Riga-4-day-itinerary
Riga 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
- Morning: Start your day at the iconic Riga Cathedral (Rīgas Doms), a stunning example of Brick Gothic architecture. Take a stroll around the surrounding square, Doma laukums.
- Lunch: Head to MiiT Coffee & More for delicious coffee and sandwiches in a cozy atmosphere.
- Afternoon: Visit the Latvian National Museum of Art to explore an impressive collection of Latvian art from the 19th century to the present day. Afterwards, wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, taking in the beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere.
- Dinner: Enjoy traditional Latvian cuisine at Kaļķu Vārti, a cozy restaurant serving dishes like pork shank and salmon soup.
Accommodation Suggestion: Stay at the Grand Palace Hotel in the heart of the Old Town, offering luxurious rooms and excellent service.
Things to Know:
- Riga is a walkable city, but you can also use public transportation (buses, trams, and trolleybuses) or taxis.
- Many restaurants offer English menus, but it’s still a good idea to learn basic Latvian phrases like “hello” (Sveiki), “thank you” (Paldies), and “excuse me” (Izredzieties).
Day 2: Art Nouveau and Markets
- Morning: Visit the Riga Central Market to sample local food, drinks, and souvenirs. Be sure to try some traditional Latvian delicacies like smoked fish or honey cake.
- Lunch: Grab a bite at Fazenda, offering tasty burgers and salads in a trendy setting.
- Afternoon: Explore the stunning Art Nouveau architecture of Riga by taking a self-guided walking tour. Start at Alberta iela, a street lined with beautiful buildings designed by Mikhail Eisenstein.
- Dinner: Savor contemporary Latvian cuisine at Restorāns 1221, located in the heart of the Old Town.
Tip: Riga is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, so be sure to take your time and admire the intricate details on building facades.
Day 3: Day Trip to Sigulda
- Morning: Take a train (approximately 1 hour journey) or drive to Sigulda, a charming town in the Gauja National Park.
- Lunch: Enjoy traditional Latvian cuisine at Gurmānu slepeni in Sigulda’s Old Town.
- Afternoon: Explore the picturesque surroundings of Sigulda by hiking or taking a cable car ride to see breathtaking views from the top of Gauja River valley. Visit the Sigulda Castle for an insight into the region’s history.
- Dinner: Return to Riga and dine at 3 pavaru restorāns, offering delicious Latvian dishes with a modern twist.
Transportation Tip: Book your train tickets in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
Day 4: Museums and Parks
- Morning: Visit the Riga Motor Museum to explore an impressive collection of vintage cars and motorcycles.
- Lunch: Head to Mārtiņi, a popular spot for tasty burgers and salads in a lively atmosphere.
- Afternoon: Stroll through the beautiful Mežaparks (Forest Park) or visit the Riga Zoo, home to over 400 species of animals.
- Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Dārzs, offering creative, farm-to-table cuisine in a cozy setting.
Additional Tips:
- Riga has many festivals and events throughout the year. Check the city’s event calendar to catch something exciting during your visit.
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as Riga can be quite windy and rainy.
I hope you enjoy your trip to Riga!