Old City
Situated on the banks of the Daugava River, Riga Old Town is home to the city's oldest and most impressive buildings. Narrow streets and cobblestones will lead you to centuries-old cathedrals and churches, elegant palaces and pretty squares. Despite the damage caused during World War II, most of the buildings have been restored and are in very good condition.
House of Blackheads
Destroyed during the Second World War and rebuilt between 1996 and 1999, the Maison des Têtes Noires appears today more majestic than ever. With its splendid statues and elaborate embellishments, it is a true architectural masterpiece. Inside, you can explore its grand ballrooms and learn about the power and prestige of the guilds.
Liberty Monument
This imposing monument commemorates soldiers killed in the Latvian War of Independence from 1918 to 1920. Built in 1935, it is made of red granite and topped with a copper sculpture of Liberty holding three golden stars. The monument is the venue for the city's official commemoration ceremonies and is surrounded by reliefs depicting national heroes and key moments in Latvia's history.
Bastion Park
Bastion Park extends on either side of the Pilsetas Canal, which runs along the old Riga moat. During the 19th century, this elevated estate was the site of the city's eastern fortifications. Today it is home to magnificent boulevards, lamp posts, sculptures, flower beds and an artificial waterfall. The pretty wrought iron bridges cross the canal, offering picturesque views.
Riga Central Market
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Riga's central market is one of the largest and most visited in Eastern Europe. Built in the 1920s from old German zeppelin hangars, the building is now a masterpiece in itself. Each pavilion specializes in specific gastronomic products such as fish, meat, dairy and vegetables.
Riga Automobile Museum
The Riga Automobile Museum reopened in 2016 after three years of renovation. If you like classic cars or are intrigued by Soviet artifacts, this museum will capture your attention. There you will find famous car models like the VGA, Moskvitch and Ziguli, as well as a ZIS 115 armored car designed for Joseph Stalin. Don't miss the Auto Union Type D racing car replica.
Town Hall Square
Destroyed during the Second World War, the Town Hall Square was rebuilt identically. At the heart of the square is a magnificent statue of Roland, a mythological knight. The square is dominated by the superb Maison des Têtes Noires. It's a great place to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.
Riga Zoo
Whether you're a fan of the wild animals of the savannahs or the rainforest, a visit to Riga Zoo will allow you to discover a wide variety of fascinating creatures. Lions, brown bears and lemurs rub shoulders with lesser-known species such as black wildebeest, tilapia and naked mole rats. A real journey through the world's ecosystems, without having to take a plane.
Jūrmala
In summer, you can take a commuter train from Riga Central Station to the resort town of Jūrmala. Jūrmala Beach stretches for 33 km and offers pristine white sand. You will also find elegant wooden houses by the sea. An ideal getaway to enjoy the sun and the sea.
Town tour
Finally, be sure to visit Riga's historical and cultural attractions on a city tour. You can discover the many historical sites, museums, art galleries and taste the delicious Latvian cuisine. Whether you are a history, architecture or nature lover, Riga offers many opportunities for fascinating discoveries. Plan your trip and get ready to have an unforgettable experience in this magnificent city.
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