Riga is the capital of Latvia, and it’s an ideal destination for a city trip combining culture, history, nature and relaxation. My three-day stay in this captivating city allowed me to discover much more than I could have imagined, and every corner amazed me by its singular charm and lively atmosphere. This city, where medieval past, Art Nouveau architecture and Soviet influences meet, is perfect for a short break. I will share my itinerary and impressions, as well as some tips to make the most of this city.
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town and Historical Monuments
As soon as I arrived, I started my travel with the old town of Riga, or Vecrīga, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a maze of cobbled streets, colorful houses, picturesque squares and medieval buildings. A guided tour with a Free Tour was an excellent way to start my discovery: the local guide immersed me in the history of the city, with fascinating anecdotes about medieval life and the transformations of Riga over the centuries.
Black Heads House and Town Hall Square
The House of Black Heads is without a doubt one of the most emblematic buildings in Riga. Built in the 14th century to house a merchant guild, it was destroyed during the Second World War and then restored. It shines with its Renaissance ornaments and illustrates the rich past of Riga as a Hanseatic city. Right next door, the Town Hall square is the perfect place to take pictures and enjoy the historic atmosphere. The other buildings, although renovated in a more contemporary style, provide an interesting contrast.
Saint-Pierre Church
The church of Saint-Pierre, with its imposing bell tower 123 meters, offers a breathtaking view over the city. The elevator takes us to an observation platform, ideal for appreciating the geometric structure of Riga, slate roofs, and the various hues between the old city and modern buildings. This visit, although paying, is definitely worth it.
Day 2: Art Nouveau and Green Spaces in the city of Riga
After a first day rich in history, I took a dip in the more modern and elegant Riga, with a walk in the Art Nouveau district. Riga is home to the largest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings in Europe, and it’s a joy to stroll through the streets of Alberta and Elizabetes to admire these refined facades.
The Art Nouveau Quarter and Alberta Street
These alleys are an open-air museum! The buildings, with their pastel colors, meticulous details and naturalistic motifs, are a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of Latvian architects in the early 20th century. The Art Nouveau Museum, located in an old apartment in the district, offers a fascinating glimpse into the period: period furniture, wall decorations and everyday objects. I particularly appreciated the influence of local legends and mythology expressed in unique architectural details.
Riga Green Belt and the Freedom Monument
After this cultural walk, I enjoyed the green belt of Riga, a series of parks surrounding the old city. Along the canals, it is possible to take boat rides or rent a pedal boat for a peaceful ride. The Freedom Monument, erected in honor of the fallen soldiers for the independence of Latvia, is a major national symbol. Topped by a statue of a woman holding three stars representing the country’s historic regions, this monument is the heart of patriotic celebrations and events.
Day 3 in visit riga: Nature Tour to Sigulda and Gauja National Park
For my last day, I took the train from Riga to visit Sigulda, a small town located about an hour from the capital. Sigulda is the gateway to the Gauja National Park, famous for its lush forests, sandstone cliffs, and medieval castles.
Turaida Castle
The Turaida Castle is an impressive red brick structure built in the 13th century. Its history is fascinating, and it offers panoramic views of the Gauja valley. The castle also houses an open-air museum where you can discover Latvian traditions, as well as reconstructions of medieval life. I particularly liked to climb into the main tower to contemplate the surrounding forest landscape.
Exploration in the Gauja National Park one of things to do in Riga
This park offers many hiking trails, ideal for discovering the fauna and flora. During my walk, I explored the Gutmanis cave, the largest of the Baltic countries, where ancient inscriptions tell local stories. Further on is the Krimulda manor house, with its gardens and café, a charming place for a well-deserved break.
Riga is a city with many facets, rooted in its past but resolutely contemporary. What touched me deeply was the pride of the people for their heritage and identity, after so many years of Soviet occupation. The Monument of Liberty is a beautiful symbol of this attachment to autonomy and Latvian culture. I also learned to admire Art Nouveau architecture, not only as an aesthetic splendor, but as a reflection of the ambitions and hopes of an entire era.
Finally, I realized how affordable and accessible Latvia is for a short trip. Riga, with its harmony of history, nature and modernity, is a metropolis that has so much to offer travelers, and I left enriched by this singular experience.