The Cathedral Church of Saint Mary in Riga

Riga

Destination

How can you not visit a European capital with so much beautiful architecture? In Riga, all eyes are on the bounty of Baroque buildings, Gothic gables and Art Nouveau moldings. When the flamboyancy peaks, you can always slip into a cafe where you’ll have to somehow cope with a towering pile of foam atop your cappuccino. These are the hardships you’ll face on a holiday to Riga. Of course, all that comes in between flitting from one ever so slightly quirky spot to the next. Don’t worry, Riga doesn’t fly in the face of normalcy. It just adds a special touch to almost everything it touches. Here, you don’t just quad bike, you race your bike across a frozen lake. Equally, why kayak by day when you can paddle through the night? Love Vespas and coffee? There’s a cafe in Riga that’ll hire you a scooter, grease your spark plugs and serve you a slap up brunch. Which is all rather convenient.

Of course, you’ll also find some rather sombre reminders of recent history in Riga’s museums and landmarks. Sadness and survival are all part of the city’s story. And, just as with all heroic tales, it’s nice to balance out the thought-provoking moments with a little light-heartedness. And, you’ll find plenty of that in this city.

people dancing at a club in riga

After dark: A guide to Riga’s nightlife

See & Do

Riga nightlife options are perhaps a little more eclectic than in some cities. Yes, there’s the classic holiday destination bar – with the coveted panoramic views over the city. But there are also spots where you can launch yourself headlong into Riga bar culture. Pubs aren’t just for drinking in. Comedy nights are expected the world over. But foosball, poetry and board games can be a little harder to find – especially in an unfamiliar place. The ultimate night? You’ll find that singing with your own live band and backing vocals in the city’s karaoke bar…

Mediterranean restaurant riga

Breakfast, lunch and dinner in Riga

Food & Drink

There are many reasons to pile onto a plane for a meal in any of Riga’s restaurants. Yes, there are Latvian specialities to tempt foodies. And, there’s a whopping market to nibble your way around. There’s even a bountiful vegan selection for plant-based travellers. But the biggest reason? It has to be the quirky little cafes and restaurants doing things their way. Gone are the identikit, industrial chic, Instagram friendly joints we’re all so familiar with. In Riga, they’ll service your scooter while you watch through the window, sling dips directly onto your tablecloth or dress top-to-toe in national dress and bust out a tune on an accordion if you like. Marvellous.

coffee and dessert in riga

A coffee lover’s guide to Riga’s best coffee shops

Food & Drink

Coffee lovers, you will adore Riga’s coffee culture. There are quaint little spots to simply enthuse over the aromatics of the freshly roasted beans. And, of course, there are restaurants and cafes bolstering their coffee options with a full menu of gastro delights. The city’s top roasterys travel the world in search of the best crops. And, Riga’s top notch destinations benefit. We’ve clued you in to the cosy nooks to look out for as you explore Riga. But we’ve also noted down the brands you’ll want to look out for if you’re far from any of our top picks.

kayaking in riga at night

Stags on tour: The ultimate Riga stag do

See & Do

Riga nightlife options are perhaps a little more eclectic than in some cities. Yes, there’s the classic holiday destination bar – with the coveted panoramic views over the city. But there are also spots where you can launch yourself headlong into Riga bar culture. Pubs aren’t just for drinking in. Comedy nights are expected the world over. But foosball, poetry and board games can be a little harder to find – especially in an unfamiliar place. The ultimate night? You’ll find that singing with your own live band and backing vocals in the city’s karaoke bar…

traditional christmas tree in old town square riga

Wrap up for winter in Riga

See & Do

Whatever the temperature, Riga’s Christmas markets won’t fail to warm your heart. Though, things might feel a little light and breezy in the wallet department. Mulled wine loosens the purse strings as artisan crafts, Latvian snacks and a lap or two of the local ice rink all compete for your time and holiday budget. The decorations and festivities make it all worthwhile. With winter sports, warming undercover markets and potent liqueurs on offer, there’s no reason to skip Riga because of the winter weather.