bus or streetcar.
Mežaparks (Mežaparks) is one of the largest and most famous parks in Riga, located on the shores of Kisezers (Lake Kis). The park was founded in the early 20th century and is a popular place for recreation, sports and entertainment.
The park covers a large area covered with forests and green spaces, making it an ideal place for walks and picnics. There are numerous paths for hiking and cycling. The park is home to the Riga Zoo, where you can see many species of animals from all over the world. The zoo is one of the oldest in the Baltics and offers educational programs and events. In Mežaparks there is a large concert stage where music festivals, concerts and other cultural events are held. It is the central venue for the Latvian Song and Dance Festival. The park offers many sports grounds and arenas, including tennis courts, basketball courts and fitness facilities. There is also a water sports center. The park is equipped with modern playgrounds where children can have fun and safe time.
Mežaparks is located in the north-east of Riga and can be reached by streetcar, bus or car.
I hope that our guide to the top 25 attractions will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Riga. Enjoy every minute in this magical city and don’t forget to share your discoveries with your family and friends. Below you can open the map of Enjoy your trip!