Best Things to do in Riga | Must-see attractions 2025

Riga Motor Museum

Mo-Su 10:00-18:00

Museum

Sergeja Eizenshteina iela 8

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Riga Motor Museum in Latvia features the largest vintage vehicle collection in the Baltics with over 100 unique automobiles and motorcycles.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adults: €5, Children (6-18 years): €2.50, Family ticket: €12. Free for children under 6.

Art Nouveau architecture in Riga

All Day

Museum

Alberta iela 13

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Riga, Latvia features the highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture, comprising roughly one third of its central buildings, showcasing ornate designs and cultural significance.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fee is required to explore the district.

The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

11:00-18:00; Jan 1, Mar 30, Apr 1, Jun 23-24, Dec 24-26, 31: off

Museum

Raina bulvaris 7

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The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia in Riga highlights Latvia's 51 years of Soviet and Nazi occupations via artifacts, archives, and educational exhibits.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

The Freedom Monument

Open all day

Monument

Brivibas Laukums Central District

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The Freedom Monument in Riga, Latvia, honors those who lost their lives during the War of Independence (1918-1920) and symbolizes the country's quest for freedom.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free.

Nativity of Christ Cathedral

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Brivibas bulvaris 23 Centra rajons

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Nativity of Christ Cathedral in Riga, Latvia, is a 19th-century Orthodox church known for its golden domes and intricate interior architecture.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated.

Latvian War Museum

Apr-Oct: 10:00-18:00; Nov-Mar: 10:00-17:00

Museum

Smilshu iela 20

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Latvian War Museum in Riga is a free-admission military history museum housed in a 14th-century tower, detailing Latvia's political and military history from medieval times onward.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free admission. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Riga Cathedral

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Monument

Herdera laukums 6 Centra Rajons

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Riga Cathedral, founded in 1211, is the largest medieval church in the Baltic, featuring a grand organ with 6,768 pipes and architectural styles from the 13th to 18th centuries.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require paid tickets.

Riga National Zoo

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

Me_a prospekts 1

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Riga National Zoo spans 16 hectares in Mežaparks, Latvia, housing over 450 species of animals and birds, complemented by cafes for visitors.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Adults: €10, Children (6-17): €5, Free for children under 6. Discounts available for families and groups.

Bastejkalna park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Basteja bulvaris

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Bastejkalna Park in Riga features lush greenery, historical significance, and picturesque pathways. It serves as a tranquil retreat within the city’s urban landscape.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No charge for entry.

Riga Radio and TV Tower

Tower

Zakusalas krastmala 1

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Riga Radio and TV Tower, located in Riga, Latvia, is a prominent television tower offering stunning views and unique architecture. A must-visit landmark for tourists and locals alike.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some exhibitions may incur a fee when reopened.

Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum

Mo-Su 10:00-18:00

Museum

Maskavas iela 14a

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Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum features a reconstructed ghetto flat from 1941, models of synagogues, and photographic exhibitions on the Holocaust in Latvia.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Jews in Latvia

Su-Th 11:00-17:00

Museum

Skolas iela 6

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The Jews in Latvia Museum in Riga chronicles the local Jewish community's history from the 16th century to the Holocaust in an informal setting with artefacts and photography.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Latvian Railway History Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

2/4 Uzvaras boulevard

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The Latvian Railway History Museum in Riga showcases historic trains, wagons, and railway documents, making it a family-friendly destination for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Latvian National Theatre

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

Kronvalda bulvaris 2

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Latvian National Theatre in Riga is a premier professional venue, housed in an eclectic architectural masterpiece and historically significant since 1918.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies. Ticket prices for performances generally apply; check the official website for details.

National History Museum of Latvia

We,Fr 10:00-17:00; Th 10:00-19:00; Sa,Su 11:00-17:00

Museum

Kri jana Barona iela 4

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National History Museum of Latvia in Riga holds diverse exhibits from archaeology to contemporary culture. A rich look at Latvian history from the Stone Age to the present.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Riga Film Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

10/12 Peitavas Str entrance from Alksnāja street

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Riga Film Museum, established in 1988, is Latvia's sole museum dedicated to film history, showcasing cinema art and cultural exhibitions.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Vermane Garden

Open 24 hours

Park

Terbatas iela 2D

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Vermane Garden is a 5-hectare park in Riga, Latvia, featuring gardens, walking paths, and a fountain, established in the 19th century.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry. Special events may charge a fee.

ESPA Riga

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Spa Center

Baznicas 4a (Elizabetes)

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ESPA Riga, the largest five-star spa in the Baltic and Scandinavian region, features luxurious interiors and a range of holistic wellness experiences tailored for guests.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Entry is generally payable for spa services; membership options are also available.

Art Gallery Templis

11:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

Ausekla iela 6A

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Art Gallery Templis in Riga features the unique Theatre of Luminous Paintings, showcasing art that changes under different lighting conditions in a captivating half-hour performance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Paid. Check for potential discounts on group visits.

St. Gertrude Old Church

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Gertrudes iela

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St. Gertrude Old Church in Riga, Latvia, features Gothic architectural elements, rich history, and cultural significance, attracting visitors and locals alike.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have additional fees.

Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation

May-Sep: 10:00-17:00; Oct-Apr: We-Su 11:00-17:00

Museum

Palasta iela 4

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The Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation, founded in 1773, showcases Latvia's rich maritime and historical heritage through several centuries of artifacts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Arena Riga

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Stadium

Skanstes iela 21

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Arena Riga is a 10,000-seat indoor arena in Riga, Latvia, used for ice hockey, basketball, concerts, and dance revues.

Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours depending on the event.

Varies by event. Check the official website for specific pricing.

Bremen Town Musicians

Open 24 hours

Monument

Skarnu Street between St. Peter's Church and Convent wall

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The Bremen Town Musicians sculpture in Riga, Latvia, celebrates the beloved fairy tale with a whimsical bronze representation of four animals symbolizing friendship and perseverance.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. No entrance fee is required to view the sculpture.

Spikeri

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Event hall

Maskavas iela 6

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Spikeri in Riga, Latvia, transforms historic shipping warehouses into a vibrant cultural hub, hosting music events, art spaces, and start-up companies.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a ticket.

Lielais Kristaps

Open all day

Monument

PoLu gate and 11 Daugava

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Lielais Kristaps is a significant sculpture in Riga, Latvia, symbolizing the city’s history and cultural identity. It depicts a giant figure holding a boat.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. No tickets required to view the sculpture.

Laima Chocolate Museum

Tu-Su 10:00-18:00

Museum

Miera iela 22

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Laima Chocolate Museum in Riga, Latvia, explores chocolate's history with interactive exhibits and a chance to create your own chocolate bar.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Entry ticket allows access to interactive features.

Riga Railway Bridge

Open all day

Bridge

Daugava River

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Riga Railway Bridge, built in 1872, is a vital transport link spanning the Daugava River in Latvia, connecting the city center with the eastern districts.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. Access to the bridge does not require an entry fee.

Berg's Bazaar

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Square

Marijas iela 13 (btw Elizabetes & Dzirnavu)

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Berg's Bazaar in Riga, Latvia, is a historic pedestrian quarter featuring restaurants, boutiques, and cultural events, set in a charming maze-like layout.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a fee.

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Paul

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

A.Deglava St.

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The Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Paul in Riga, Latvia, features impressive architecture and rich history, serving as an important cultural landmark since its founding in 1857.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

Lucavsala recreational park

All day

Park

Zemgale Suburb

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Lucavsala recreational park in Riga offers various outdoor activities, scenic views, and green spaces, making it a family-friendly destination in Latvia.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some organized events may require a paid ticket.

Mezaparks

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

Mezaparks

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Mezaparks in Riga, Latvia, is a residential neighborhood known for its vast parks, historical wooden architecture, and recreational areas, appealing to nature lovers and families.

Duration: At least 2 hours for parks; 3-4 hours for Riga Zoo.

Free access to parks and public areas; Riga Zoo tickets: Adults €8, Children €4.

Daugavgriva Lighthouse

Open 24 hours

Lighthouse

Northern District

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Daugavgriva Lighthouse in Riga, Latvia, stands as a vital navigational aid along the Daugava River, embodying maritime history since its establishment.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. No entry fees required for visiting the lighthouse.

Mencendorfa house

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Grecinieku 29

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Mencendorfa House in Riga, Latvia, is a 17th-century museum showcasing the life of wealthy merchants and contemporary glass art exhibitions.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Jaunpils baznica

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Jaunpils pagasts Jaunpils novads

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Jaunpils baznica, located in Riga, Latvia, is a historic Lutheran church known for its unique architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

ZINOO Riga

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

Dzirnavu iela 67 "Galleria Riga\

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ZINOO Riga offers over 100 interactive science exhibits and games for children of all ages, fostering creativity and curiosity in a playful environment.

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Paid. Discounts may apply for groups and special events.

International Museum of Vodka

By appointment only

Museum

Kri jana Barona iela 136f

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The International Museum of Vodka in Riga, Latvia, features over a thousand vodka varieties and unique artifacts related to vodka's history and culture.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Tours require advance booking; pricing varies by group size.

Riga Castle

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Castle

Pils laukums 3

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Riga Castle, a Neo-Classical medieval fortress, serves as the presidential residence and houses a national museum. Founded in 1330 on the Daugava River's banks.

Duration: At least 2 hours.

Free. Some exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Aldaris Beer Museum

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Museum

Tvaika iela 44

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Aldaris Beer Museum in Riga, Latvia, highlights the diversity of beers brewed locally and globally, featuring a historical collection and interactive brewing experiences.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Paid. Prices vary for adults and children, specific details can be checked on the museum's website.

The World of Hat Museum

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Museum

Vilandes Street 7

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The World of Hat Museum in Riga, Latvia is the only museum dedicated to headwear, showcasing a diverse collection of hats, bonnets, and headbands from around the globe.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Admission is free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Kronvalda Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Kalpaka bulvaris 12

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Kronvalda Park in Riga, Latvia, features extensive green space, a canal, and pathways, offering a serene escape in the city for locals and visitors.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have additional fees.

Fountain Nymph

Open 24 hours

Fountain

Bastejkalns Parks

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Fountain Nymph in Riga, Latvia is a decorative water feature, symbolizing the city's architectural beauty and artistic spirit since its inauguration in 1996.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free.

Rigas Lutera Draudze

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Tornakalna iela 5 Zemgales Priekšpilsēta

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Rigas Lutera Draudze is an evangelical Lutheran church in Riga, Latvia, known for its unique architecture and historical significance dating back to the 16th century.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free entry for all visitors.

St. Gertrude New Church

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Brivibas iela 119

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St. Gertrude New Church in Riga, Latvia, features neo-Gothic architecture and serves as an important cultural and religious center within the city.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Daugavgriva White Church

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Baltasbaznicas iela 50

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Daugavgriva White Church in Riga, Latvia, is a historic Lutheran church built in 1865, known for its striking architecture and serene surroundings.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Some events may have an entry fee.

Khram Arkhistratiga Bozh'yego Mikhaila

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Maskavas iela 170

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Khram Arkhistratiga Bozh'yego Mikhaila in Riga, Latvia, serves as an artistic and cultural landmark reflecting Eastern Orthodox architecture with vibrant ornamental details.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed during special events.

Ozo Golf Club

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

Mīlgrāvja iela 16

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Ozo Golf Club in Riga, Latvia, offers a premier golfing experience with a lush landscape and well-designed course facilities.

Duration: More than 4 hours.

Paid. Prices vary by season and membership status.

St James' Cathedral

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Jekaba iela 9

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St James' Cathedral, built in 1225, serves as the Roman Catholic cathedral of Riga, Latvia, dedicated to Saint James the Greater. It reflects diverse historical influences.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require prior registration.

Victory Memorial to Soviet Army

Open 24 hours

Monument

Latvia

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Victory Memorial to Soviet Army in Riga commemorates WWII Soviet soldiers. It is a significant and divisive symbol for both Russian and Latvian communities.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free to visit. No entry fees required.

Vansu Cable Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Krišjāņa Valdemāra

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Vansu Cable Bridge, located in Riga, Latvia, connects the city's central area with the luxury district of Mežaparks, known for its cable-stayed design and nighttime illumination.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. No charges for crossing the bridge.

Turiba University

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

Graudu 68

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Turiba University, a prominent business school located in Riga, Latvia, offers varied programs focused on business, management, and entrepreneurship.

Duration: Approx. 1-2 hours.

Free entry to campus; some special events may require a paid ticket.