Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Riga

Sometimes referred to as the “Paris of the North,” the city of Riga epitomizes 19^th-century charm. Its historical landmarks, picturesque city parks and rich soviet heritage make it a fascinating—and beautiful!—place to visit. So book a room at one of the many great hotels in Riga (consider, for example, the Ekes Konvents or the Hotel de Rome) and take a tour of these fantastic attractions:

1. St Peters Church

An integral part of the urban skyline since the Dark Ages, St Peters Church is one of the most photographed buildings in Riga. It has been refurbished several times over the centuries; however, it still maintains its original atmosphere. One especially notable feature of the church is the fabled jinxed tower, which has collapsed numerous times due to war and natural disasters. An elevator can take you up 70 metres to the spire, which showcases a spectacular panoramic view of the entire city. The Gothic interior of St Peters Church is also a sight to behold; it is so pretty that it is often used as a venue for photo exhibitions and concerts.

2. Esplanade Park

One of Riga’s best features is its collection of picturesque urban parks. The green spaces provide peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city centre; no trip to Riga would be complete without a leisurely stroll or rest. One of the best parks in the Latvian capital is Esplanade Park, a verdant stretch between the Nativity of Christ Cathedral and the National Art Museum. Along with leafy trees and gardens, the park is home to a replica of the famously unlucky statue of Mihail Barclay de Tolly by Wilhelm Wandschneider (which was originally stolen in 1915.)

3. The Latvian Open-Air Ethnographic Museum

Spread out over 100 hectares in Riga is the Latvian Open-Air Ethnographic Museum, one of the city’s most unique and popular tourist attractions. Take the tour and you will instantly feel transported back in time, to the capital of Latvia as it was centuries ago. The museum has 121 antique objects and artifacts on display in a lush wooded area. Visitors may watch blacksmiths and other craftsmen hard at work, savor authentic Latvian food and ale, and romanticize “days gone by.” Afterwards, they may retire to the modern comforts of their hotel rooms.

4. Riga Opera House

One of the first buildings to be refurbished after the Soviets were ousted in 1991, the Riga Opera House is one of the city’s most beloved treasures. It is home to the Latvian National Opera, and one of the reasons why the city has been dubbed “The Land That Sings.” If you can, try to time your trip to Riga around the Latvian Song Festival; it is held in Mezaparks every five years, and is the nation’s biggest event. Throughout the year, classical concerts take place in the most remarkable churches and other buildings of the Old Town. While the Riga Opera House is not the only place in the city to take in a concert, it is certainly among the best.

5. Latvian National Museum of Art

Situated just to the north of the Old Town, the Latvian National Museum of Art is a must-see landmark. Its sweeping marble staircase and red carpet create a regal, romantic atmosphere. However, what draws crowds of visitors each year is the museum’s renowned collection of art. There are more than 52,000 pieces of art in attendance at any time of year. Many were created by Baltic artists; however, there is also a great collection of Russian art. Be sure to check out the entire room dedicated to the Roerich father and son duo, who went wandering throughout India to draw inspiration and enlightenment before crafting their unique style.