The Best of Riga

• Start your day with a coffee and croissant at Mīkla Bakery. They serve fresh pastries made with local ingredients and great coffee from Kalve.

• Next, visit one of Riga’s many museums to learn about the city’s rich history. The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia or the KGB Corner House are excellent choices to learn about their history under Soviet occupation.

• After that, head to the Art Nouveau district for lunch. It’s a beautiful area with lots of great restaurants, including some that are Michelin-recommended.

• For dinner, make a reservation at Rozengrāls. It’s an authentic medieval restaurant located in an old wine cellar with a great atmosphere and a unique experience to end your day.

• Pro tip: Riga is very walkable and flat, making it perfect for all activity levels.

• Start the morning at Riga’s Central Market, one of Europe’s largest, where you can walk around, sample local foods like smoked fish and pastries, and shop for souvenirs such as amber jewelry or linen goods.

• After the market, visit a museum you haven’t seen yet, either the Art Nouveau Museum for stunning architecture or the Open-Air Museum for a peaceful look at Latvian history.

• For lunch, head to Āgenskalns Market, a beautifully restored space offering local dishes, fresh produce, and cozy spots to eat.

• If the weather’s nice, take a relaxing boat ride along the Daugava River, passing landmarks like the Opera House and getting a unique view of the Central Market from the water.

• For dinner, try one of Riga’s popular Georgian restaurants, known for their flavorful dishes and warm atmosphere.

• End the evening with a nightcap. Enjoy a glass of wine at Closer Wine Bar or Legs or Tears, or opt for a craft beer at Nurme Brewery.

Start your morning with a peaceful walk through Bastejkalna Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city with winding paths, bridges, and views of the canal. It’s a great spot for coffee and people-watching.

From there, head to the Freedom Monument, an important symbol of Latvian independence.

For lunch, some of the great places to eat in Riga are:

• SMØR, a cozy spot serving Scandinavian-style open-faced sandwiches and fresh, simple dishes.

• Max Cekot Kitchen offers a fine dining experience with a creative tasting menu in a stylish space.

• For something more casual, The Catch serves Japanese food like sushi, ramen, and grilled dishes in a relaxed setting.

• If you're looking for vegetarian or Middle Eastern flavors, Space Falafel is a trendy, laid-back place with falafel, hummus, and grilled veggies and excellent cocktails.

In the afternoon, climb to the top of St. Peter’s Church for panoramic views of Riga’s Old Town and the Daugava River. Then wander through the cobbled streets, stopping at small shops or grabbing a snack.

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local bistro or wine bar for something casual and cozy. If you’re up for it, take one last evening stroll along the river or through the Old Town, soaking in the lights and atmosphere.