A Perfect Weekend in Riga

Old Riga

A Perfect Weekend in Riga

Thinking of spending a weekend in Riga? Here’s your complete guide: how to get here, where to stay, great food, and unforgettable tours with RigaTours.lv.

 

Getting Here & Getting Around

Flying in
The best option for many travellers is airBaltic, the Latvian national airline. They offer many routes into Riga International Airport (RIX) from across Europe at competitive fares.

From the Airport to the City Centre

  • You can take public transport: buses (for example, bus 22 or express bus 322) connect RIX and city centre. Tickets are modest in price.

  • A very convenient option is Bolt (ride‑hailing app). Request a ride via the Bolt app, pick up is from the designated zone at the airport terminal. It’s often cheaper and more predictable than airport taxis.
  • Taxis or private transfers are also possible, though fares will be higher. If using an app you get transparency; avoid accepting offers from drivers at arrivals without checking via the app.

Where to Stay

For a weekend, you’ll want somewhere centrally located, comfortable, and with good amenities. Here are two excellent 5‑star options:

  • Grand Poet Hotel by Semarah
    Located in the very heart of the historic centre, near the Freedom Monument and Old Town. It has 168 stylish rooms, including 20 luxury suites with views toward Bastion Hill or the monument. Features include spa, wellness centre, restaurant, elegant design and very good guest reviews.

  • Pullman Riga Old Town
    In a beautifully restored building (former 18th‑century horse stable) right in Old Town, with panoramic views. Offers indoor heated pool, sauna, stylish rooms (Superior → Premium Deluxe), and the in‑house Equus restaurant, Tea Deli, Vinoteca etc. Very suitable for exploring the Old Town on foot.

 

Where & What to Eat

Riga is full of excellent restaurants. Here are a few that stand out:

  • 3 Chefs / “3 Pavāru Restorāns – Tam labam būs augt”
    This is one of the top choices for modern Latvian / European cuisine. Open‑plan kitchen, seasonal local ingredients, creative twist on tradition. Great setting in Jacob’s Barracks / Swedish Gate area. Tasting menu is highly recommended.

  • Chef’s Corner
    A high‑end European restaurant in central Riga, known especially for steaks (including Tomahawk), but also with vegetarian and field/sea food options. Stylish ambience, good wine list. Great choice if you want a memorable dinner.

 

What to See & Do in the City (Day & Half‑Day)

On your weekend you’ll want to see Riga’s Old Town (Vecrīga), the Freedom Monument, Bastion Hill / Bastejkalns, beautiful architecture (Art Nouveau buildings), markets (e.g. Riga Central Market), the Latvian National Opera, etc. Walking is pleasant; the city is compact.

Top Day‑Trips / Tours from Riga with RigaTours.lv

To make your weekend even more special, here are three tours offered by RigaTours.lv that are well suited for a day out from Riga:

TourWhat to ExpectDuration / Details
Sigulda TourHead into the Gauja region: Sigulda town, Turaida, Krimulda, Ragana. Beautiful nature, castle ruins, hiking, great views.Departure ~9:00 AM from hotel in Riga; returns ~5 PM. Includes transport and English guide; other fees (entrance, meals) not included. rigatours.lv
Hill of Crosses & Rundāle PalaceCombines two iconic and contrasting attractions: the spiritual and folk art‑site «Hill of Crosses» in Lithuania, plus the grand baroque gardens and palace of Rundāle in Latvia. A memorable day.Departure ~9:00 AM from hotel in Riga; returns ~5 PM. Includes transport and English guide; other fees (entrance, meals) not included. rigatours.lv
One‑Day Tour to Hill of CrossesFor those who want just the Hill of Crosses + nearby interesting stops like Pokaini Forest, with lunch in a local castle pub (Jaunpils). Great for deeper cultural and natural immersion.~ 9:00‑17:00, cost depends on group size (approx 95‑125 EUR) for smaller/larger groups. rigatours.lv

 

Suggested Weekend Itinerary

Here’s a suggested schedule to make the most of your 2‑3 days:

Friday evening

  • Arrive, check into your hotel (Grand Poet or Pullman Old Town).

  • Have dinner at 3 Chefs to kick things off in style.

Saturday

  • Morning: Explore Old Town, Freedom Monument, walk along Bastejkalns, visit Central Market.

  • Lunch: somewhere local or in the Old Town.

  • Afternoon: Maybe a short museum (e.g. Art Nouveau Museum) or gallery, or relax in a café.

  • Evening: dinner at Chef’s Corner or another upscale spot.

Sunday

  • Take one of the day‑tours: Sigulda if you love nature; Hill of Crosses & Rundāle if you want both nature & architecture.

  • Return in evening, perhaps a final walk or dinner.

Tips

  • Book your tours / restaurant reservations in advance, especially for dinners or group tours, as popular places fill up.

  • Check entrance fees & opening hours for museums, Rundāle Palace etc – sometimes seasonal or may require advance booking.

  • Bring comfortable shoes, especially for walking around cobblestone streets and for the day‑trip hikes.

  • Weather can change quickly; layers and rain protection help.

❓Is Riga expensive for tourists?

Riga is very affordable compared to Western Europe. Hotels, food, and attractions offer great value. Public transport and ride apps like Bolt are inexpensive, and many sites are walkable.

❓What’s the best time of year to visit Riga?

  • Spring (May–June) and early autumn (September-October) are ideal: mild weather, fewer tourists, colorful scenery

  • Summer (July–August) is warm and lively, with festivals and long days

  • Winter offers charming Christmas markets and snowy scenes

❓Can I book tours from Riga online?

Yes! Visit RigaTours.lv to book your favorite day tours in advance, including Sigulda, Rundāle Palace, and the Hill of Crosses. Custom private tours with hotel pickup are also available.

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Latvia (Riga)

Latvia Travel Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Latvia (Riga): Your Complete Travel Checklist

 

Latvia, a charming country nestled on the Baltic Sea, is an undiscovered gem for many travelers. With its vibrant capital city, Riga, historic architecture, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Latvia has a lot to offer. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended vacation, this guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Riga and Latvia.

How to Get to Latvia (Riga)

By Air
Riga International Airport (RIX) is the main gateway to Latvia. It’s well connected to major European cities, with direct flights from destinations like London, Paris, Berlin, and Stockholm. Many low-cost airlines, such as Air Baltic, Ryanair, and Wizz Air, offer regular flights to Riga.

By Train or Bus
For those traveling within Europe, you can also reach Latvia by train or bus. There are direct train connections from neighboring countries like Estonia, Lithuania. Long-distance buses are also a popular and affordable way to travel to Riga.

By Car
Driving into Latvia is straightforward, especially from neighboring countries. You can rent a car at the airport or in the city. Roads are well-maintained, but do keep in mind that winters in Latvia can be harsh, so be sure to rent a car equipped for winter driving.

What Do You Need to Have for Your Trip?

  1. Passport/ID
    If you’re traveling from the European Union (EU) or Schengen Area, a national ID card is sufficient. Non-EU visitors will need a valid passport. Depending on your country, you may also need a visa, so check the requirements before you go.

  2. Currency
    Latvia uses the Euro (€), so make sure to bring some cash or have access to credit/debit cards. Most places in Riga accept cards, but it’s always good to have cash on hand for smaller shops or services.

  3. Weather-Appropriate Clothing
    Latvia’s winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing from December to March. If you’re visiting during this period, pack warm clothes, including a good winter coat, gloves, hat, and sturdy boots. Don’t forget an umbrella or rain jacket, as Latvia’s weather can be unpredictable.

  4. Travel Insurance
    It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers health, cancellations, and lost luggage. Healthcare in Latvia is generally of high quality, but it’s better to be prepared.

 

Where to Stay in Riga

Riga offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, charming boutique stays, or affordable hostels, there’s something for everyone.

  1. Luxury Hotels
    If you’re after luxury, check out the Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga or Hotel Bergs. Both offer world-class service, beautiful design, and central locations.

  2. Mid-Range Hotels
    For a comfortable yet affordable stay, consider hotels like Riga Marriott Hotel or Hotel Radisson Blu. They’re centrally located, close to the main attractions, and offer excellent amenities.

  3. Budget Accommodation
    If you’re on a budget, there are several cozy hostels and guesthouses in Riga, including Old Riga Hostel and Red Nose Hostel. They offer clean rooms, friendly staff, and an excellent atmosphere.

  4. Apartments
    For a more homey experience, consider renting an apartment in the heart of the city. Websites like Airbnb offer great options for short-term rentals, perfect for those who want to experience Riga like a local.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Riga and Latvia?

In Riga:
Riga is compact, so most of its top attractions can be explored in 2-3 days. During this time, you can visit the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marvel at the Art Nouveau architecture, and wander through the Riga Central Market. For history lovers, a visit to the Latvian National Museum of Art and Freedom Monument is a must.

In Latvia:
If you plan to explore beyond Riga, a 5-7 day trip is ideal. You can visit Jurmala, a beautiful beach town just 30 minutes from Riga, or take a trip to Sigulda, known for its castles, national parks, and outdoor activities. If you’re into nature, Gauja National Park offers hiking trails, caves, and scenic views.

Travel Tips:

  • If you’re visiting in winter, make sure to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop below freezing.

  • Take time to enjoy the local cuisine, including dishes like grey peas and ham, caraway cheese, and smoked fish.

  • If you’re a fan of winter sports, don’t miss out on Husky dog sledding – an unforgettable experience that’s available during the winter months near Riga. (Check out our Husky Dog Sledding Tour for more info!)

Have Questions? Ask Me!

Planning your trip can sometimes be overwhelming, but don’t worry – I’m here to help! If you have any questions about where to stay, what to do, or how to navigate Riga and Latvia, feel free to reach out. I’ll do my best to provide you with useful tips and recommendations for a smooth and memorable travel experience.

Latvia, with its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and friendly people, is waiting for you to explore. Whether you’re in Riga for a weekend getaway or venturing out into the Latvian countryside, you’re sure to create lasting memories. So pack your bags, plan your trip, and get ready for an adventure like no other!