5 Days of Fun and Culture in Riga, Latvia

Explore the beauty of Riga without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a perfect destination for budget travelers looking for a mix of history, culture, and nightlife. With its charming old town, free walking tours, and affordable food options, you can explore the city without breaking the bank. Hostels and Airbnb rentals offer budget-friendly accommodations, while public transportation and bike rentals make getting around the city easy and inexpensive.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arriving in Riga

  • Check into the budget-friendly Rixwell Elefant Hotel.
  • Take a stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town.
  • Visit the Riga Central Market, Europe's largest outdoor market, to try some local delicacies.
  • Explore the Art Nouveau district and admire the ornate facades of the buildings.
  • End the day with a drink at Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs, a popular underground bar with live music.
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Join a free walking tour to learn about the history and culture of Riga.
  • Visit the impressive Riga Cathedral, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture.
  • Explore the Latvian National Museum of Art and see the works of famous Latvian artists.
  • Experience the Soviet era at the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia.
  • Dine at Lido, a popular Latvian restaurant chain, for traditional Latvian dishes.
Day 3

Day Trip to Sigulda

  • Take a train to Sigulda, a picturesque town located 40 kilometers from Riga.
  • Visit the Sigulda Castle complex and admire the stunning views of the Gauja River Valley.
  • Explore the Gutmanis Cave, the largest and oldest cave in Latvia.
  • Walk through the forests and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Gauja National Park.
  • Return to Riga and have a drink and a bite to eat at Ala Folkklubs.
Day 4

Relaxation

  • Take a break from sightseeing and visit one of Riga's many spas.
  • Relax at the Black Pearl Spa, located in the heart of Riga's Old Town.
  • Visit the Central Park, a beautiful green space perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk.
  • Go shopping at the Stockmann department store, Latvia's largest shopping center.
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at the rooftop restaurant Skyline Bar, with stunning views of Riga.
Day 5

Farewell Riga

  • Check out of the Rixwell Elephant Hotel and enjoy breakfast at Kafe Piens.
  • Head to the impressive Latvian National Opera and Ballet and catch a world-class performance.
  • Visit the Freedom Monument, a symbol of Latvia's fight for independence.
  • Say goodbye to Riga with a coffee at the Double Coffee, a popular local chain.
  • Depart Riga and reflect on the many memorable experiences and sights of the city.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Riga, Latvia by plane is to fly into Riga International Airport (RIX) with various airlines such as Air Baltic, Ryanair or Wizzair, from major cities like London, Madrid or Berlin.

Car

The easiest way to get to Riga, Latvia by car is by driving through Lithuania and traveling along the A2/E272 highway. Alternatively, one can also get to Riga through Estonia by crossing over the border on the E67 highway.

Train

Although there is no direct train to Riga, you can take the train to the closest city across the border in Lithuania, and then take a bus or taxi to Riga. The closest train station is in Šeštokai, Lithuania.

Boat

One can take a ferry from Stockholm in Sweden to Riga by using the services of Tallink or Stena Line. The ferry arrives into Riga Passenger Terminal.

Bus

The best way to get to Riga, Latvia by bus is to take an international bus from major European cities such as Berlin or Warsaw run by companies such as Ecolines or Lux Express which has a stop in Riga Central Bus Station.

Destination

Riga

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Budget-Friendly Fun: 2 Days in Vibrant Riga

A trip to Riga, Latvia on a limited budget can still be enjoyable and memorable. The city boasts plenty of free and affordable activities, such as exploring the Art Nouveau district or wandering through the central market. Accommodations can be found in budget-friendly hostels or Airbnb rentals, and local street food is both tasty and inexpensive.

2-days of Culture, History, and Fun in Riga

A trip to Riga, Latvia promises to leave any tourist in awe of its diverse culture, rich history, and stunning architecture. From the historic Old Town with its cobblestone streets and Gothic cathedrals to the modern Art Nouveau district, Riga offers a unique blend of old and new. The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to every taste.

The Ultimate 4-Day Adventure: Discovering Riga's Hidden Gems

Riga, Latvia is a vibrant and family-friendly destination perfect for an enjoyable vacation. Explore the city's rich history by visiting the stunning Riga Castle and the impressive Art Nouveau district. Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque Old Town and indulge in tasty local cuisine while creating beautiful memories with your family.

Romantic Day Trip: Riga's Old Town & Cuisine

Discover the romantic charm of Riga with a trip to the breathtaking Old Town, where you can explore ancient streets, medieval churches and traditional buildings. Enjoy breathtaking views from the top of St. Peter's Church or take a peaceful stroll along the banks of the Daugava River. End your day with a cozy dinner in one of Riga's charming restaurants, sampling the delicious Baltic cuisine and local wine.