Riga 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Riga, Latvia

Day 1: Arrival & Central Riga

Arrival: Fly into Riga International Airport (RIX). You can reach the city center by bus (#22 or #32), taxi, or pre-booked transfer.

Activities:

  1. House of Blackheads: A historic building in the heart of Old Riga, housing exhibitions and events.
  2. St. Peter’s Church: Climb up for a panoramic view of the city.
  3. Dominican Monastery & St. Jacob’s Cathedral: Admire the beautiful architecture.
  4. Central Market (Centrāltirgus): A bustling market selling local produce, souvenirs, and food.

Where to Eat:

  1. Restaurant Menzgala: Traditional Latvian cuisine in a cozy setting.
  2. Gastro Bar Ritzi: Modern European dishes with a twist.

Accommodation:

  1. Wellton Riverside Hotel: Centrally located with modern amenities.
  2. Neiburgs Hotel: Charming boutique hotel in Old Town.

Day 2: Art Nouveau & Modern Riga

Activities:

  1. Art Nouveau District: Stroll through the stunning neighborhood of Jugenda Riga.
  2. Latvian National Museum of Art (LMNA): Explore Latvia’s rich artistic heritage.
  3. Riga Central Station: Marvel at its unique architecture and take a train ride if you wish.
  4. Freedom Monument: A symbol of Latvia’s independence.

Where to Eat:

  1. Three Baskets (Trīs Maini) for traditional Latvian dishes.
  2. Green House Restaurant for contemporary Latvian cuisine.

Accommodation: See Day 1.

Day 3: Explore the Suburbs

Activities:

  1. Jurmala: Visit Latvia’s most famous seaside resort town, known for its Art Nouveau architecture and sandy beaches.
  2. Riga Zoo: Home to over 250 species of animals.
  3. Turaida Museum Reserve: Learn about the history and culture of the Livonian Order in Sigulda.

Where to Eat:

  1. Kalnupuru Restaurant in Jurmala for seafood dishes.
  2. Sidraba Restaurant in Sigulda for local favorites.

Accommodation: Stay in Riga or return to Riga for the night.

Day 4: Day Trip to Cesis & Ventspils

Activities:

  1. Cesis: Explore the medieval town with its castle ruins, St. John’s Church, and the Town Hall.
  2. Ventspils: Visit the Ocean Station, take a stroll along the promenade, or enjoy the beach at Dundurde Beach.

Where to Eat:

  1. Rokas Restaurant in Cesis for Latvian and European cuisine.
  2. Nautilus Hotel & Restaurant in Ventspils for seafood dishes.

Accommodation: Return to Riga for the night.

Day 5: Final Exploration & Departure

Activities:

  1. Riga Cathedral: The largest church in the Baltics, with stunning architecture.
  2. Latvian National Opera: Enjoy a performance if your schedule allows.
  3. Dole Park: Relax and enjoy some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Where to Eat:

  1. Restaurant 18 for an upscale dining experience with a view of the Dome Cathedral.
  2. Kartupele Restaurant & Brewery for local craft beer and dishes.

Transportation:

  • Public transportation in Riga is efficient and affordable, with trams, buses, and trolleybuses.
  • Taxis are also widely available but can be expensive compared to public transport.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Latvian phrases to interact with locals.
  • Use the free city wifi hotspots marked with “RIGA FREE WIFI” signs.
  • Enjoy exploring Riga and its surroundings!