Top 10 Reasons To Visit Riga, Latvia
Riga, Latvia, is a stunning capital city that is unlike many others in Europe. Many people often look past Riga and miss it out, but if you’re thinking of visiting Riga (and you should, it’s fantastic!), then check out these top 10 reasons to visit Riga that you need to know!
*Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning that if you buy from them – I get a commission at no extra cost to you 😉 Read the full affiliate disclosure here.
Contents:
Things To Do in Riga:
If you’re visiting Riga, then check out these great things to do in Riga that I’d highly recommend:
- Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat – Tourists visiting Riga should take a sightseeing tour by canal boat to experience the beauty and charm of this charming city from a unique perspective! It’s guaranteed to be a relaxing experience for all.
- Riga Guided Old Town Walking Tour – All tourists visiting Riga must make sure to do a guided old town walking tour to explore the city’s unique and vibrant history and culture on a deeper level. This tour is the perfect way to spend a few hours getting to know the city.
- House of The Black Head Entrance – Visiting the House of the Black Heads in Riga is a must-do for any tourist, as it is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Entrance is very affordable, making it a great choice of things to do in Riga whatever the weather.
Top 10 Reasons To Visit Riga:
If you’re interested in visiting Riga, then check out these top 10 reasons to visit Riga that you need to know:
1. The architecture is beautiful
Riga is a beautiful and charming city that is known for its stunning architecture. The city centre contains a remarkable number of intricate and unique architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau.
Visitors can find some of Europe’s most stunning buildings throughout the pedestrian-only zone of the city centre. These buildings are from all centuries, including the 13th-century Three Brothers residence and the beautiful Art Nouveau Monument of Freedom.
Additionally, many structures are painted in exquisite pastel colours, creating a charming and visually-appealing atmosphere.
Riga is undoubtedly worth a visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of European architecture. Its fascinating blend of architectural styles, from the medieval cobblestone alleyways to the colourful Art Nouveau facades, creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
For visitors interested in architecture, Riga is a must-see destination – it is full of unique structures that are sure to spark inspiration.
2. Riga is great value for money
Riga is an excellent destination if you’re searching for good value-for-money accommodation and attractions. Many hostels, hotels, and Airbnb listings are available in the city, offering different levels of comfort and affordability.
The restaurants throughout the city serve delicious traditional cuisine and often offer discounts for large orders. Additionally, many restaurants offer happy hour specials, allowing visitors to enjoy delicious food and drinks at discounted prices.
The attractions in Riga are also good value for money, with the city offering a variety of free or low-cost tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the many museums, galleries, and public parks along the Daugava River for free, or they can choose to visit the more expensive attractions, such as the Riga TV Tower and the Latvian National Opera.
All in all, Riga is an ideal destination for those looking for good value for money. Its affordable accommodation options, delicious cuisine, and numerous attractions offer visitors a delightful and cost-effective vacation.
3. Riga is a good hub for visiting other places
Riga is an excellent starting point for exploring other places in the Baltic region. Located in the heart of the Baltics, Riga is the perfect hub for travellers looking to explore the countries of Estonia, and Lithuania, as well as other parts of Latvia. It is well-connected to other major cities in the region via its international airport and efficient rail network.
Additionally, numerous budget flights are available to other cities throughout Europe, allowing you to easily explore different destinations.
For those looking to explore the Baltic region, Riga is an excellent starting point, offering easy access to other nearby countries as well as providing a rich cultural experience.
With its conveniently located international airport and efficient rail network, Riga is the perfect hub for an unforgettable adventure in the Baltics.
4. The transport is simple to use
One of the best top 10 reasons to visit Riga is that Riga is an incredibly easy city to get around, thanks to its comprehensive public transportation system. The city offers a wide range of efficient and affordable transport options, including buses, trams, trolleybuses, and trains.
Public transport tickets are easy to purchase and can be used on trams and buses while visiting the city. Commuting by taxi is also a convenient option, with metered taxis throughout the city – just make sure to negotiate a price beforehand.
The city also has a number of bicycle pathways, making it easy and safe to get around by bike. Several bike rental services are available that cater to tourists and locals alike.
Riga also has many pedestrian-friendly streets and alleyways, providing an enjoyable way to explore the city. Visitors can take their pick of the various transport options to get around the city, making it simple to get to any desired destination with ease.
5. There are lots of free things to do
Riga offers a variety of free things to do, making it the perfect destination for budget travellers. The city’s numerous museums, galleries, and public parks are all free to visit, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the city without breaking the bank.
One of the most interesting free things to do in Riga is visit the Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum, which is a very respectful museum dedicated to victims of the holocaust.
Additionally, walking tours of the city are offered free of charge (but don’t forget to tip!), allowing visitors to get a unique and comprehensive overview of the city.
The city is also home to a number of festivals throughout the year, most of which are free or low-cost.
Many of the city’s churches and cathedrals are open to the public for free, allowing visitors to explore some of Riga’s most beautiful and historical landmarks, making it another great reason out of the top 10 reasons to visit Riga!
6. The food is fantastic
Riga is an excellent destination for those looking to experience some of the best food in the Baltics. With its eclectic mix of cultures and cuisines, the city has something to offer any food lover. From traditional Latvian meals to European fusion cuisine, Riga is the perfect place to explore the variety of the Baltics’ culinary offerings.
Riga’s numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs offer affordable prices and traditional Latvian dishes, making it possible to experience great food without breaking the bank. For those looking for a unique experience, there are also plenty of street food stalls available around the city, offering a variety of delicious and affordable snacks.
7. It does not get very busy
Riga is a city that has something for everyone – including those looking for a less crowded city experience. While the city is usually bustling during the daytime, many streets become serene and picturesque after sunset. This allows visitors the chance to experience the city with a less hectic atmosphere and to take in the incredible architecture without the distraction of loud crowds.
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more crowded cities, Riga is the perfect destination.
Those looking for a peaceful and low-key atmosphere can enjoy the city’s numerous parks and public spaces. Often much quieter than the main streets and squares, these tranquil spots offer visitors the chance to enjoy some peace and quiet while taking in the beautiful views of Riga.
8. The currency in Riga is Euros
Riga is an excellent place for visitors from outside the European Union, as the city uses the Euro as its currency. This makes it easy for travellers from other countries to budget and manage their finances without having to exchange money.
Also, as Euro prices tend to be slightly lower in Riga than in other European cities, visitors will get more bang for their buck when visiting.
Many shops and restaurants in Riga also accept credit cards, making it easy and convenient to purchase things without having to carry large amounts of cash. ATM machines are also widely available throughout the city, allowing visitors to easily withdraw cash when needed.
9. Riga has a great nightlife scene
One of the top 10 reasons to visit Riga for some people is that Riga is a great destination for those looking for an enjoyable and exciting nightlife scene.
The city has plenty of vibrant bars, pubs, and clubs, offering something for everyone. Many venues offer live music and other entertainment; some even provide traditional Latvian folk music performances.
For visitors looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, there are also a number of relaxed taverns and cafes scattered throughout the city. These establishments offer a range of drinks and snacks and often provide a quaint, homey atmosphere.
Additionally, many restaurants offer special dinner and cocktail menus, making it easy to enjoy a delicious meal or a few drinks as the night winds down.
10. Riga has something for all types of weather
Riga is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy a variety of activities regardless of the weather. Whether it’s sunny or rainy, the city offers plenty of things to do and explore. In colder or wetter weather, visitors can explore the city’s numerous museums, galleries, and churches.
The city is also home to a number of botanical gardens and green spaces, offering a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. In warmer weather, visitors can take advantage of the city’s parks and outdoor activities, such as cycling and kayaking.
In the winter months, Riga is often filled with beautiful snow – which makes it feel very festive. There are also Christmas Markets, which feel and look like a scene out of a movie.
Riga FAQ:
Yes, Riga is definitely worth a visit, as it offers a fantastic combination of culture, architecture, and activities that make for an unforgettable experience.
Yes, Riga is a very tourist-friendly city, with a wide range of affordable accommodations, restaurants, attractions, and transport options.
Riga offers many options for cheap and delicious food and drinks, such as restaurants with happy hour specials and street food stalls.
Top 10 Reasons to Visit Riga – Conclusion
After reading this post all about the top 10 reasons to visit Riga, hopefully, you’ve been persuaded to go and explore! Which top 10 reasons to visit Riga did you like the most? Do you have any reasons to visit Riga which haven’t been included on this top 10 reasons to visit Riga list, but you feel like they need to be? Feel free to reach out and contact me if you need any help or advice. If you liked this post, and would like to read some other similar posts, then these are what I’d recommend:
