At first glance, Riga has the dynamism of a thriving regional metropolis and the charm of a historic city, with picturesque views at every turn.
With its ever-changing kaleidoscope of offerings, Riga promises a fresh, delightful and diverse experience every day.
Here are the best things to do and see in Riga right now.
- The ultimate checklist for culture lovers
- The ultimate checklist for the foodie in you
- The ultimate checklist for the coolest of families
The largest city in the Baltic States and the capital of Latvia, Riga is a vibrant centre of culture, architecture and history.
Its impressive collection of Art Nouveau buildings, one of the largest in the world, harmoniously juxtaposes the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Photo by LiveRiga
Visitors can also explore the emergence of stylish new neighbourhoods while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the many cafes, bars and music venues.
The ultimate checklist for culture lovers
See Malkovich and Rothko in a theatrical setting
In recent years, Riga’s theatre scene has become even richer and more dynamic. A new generation of strong local directors has emerged, and prominent foreign directors have been invited to direct productions.
Photo source: Dailes Theatre
Last year, for example, the Dailes Theatre hosted the premiere of Leopoldstadt by renowned American actor and director John Malkovich.
This year, the theatre was rocked by the musical performance Stupid Life, a collaboration between the theatre’s top actresses and two iconic cabaret groups, Britain’s The Tiger Lillies and Ukraine’s Dakh Daughters.
Photo source: Dailes Theatre
There is also the internationally acclaimed production of ROTKHO.
Poland’s leading contemporary director, Lukasz Twarkowski, created one of the most impressive theatre shows in the Baltics, dedicated to one of the world’s most expensive works of art – Mark Rothko’s Painting No. 6.
Photo source: Dailes Theatre
Blending theatre, film and video art, ROTKHO (a distortion of the famous Latvian-born artist’s surname) delves deep into the abyss of contemporary art, questioning the relationship between the fake and the original on the eve of the digital age.
Watch the best cinema in a magical setting
Autumn is cinema time! For over a decade, the Riga International Film Festival (Riga IFF) has been showcasing the most daring and important European cinema.
This year’s event takes place from October 17–27 and features over 100 internationally acclaimed features and shorts, highlighting current trends and key contemporary filmmakers.
Photo source: Facebook
Screenings will take place at several cinemas in Riga, with a selection of films also available online throughout Latvia.
A special treat for cinephiles are screenings at the Splendid Palace, one of the oldest cinemas in Europe. The neo-baroque building, which is over 100 years old, has housed a cinema since its opening.
Photo by Linda Jekabsone
Engage with art in a very special way
The new Ola Foundation has quickly become a popular cultural destination in Riga. This privately owned venue for art, music and creative discussion boasts innovative architecture, a beautiful garden and an elegant atmosphere. The building complex also won the 2022 award for the best building of the year in Latvia.
Photo source: Ola Foundation
The Ola Foundation is currently hosting several exhibitions, allowing visitors to see many of Latvia’s finest artists in a new light. Reserve a time to visit on Ola’s website.
Photo source: Ola Foundation
Meanwhile, the remarkable Zuzeum contemporary art centre houses Latvia’s largest private art collection.
Its minimalist interior complements the unique artworks, making it the perfect place for a delightful afternoon, complete with a delicious pastry in the museum’s café.
Photo source: Zuzeum
Here you can also experience art in a very special way, with guided tours by art educators, special film screenings and concerts, and even yoga sessions.
Photo source: Zuzeum
The Pauls Stradiņš Museum of Medical History surprisingly offers a unique encounter with art. A visit here is a journey through the history of medicine and the museum itself, allowing visitors to explore the history of medicine up to the mid-20th century.
Photo source: Museum of Medical History
The permanent exhibition is regularly complemented by temporary art exhibitions (curated by Latvia’s best art curators) that powerfully address uncomfortable and painful topics.
Experience world-class music in stylish spaces
One of the most popular cultural venues in Riga at the moment is the small M/Darbnīca. It has a contemporary art gallery and bar on the ground floor, while the elegant second-floor concert space hosts Latvia’s best musicians in jazz, blues, and other genres.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
All of this is accompanied by a relaxed atmosphere and high-quality artistic performances. Incidentally, the Čudars Trio received the prestigious Latvian Grand Music Award 2022 for best concert for their performance at M/Darbnīca.
Photo source: Facebook
The other hotspot for very special concerts is Hanzas Perons. This former freight railway warehouse in the New Hanza district has been transformed into a stylish platform for culture, art and music.
Photo sources: Hanzas Perons
Music lovers should mark their calendars for the iconic experimental music festival Skaņu Mežs 2024 on October 4 and 5.
The first night will be headlined by electronic music duo Autechre, while the second night will feature abstract hip-hop duo Armand Hammer.
The ultimate checklist for the foodie in you
Indulge in Riga’s Michelin-starred restaurants
The first Latvian restaurants listed in the international Michelin Guide were announced at the end of last year. That list includes 22 restaurants, with Max Cekot Kitchen in Riga becoming the first in Latvia to receive a Michelin star.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Nestled within a former wood processing factory, the establishment is a testament to chef Max Cekot’s visionary artistry. From the innovative interior design to the exquisite cuisine, every aspect reflects his creative genius.
Cekot’s avantgarde techniques beautifully showcase the bounty of locally sourced ingredients and the essence of Latvian cuisine.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
While the word around town is that Max Cekot Kitchen is now booking tables months in advance after receiving this distinction, it’s worth checking out the other restaurants in the guide as well. These include Whitehouse, Barents, Le Dome, Ferma, and many others.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Discover markets where culture and food meet
In recent years, several markets have joined the ranks of Riga’s hottest cultural spots. It all started with Kalnciema Market, which for years has hosted summer concerts and exhibitions alongside the traditional Saturday farmers’ and crafts’ market.
The well-preserved wooden buildings that surround this popular meeting place add to its special aura.
Photo by Live Riga
The recently restored Āgenskalns Market, whose pavilion is a shining example of the rationalist Art Nouveau style, is also nearby.
Here, farmers and home producers sell their wares on the ground floor, while the upper-level features food and drinks in a charming atmosphere.
Photo source: Facebook
Exhibitions, concerts, stand-up performances and Sunday flea markets are also part of daily life at Āgenskalns Market.
Relax on trendy roof tops and terraces
Riga’s historic charm and many hidden gems have also given rise to a thriving scene of rooftop restaurants and terraces. With a variety of concepts on offer, there’s something for everyone, from the minimalist to the glamorous.
Photo by Live Riga
For travellers who appreciate elegant classics, the rooftop restaurant and bar Stage 22 at the Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga offers culinary excellence with international dishes using local ingredients, complemented by breathtaking panoramic views of the National Opera house and a park.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
For a more relaxed atmosphere, Avantgarden is Riga’s premier rooftop escape atop the Galleria Riga shopping mall. This vibrant oasis features lush greenery and a 360-degree panoramic view of Riga, offering an awe-inspiring perspective of the city’s skyline.
Photo source: Facebook
As well as a great selection of street food, it’s the perfect place for a casual hangout.
For those looking for an iconic and Instagram-worthy experience, Herbary stands out here. This concept bar and cafe resembles a lush greenhouse, providing a tranquil setting to enjoy sundowner cocktails while taking in panoramic views of the city.
Photo source: Herbary
You’ll also find several charming restaurants and cafés with terraces in Berga Bazārs. This stylish quarter constructed in 1887–1900 is one of the most elegant places in the city and caters to those who love life, food, and art.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
But if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the green neighbourhood of Ķīpsala on the left bank of the Daugava River.
Formerly a fishing village, it’s now an exclusive residential area with a few restaurants that offer a wonderful view of Old Riga across the water.
Photo source: Restorāns Osta
Take a delicious sip of a tasty drink
When it comes to enjoying a drink in Riga, the city offers a wide range of venues to suit all tastes and preferences.
For a sophisticated experience with breathtaking views, head to the Skyline Bar on the 26th floor of the Radisson Blu Latvija Hotel.
This stylish cocktail bar offers panoramic views of the city skyline, ideal for enjoying sunset drinks or evening cocktails in an elegant atmosphere.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Craft beer lovers should not miss Labietis Craft Beer Bar, a pioneer in Riga’s craft beer scene since its establishment in 2014.
With an impressive selection of more than 70 unique beers, each colour-coded by genre, Labietis not only serves as a brewery, but also offers tours, tastings and a relaxed bar experience where guests can unwind with their favourite brew.
Photo source: Tripadvisor
For a vibrant and trendy atmosphere, Gimlet showcases the art of cocktails in Riga. The menu highlights seasonal and local ingredients, with drinks infused with Nordic flavours such as quince, rhubarb and hemp, often sourced from nearby farms and foraging trips.
Photo source: Facebook
The atmosphere at Gimlet combines Nordic elegance with a cosy and welcoming vibe, providing the perfect setting to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails.
The ultimate checklist for the coolest of families
See stunning modern circus acts
The historic Riga Circus building has recently undergone a major restoration, transforming it into a dynamic venue for modern and contemporary circus performances.
A major milestone was reached at the end of March this year with the grand opening of the newly renovated main arena, where audiences were enthralled by a series of breathtaking performances.
Photo source: Riga Circus
This revitalised space is now poised to become a cultural hub, seamlessly blending tradition and innovation to create an exciting platform for circus arts in the heart of Riga.
Incidentally, the Riga Circus building was founded on December 29, 1888, making it one of the oldest circus buildings in Europe.
Try a fun city orientation game
If you’re curious and love outdoor activities, the Roadgames adventure and orienteering app is a great find. By completing various tasks, you can also get to know different parts of Riga.
Photo by Live Riga
How do you play? Download the app, select a game, do the challenges individually or in a team, and compete against other players.
The tasks and challenges will take you to places you never knew existed and sharpen your attention to detail. It also means you’ll have lots of interesting images for your Instagram feed.
Get to know Riga’s waterways
Take your family on a journey to discover the captivating beauty of Riga as you glide along its tranquil waterways in a kayak or SUP board at sunset, with breathtaking views of the city skyline reflected in the water.
Photo by Live Riga
For over a decade, Lūzumpunkts laivas has been a trusted partner for exploring these waters, with experienced instructors who have been navigating the Riga Canal and Daugavas River since 2010.
Their knowledgeable team will help you choose the perfect route, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Photo by Live Riga
Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this magical experience promises to create lasting memories for your family. It’s an adventure that really makes booking a trip to Riga worthwhile!
Explore Riga’s motorsport heritage
If the younger members of your family are more interested in technical things, dive into the Riga Motor Museum. It hosts the largest collection of antique motor vehicles in the Baltics.
The exhibition is organised in the form of an exciting interactive story about unique vehicles, notable people, and significant events in the history of the automotive industry, complemented by modern multimedia technologies. It promises an exciting day for all!
Photo source: Tripadvisor
Next door is the legendary Biķernieku circuit, known for generations as the mecca of motorsport in the Baltic region. This summer it even hosted a stage of the World Rally Championship.
Photo by Linda Jekabsone
On regular days, enthusiasts can sign up for various driving experiences, from karting to glamorous professional cars, by checking the calendar.