Art and culture
There are many reasons to enjoy a city break in Riga, but the fact that the city has 800 years of history waiting to be explored is as good a place to start as any. Be sure to admire the architecture on display at the city's Gothic churches and take in the medieval buildings in Old Town.
The Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation has roots dating back to 1773 and its 16 exhibition halls are a fantastic place to spend some time if you'd like to learn more about the city's past.
Wander along the left bank of the River Daugava until you come to the National Library of Latvia, an incredibly impressive building designed to be a centre for culture and education in the capital, a must-see for anyone enjoying a weekend in Riga.
Jugendstil Beauty and Medieval Riga
The Jugendstil architecture in Riga is a must-see during your city break, with Alberta Street being the pinnacle of this stunning Art Nouveau style. Each building here is a masterpiece of ornate detail, from intricate facades to elegant sculptures. For a medieval touch, the Swedish Gate, part of Riga’s 17th-century fortifications, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history. Don't miss the House of the Blackheads, a striking Gothic building that reflects the city’s rich Hanseatic past. A weekend in Riga is the perfect way to explore this unique blend of styles and eras, making the city truly unforgettable.
Major sights
During your city break in Riga, head to the fascinating Latvian War Museum to discover more about the country's attempts to achieve independence, as well as to learn about the country's military and political history.
If you're visiting in winter, why not take to the ice at the LIDO Recreation Centre, where an ice rink is created every year. Keen golfers meanwhile might want to travel north of the city to reach Golfa kluba restorans to practice their swing at one of the area's top courses.
Shopping
When it comes to shopping for essentials or gifts during your short break in Riga, you'll be spoilt for choice in Riga. Haggle with traders to get the best deals on a huge range of items at Riga Central Market, an indoor shopping destination where you'll find everything from hemp seed butter to fresh fruit and flowers.
There's a wide variety of chain and independent stores spread across the city centre and Riga's Old Town, plus indoor shopping destinations where you'll find a high concentration of brand names. Galleria Riga in the heart of the city has shops and restaurants covering seven floors, while Origo Shopping Centre, also in the city centre, benefits from a direct connection to Riga Central Railway Station.
