Old Riga with all its monuments, squares, and cathedrals is the oldest part of the Latvian capital. Since 1997, the historical center of Riga has been included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO. We have designed a route for a walk through the most significant spots of Old Riga.
Līvu Square is a symbolic place. The Riga River, later known as Ridzene, used to flow right here. The square was formed on the site of a neighborhood destroyed during World War II. Originally the place was called Philharmonic Hall Square, but in 2000 it was renamed and became Līvu Square. Here you can find the House with the Black Cat (Cat’s House) and the Large and Small Guilds.
The Great Guild was an association of Riga merchants and the homonymous building where they held meetings. The Small Guild was an association of Riga’s craftsmen who also had their own building. Today, the Great Guild is a concert hall, where the Latvian National Orchestra performs. The Small Guild also hosts various concerts, seminars, and conferences.
Address: Amatu iela 6 (Great Guild) and Amatu iela 5 (Small Guild)
The Powder Tower is the only element of Riga’s fortification system that has survived to this day. In the Middle Ages, this tower was an important point of defense as it protected the city from the north. Nowadays, the tower belongs to a branch of the Latvian Military Museum that hosts several permanent historical exhibitions.
Address: Smilšu iela 20
Since the 12th century, the complex of city fortifications consisting of walls and towers surrounded Riga. Today, you can still see a fragment of the wall with a defensive quadrangular tower. Next to the wall, you will find a bronze sculpture known as “Ghost”.
Address: Trokšņu iela
The cathedral is one of the main sightseeing objects of Riga and the main building of the Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church. One of the most famous organs in the world resides here. Regular organ music concerts are held in the Dome Cathedral. Next to the cathedral is Dome Square, the largest one in Old Riga.
Address: Herdera laukums 4
One of the city’s best restaurants, B Bārs Restorāns is located in Dome Square with an excellent view of the cathedral. It’s a great place to stop for a bite during a walk through the historic center of the capital. We recommend visiting it in the middle of the route. The restaurant offers appetizers, salads, soups, meat and fish dishes, as well as desserts and drinks. On weekends parties with a DJ are often held.
The cellars preserved since the 14th century. Monks used to walk along the cozy and narrow Mūku Street, where the restaurant is located, following their route from the Dome Cathedral to the marketplace on the bank of the Daugava River.
Address: Doma Laukums 2
Another significant landmark in Riga is known not only for its rich history but also for its original spire. For a long time, the church was the tallest building in the capital, until the Riga TV tower took over the title. The spire burned down several times, but each time it was rebuilt. Today, you can get to the tower and enjoy a view of the city and the Daugava.
Address: Reformcijas laukums 1
This is Northern Europe’s only interactive dark experience, where one can experience unforgettable emotions, discovering the world with no eye-sight. Explore four rooms, each challenging you to rely on your senses of touch, smell, hearing, and even taste. This unique experience will help you perceive the world differently and discover your adaptability, leaving you stunned with unforgettable emotions.
Address: Audēju 16, Galerija Centrs Shopping Center, 4th floor
The Town Hall Square once served as a market square and got its present name after the construction of the town hall next to it. One of the most famous landmarks of the city, the House of Blackheads, is located here. The building was destroyed during World War II but was rebuilt in 1996-2000. Today, various exhibitions are held there and the premises can also be booked for private events.
Address: Town Hall Square 7
Three Brothers is the name of a group of three houses in Old Riga considered examples of medieval architecture in Riga. The oldest house was built in 1490. Nowadays, it houses the museum of Latvian architecture. When visiting the museum, you can also see the courtyard.
Address: Mazā Pils iela 17, 19, 21
More useful tips on sightseeing in Riga: Prof. Rabbit Travel Advisor – Riga Travel Guide
