Riga is the kind of city that packs centuries of history, striking architecture, and vibrant culture into a compact and walkable area—making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. With just two days, you can explore the best of Riga’s Old Town, discover its creative side, taste traditional Latvian food, and even enjoy a bit of nature. Here’s a perfect 2-day itinerary to make the most of your weekend in Latvia’s capital.
Day 1: Classic Riga and Old Town Highlights
Start your morning in Vecrīga (Old Town), the historic heart of the city. Wander the cobbled streets and admire landmarks like the House of the Blackheads, the Roland Statue, and St. Peter’s Church. If the weather is clear, take the elevator up St. Peter’s tower for panoramic views of the city and the Daugava River.
Next, visit Riga Cathedral (Dome Cathedral) and enjoy the peaceful square surrounding it. Grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafés, or take a short walk to see the Three Brothers, the oldest residential buildings in the city.
Around lunchtime, head to Riga Central Market, housed in old Zeppelin hangars. This is the perfect place to try traditional Latvian food on a budget—look for smoked fish, rye bread, pastries, and local cheese.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Art Nouveau district around Alberta and Elizabetes streets. Riga has one of the highest concentrations of Art Nouveau buildings in the world. Visit the Art Nouveau Museum to see what life looked like inside one of these elegant homes.
Wrap up the day with dinner at a traditional Latvian tavern like Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs, where you can enjoy hearty local dishes, live folk music, and craft beer in a medieval cellar setting.
Day 2: Local Culture, Green Spaces, and Relaxation
Start your second day with a leisurely breakfast in a local café—Miit, Innocent Café, or Mīkla are all great picks. Then head to the Latvian National Museum of Art, which offers a beautiful collection of classical and modern Latvian works in a grand building.
From there, walk through Bastejkalna Park, a green space winding alongside the city canal. You’ll pass charming bridges, fountains, and sculptures—a great way to slow down and take in Riga’s peaceful side.
Continue on to the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, a powerful and thought-provoking museum that tells the story of Latvia’s experience under Soviet and Nazi rule. It’s one of the most important stops for those interested in the country’s 20th-century history.
For lunch, try a local bistro or market-style eatery like Lido, where you can pick from a variety of traditional dishes in a casual setting.
In the afternoon, cross the bridge to Kipsala Island for a quieter, more residential atmosphere. Admire the old wooden houses and enjoy a walk along the Daugava River promenade, offering great views back toward Old Town.
Finish your weekend with a sunset drink at a rooftop bar like Skyline Bar or a riverside dinner at a cozy restaurant. If you have energy left, check out a live music venue or small club—Riga’s nightlife scene is eclectic and fun, especially in the weekends.
Riga is the perfect mix of history, culture, and laid-back charm, ideal for a short city break. With two days, you can get a real feel for the city’s soul—its past, its people, and its passion. Whether you’re there for the architecture, the food, or just a quiet escape, Riga will leave you wanting more.
