Riga’s best panoramic spots
Riga is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural diversity. While wandering the cobblestone streets and admiring the Art Nouveau buildings is a must, the true magic of the city reveals itself when viewed from above.
St. Peter’s Church
St. Peter’s Church, located in the heart of Riga’s Old Town, is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Its tower, standing at 123 meters, offers visitors an unbeatable 360-degree view of the city.
The observation platform is easily accessible by elevator, saving your energy for further exploration at street level.
From the observation deck, you can gaze down on the medieval streets, colorful buildings, and red-tiled rooftops.
On clear days, you can see as far as the Gulf of Riga and the Latvian countryside. The panoramic view here is ideal for photography and history enthusiasts who want to appreciate the blend of old and new in Riga’s cityscape.
The Latvian Academy of Sciences
Often referred to as “Stalin’s birthday cake” because of its Soviet-era architecture, the Latvian Academy of Sciences is one of the tallest buildings in Riga and offers another fantastic panoramic viewpoint. From its observation deck, located on the 17th floor, visitors can enjoy a sweeping view of both Old Town and the modern parts of the city.
This spot is particularly notable for its close proximity to Riga Central Market and the surrounding neighborhoods, giving you a unique opportunity to see both the historical and working-class areas of the city.
The observation deck is open year-round, making it a great destination no matter the season.
Riga TV Tower
Standing tall on the island of Zaķusala in the middle of the Daugava River, the Riga TV Tower is the tallest building in the Baltics and the third tallest in Europe. Its observation deck, located at 97 meters, offers one of the highest vantage points in the city.
Though slightly removed from the center, the TV Tower provides a more expansive view of Riga and the surrounding countryside. From here, you can see the Old Town in the distance, the winding Daugava River, and the lush forests that border the city.
The unique perspective makes this an excellent spot for those who want to see Riga from a more distant, serene angle.
