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Europe Latvia Riga Do & See Riga Castle

Overview

Riga Castle

The guide was updated: 2023-10-09

Founded in 1330 and located on the banks of the Daugava River, the Riga Castle is one of the country's most prominent medieval castles. Throughout its history, it has suffered significant damage and seen various rulers and wars. After numerous reconstructions, it is a typical sample of late Classicism architecture. Currently, it serves as the official residence of the President of Latvia.

Useful Information

Address: Pils laukums 3, Riga
Website: www.president.lv/en/riga-castle
Phone: +371 67 092 106

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Freedom Monument

Freedom Monument

The Freedom Monument, or "Milda" (as the locals call it), towers gracefully between the Old Town and the city. The 42-metre-tall statue is a symbol of Latvia’s freedom and independence. The honour guard changes shifts every hour, on the hour, from morning until evening.

Three Brothers

Three Brothers

The Three Brothers are the oldest stone residential buildings in the city, situated in the picturesque Maza Pils alley in the Old Town. Each of the three houses represents different stages in the architectural époques of Riga, from Medieval to Baroque.

St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter’s Church

St Peter's Church in Riga is known for its tall tower, which offers stunning views of the city, including the red roofs of Old Town, the modern part of Riga, Riga Bay, and the Daugava River with its large port. The church itself was originally built in 1209, but only a few walls and pillars remain from that time. The Gothic tower, which was over 130 meters tall, was completed in the late 15th century. However, it collapsed in 1666 and was rebuilt in the Baroque style in 1690–at the time, it was the tallest wooden structure in the world. In 1721, the tower was struck by lightning and burned down. It was later restored, but once again it burned down during World War II. Renovation of the tower began in 1967, and today, it stands at a height of 123.25 meters. Visitors can access the second gallery, which is 72 meters above the ground. In 1997, St Peter's Church was added to UNESCO's World Heritage list.

Latvian War Museum

Latvian War Museum

The so-called Powder Tower, the last remnant of the 13th-century wall that once surrounded the heart of Riga, now hosts a war museum. The aim of the museum is to reveal to the public the complicated military history of Latvia, with a special emphasis on the 20th century, during which the Latvian people had to win their independence twice.

Riga Castle

Riga Castle

Founded in 1330 and located on the banks of the Daugava River, the Riga Castle is one of the country's most prominent medieval castles. Throughout its history, it has suffered significant damage and seen various rulers and wars. After numerous reconstructions, it is a typical sample of late Classicism architecture. Currently, it serves as the official residence of the President of Latvia.

Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral

Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral

Constructed in the Neo-Byzantine style between 1876 and 1883, when the country was a part of the Russian Empire, the Nativity of Christ Cathedral in Riga is the largest Orthodox church in the city. It has undergone several transformations over the years, being used as a planetarium and a restaurant during the Soviet Era. However, it has since been fully restored as a church and now holds regular Orthodox services. It has also one of the biggest organs in Europe with 6,768 pipes.

Dome Square

Dome Square

Dome Square is the largest square in Old Town Riga where various public events are often held. Made of seven streets, it includes several monuments dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries. The square has a marked point where you can stand and see all three golden cockerels on top of Old Town's churches.

Riga Motor Museum

Riga Motor Museum

Riga Motor Museum is an absolute bliss for car lovers. The museum displays Western as well as Soviet cars and motorcycles, topped with wax dolls of the old Soviet party leaders. The new exposition tells fascinating stories about unique vehicles, renowned individuals and important milestones that helped to shape the world’s automotive history.

Riga Circus

Riga Circus

Riga Circus is a vibrant and exciting venue to discover the cultural life of Riga and experience a variety of artistic disciplines–circus, theatre, dance, music, and cinema.

Old Town

Old Town

An absolute must for visitors to see is the labyrinth of cobbled streets in the Old Town of Riga. This live open-air museum is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk along the winding streets goes past over 150 historical and architectural monuments, the oldest from the 13th century. Do not be afraid to get lost in the narrow alleys, it is part of the experience.

Latvian National Opera

Latvian National Opera

The Latvian National Opera and Ballet is an attraction in itself - the building is very photogenic and makes for a great walk around in the afternoon. Opera and ballet are fabled as well, so make sure to check for current shows when you're in town.

Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

Located 30 minutes away from the city centre on the lightly wooded shores of Jugla Lake, this open-air museum offers visitors a great overview of Latvia's country life and architecture. Check whether buildings inside are open for visiting, as they may be closed during cold seasons. You may explore the museum on your own, or through a guided tour.

Alberta Street

Alberta Street

Alberta Street is the Art Nouveau epicentre of Riga, as magnificent historical Art Nouveau buildings are located along the entire length thereof. Eight of them have been recognised as architectural monuments of state significance. This street is an open-air museum in itself — a UNESCO world heritage site that is not to be missed.

Vermane Garden

Vermane Garden

Right next to the Latvian Opera House is Vermane Garden, a beautiful and tranquil retreat from the city's busy cobbled streets. With its picturesque little bridges and lush greenery, the park is a great place to visit at any time of the day. Take a boat ride along the canal, take a look at the plentiful statues inside, or visit its charming tea house.

Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

For an insight into Latvia's past and the activity of the Soviet Secret Service police in the country, take a guided tour around the former KGB headquarters building. It commemorates those who were unjustly convicted and murdered and those who suffered and died during the repressions and deportations.

University of Latvia Botanical Garden

University of Latvia Botanical Garden

The University of Latvia Botanical Garden has something to offer at any time of the year, but summer is the time it should definitely not be missed. Bring a picnic set and retreat from the heat underneath the lush green trees.

Vecaki Beach

Vecaki Beach

If you're looking for a day trip to the Baltic, Vecaki Beach might be your best bet. This 8 km-long strip of sand lined with pine trees is a great summertime getaway. Entertainment for kids and adults abounds. The beach may be reached by public transport.

Spikeri

Spikeri

The Spikeri quarter with former warehouses renovated and brought back to life by local art and design enthusiasts is the new hangout spot for the hip young crowd. An alternative area with stores, coffee shops, and bars. Spikeri is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Riga Art Nouveau Centre

Riga Art Nouveau Centre

A logical conclusion to your stroll down Alberta iela, this compact museum will provide additional insight into Art Nouveau through architecture, art, and furnishings. The staff dress up in period clothing and you might just get a treat of freshly made pastries from the museum's "cook".

Castle of Light — National Library of Latvia

Castle of Light — National Library of Latvia

Documenting Latvia's history and literature, hosting exhibitions and simply an architectural masterpiece, the Castle of Light, or National Library of Latvia, is worth a visit if only to be admired for its striking design.

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