Riga, Latvia

Must See Tourist Spots; Instagrammable

• House of Black Heads

• Holly Trinity Chruch aka Pink Church

• Jacob Barracks

• Golden Domes

• Latvian Academy of Science

• Riga Cathedral

• The Freedom Monument

• St. Peter Church

• Canals of Riga

• Central Market/Hall to try local food

• Christmas Market

 

Summers/Autumn - 3 day trip:

Early morning flight ✅, bags dropped at the hotel, and straight to the city center! First stop: Rocket Bean Roastery for an amazing cup of coffee with a view of the Freedom Monument. ☕️✨ Just as I finished, the guard exchange ceremony kicked off – talk about perfect timing! It happens twice a day, morning and evening, so definitely worth catching!

Wandered through the charming streets and stumbled upon a beautiful park full of vibrant flowers. 🌸🌿 Took a moment to relax by the fountain with the Opera House in the background, soaking in the sun, the birds chirping, and the stunning architecture around me. Pure bliss!

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After soaking in the peaceful park vibes, I continued my journey through Riga’s historic heart. My next stop was the stunning House of Black Heads, an iconic landmark with its striking medieval architecture. From there, I made my way to Jacob Barracks, a beautiful, historic building that offers a glimpse into the city’s past. As I walked along, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the Golden Domes of the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, shining brilliantly in the sunlight.

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Riga’s rich history unfolded even further as I visited the majestic Riga Cathedral, with its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. I then explored the nearby St. Peter's Church, with its intricate design and breathtaking views from the tower.

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The day wouldn’t be complete without a stroll along the Canals of Riga, where I hopped on a boat for a serene ride, admiring the city from a different perspective. From historic landmarks to hidden gems, Riga’s beauty was simply impossible to miss!

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Ended the day by having dinner at Singh's Riga Restaurant. And in between during the day, I did grabbed my favorite raisin rye bread from a local grocery stored and savored that with a nice cup of coffee.

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Day 2 started with a visit to the Central Market, and I couldn’t wait to try all the delicious treats. The market opens daily from 7:30 AM to 6 PM, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast. I kicked off with my favorite rye-cottage-cheese cake, followed by a hearty bread bowl soup, some coffee, and freshly baked cookies. Outside, the vibrant fruits and vegetable stalls were irresistible, especially in the summer when cherries and strawberries are in season—of course, I had to buy both and enjoy them throughout the day.

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Next, I made my way to the stunning Holy Trinity Church (also known as the Pink Church), and it completely stole my heart. The soft pink hue and intricate architecture made it an absolute Instagrammable gem. If you're in Riga, this is a must-see, especially for the perfect photo.

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Afterward, I couldn’t resist stopping at Molbert for some of the best ice cream in the city. With my sweet treat in hand, I continued to explore the charming streets and captivating architecture before hopping on a canal tour to see Riga from a new perspective.

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I wrapped up the day with a delightful dinner at Indian Raja, enjoying some comforting Indian flavors.

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This weekend getaway was the perfect mix of food, culture, and stunning sights. In summer and autumn, with the flowers in full bloom, Riga truly comes alive and looks absolutely magical!

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Winters -1 day trip:

A winter day trip to Riga is like stepping into a snow-globe wonderland, especially with its enchanting Christmas market in Dome Square. The medieval charm of Old Town is adorned with twinkling lights, wooden stalls brimming with handcrafted gifts, and the irresistible aroma of mulled wine and roasted almonds. From ice skating under the festive glow to savoring traditional Latvian treats, every moment feels magical. The highlight? The giant Christmas tree—a nod to Riga’s claim as the birthplace of the first decorated tree. It’s a perfect destination to soak in the holiday spirit and create cozy winter memories.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​