Thinking about spending 2 days in Riga? You’re in for a treat. Latvia’s capital is quite charming with its cobblestone streets, Art Nouveau architecture and edgy post-Soviet buildings.

Riga is compact and easy to explore, which makes the capital of Latvia a perfect weekend getaway or a slow stop on a Baltic road trip.

After visiting all three capitals of the Baltic countries, I can’t decide which one I liked the most. Each of them has its beauty. Riga seemed the most colorful for me. Despite the big number of tourists, Riga was somehow calm and relaxing. I hugely enjoyed my daily stroll in the Old Town and the park.

2 Days in Riga: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors

what to see and do in 2 days in Riga, the capital of Latvia

Explore the Charm of Riga’s Old Town (Vecrīga)

No visit to Riga is complete without a long walk through its enchanting Old Town. Known as Vecrīga, this historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s packed with pastel-colored buildings, gothic spires, and cobblestone streets that seem straight out of a fairy tale. You’ll find yourself stumbling upon architectural gems at every turn, from the iconic House of the Blackheads (book your entry in advance, I wasn’t able to enter on the day) with its ornate façade, to the charming Three Brothers, Riga’s oldest residential buildings.

A good idea is to join a couple of hours long guided walk to learn history before you slow down and enjoy it by yourself. The area is small and walkable, so you can soak up its charm without feeling rushed. Stop by Town Hall Square, snap photos of the Roland Statue, and take your time admiring St. John’s Church and St. Jacob’s Cathedral. The Old Town is also home to some of the best cafés and bars in the city, perfect for resting your feet after sightseeing.

Get a Bird’s Eye View from St. Peter’s Church Tower

If you’re only spending 2 days in Riga, you’ll want at least one panoramic view of the city, and St. Peter’s Church offers the best one. For a small entrance fee, you can take an elevator up the tower and enjoy breathtaking 360° views of the Old Town rooftops, the Daugava River, and the distant forests beyond the city.

The church itself is impressive, dating back to the 13th century and showcasing a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. But the real draw here is the view, especially on a clear day when you can see just how green and expansive Riga really is.

Browse and Snack Your Way Through Riga Central Market

Just a short walk from the Old Town, Riga Central Market is a must-see and must-taste. Housed in five repurposed WWI Zeppelin hangars, this is one of the largest and most unique markets in Europe. Inside, you’ll find everything from local cheeses, fresh produce, and pickled vegetables to smoked fish, sausages, honey, and baked goods. A great activity to do once there is a food tasting tour.

Whether you’re looking for affordable souvenirs or just want to try traditional Latvian snacks, this is the place to go. The market is divided into pavilions by food type, and it’s also has a few modern food stalls and small cafés where you can sample local street food or grab a strong coffee. It’s lively, authentic, and an easy place to connect with everyday Latvian life. I spent some time at the market and organised myself to have breakfast there. For sure, I ate more than I needed.

Admire Riga’s Famous Art Nouveau Architecture

Riga is often called the Art Nouveau capital of Europe, and once you wander the streets just north of the city center, you’ll understand why. The most famous stretch is Alberta iela, where nearly every building is a masterpiece of swirling designs, mythical creatures, floral motifs, and intricate facades. I stayed in this area and walked the street several times.

The best way to explore this district is simply to stroll, no map needed. But for a deeper appreciation, you can visit the Riga Art Nouveau Museum, located in a stunningly preserved apartment. It’s not only visually striking, but also gives you insight into the architectural and cultural movements that shaped the city in the early 20th century.

Discover Latvia’s Complex Past at the Museum of the Occupation

For travelers interested in history, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia provides an essential and moving experience. Located near the Old Town, this museum covers Latvia’s occupation under both Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, offering personal stories, artifacts, photographs, and audiovisual exhibits that explore decades of resilience, repression, and resistance.

It’s a sobering but important stop that helps contextualize the country’s recent past. If you’re spending 2 days in Riga, this museum adds depth and meaning to your visit, showing just how much the city and its people have endured and rebuilt.

Timeless Cafés and Handmade Liqueurs: Where to Slow Down in Riga

Riga is home to several old-world cafés that preserve the charm of a slower, more traditional Latvia, perfect for you if you are looking to experience the city beyond the typical tourist trail. For me, cafes give a different dimension to visiting a new place since I can just sit and observe. I always give myself time for that.

One of the best examples is Parunāsim kafe’teeka, often described as Riga’s most romantic café. Tucked away on a quiet cobbled street in the Old Town, it offers a cozy, vintage atmosphere with velvet armchairs, candlelight, and an impressive selection of homemade liqueurs infused with berries, herbs, and spices.

Another local favorite is Apsara Tea House, especially the one near the canal close to Bastejkalna Park. Though better known for its tea, it’s a peaceful spot with floor seating and panoramic views of the park. For a more old-school, literary feel, stop by Café MiiT, where strong coffee and house-made pastries are served in a quiet, artsy setting.

I enjoyed a cup of coffee in Black Magic Bar, which is Riga’s apothecary‑style chocolate and balsam haven. The interior is dimly lit, with brick walls, dusty vintage cabinets, shelves lined with clay jars of Riga Black Balsam, and even a secret staircase behind a bookcase leading to a candlelit basement tasting room.

Visit the Latvian National Museum of Art

If you enjoy art and architecture, be sure to visit the Latvian National Museum of Art, located in a grand neoclassical building not far from the city center. The museum contains an extensive collection of Latvian art from the 18th century to the present, and it’s also a quiet, cool spot to retreat to during hot summer days or drizzly afternoons.

The museum’s rooftop terrace is another hidden gem. Climb to the top for a lovely view over the nearby parks and rooftops, often without the crowds found at St. Peter’s.

Eat in one of the Medieval restaurants

If you’re looking to dine like it’s the 14th century, Riga has a few unforgettable medieval-themed restaurants that bring history to life , with a hearty side of meat, mead, and candlelight.

One of the most popular is Rozengrāls, tucked away in a vaulted cellar in the heart of Old Town. Here, you’ll eat by flickering candlelight in what was once a wine vault dating back to 1293. The menu is inspired by historical recipes, featuring dishes like honey-glazed pork, venison stew, and dark rye bread served with herb butters.

Staff dressed in period costume and the echo of medieval music complete the immersive experience. It’s a fun, atmospheric way to combine dinner with a bit of local history, especially during your 2 days in Riga. If I had more time, I would probably b=visit more Medieval restaurants since I enjoyed similar ones in Tallinn.

Relax on a Canal or River Boat Tour

Want to see Riga from a different perspective? Hop on a canal boat cruise that gently winds through the city’s park-lined waterways before joining the Daugava River. These eco-friendly wooden boats offer a relaxed and scenic way to experience the city, especially if your feet are tired after a full day of exploring.

You’ll glide past landmarks like the Freedom Monument, Bastejkalna Park, and the National Opera House, all while listening to a light audio guide (or simply enjoying the breeze). Most tours last about an hour and depart regularly during spring, summer, and early autumn.

Take in the View from the Latvian Academy of Sciences

Looking for a unique view of Riga without the usual tourist crowds? Head to the top of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, a Stalin-era skyscraper nicknamed “Stalin’s Birthday Cake.” It’s a relic of Soviet design: imposing, symmetrical, and striking, but it offers a surprisingly affordable and crowd-free viewing platform.

From the 17th floor, you’ll get a panoramic look at the Central Market, Daugava River, and the spires of the Old Town from a completely different angle. It’s especially stunning at sunset.

Experience Local Culture at the Latvian National Opera

If you’re in the mood for something elegant during your 2 days in Riga, consider catching a performance at the Latvian National Opera and Ballet. The building itself is a neoclassical beauty, and tickets are far more affordable than in Western Europe.

Whether you see a ballet, opera, or classical concert, it’s a culturally rich way to end your day. Even if you don’t attend a show, walk past the building in the evening as it’s beautifully lit and sits beside a tranquil canal surrounded by manicured gardens.

Unique Things to Do in Riga

Want to go beyond the basics during your 2 days in Riga?

KGB Corner House Tour – Former Soviet headquarters with chilling guided tours (book ahead).
Riga Ghetto and Holocaust Museum – Free and deeply moving.
Take a canal boat ride – A peaceful, photogenic way to see the city from the water.
Street art hunt – Explore Miera iela or the Avotu district for some edgy urban murals.
Latvian Academy of Sciences Panorama Deck – A Soviet-era skyscraper with a killer city view, fewer crowds than St. Peter’s.
Riga’s craft beer scene – Try Alķīmiķis, Labietis, or Ezītis miglā for local brews and cozy atmospheres.

Best Neighborhoods if you only have 2 days in Riga

If it’s your first visit and you’re staying overnight, here’s where to base yourself:

Old Town (Vecrīga) – Perfect for sightseeing, cafés, and being in the center of everything.
Centrs – Just outside Old Town, filled with Art Nouveau buildings, cool bars, and less touristy restaurants.
Miera iela / Avoti – Up-and-coming, hipster feel, cheaper stays, local vibe, and great for foodies and creatives.
Āgenskalns – Quieter, leafy area across the river, ideal if you want something residential and charming.

Best accommodation in Riga

Budget:

Aparthotel Amella (Centrs). Stylish self‑catering apartments with spa access, located near Opera House and Vermanes Garden.

Mid-range:

Neiburgs Hotel (Old Town).
Dome Hotel (Old Town). With its historic charm (a 400-year-old building), comfortable modern rooms, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a really good choice.
Konventa Sēta Hotel (Old Town). A boutique-style hotel set in a complex of seven restored medieval townhouses in the Old Town.

Luxury:

Grand Hotel Kempinski (Centrs, near Opera). Elegant five‑star spa hotel with refined service, indoor pool, and ideal location next to the opera and upscale shopping.
A22 Hotel (near Centrs). Chic boutique‑style rooms, upscale décor, wellness facilities, and central location just outside Old Town.

Is 2 days in Riga enough?

2 days in Riga is enough to experience the highlights and discover some local secrets. It’s the kind of place that rewards slow wandering and spontaneous café stops. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the Baltics, and maybe a plan to come back for more.

How to Get to Riga

By Air: Riga International Airport (RIX) is the largest in the Baltics and well-connected with budget and full-service airlines. From the airport, take bus 22 or a Bolt ride to the city center (15–20 minutes).
By Bus: International buses (Lux Express, Ecolines) connect Riga with Tallinn, Vilnius, Warsaw, and even Berlin. I travelled by bus between all the capitals and it was easy and smooth.
By Train: Regional trains to/from Jurmala and Sigulda are popular, but cross-border train service is limited.

Festivals in Riga: What and When

If your 2 days in Riga coincide with a festival, consider it a bonus. Here are a few to look out for:

Riga City Festival (August) – Live music, food stalls, fireworks, and performances across the city.
Latvian Song & Dance Festival (every 5 years, next: 2028) – One of the largest choral events in the world.
Positivus Festival (July) – Latvia’s biggest music festival, usually held outside Riga but easy to access.
Christmas Market (December) – A magical time in the Old Town with mulled wine, crafts, and lights.

See also:

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Use my favourite travel resources to plan your dream trips

Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
Travel Payouts is my favourite platform for monetizing the blog.
Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
World Nomads and EKTA travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
WeGoTrip sends you audio guides to your mobile, so you can visit places while learning history and interesting facts easily and for little money.
Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money. You can even save 50%.
Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.
Airalo is my eSim choice for alternative data abroad.

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2 Days in Riga: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors

2 Days in Riga: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors

what to see and do in 2 days in Riga, the capital of Latvia

Explore the Charm of Riga’s Old Town (Vecrīga)

Get a Bird’s Eye View from St. Peter’s Church Tower

Browse and Snack Your Way Through Riga Central Market

Admire Riga’s Famous Art Nouveau Architecture

Discover Latvia’s Complex Past at the Museum of the Occupation