33 Landmarks in Riga You Must See

The capital of Latvia, founded in the 13th century, has preserved the atmosphere of an old European city with its cobblestone streets, churches, castles, and taverns. The main attractions of Riga are gathered in the historic center - the Old Town. However, tourists will also find plenty of interesting sites in the surrounding areas - from masterpieces of medieval architecture to museums, parks, and monuments.

The oldest part of Riga is located on the banks of the Daugava River. The atmosphere of the past is created by cobblestone streets, cozy taverns and cafes, and architectural monuments from various historical eras and styles - from the medieval to the modern.

Here is concentrated most of the city's attractions: the Dome Cathedral, the Anglican Church, Riga Castle, Town Hall Square, the Latvian National Opera, and numerous museums. When deciding what to see in Riga, you should start from here: the heart of the city will leave no tourist indifferent.

Address: Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The architectural dominant of Dome Square and one of the city's iconic landmarks is the Dome Cathedral. The style of the building is hard to define: it has undergone too many trials over eight centuries.

Originally built in 1211, the cathedral featured characteristics of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. It has suffered multiple times from fires, floods, and lightning strikes. Numerous renovations have altered it beyond recognition.

Today, the baroque-style tower at a height of 96 meters dominates the appearance of the Dome Cathedral. The cathedral complex includes the Museum of History of Riga and Navigation. The main treasure of the cathedral is the luxurious 25-meter organ with 6,768 pipes, designed in the mannerist style. Therefore, musical concerts are regularly held in the building.

Address: Dome Cathedral, Herdera laukums, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The main square in Riga has existed since the founding of the city. It was originally the main marketplace and was called the Market Square. Celebrations, carnivals, and military parades took place here. The square retains its significance to this day, becoming a walking area where key attractions are located.

It is especially beautiful during the New Year holidays, shining with thousands of lights and enveloped in the aromas of mulled wine, roasted almonds, and ginger. The main building of the square is the city Hall, which has been repeatedly destroyed during wartime actions and fires. The modern structure, built in the classic style, was restored only by the beginning of the 21st century, and has preserved its historical appearance almost completely.

Located on the square is an important site, where goods have long been weighed, the statue of Roland, and the House of the Blackheads. The final touch of the ensemble is the spire of St. Peter's Church.

Address: Town Hall Square, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The 'Blackheads' refers to a fraternity of foreign traders, whose symbol was the image of a black head. The building, dating back to the 14th century, officially became their property in the 17th century. It was then that it took on its impressive current appearance in the traditions of mannerism.

The House of the Blackheads was severely damaged during air raids by German aviation and remained in a deplorable state until 1948. Its reconstruction was timed to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the capital. Today, it houses a museum and hosts festive receptions and symphonic music concerts.

Address: House of the Blackheads, Rātslaukums, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The church is considered the oldest building in the city: it is first mentioned in sources from 1209. It was built with money collected from the city's population - craftsmen, merchants, and peasants. Its total height with the tower is 123.5 m: the temple is visible from most districts of the city.

The church's tower was severely damaged in 1721 when it was struck by lightning. Tsar Peter I, who was in Riga at the time, helped extinguish the fire. Unfortunately, the spire could not be saved, so the Emperor ordered a new one to be built, which lasted for two centuries. During World War II, the church suffered considerable damage.

It was restored in 1966, and a few years later, the tower was topped with a new spire, this time a metal one. Its top is adorned with a weather vane in the shape of a rooster.

Within the spire are two observation decks - at heights of 57 m and 71 m. From them, tourists in Riga can enjoy a magnificent panorama of the Old Town and its surroundings. Access to the platforms can be gained by elevator or concrete staircase.

Address: St. Peter's Church, Reformācijas Laukums, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

This landmark of the capital, built in 1911, is associated with a funny story. It is said that a merchant by the name of Blümer, who owned the building, wanted to join the Great Guild of Merchants. His request was denied. Annoyed, the merchant placed small sculptures of two black cats on the roof of the building, turning them away from the windows of the guild in retaliation.

It is believed that later the merchant was accepted into the guild, and he turned one of the cats so that the animals looked in opposite directions. According to another version, the members of the guild were angered by this, leading to a scandal and forcing the merchant to turn the cats in a more politically correct way.

Address: Cat House, Meistaru iela, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

This building with a complicated history is located on the banks of the river. The castle was built in the 14th century for the knights of the Livonian Order and was used for defensive purposes. It has changed hands multiple times, having been held by Poles, Swedes, and Russians.

It acquired its modern appearance in the 19th century, and since 1922, it has been home to the residence of the President of Latvia. Despite this and its immense historical significance, Riga Castle is in poor condition and needs extensive renovation. It also houses the National Museum of History of Latvia.

Address: Riga Castle, Pils laukums, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The buildings belonging to the Great and Small Guilds (of merchants and craftsmen) face each other across Livu Square in the city center. The original building of the Great Guild, which appeared in the 14th century, has not survived to this day, and instead was reconstructed in the 19th century, acquiring features of neo-Gothic.

In 1963, it was damaged by fire but was restored and got a new hall. The new building of the Small Guild was also rebuilt in the 19th century in neo-Gothic style according to Felsko's design.

The interior is remarkable: stained glass windows made in Germany, mosaic floors made of terracotta, mirrors, and sparkling chandeliers. Today, festive events, conferences, and concerts are held here. A Craft School also operates in the building.

Address: Small Guild, Amatu iela, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

On the left bank of the Daugava River lies a place where you can have a pleasant and useful time. In the small Kalnciema Street Quarter, with buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, there are art galleries, stalls with goods, a concert stage, a wine boutique, and a restaurant Maja offering traditional local dishes.

Every Sunday, markets are held here where guests of Riga - big and small - can get acquainted with various kinds of handicrafts, take rides on carousels, purchase farm products and souvenirs, and simply relax on the grass in the shade of trees.

Address: Kalnciema iela, Zemgale Suburb, Riga, Latvia.

Established in 1994, the museum does not have a permanent exhibition; it hosts exhibitions dedicated to the architectural heritage of the city. Examples of exhibitions include Norwegian Wood, Sentimental Memory, Perspectives, Beauty and Functionality.

The goal of the Latvian Museum of Architecture is to raise public interest and awareness of the key trends in architecture in Latvia - both historical and contemporary. It is no surprise that the museum was chosen to be located in an interesting architectural monument - the 'Three Brothers' complex.

Address: Trīs Brāļi, Mazā Pils iela, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The art museum, founded in 1869, is one of the oldest in the city. The vast collection numbers 52,000 exhibits of both national and foreign fine arts.

The collection of works by Russian artists is particularly impressive, featuring paintings by Bryullov, Aivazovsky, Kiprensky, Savrasov, Levitan, and Shishkin. Temporary exhibitions are regularly held at the museum. A bonus for guests is the rooftop terraces, which offer stunning views of the Latvian capital.

Address: Art Museum, Jaņa Rozentāla laukums, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The Riga Museum of Old Cars is located away from the main tourist attractions. However, this should not deter visitors from visiting, as the museum's collection is recognized as one of the most brilliant in Europe. The museum opened in 1989, and its area spans 3,000 m².

The extensive exhibition of permanent displays covers all kinds of vehicles: exclusive cars of historical political figures, military vehicles that participated in combat, racing cars, motorcycles; there is even an antique fire truck. Its own restoration workshop also repairs retro cars for other museums of similar themes.

Address: Rīgas Motormuzejs, Sergeja Eizenšteina iela, Vidzeme Suburb, Riga, Latvia.

This place is popular both with tourists and locals. The Central Market is located in five huge semicircular pavilions that housed airships during wartime.

The assortment is divided into five categories (goods of each category are in a separate pavilion): meat, fish, vegetables, dairy products, and delicacies - the most interesting section where you can try the best delicacies of Latvia.

Here you can find smoked products, pâtés, cheeses, Riga balsam, and rye bread. The market has a large adjoining open-air area where lively trade is also going on - not only with food products but also clothing, souvenirs, plants, and household goods.

Address: Riga Central Market, Nēģu iela, Latgale Suburb, Riga, Latvia.

In Riga, you can find not only medieval buildings and modern constructions. The Jugendstil (also known as Riga Art Nouveau) buildings deserve special attention, numbering around 800. Most are concentrated on Alberta Street, named after the founder of the Dome Cathedral.

In Jugendstil, multi-story residential buildings were most commonly constructed. This style is characterized by expressiveness, sometimes elaborate decor, and an effort to give everyday architectural elements an unusual and memorable appearance. The structures' forms are less classical, closer to 'natural'; sculptural and bas-relief representations are often found in the exterior: masks, animals, and natural elements.

Address: Alberta Street, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The building was erected in Riga in the 1950s in the style of the so-called 'Stalinist skyscrapers.' Soviet traditions are still felt in the interior. Initially, it was built as the House of the Collective Farmer, and the Academy of Sciences only settled there in the 21st century.

The highlight of the 21-story building is the observation deck at the top. From here, a beautiful panorama opens: the river and bridges, red city rooftops and spires of cathedrals, the Riga TV Tower, and the Central Market, a stretch of forest bluing on the horizon. It is hard to find a better place to admire Riga from above and take stunning photos and selfies.

Address: Latvian Academy of Sciences, Latgale Suburb, Riga, Latvia.

Situated on the shore of Lake Jugla, the museum occupies a grand territory of 80 hectares. It was founded in 1924. Here, tourists immerse themselves in the atmosphere of simple peasant life of Latvians from past centuries.

Residential and economic buildings were brought here from various parts of the country. Guided tours, fairs, festivals, and workshops are regularly held here. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs and crafts from artisans. In the summer, it is convenient to move around the area by bicycle, and in winter visitors can ski or ride on sledges.

Address: Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, Brīvdabas iela, Riga, Latvia.

The history of the fortress began with the establishment of a monastery at the mouth of the Western Dvina in the 13th century. It has faced numerous destructions and changed owners. During the Great Northern War, it became a strategic fortification of the Russian Empire and remained so until World War I.

During the Soviet era, there was a secret military facility here. The Daugavgriva Fortress is currently in a dilapidated state and requires restoration. However, tourists are allowed to freely walk around the picturesque territory of the ancient fortification, which resembles a star in shape.

Address: Daugavgriva Fortress, Birzes iela, Kurzemes District, Riga, Latvia.

The opera building, built in 1863, is considered one of the most beautiful in the city. Designed in the traditions of classicism, it is adorned with sculptures, theatrical masks, and ionic columns. Most decorative objects were made in Germany, which is why the monument is unofficially called the 'German Theater.'

The concert hall, illuminated by hundreds of gas lamps, is built in the baroque style. The stage hosts not only operatic but also ballet performances with the best artists in the world. The opera theater can rightly be called the focal point of the musical life of the capital.

Address: Latvian National Opera and Ballet, Aspazijas bulvāris, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The Riga Museum of Art Nouveau is located on the aforementioned Albert Street, where most buildings in Jugendstil are concentrated. The building, erected in 1903, impresses tourists with its bright design and memorable silhouette.

The interior decor is equally remarkable: painted ceilings, a spiral staircase, stained glass windows, and oak panels. The authentic atmosphere of the rooms was recreated in 2009: visitors can see how a typical Rigan's apartment looked at the beginning of the 20th century, down to household items - dishes, clothing, clocks, and decorative elements. The museum also features a digital exhibition.

Address: Rīgas Jūgendstila centrs, Albert Street, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The main Orthodox church of the city was founded in 1876. This luxurious edifice in neo-Byzantine style was built with funds provided by Emperor Alexander II. According to the initial design, a bell tower was not planned, but another Russian emperor - Alexander III - presented a gift of 12 bells, cast by Moscow craftsmen. Ornamental paintings, icons by famous artists, and a bell tower quickly made the church the center of the spiritual life of Orthodox Rigans.

In 1918, the cathedral was closed by the Riga municipality and fell into decline. Icons were cut, windows were shattered, and crucifixes were thrown away. It was not restored until the 1930s, but soon faced new challenges - war. The cathedral was revived, but then in the 60s was once again devastated and turned into a planetarium. Only in the 1990s did restoration begin. Now, the 'thrice-revived' cathedral, as it is called, is once again open to parishioners and is a bright city landmark.

Address: Riga Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ, Brīvības bulvāris, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

This open-air museum was established in 2010 to pay tribute to the Jewish diaspora in the country and to communicate the catastrophic consequences of the Holocaust. It is located on the grounds of a red brick barn, near where the border of the ghetto was during the Nazi dictatorship.

The exhibition is conditionally divided into two parts: the first tells about the life of the Jewish people in pre-war years, while the second is dedicated to the Holocaust itself. A wall bearing the names of 70,000 people who became victims of the genocide deserves special attention, as does the display explaining how Latvians helped Jews escape persecution during the war.

Address: Riga Ghetto and Holocaust Museum, Moskovska Street, Latgale Suburb, Riga, Latvia.

The collection forming the foundation of one of the oldest museums in Europe was laid by Riga physician Nikolaus von Himzel. The museum was named after him and was located in the Anatomical Theater building. Today the museum is located in the wing of the Dome Cathedral.

Its extensive collection, numbering over 500,000 items, is dedicated to the history of the city and maritime navigation in Latvia. Exhibits collected over two centuries by the country's historical societies are thematically and chronologically divided.

From Stone Age artifacts and ancient coins to Viking swords, executioner's tools, and severed limbs, the museum will impress any guest with its displayed specimens. An interesting exhibit is the oldest Christmas ornament in the world: it is believed that the tradition of decorating a Christmas tree originated in Riga.

Address: Riga History and Navigation Museum, Palasta iela, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The exhibition of yet another fascinating museum in Riga consists of over 6,000 items. Here, porcelain products from ancient factories, Soviet-era factories, and modern artisans are on display.

The majority of the exhibits represent the period of the 50s to 90s of the last century. Special attention should be paid to the collection in the 'Red Corner,' where samples featuring communist symbolism are displayed. Visitors are also shown a short film dedicated to the history of porcelain-making.

Address: Riga Porcelain Museum, Kalēju iela, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The territory became a favorite spot for Riga residents' walks as early as the late 18th century. Later, the park was beautified: the flora was expanded, greenhouses with exotic plants were built, and a theater and music pavilion were constructed.

In the 20th century, the course of the Marupite River was even changed to flow picturesque through the entire park, fountains were arranged, and pathways were laid. The park is named after the restaurant 'Arcadia,' which unfortunately has not survived to this day. The park remains popular and serves as a wonderful area for relaxation and entertainment for both locals and visitors.

Address: Arcadia Park, Ojāra Vācieša iela, Zemgale Suburb, Riga, Latvia.

Tourists in Riga should not overlook the old Lutheran church dedicated to St. Gertrude - the patroness of travelers. Throughout its 600-year history, the building has been destroyed and restored seven times. It took on its current appearance in the late 19th century.

This red-brick church is built in eclectic style with elements of neo-Gothic. It is called the old one because a new Gertrude Church was built nearby in the 20th century. In 1906, an organ was installed here, which is perhaps only slightly inferior in quality to the one in the Dome Cathedral. Since then, concerts of church music have often been held in the temple.

Address: Old Riga Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Gertrude, Gertrudes Street, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The Riga Russian Theatre is named after the director Mikhail Chekhov, who worked here and was the nephew of the famous writer. The exquisite four-story building near St. Peter's Church has become the center of theatrical life in Latvia.

The stage hosts performances of classical Russian and world dramas, musical performances, and children's plays. Among the famous dramatic works staged here are Shakespeare's 'King Lear', Gogol's 'The Government Inspector', Gorky's 'At the Bottom', and Chekhov's 'The Cherry Orchard', among others.

Address: Mikhail Chekhov Russian Theatre, Kaļķu iela, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

This architectural complex consists of three houses that are so closely set together that they appear to be one. The 'Elder Brother' was built in Riga in the 15th century, and it is considered the first stone building in the city. The 'Younger Brother' was built in the 17th century.

The origin of the name of the ensemble is not precisely known. According to one version, the houses were built by men belonging to the same family. According to another, the nickname was given by analogy with Tallinn's 'Three Sisters.' Today, a Museum of Architecture is located in the popular tourist object, where painting exhibitions are held.

Address: Trīs Brāļi, Mazā Pils iela, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The garden and park complex was opened for visits in 1912. On its 20-hectare territory live about 3,000 animals from different countries: lions, manuls, lemurs, pandas, giraffes, tapirs, red wolves, and various monkeys.

The bird fauna includes flamingos, owls, secretary birds, and peacocks. The zoo prides itself on its collection of amphibians, including rare African toads. The main attraction for both big and small visitors is feeding the animals. In the park, visitors can also ride horses - either mounted or in a carriage.

Address: Riga Zoo, Meža prospekts, Ziemel District, Riga, Latvia.

The tower, which has existed since the 14th century or earlier, served as part of the city walls (there were 28 towers in total). The sentries stationed there scanned the horizon for the approach of enemies from a height of 26 meters. Its old name is 'Sand Tower' due to its location near Sand Road.

It was nicknamed the Powder Tower in the 17th century when it housed stores of this explosive material. The tower has been restored and rebuilt several times. Today, it houses a museum dedicated to military history: old photographs and documents, military uniforms, medals and awards, and weapons are stored here.

Address: Powder Tower, Smilšu iela, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

The total height of the TV tower is 368 meters, making it one of the tallest in the EU. The construction stands out against the landscape due to the absence of high buildings around it. Painted in yellow, white, and red and standing on three supports, the tower is interesting for its materials - steel plates instead of the concrete commonly used for such structures.

The tower performs not only telecommunication functions; at a height of 97 meters, there is an observation deck to which visitors can ascend via a high-speed elevator. Another platform is at a height of 134 meters: it was planned to be a VIP room for political figures of the USSR. However, the Soviet Union collapsed before the platform was utilized.

Address: Riga TV Tower, Zemgale Suburb, Riga, Latvia.

Among the modern attractions of the Latvian capital is the National Library, whose name translates from Latvian as 'Castle of Light.' The building features an unusual design created by architect Birķerts in 2014. The library houses approximately 4 million books, magazines, textbooks, and other publications - all of which are freely accessible.

The majority of the collection consists of literary works relating to Latvia and its people. The National Library also hosts exhibitions, concerts, and lectures, and offers free Wi-Fi spots. Once intellectual hunger is sated, guests of the 'Castle of Light' can address basic needs at the cafes and restaurants, which offer stunning views of the city.

Address: Latvian National Library, Mūkusalas iela, Zemgale Suburb, Riga, Latvia.

St. Saviour's Church, belonging to the Anglican religious community of Riga, is a bright example of red brick European Neo-Gothic architecture. The project was conceived by architect Felsko, and the construction began in 1853.

Many elements, including the red sandstone, were specifically brought by parishioners from various parts of the British Empire. The church survived the World Wars but was confiscated from the parish.

Later, it housed a boarding house, and sometimes recording sessions took place here due to its excellent acoustics. The church was returned to the parish in 1992. Now, besides services, organ music concerts are held here, and a Sunday school operates.

Address: St. Saviour's Anglican Church, Anglikāņu iela, Central District, Riga, Latvia.

This monument was gifted to the people of Riga in 1990 by sculptor Krista Baumgärtel from Bremen. The sculpture represents the four animals from the famous Brothers Grimm fairy tale: a donkey, a dog, a cat, and a rooster. The characters are shown peeking into the window of the robbers' house.

The creation of the monument was timed to coincide with the end of the Cold War: the sculpture symbolizes the union of two political blocs. According to superstition, rubbing the animals' noses will grant a wish. The chances are especially high when reaching the rooster's beak, positioned the highest.

Address: Brēmenes muzikanti, Pēterbaznīcas iela, Central District, Riga, Latvia.