Riga Things to Do – Attractions & Must See

Riga Things to Do

Visiting Riga means stepping into one of Europe’s most preserved cities. While on the small side, there are still many places to immerse yourself in this most northern European of cities.

Some City Landmarks

Begin with one of the most striking buildings in the city. The Riga Orthodox cathedral is the largest orthodox church in the Baltics. With gilded cupolas, it is beautiful in the light. Another must visit church in the city is the St. Peter’s church. Built in 1209, it is a UNESCO world heritage site. Climb up the church tower for a view of the entire city. Much of Riga is also well preserved today. The Old Town section has dozens of buildings that were bombed in WWII and then rebuilt in the classical style. Wonder the streets here to see places such as the House of the Blackheads, a gloriously detailed gothic building that is perhaps the most photographed building in the city. The building was used by bachelor members who belonged to the Blackheads merchant guild. Grab a meal in the Cat House, a bright yellow building famous for cats on the exterior. Take in a performance at the Mikhail Chekhov Riga Russian Theatre.  If you love opera, see where Wagner lived in this city at Wagner street when he was the director of the city’s opera. The town square here is an area where you take a break and watch as local groups often give public arts performances.

More Places to See

For further insights into the city’s true culture, you can continue your exploration in places such as the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum. This museum is set in acres of countryside and shows off the world of the Latvian culture along the shores of Lake Jugla, a short drive from the city. See how people lived back then and sample Latvian cuisine. If you’re here during the summer, take a break from the more serious side of city life with a visit to the Aquacity. This makes an ideal getaway with the kids on a hot summer day.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Riga.