Riga, the capital city of Latvia, has plenty to offer to all kind of people. Museums, parks, restaurants, bars, the Old Town, – you name it! These are just some of the ideas on what to see, what to do, and where to grab some tasty food in Riga. If you are interested in anything else, feel free to reach out to the organizers, and ask for help.

Also, if you feel that we have left something out that NEEDS to get added to this list, don’t hesitate to reach out to us and we will improve the list. In any case – your feedback will be greatly appreciated!

MUSEUMS YOU SHOULD SEE

Latvian National Museum of Art @ Jāņa Rozentāla laukums 1

Check out directions in Google Maps

Do you feel like exploring some classical art, as well as visiting the most-instagrammed room in Riga? Then head to Latvian National Museum of Art – it is the most significant depository in the nation for works of art.

The National Art Museum’s exposition is a comprehensive expose on Latvian art in both the 19th and 20th centuries, with emphasis on the various stylistic periods and the artists who were instrumental. Complete information is presented that clearly shows the development of Latvian art, focusing on the various periods, those who made it all happen, the highlights of the time.

Riga Motor Museum @ S. Eizenšteina street 8

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If art isn’t your biggest passion, maybe you’re more willing to see the largest and the most modern antique vehicle collection in the Baltics?

The Riga Motor Museum exhibition is organized in a form of an exciting interactive story about unique vehicles, notable persons and the most significant events in the history of the automotive industry, complemented by modern multimedia technologies.

The museum’s collection is located on three floors and covers more than 4000 square meters, and currently it exhibits the largest and most diverse antique vehicle collection in the Baltics including more than 100 unique cars, motorcycles and bicycles. The exhibition tells a story about unique vehicles, notable persons and the most significant events in the history of the automotive industry.

Visitors shall explore the story using modern and diverse multimedia and design features, as well as participating in several interactivities. Historical vehicles displayed in a modern way make a visit to Riga Motor Museum an exciting way to spend a day exploring these truly unique vehicles.

Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum @ Brīvības street 21

How to get there: Check out directions in Google Maps

Feeling tired of the bustling city of Riga? Then feel free to head to the outskirts of Riga to explore The Latvian Ethnographic Open-air Museum – one of the oldest open-air museums in Europe. Now its territory covers 87.66 hectares of forest on the banks of Lake Jugla. The museum displays 118 historic buildings from all Latvian regions – Kurzeme, Vidzeme, Zemgale and Latgale dating from the 17th century to the beginning of 1930s.

The museum features the homes of Latvian farmers, craftsmen and fishermen, with permanent exhibitions of household and work equipment that are characterised by the specific time period, region and the owners’ occupation. Visitors can also learn more about Kurzeme Liv fishermen and Latgale old-believers’ houses here.

Pauls Stradins Museum for History of Medicine @ Antonijas street 1

How to get there:  Check out directions in Google Maps

You don’t have to be a doctor in order for this museum to captivate you. The Pauls Stradins Museum for history of medicine is one of the three biggest museums for history of medicine in the world. The story begins in the basement of the museum building, where the placed exhibits and dioramas show the first steps of the evolution of medicine. Dealing with trauma wounds, bandaging wounds, the healing methods of traditional medicine – all this was already known to man in the ancient times. A crucial part at that time was mythical medicine – amulets, lucky charms and witchcraft, which was performed by a hex, shaman and mages.

The visitors can see the development of medical history from the times of ethno medicine till the mid 20th century in thematic or overview excursions, as well as enjoy a unique exhibition concerning outer biology and medicine.

The journey continues in the medieval floor of the museum showing the reconstructed medieval cloister hospital and pharmacy. Walk through the medieval town designed by Pauls Stradins and learn of the illnesses of that time as well as treatment methods.

Latvian Railway History Museum @ Uzvaras bulvāris 2A

How to get there: Check out directions in Google Maps

Yes, we know it’s the 21st century, but the railroads are still here, as well as The Latvian Railway History Museum. It was established on August 30, 1994 and contains more than a thousand items, documents and photographs related to railway communications and signalling equipment, tools and instruments, uniforms and badges.

Railway is the forerunner of civilisation and a life artery, as well as a friend to adventurers, offering people a way to attain their dreams. The importance of railway is inestimable, and the smell of railway is unmistakable. The Latvian Railway history Museum invites you to explore the world of railways. An interesting feature of the museum is that it is situated near a functioning railway line.

WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT

Lido Vērmanītis @ Elizabetes iela 65

How to get there: Check out directions on Google Maps

You can’t find anything more Latvian than “Lido”. With a huge selection of local dishes, salads, sauces, desserts and loads of potatoes, you can mix and match as you like, pile up your tray and head to the checkout before enjoying a hearty Latvian lunch. You’ll be able to spot a few of these restaurants in Riga, but Vērmanītis is the closest one from the venue.

Andalūzijas suns @ Elizabetes iela 83

How to get there: Check out directions on Google Maps

This place can match your taste at anytime with their wide range of foods on their menu. From hearty burgers to light salads, they have it all. If the weather’s warm enough, you might be able to enjoy it on the terrace by a water fountain.

Wok To Walk @ Aspazijas Bulvāris 30

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If you’re in a hurry, Wok To Walk has got you covered. Also, if you like seeing your dish made right in front of your eyes, this is a place to go to. Choose your own ingredients and enjoy!

Streetburger @ Blaumaņa iela 10

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Fancying a just-made, fresh burger? StreetBurger is one of the best burger restaurants in Riga, and it is located just a 10-minute walk away from the venue. If you are a burger fan, this is a MUST to check out.

Ezītis miglā @ Aldaru Street 12/14

How to get there: Check out directions on Google Maps

Ezītis Miglā or “Hedgehog in a Fog” is a special place for the locals. You can find these hedgehogs hiding in a few parts of the city, but every single of them has a unique vibe to it. With democratic prices, but high quality experience you won’t walk away from this place dissatisfied.

Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs @ Peldu Street 19

How to get there: Check out directions on Google Maps

This place can be described as the most authentic Latvian tavern with a modern twist. A place where you can experience culture, music, delicious food and enjoy conversations in good company. Ala Pagrabs offers live music at least 5 times a week.

Labietis alus darītava @ Aristīda Briāna Street 9a-2

How to get there: Check out directions on Google Maps

“Labietis brewpub is where it all began – a pub and a brewery in 170m2, where you can have a beer, whilst watching the hum and bustle of the brewery through a big glass wall. Twelve different beers on tap, as well as extra ones – bottle conditioned – from the brews that are waiting in line for the tap or have been sold out in kegs. All the available beers have not been moved more than 30m from grain to glass. This is the heart and soul of Labietis where you can always try new and exciting experimental brews and enjoy the lively atmosphere of a latvian pub.”

Miezis un Co @ 13. janvāra street 21

How to get there: Check out directions on Google Maps

Craving a glass of beer in the heart of the Old Town? Then Miezis & Co. is a place to visit. Try out beers from Europe, as well as from the Baltics.

Alķīmiķis @ Lāčplēša Street 12

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There’s definitely some chemistry going on at the Alchemist. This place won’t disappoint you with its menu – snacks, soups, burgers, salads, main courses, and desserts –  and home brewed beer.