My favorite places in Riga

After spending a month in this splendid city, I want to share some of my favorite places in Riga.

From hidden gems to popular must-visit locations, these places have truly captured the essence of what makes this city so special.

To Visit:

Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ

The Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ is a masterpiece of Neo-Byzantine architecture and one of Riga’s most visually striking landmarks.

Its golden domes glisten in the sunlight, and the interior is just as impressive, with richly decorated mosaics and stunning frescoes. Whether you’re religious or simply an admirer of architectural beauty.

Its history is intertwined with Riga’s past, having survived both world wars and Soviet occupation (when it housed a planetarium and a café), making it a symbol of resilience.

St. Peter’s Church’s Tower

As mentioned in my previous article, the standout feature of St. Peter’s Church is its soaring tower, reaching an impressive height of 123 meters.

Visitors can ascend to the panoramic platform at the top via an elevator, where they are greeted with magnificent views of Riga. From this vantage point, you can admire the city’s picturesque rooftops, the winding Daugava River, and the sprawling greenery of nearby parks.

The view is truly breathtaking and speaks for itself — the panoramic platform is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

To Wander or Relax:

Riga Town Hall Square

Located in the heart of the Old Town, Riga Town Hall Square is one of the city’s most picturesque and historically significant areas. Surrounded by stunning architecture, including the iconic House of the Blackheads, the square beautifully blends Gothic and Baroque styles.

I always stop by the House of the Blackheads whenever I’m in the Old Town and sit on the benches in front of it, simply to take in the view and admire every intricate detail of its façade. From the vibrant colors to the ornate sculptures, there’s always something new to notice and appreciate. The view never gets old!

Bastejkalna Park & Latvian National Opera

The Bastejkalna Park is a beautiful spot to relax or take a walk.

With charming bridges, romantic canals, and neatly tended gardens, it’s a perfect place to unwind or enjoy a quiet afternoon.

You can even take a scenic boat ride through the canal for a unique perspective of the city.

One of the park’s highlights is its proximity to the Latvian National Opera. From the park, you can admire the stunning architecture of the opera house from the outside, adding a touch of cultural elegance to your walk.

If you find yourself enchanted by its exterior, you might be tempted to buy a ticket to experience one of their enchanting performances. The Latvian National Opera boasts an impressive repertoire, featuring classic masterpieces alongside contemporary works, ensuring that there’s something for every taste.

More about my evening at the Opera.

Art Nouveau District

Riga is famous for its Art Nouveau district, particularly the streets of Alberta iela and Elizabetes iela, where some of the most remarkable architectural gems await. Walking through these streets is like stepping into an open-air museum of intricate facades, decorative details, and expressive designs. The elaborate carvings, ornate balconies, and unique motifs on the buildings are breathtaking, making this district a must-see.

Cat House

When wandering through the charming streets of the Old Town, be sure to stop by the Cat House, a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture that beckons you to look up.

Atop its roof, you’ll discover two striking cat sculptures, elegantly poised with arched backs and raised tails — an enchanting little easter egg that adds a touch of whimsy to the building.

Meistaru iela 10/12, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050

To Eat:

In/near the old town:

Riga Central Market

The Riga Central Market is an absolute must-visit for food lovers.

As one of Europe’s largest and most diverse markets, it offers a vibrant selection of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and artisanal goods. Each pavilion has its own unique focus, from local seafood to dairy products and fresh vegetables.

The market is also the perfect place to sample authentic Latvian cuisine and it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the flavors of the region.

In addition to food, you’ll find stalls selling handmade crafts, flowers, and other local products, making the market not just a place to eat but a cultural experience in itself.

Pizza – Peppo’s Pizzeria

As an Italian, I’m always on the hunt for the best pizza in town, and I’ve found it at Peppo’s Pizzeria.

This cozy spot serves up delicious, freshly made pizzas that perfectly capture the authentic flavors of Italy.

With a variety of toppings and a perfectly crispy crust, each bite is a delightful experience.

The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff truly make it a favorite of mine.

Miesnieku Iela 8 Centra Rajons, Riga LV-1050 Latvia

Sweet Treat – AJ Chocolate House

AJ Chocolate House is a delightful spot that specializes in all things chocolate, offering a tempting array of treats that will satisfy any dessert lover.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a sweet treat or a unique gift to bring home, Chocolate House delivers a truly delightful experience.

Vaļņu iela 28, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050

Near Liden and Denz:

Georgian Cuisine – Hačapuri Meitene

Hačapuri Meitene is a delightful family-run restaurant that specializes in authentic Georgian cuisine, particularly on the beloved cheese-filled bread known as hačapuri.

This cozy little restaurant exudes warmth and charm, featuring friendly service and inviting outdoor tables. You can enjoy absolutely delicious food at a very reasonable price, making it one of my favorite restaurants in the city.

It’s often pretty busy, so be sure to reserve a table if you plan to visit!

Tērbatas iela 66, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1001

Burgers – Oak’A Burgers

Oak’A Burgers specializes in delicious Smash burgers, which have quickly become the best-selling burgers in Riga.

Known for their juicy patties and an impressive variety of homemade sauces, this spot is perfect for both big and small appetites.

Nestled next to the charming St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Oak’A Burgers offers not just delicious food but also lovely views.

Avotu iela 77, Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1050