The Latvian capital is the largest and most cosmopolitan of the Baltic trio — a city where the past and present meet in perfect rhythm. Riga charms you instantly with its medieval core wrapped in modern elegance. Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, look up to admire the city’s Art Nouveau facades, and feel the pulse of its vibrant cultural scene.

From the graceful Riga National Opera and Ballet — affectionately called the city’s White House  to the breathtaking views atop the Riga Rise Observation Wheel, every corner reveals a story. Explore the grand halls of the Latvian National Museum of Art, taste local life at Āgenskalns Market, and watch the spires of St. Peter’s Church and Riga Dome Cathedral catch the northern light.

Whether you’re drawn by history, architecture, food, or simply the joy of discovering something authentic, Riga answers with a confident yes — it’s absolutely worth the journey.

Exploring Riga’s Old Town

Riga’s Old Town is the heart of the city a charming mix of history, culture, and everyday life. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, it’s one of the first places every visitor should wander through. Here, centuries of architecture coexist beautifully: Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and even touches of classicism and modernism line the streets.

Two landmarks stand out: the Dome Church and St. Peter’s Church, whose 72-meter-high tower offers breathtaking views of the city. Beyond the historic buildings, Old Town is alive with cozy cafés, lively restaurants, and inviting bars, making it the perfect place to soak in Riga’s vibrant atmosphere.

Riga’s Three Brothers, from the 15th–17th centuries, showcase the city’s history, from simple medieval living to elegant design, and now house the Museum of Architecture.

Art Nouveau Architecture in Riga

Riga boasts one of Europe’s richest collections of Art Nouveau architecture, with nearly a third of its city centre built in this distinctive style. A stroll through the streets reveals buildings that feel more like art than mere structures. At Elizabetes iela 10b, Mikhail Eisenstein’s dramatic touch is impossible to miss—bold mascarons, flowing lines, and ornate balconies create a facade that’s almost theatrical. Just a short walk away, Alberta iela 1 offers a more restrained elegance, with perfect symmetry and refined proportions that capture the style’s subtler beauty. A few steps further, Alberta iela 2a delights with playful details and lavish ornamentation, while the neighbouring houses along Alberta Street form a continuous gallery of early 20th-century creativity. Every corner feels like a postcard from a bygone era.

Dinner at Rozengrāls Restaurant, a medieval cellar in the Old Town where history, flavors, and atmosphere blend perfectly.

Āgenskalns Market

Open since 1898, Āgenskalns Market is the largest and oldest market in its neighborhood, now beautifully renovated and reopened in May 2022. The ground floor offers a vibrant mix of local produce, artisan goods, and street food, from fresh bread and dairy to fish, meat, and specialty treats like Valmiermuiža beer. Upstairs, visitors can enjoy meals and drinks at lively spots like VEST bar, Marmelāde, and Vīnkalni pizzeria, or take part in educational and cultural events in the co-creation kitchen. With its preserved red-brick facade and historic interior, Āgenskalns Market blends tradition, community, and modern energy—making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic Riga experiences.

Discover Riga Beyond the Usual Sights

While Old Town’s postcard-perfect streets and the city’s iconic Art Nouveau facades are must-sees, Riga has a hidden side waiting to be explored. Venture down quiet backstreets to find quirky cafés, contemporary creative hubs, and historic buildings with stories that rarely make the guidebooks. Scenic spots cherished by locals add to the city’s charm, offering a more authentic and offbeat experience. For those seeking something different, stepping off the beaten path reveals the Riga that most visitors never get to see