10 things to do in Riga, Latvia

Riga is located below Estonia and is apart of the Baltic States. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania make up the three Baltic Countries located on the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea. Riga is located right in the middle.

Riga, Latvia's Capitol is home to art nouveau architecture, museums, pubs, and a medieval old town.

I liked the fact that Riga is also walkable. It's nice to be in a city where everything you'd like to see is within walking distance.

Make sure to bring comfortable shoes!

Riga Central Market

We started our weekend in Latvia at the Riga Central Market. Where you can find local produce, fresh baked bread, restaurants and souvenirs. The market is located in historical pavilions dating back to1910. The pavilions we're built for the needs of World War1 as German aircraft hangers.

Old Town Riga

Home to The Swedish Gates, House of Blackheads, St. Peters Church, Art Nouveau buildings just to name a few. Riga Medieval Old Town has many pubs and restaurants. Make sure to try local Latvian beer. Or have dinner next to The Swedish Gates.

House of Black Heads-

One of the most gorgeous buildings in Riga. Constructed back in 1334, as a part of the Riga Town Square. Located in the heart of the city.

The House of Blackheads is now used as an exhibit hall.

Local Fair and cultural Bizarre-

The weekend we visited Riga, Old Town was celebrating the beginning of Fall Season. The streets were full of vendors selling local handmade goods, such as jewelry, baked pies and honey. You could hear Folk music playing from the main stage. With dancers dressed in cultural clothing, which added to the festive atmosphere in Old Town.

Visit Riga Panorama Observation Deck

Head up to the 17th floor of the Latvian Academy of Science. You will be treated to 360 degree views of the city. Some view highlights: Europes 3rd largest TV tower, National Library of Latvia, Daugava River, and Old Town.

Tickets are 6.00 remember to bring Euros.

No cards are accepted at the ticket booth.

Black Magic Bar

A Bar and Confectionery right in Old Town. We love tasting Chocolate from around the world. Once you enter Black Magic Bar you are overwhelmed by the aromatic smells that fill the room. The bar has a Speak Easy Vibe (There are a few magical doors) and delicious chocolates.

Who doesn't like a little magical cocktail in their life!

*Riga black balsam is the famous national brand
name. The dark and astringent liqueur made of 24 herbs remains unchanged for 250 years. The balsam is good when drinking alone or as part of hot drinks and cocktails. It brings special flavor to chocolate products and deserts; it is used with coffee or to soak candied fruits. Black Balsam Currant and Riga Black Balsam Cream produced by the famous factory Latvijas Balsams were created on its base. People drink balsam with coffee in winter, and in summer pour it on cold ice-cream balls. One teaspoon of balsam in a hot cup of tea releases from chill.

*Taken fromWebsite

Menus for cocktails and delicious truffles

Bastion Hill Park

Once of the most romantic parks in Latvia. Located right by freedom monument. Full of well manicured trees, hills, stone monuments, and bridges. I felt like we could of stayed here forever. The day was perfect to grab lunch and enjoy by the water. You can even take a short cruise down the canal.