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Riga

Riga is the capital of Latvia, situated along both the Baltic Sea and the Daugava River. As the largest city in the Baltic states, it's known for a landscape of flatlands and sand dunes.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Riga
Gateway airport
Riga International Airport (RIX)
Best season
May–Sep
Time zone
Europe/Riga
Sights covered
44 places

Sights worth seeing

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Riga Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

Riga Cathedral

Riga Cathedral is an Evangelical Lutheran cathedral regarded as one of Riga's leading landmarks. Its grand exterior and interior let visitors take in a sense of the city's history.

Freedom Monument

Heritage & monuments

Freedom Monument

The Freedom Monument is a 42-meter memorial in Riga, erected in 1935 to honor those who died in Latvia's War of Independence. It symbolizes Latvian freedom and independence and holds special meaning for locals.

Riga Castle

Castles & palaces

Riga Castle

Riga Castle is a castle in Riga where you can admire one of the city's iconic historic buildings. It's a great addition to any tour of downtown Riga.

St. James's Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

St. James's Cathedral

St. James's Cathedral is a Catholic cathedral in Riga, located within the UNESCO World Heritage historic center. It stands opposite the Latvian Parliament, making the two easy to visit together.

Riga Motor Museum

Museums & galleries

Riga Motor Museum

The largest antique car museum in the Baltic states, located in Riga, Latvia. Its collection of classic cars and motorcycles offers a great look at the history of the automobile.

Nativity Cathedral, Riga

Temples & religious sites

Nativity Cathedral, Riga

The Nativity of Christ Cathedral is a cathedral in Riga, Latvia, built between 1876 and 1883 in Neo-Byzantine style. Constructed while Latvia was part of the Russian Empire, it also draws attention for its elaborate decoration.

Riga Central Market

Shopping & districts

Riga Central Market

Riga Central Market is one of Europe's largest markets, housed in five pavilions built from repurposed German Zeppelin hangars. Along with the Old Town, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a great place to take in both architecture and market life.

Riga Zoo

Zoos & aquariums

Riga Zoo

Riga Zoo is located in the Mežaparks district, on the shore of Lake Ķīšezers. With close to 500 animal species, it's a popular destination for family outings.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

-1° Jan
-0° Feb
Mar
Apr
12° May
18° Jun
19° Jul
18° Aug
14° Sep
Oct
Nov
-1° Dec

Getting there

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Getting around the city

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Riga Tours & Experiences Booking

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Local data

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Where to stay

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