Latvia

The KGB Museum Riga is unlike any of the other museums you’ve ever been to.

This former KGB Headquarters turned museum, serves as a stark reminder for Latvians and visitors alike, of the pain and suffering humans are capable of inflicting on one another.

I wrote this post to share with you my experience of visiting the KGB Musuem in Riga and what you can expect during a visit of your own.

I strongly encourage anyone planning at least one day in Riga to make time for one of the guided tours at the KGB Museum. The stories told during the tour are impactful and will resonate with you long after you’ve returned home.

A Look Inside the Secret KGB Museum in Riga

Here is an extremely brief history about KGB in Latvia to give you some perspective before we get started.

In 1940, the former Soviet Union invaded Latvia and the other Baltic nations. During their 50 years of occupation, the Soviet Secret Police, otherwise known as the KGB (or Cheka), terrorized the citizens of Latvia.

The KGB Headquarters was located on a residential street in Riga not far from the city’s Old Town. That building was referred to as The Corner House or KGB Building.

While the last remaining political prisoners left the building in 1991 once the Soviet occupation ended, you will hear many Latvians tell you they will not go anywhere near that neighborhood, even to this day.

That should give you a hint about the impact the KGB and Soviet occupation had on the citizens of Latvia.

KGB Musuem Main Exhibition

Once you enter the musuem will you find yourself in the main exhibition area titled Walk Through the Corner House. This section of the musuem contains information on the history of the KGB and detailed information on the activities that took place inside the KGB Building in Riga.

This activities unfortunately included the housing of political prisoners along with their interrogation, torture, and often times, execution.

Inside the main exhibition you’ll find several large timelines that put into perspective what was happening in Latvia, Europe and the former Soviet Union between the 1930s to the 1990s.

These timelines show the leadership of the KGB (or Cheka) in Latvia and the former Soviet Union. You’ll also enounter timelines showing what was happening politically in Europe, the Baltics, and the former Soviet Union to give you some perspective on the events that led to the Soviet occupation of Latvia and subsequent actions of the KGB.

In a separate room off the main exhibition area you will find a film playing recorded interviews. These interviews were conducted with individuals who had extensive knowledge of the KGB in Latvia, were held prisoner by the KGB, or had family who had been taken there.

These stories are hard to hear but give you a real sense of what life was like during the time of the KGB in Latvia.

Prison Cells

Our tour guide spent a significant amount of time describing for us what life was like as a prisoner at the KGB House. We were told the cells were intended to hold only two to four people but were commonly packed with dozens of prisoners in each cell.

There were not enough beds for all the prisoners, so most just slept on the floor. The beds did not have mattresses, blankets, or pillows. There was a bucket placed in each cell that served as the toilet.

Interrogation Room

There were several interrogation rooms inside the KGB House and the guided tour included a visit to one of them. The room still contains the original table, chairs, and wallpaper.

We also learned that the hallway between the interrogation room and the prison cells was lined with red carpeting. This was so the guards didn’t have to clean up the floors after an interrogation and you wouldn’t be able to see any blood that may have dripped on the floor.

Kitchen

The guided tou also included a visit to the kitchen. You can see the old wood burning stoves in the picture that were used when the prison first opened.

Prisoners from one of the local jails would work in the KGB House kitchen preparing food for the prisoners there. We were told they would often just be fed old bread and soup made from rotten vegetables.

You can see in the photograph above that the kitchen was upgraded with new equipment in its later years, though its cleanliness remained questionable.

Detainees were reported to be constantly hungry and malnourished due to the low nutritional value of the food they were being fed.

Registration Room

Our tour guide informed us that Latvian citizens would be sought out and detained by the KGB for a variety of reasons, but often because they were believed to be speaking out against the Soviet Union.

Citizens could be approached and detained by KGB officers out in the street or at work or even at home. Newly detained prisoners would be led to the registration at the KGB House through the closed courtyard. This way, nobody from outside could see when new prisoners were brought in.

Inside the registration room the new prisoners would be assigned a number and a cell and have their personal possessions taken. They were often not informed of the reason they were being detained.

As I’m sure you’ve guessed, they were also not given the right to contact an attorney.

Execution Chamber

Visiting the execution chamber was the hardest part of the tour. It’s not easy to stand in a place where so many lost their lives.

We were told by our tour guide that the interior of the execution chamber was lined with a rubber cloth. There was also a drainage hole in the corner of the floor used to remove the blood from the room after an execution.

It is reported that several dozen Latvians were killed inside the KGB House between 1940 and 1991.

Wall of prisoners

Opposite the execution chamber is a wall of photographs depicting former prisoners of the KGB House.

Our guide informed us they did not know the identities of these particular prisoners. They placed their photos on display in hopes that someone visiting may be able to idenfity someone from the photos.

My thoughts after visiting

Visitors will see many photographs of prisoners placed strategically along the walls throughout the building. I found that seeing those photographs made the stories seem more real, and more horrific.

Having the opportunity to see the faces of those that experienced these atrocities first hand allowed me to feel a connection to those imprisoned there, even if just because of our shared humanity. I appreciated how purposefully that was done.

Come to the KGB Musuem, take the tour, and let’s learn from this history together.

This is a video showing the inside of the KGB Museum by travel vloggers Kara and Nate. It starts off with a tour of Riga, but you can forward to 4:35 into the video to see the start of the KGB Museum tour. At the end of the video you will get to see parts of the KGB building not typically shown to tourists.

I hope I’ve convinced you to pay a visit to the Corner House during your visit. This remains one of my most memorable experiences from my trip to Latvia and I hope you’ll take the time to join the tour as well. Thanks so much for reading.

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Eden Fite

Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.

The Splendid Palace in Riga is a must visit destination for film lovers from around the world. In fact, the theatre has such historical significance, it’s basically a badge of honor to say you’ve seen a film there.

Located just a short walk from Old Town Riga, the Splendid Palace is the place to see both Latvian and international films. The venue is home to national and international film festivals, Latvian film premieres, and other special events you don’t want to miss.

The Splendid Palace has been promoting quality film for the citizens of Latvia and visitors alike since the venue opened on December 30, 1923.

For a truly unique and special evening, consider adding a night at the cinema to your Riga itinerary. You won’t be disappointed.

To learn more about what makes the Splendid Palace such an incredible destination, keep reading.

10 Interesting Facts About Splendid Palace Riga

1. The Splendid Palace wasn’t always the Splendid Palace.

It’s true, the Splendid Palace Riga has had other names. While the theater originally opened as the Splendid Palace back in December 1923, it’s name was changed to Kino Riga in 1952.

This was during the Soviet occupation of Latvia and it has been reported the Russians did not approve of the original name. I imagine there is more to this story, though I am not privy to the details.

What we do know is that Latvia obtained independence from the former Soviet Union on August 21, 1991. Following a renovation in 2010, the theater was subsequently renamed the Splendid Palace in September 2011.

2. It was the very first theater in the Baltic region to show sound films.

One of the reasons the Splendid Palace is so famous is becuase of its remarkable history. The theater was highly regarded from the beginning due to the quality of films presented along with the high level of service provided to guests.

During the silent film era, the Splendid Palace was also known for its extraordinary orchestra that played to accompany the films.

If that wasn’t enough, the Splendid Palace also became the first theater in the Baltics to screen a sound film in October 1929. That film was The Singing Fool, an American musical drama by Lloyd Bacon.

Unfortunately, this film includes racist depictions of African Americans so I do not recommend it. Certainly there are better films out there from this period.

3. It was the first free standing building in Riga intended solely for cinema.

Public film screenings began in North America and Europe in the 1890s. In these early days, films were screened in storefronts, event halls, personal residences, and temporary theaters.

On December 30, 1923, the Splendid Palace became the very first venue in Riga intended to be used exclusively for screening films.

4. It is a National Architectural Monument.

Due to its unique and impressive architecture and design, the Splendid Palace has been deemed a National Architectural Monument in Latvia.

The opulent theater features a neo-baroque exterior and neo-Rococco interior. Visitors entering the splendid Palace are greeted with a round lobby painted green and decorated with historical paintings and plush furniture.

Once inside the theater, guests will feel as though they are attending the opera. The seating area is filled with plush red seating, high ceilings, and white balconies with gold trim. It’s one of the most impressive movie theaters you’ll ever visit.

5. The first film shown at Splended Palace was Under Two Flags.

The first film to be screened in front of an audience at the Splendid Palace Riga was called Under Two Flags, shown on opending day December 30, 1923.

Under Two Flags was a silent American drama by director Tod Browning. The film was an adaptation based on a novel of the same name by English author Ouida. The novel is about an English aristocrat who comes into financial troubles, fakes his own death, and disappears to Algeria.

6. The interior is decorated with art from famous Latvian artists.

Inside the main hall guests can view work by Latvian sculptors Rihards Maurs and Jekabs Legzdins.

There are also several impressive paintings by Latvian artist Hermanis Grinbergs, who is also responsible for painting the ceiling of the theater.

7. Guided tours of the theatre are available.

Due to the fascinating and important history of the Riga Splendid Palace, not to mention the beauty of its architecture, the venue offers weekly tours for guests interested in learning more about the facility and its role in the history of cinema.

Tours of the Splendid Palace take place every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes and costs 6 Euros.

There are also two other options, one includes a snack and a glass of sparkling wine for 11.5 Euros, and another that includes all of the above along with a screening of the film Riga Story for 14 Euros. The film lasts approximately 30 minutes and tells the history of Riga.

Visitors can sign up for the tours by emailing splendid@riga.lv or by calling +37167043678.

8. The Splendid Palace is known for it’s high quality programming.

The Splendid Palace is highly regarded for the quality of films selected for screening. Included on the calendar are arthouse films and international films well received at prominent film festivals from around the world.

The theater also works to promote Lativan films to national and international audiences.

9. The venue streams live concerts, ballet, and opera performance from around the world.

The venue also streams live concerts, operas and ballet performances from theaters, opera houses and festivals around the world. In the past they have streamed live performance from La Scala Opera House in Milan, Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona, and even Salsburg Festival in Austria.

10. The Splendid Palace is home to the Riga International Film Festival

The Riga International Film Festival is held annually at the Splendid Palace. This year’s event will take place form October 15, 2020 to October 25, 2020.

The festival was founded in 2014 and has since become one of the largest cultural events in Latvia. The 10 day festival features national and international fims in a variety of categories. In additional to screenings, the event also features the opportunity for dialogue between the viewers and film makers.

Full access festival passes begin at 99 Euros if purchased early. Tickets and event information can be found at the Riga International Film Festival website.

The Splendid Palace is open daily from 12:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Show times will vary depending on the season. For most of the year shows begin in the early afternoon. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the box office.

I truly hope you have enjoyed learning more about the Splendid Palace in Riga and that you’ve been inspired to visit. If you enjoyed this post please consider sharing it. Thanks for reading.

Want to save it? Pin it.

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Eden Fite

Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.

The Three Brothers is one of the most popular destinations in Old Town Riga. Consisting of three houses situated side by side on a small cobblestone side street, each house represents a distinct development period in the city of Riga.

The narrow green house on the left is located at 21 Maza Pils Street. This house was built in the Baroque style in the 17th century.

The larger yellow house in the center is located at 19 Maza Pils Street. This house was built in the Dutch Mannerism style in the 16th century.

The white house on the right is located at 17 Maza Pils Street. This house was built in the Gothic and Renassance style in the late 15th century.

The Three Brothers Riga are currently home to the State Inspection for Heritage Protection and the Latvian Museum of Architecture, the latter of which is open to visitors.

If you’d like to plan a stop by The Three Brothers during your one day in Riga, here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit.

9 Tips for Visiting The Three Brothers Riga

1. Arrive early in the morning

While Riga is not exactly the most touristy town you’ll ever visit, Old Town Riga does get quite busy during the day. So if you’re like me and you prefer arriving before the crowds, be sure to arrive on the early side.

If you can arrive before 7:00 a.m. you’ll pretty much have the streets to yourself. This way after you are finished with your time at The Three Brothers, you can enjoy a Riga walking tour of the historic center before it gets busy.

Be sure not to miss all the Art Nouveau buildings as you walk around town, it’s what the city is known for.

2. Use your Google Maps to find it

Once you’re ready to head out of, use Google Maps to pull up directions to The Three Brothers. The streets in the historic center wind around a bit, but Google Maps will tell you exactly how to get there and how long it will take you.

3. Take some time to observe and enjoy the architecture

Before you get to snapping pictures, take some time to just enjoy and appreciate the view. I know sometimes when we’re traveling we’re always just in a rush to get to the next place. But give yourself a few minutes to enjoy having the place to yourself.

The buildings and architecture are beautiful, you might as well just relax for a bit and enjoy it.

4. Get creative with your angles

The Three Brothers can be a bit difficult to get photos of due to the narrowness of the surrounding streets. There is a building just across the street that prevents you from being able to back up to get a wider shot.

There is an alleyway across the street, but if you back up too far, you can’t see all three buildings. So basically, you’re going to have to get creative.

If you lower your body (and your camera) closer to the ground, you should be able to get The Three Brothers completely inside the shot. But have fun with the angles if you want a more unique photo.

5. Use a wide angle lens

If you have one, bring your wide angle lens. You’ll be able to get a much better shot this way. Plus it will be useful when exploring other places in the city center as well. You will run into similar situations while photographing other buildings around the city.

6. Wear a contrasting color

If you plan to be out exploring the city and taking photos of yourself, be sure to wear something that will look nice in your pictures.

I typically try to coordinate wearing an outfit with a contrasting color that will look nice and stand out from the background. Just be sure you don’t pick a color that will clash. If you’re like me and not particularly fashionable, you can always just wear black. It typically goes with everthing and everywhere.

Otherwise, you can always seek inspiration from Instagram and see what other travelers wore for their pictures.

7. Get in and get out

Whenever you are in a predominantly residential neighborhood that also happens to be a tourist attraction, try to get in and get out as quickly as possible. What I mean is, don’t linger around all day.

I don’t mean you need to rush, I just recommend not staying any longer than you need to. Enjoy the architecture, get your photos, and then get along. That’s all.

8. Do not disturb the residents nearby

While we’re on the subject, please be respectful and polite while visiting The Three Brothers. This means you should keep your voice down, not make a lot of noise, not damage or touch any property, and not leave anything behind.

Essentially, behave as you would expect someone standing on your doorstep to behave.

9. Don’t forget to visit the Latvian Museum of Architecture

Finally, once you’re done adminiring The Three Brothers, be sure to head inside to the Latvian Musuem of Architecture located at 19 Mazā Pils Iela. The museum is open Monday through Friday at 9:00 a.m. and admission is free.

Once inside you can learn all about the history of the architecture in Latvia and in Riga.

I hope you’ve enjoyed these Tips for Visiting the Three Brothers in Riga and that they’ve helped you in planning your visit. If you enjoyed this post please consider sharing. Thank you.

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Eden Fite

Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.

If you’re planning a visit to Latvia, you absolutely must make time to explore outside the capital city and include a few day trips from Riga. Latvia is such a beautiful and unique country, it would be a shame to see just one place.

In fact, one of my favorite things about Latvia is how easy it is to get around. The country is compact, has excellent infrastructure and it packed full of natural beauty.

It’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage and plan some day tours around this wonderful country.

So after you’ve finished exploring Old Town Riga, the beautiful Art Nouveau Museum and the Riga Central Market, prepare for some adventure with one of these fun day trips from Riga.

To help you weigh your options for the perfect day trips from Riga, I put together this list of some of the most popular choices. Hopefully, you’ll have time to visit more than one.

7 Day Trips from Riga

For the majority of these day tours from Riga, you can get to all destinations within an hour or so by car. Once you arrive at each destination, you can make your own walking tour of the area and spend as much time as you like in each place.

For those of you not interested in driving or renting a car, many of these day trips from Riga can also be booked as part of a small group tour or private tour.

A quick internet search should provide some wonderful options. You can also inquire with your hotel’s front desk or apartment host.

No matter how you decide to put together your Riga day tours, I think you’ll find the time and effort completely worth it. I hope you find Latvia to be as wonderful as I did.

1. Sigulda

Sigulda is a beautiful hillside town that sits in the Guaja River Valley about one hour outside the capital city of Riga. The town is known for its three castles, two medieval castles, and one built in the 18th century. 

The town is a popular destination for residents of Riga as well due to its proximity and the beauty of the area. In the fall, Sigulda is especially popular due to the abundance of fall colors on display.

HIking is another popular activity in Sigulda. You’ll find dozens of trails all over the Guaja River Valley in a variety of distances and levels of difficulty. Tackling one of the many trails here is a perfect way to get in some exercise and outdoor time. 

If hiking is not your thing, the town also has a tram that runs over the treetops. The tram departs from each end every 20 minutes or so. 

If you’re on the adventurous side, head over to Tarzan’s Adventure Park. The park offers a variety of unique activities from zip lining to obstacle courses. The park is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 

2. Cesis

The traditional Latvian town of Cesis is found about one hour east of Riga. The town is actually located within the boundaries of Gauja National Park.

Due to this incredibly fortunate location, you’ll have access to plenty of outdoor activities when visiting Cesis.

The town of Cesis itself is famous for Cesis Castle, one of the most well-preserved Medieval castles in Latvia. The castle was built in about 1214 by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, a Catholic military order.

While Cesis Castle holds a long and storied past, its most interesting era (in my opinion) was during the time of the Livonian War which took place from 1558 to 1583. During the war, in 1577, the castle was under attack by Ivan the Terrible’s army.

Instead of surrendering, those inside the castle committed a mass suicide by blowing themselves up with gunpowder.

Today, Cesis Castle is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the Baltics. The castle is open to visitors year round and visitors are free to explore the castle’s rooms and tower on their own.

Cesis Castle is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The castle is closed on Mondays. Admission is 3 Euros per person.

3. Bauska

You can find beautiful and quaint Bauska about one hour south of Riga. As you might have guessed, the town is home to a castle.

The Bauska Castle was built between the 15th and 16th Century by the Livonian Order. In 1706, the castle was blown up by the Russians during the Great Northern War.

Today, only the ruins of the castle remain. There is however, a nearby palace that has been fully restored.

Both the Bauska Palace and castle ruins are open to visitors. There is a beautiful view of the surrounding area from the top of the Bauska Castle tower.

Aside from the castle and palace, there is also an onsite museum where visitors can learn about the history of the region and the structures you are touring.

4. Kemeri National Park

Kemeri National Park is located 45 minutes from Riga just west of Jurmala. The park features the same characteristics of the traditional Latvian countryside including forests, bogs, lakes, and beaches. 

Within the park there are also several natural springs, which made the park a popular spot for spas and resorts at one time. However, the area is not as popular as it once was. 

The park is also known for its many boardwalks leading visitors over the bogs and also for bird watching as the area is home to a few rather rare Latvian bird species. 

5. Gauja National Park

Gauja National Park is located about one hour east of Riga. It is Latvia’s oldest and largest national park. The park is known for its beautiful rivers, cliffs, and caves that line the Gauja River. 

There are also over 500 historical and cultural monuments found within Gauja National Park, including a total of 6 medieval castles. 

Of particular interest inside Gauja National Park is the Turaida Museum Reserve and Turaida Castle. On the reserve visitors can also explore Turaida Church, Folk Song Hill, Folk Song Garden, and the Rose of Turaida Memorial.

Popular activities within the park include hiking, bungee jumping, boating, cycling, and skiing. If you’d like to make your visit to Gauja National Park an especially adventurous day tour, you can even try out bobsledding.

Gauja National Park is open year round. 

6. Rundale Palace

Rundāle Palace is found in the town of Rundale, with the drive from Riga to Rundale taking just over an hour. The palace is a Baroque style palace built in the late 1700s for the Dukes of Courland. 

The palace had many uses over the years, including being used as a school until 1978. Today, the palace and museum are open to the public for visiting and occasionally for special events. 

On the interior of the palace visitors can view the many halls and apartments. On the exterior of the palace, visitors can walk through the beautifully manicured French Garden and Rose Garden. 

The Rundale Palace is open for viewing daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. A guided tour is available for those who would like to learn about the history of the palace.

Regular adult admission is $8 Euros. It is recommended that you purchase your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines during certain parts of the year. More information can be found by visiting their website. 

I also encourage you to arrive early if planning a Rundale Palace tour from Riga. This is one of the most popular day trips from Riga Latvia, so the palace can be a bit crowded at times.

If you’d like to avoid these crowds, plan your visit for the shoulder season, a weekday, or just arrive early.

7. Jurmala

One of the easiest Riga day trips is Jurmala. Jurmala is a resort town located along the northern coast of Latvia about 30 minutes west of Riga. The town is famous for its fresh air and miles of sandy beaches. 

The town is filled with resorts, spas, and restaurants to suit just about any budget. Due to its coastal location, the town is busiest in the warmer summer months, but there is still plenty to enjoy during cooler times of the year as well.

As you might expect, resort prices tend to be lower during the cooler months as well, so take advantage. 

The most popular activity in Jurmala is swimming and hanging out at the beach. The beaches here are clean and family friendly. You’ll also find lots of options along the beaches for snacks and drinks if you get hungry, though you can always bring your own. 

Most visitors to Jurmala will eventually find themselves on Jomas Street, a trendy area perfect for trying out the local restaurants and bars. 

Jurmala also has a popular water park called Līvu akvaparks, which is open seasonally and makes a great place to keep the kids entertained if you’re traveling with little ones. 

I hope you’ve found some inspiration in these 7 best day trips from Riga. If you’re planning to explore the capital city itself, be sure to see the highlights from my own visit to Latvia to have the perfect one day in Riga.

5 Tips for Planning Day Trips from Riga

1. Plan to leave Riga early in the morning in order to avoid traffic and maximize your time exploring outside the city.
2. Leave time for stops along the way. Part of the fun of a road trip is being able to stop anywhere you want along the way. So if you see something cool, pull over.
3. Bring some water and snacks for the road. You don’t want to waste time on your day trip from Riga. So plan ahead with snacks and water so you don’t have to stop and look for these items later.
4. Bring comfortable shoes and dress in layers. You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking, so you’ll want to be wearing the right shoes and clothing.
5. Fill your tank before you leave. While there are plenty of service stations around Latvia, you don’t want to waste your time getting gas when you could be doing more fun things.
6. Double check opening hours of the destinations you plan to visit. You do not want to drive all the way out into the countryside to visit something only to find out they are closed.

For those that have extra time for traveling outside Latvia, consider going on a mini Baltic tour to explore more of the region. I have heard from nearly everyone who’s traveled the region that both Vilnius and Tallin are not to be missed. I plan on going myself later this year.

If you’ve been to Latvia and taken your own day trips from Riga, I’d love to hear from you. I’m always looking for good recommendations or to hear what day trips you liked and which ones you didn’t. Thanks so much for reading.

Want to save it? Pin it.

One Day in Riga Itinerary

I’m not gonna lie, I didn’t have high expectations while planning my trip to Riga last year. But I gotta tell ya, after just one…

Read More

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If you’re in the midst of planning a trip to Latvia you’ll soon find yourself wondering where to eat in Riga. And boy are you…

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If you’re planning a visit to Latvia, you absolutely must make time to explore outside the capital city and include a few day trips from…

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Eden Fite

Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.

If you’re in the midst of planning a trip to Latvia you’ll soon find yourself wondering where to eat in Riga. And boy are you lucky, because Riga has a fantastic food and restaurant scene.

In fact, the Riga food tour I took when I was there was one of my favorite activities from my visit.

What’s great about Riga is that its a completely walkable city, you can get just about anywhere on foot.

So all of the places I recommend in this foodie travel guide can be reached on foot as you’re exploring the city throughout your visit.

I really hope you find the restarant scene in Riga as exciting as I did, and if you are as into trying new foods as I am when traveling, I just know you’ll love it too.

So let’s eat, shall we?

The Ultimate Guide on Where to Eat in Riga

Some important information before we get started.

This post is part Top 10 List and part DIY Food Tour. The list below includes 10 restarant, bar, and cafe recommendations based on places I tried or places that were recommended to me by others in Riga.

Some of these recommendatins came from people who lived in Riga, and some were from other travelers who had been in town longer than I had been.

I think the establishments listed below are best visited over a few days as you’re exploring this beautiful art nouveau city.

I do not recommend visiting them back to back in one shot, though that’s totally up to you. If your stomach can handle that, more power to you.

For me, I prefer to space out my meals, but tend to eat smaller portions so I can try more places or more dishes without over stuffing myself. Buf if you prefer to go all in, who am I to judge?

Also, most of these establishments are in the historic center, but some will be found just outside. Try to coordinate visits to these restaurants based on where you’ll be exploring that day.

But honestly, I just encourage you to try different places each day. Be a little adventurous and sample things you wouldn’t at home. It’s all about the experience, so make it your own.

1. Caffeine LV

Caffeine LV is a popular coffee shop chain with locations all over Riga. This is the place to go when you’re looking for a quick coffee in the morning.

They serve a particularly delicious caramel macchiato if you like something with a touch of sweetness.

They also serve a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and other grab and go breakfast items and snacks.

If you are in a hurry, pick up something for the road to eat along the way. The service tends to be friendly and fast, so you can get in and out quickly.

There are Caffeine LV locations all over the city, so finding one should not be a problem.

Hours may vary at the different locations but they are generally open from 7:00 a.m. during the week and 9:00 a.m. on weekends.

If you’ve got a little time and you’re looking for an especially good cup of coffee, make your way over to Rocket Bean Roastery.

They are located on the trendy Miera Iela about a 25 minute walk from the historic center, but are well known for serving high quallty coffee.

They source their beans from all over the world then roast them in house. I encourage you to pay them a visit if you have the time.

2. Big Bad Bagels

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious breakfast to start your day, Big Bad Bagels is a popular option for both locals and tourists.

They bake their bagels fresh daily and serve them with delicious high quality toppings.

You can choose from dozens of topping combinations with ingredients like cream cheese, bacon, eggs, smoked salmon and fresh veggies.

They have plenty of vegan and vegetarian options as well. They also serve smoothies, fresh juice, and of course, coffee.

Big Bad Bagels is open daily at 8:00 a.m. most days and 9:00 a.m. on weekends. They are located a short walk from the historic center on the opposite side of Bastejkalna Park.

3. Riga Central Market

Just about every walking tour and food guide about Riga will recommend a stop at the Riga Central Market.

It’s a great way to get a glimpse of local life, and it also happens to be the largest European market of its kind. In fact, it’s about 778,000 square feet with over 3,000 different market stands.

This is the place where many chefs and restaurant owners will come to purchase the food they will serve at their restarants for the day or week.

So while I’ve been told the market has become a bit touristy over the years, it is still used by locals for practical purposes.

According to our guide on the food tour, many of the individual vendors are families that have been selling products there for generations.

So if you want to support locals and local businesses, this is a good place to do it.

Inside the Riga Central Market you’ll find room after room filled with fresh produce, vegetables, meat and fish.

Visitors to the market can sample the pickled cabbage and other vegetables at certain stands, which I highly recommend doing if you enjoy pickled vegetables.

I’m not a cabbage fan by any means, but I had the best pickle of my life here.

If you are planning to be in town for a few days, the Riga Central Market is a good place to stock up on snacks to keep in your hotel room or apartment as well.

Aside from the raw fruits, vegetables, and meats, there are several restaurants serving everything from smoothies to coffee to dumplings.

I don’t suggest getting a full meal while you’re in the market, but its a good place to sample different items as you’re walking around.

The market is open daily around 7:00 a.m. or so, but I recommend getting there a bit later if you’re looking for snacks.

Many of the vendors don’t really open up for business until a bit later in the morning.

4. Lido

If you only go to one place on this where to eat in Riga list, make it here.

Even if you’ve only got one day in Riga and you’re just passing through, this is where you should eat at least one meal.

Lido is the place to come when you want to try a wide variety of traditional Latvian foods.

They serve their dishes cafeteria style, so you can fill your tray up with whatever you like as you make your way through the various sections.

You’ll find dozens of hot dishes, soups, salads, sides, desserts and drinks. Pick up a little of whatever looks interesting and don’t forget to try one of their desserts as well.

There are several Lido restaurants around town, including one just outside the historic center near the Freedom Monument. Most locations open around 11:00 a.m. and close at 11:00 p.m.

5. Fat Pumpkin

When you are trying to figure out where to eat in Riga to find something healthy and meat free, make a bee line for Fat Pumpkin.

Fat Pumpkin specializes in meat free, vegan and vegetarian cusine. They offer a large menu of burgers, salads, sandwiches, pastas, and desserts.

Raw foods are also available. They even have a vegan bakery, so if you’re looking for a cake or some pastries for a special occasion, this is a great option.

Fat Pumpkin is open daily from noon to 10:00 p.m. They are located right inside the historic center a short walk from St. Peter’s Church.

6. 3 Chefs Restaurant

If you want to get fancy and have a unique dining experience, make your way over to 3 Chefs Restaurant, or 3 pavāru restorāns. This is considered one of the best restaurants in Riga.

This restaurant is known for having an open kitchen in the center of the dining room, putting the chefs on display for guests to watch as they prepare and plate their dishes.

The menu is meat heavy, using experimental preparation, flavor combinations, and ingredients to create delicious, but unique dishes.

Their menu has a strong focus on local produce and seasonal ingredients.

You’ll notice immedately they take pride in their presentation, starting from the bread course when you are seated. Bring your camera folks, these dishes are all photo worthy.

If you are vegetarian or vegan, there are a few items on the menu to choose from.

I also believe the chefs would be willing to create something appropriate for your diet upon request, but you may wish to inquire ahead of time just in case.

3 Chefs Restaurant is located in the Centra Rajons area and is open daily from noon to 11:00 p.m.

Reservations are not required but I encourage you to make them if you have a large party.

7. XL Pelmeni

If you’re wondering where to eat in Riga Old Town, head over to XL Pelmeni for delicious dumplings.

It’s a great stop if you’re looking for a snack and you want to try the local cuisine.

This has been described to me as Latvian fast food, though I am told Pelmeni is actually a Russian dish.

Despite this, pelmeni is a popular food in Latvia. It’s also one of the best cheap places to eat in Riga.

XL Pelmeni serves their dumplings cafeteria style. You grab a bowl at the front of the line then fill your dish with whichever dumplings you would like.

They serve chicken, beef, smoked meat, cheese, and vegetable dumplings.

Toppings include sour cream, pickles, and a few other sauces. Once you’ve filled your bowl, you are charged based on the weight of your dish. Don’t be shy though, it’s very inexpensive.

If you happen to be hungry late at night, XL Pelmeni is open until 4:00 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, making it a perfect stop after a night of drinking.

They open weekdays at 9:00 a.m. and weekends at 10:00 a.m.

8. Black Magic

You can’t leave Riga without trying the city’s famous Black Balsam liquer, a dark and potent liquor made from 24 different herbs.

One of the best places to try Black Balsam is at the Black Magic Bar located right in the middle of the historic center.

At Black Magic Bar the Black Balsam is served in coffee drinks, cocktails, and even in chocolates and desserts.

You can also just try it on its own as well. They also conduct 30 minute presentations on the history and importance of Black Balsam. Visit their website for details and to request availabilty.

Save your visit to the Black Magic Bar for a time when you need a break from all the walking around.

You can duck in any time for a quick drink and maybe even try one of their fancy desserts if you’re looking for something sweet.

The Black Magic Bar is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Reservations are not required and seating is first come first served.

9. Gutenbergs

For the perfect view overlooking Riga at sunset, head over to Gutenbergs for wine, cocktails and appetizers.

Make sure you ask for a window seat for one of the best places to eat in Riga.

You’ll find Gutenbergs on the 5th floor of the super cute Gutenberg Hotel.

Their menu features a variety of steak and seafood dishes, along with salads, soups, pastas, and some beautifully plated desserts.

They’ve won awards for their wine list, so you’ll have plenty of options there. If wine is not your thing, they have many other cocktails and beers to choose from.

Gutenbergs is a beautiful restaurant, both inside and out on the patio.

It makes the perfect spot to celebrate a special occasion or to save for your last day in Riga. Dress nice and take some pictures. Also, try to time your visit for sunset for the best lighting.

Gutenbergs is open daily from 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Reservations can be made by sending them an email, details can be found at their website.

10. Valmiermuiza

If you want a lively and unique place to end your night, head over to Valmiermuiza. They specialize in pairing beers with food, and the food is absolutely fantastic.

Truth be told, this was one of my favorite Riga restaurants, mostly because their rye bread garlic bread was out of this world.

Seriously, we tried this stuff as part of a beer and food pairing, and the entire group was ecstatic about this bread. We were still talking about it days later.

Their food menu focuses on using local produce and seasonal ingredients. You will find a lot of cheese, potato, fish, and meat in their dishes.

Though vegetarian options are also available. As for beers, they have an extensive list of beers on tap and bottle. For those not much into beer, they also serve wine and cocktails.

Valmiermuiza is open daily. They open at 4:00 p.m. on weekdays and 3:00 p.m. on weekends. They are open late until 1:00 a.m.

Wednesday through Saturday and close at 11:00 p.m. all other nights. They do accept reservations, though they are not required. Visit their website for details.

If you’re also in the mood for some local live music, consider checking out Folkklubs ALA pagrabs. They offer a full restaurant menu, full bar, and live music at least five nights a week. You can find them right in Riga’s historic center.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my recommendations on where to eat in Riga and that you find this list helpful when planning your visit.

If you’ve been to Riga and have other great restaurant recommendations, please contact me. I’d love to include additional suggestions on this list.

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Eden Fite

Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

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