Itinerary

Riga is a fantastic city that beautifully blends history, culture, and nature. With your interests in shopping, culture, nature, and a mix of old and new, I’ve crafted a delightful 7-day itinerary just for you. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and Old Town Exploration

Morning:

• Arrive in Riga and check into your hotel. Take a moment to freshen up and get ready for your adventure!

Afternoon:

• Head to Riga Old Town (Vecrīga). Stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the stunning architecture. Don’t miss the House of Blackheads and St. Peter’s Church.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some traditional Latvian dishes like grey peas with speck. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Daugava River to see the city lights.

## Day 2: Culture and Museums

Morning:

• Start your day at the Latvian National Museum of Art. It’s a treasure trove of Latvian art and a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia to learn about the country’s history during the Soviet and Nazi occupations. It’s a poignant experience that adds depth to your understanding of Latvia.

Evening:

• Head to the Central Market for dinner. It’s one of Europe’s largest markets, housed in old zeppelin hangars. You can find everything from fresh produce to local delicacies.

## Day 3: Nature and Parks

Morning:

• Take a trip to Mežaparks, a beautiful park area just outside the city. You can rent a bike or simply walk around and enjoy the greenery.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Riga Zoo located in Mežaparks. It’s a lovely spot to see various animals and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Evening:

• Return to the city and have dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Daugava River. Try some fresh fish dishes, as Latvia is known for its seafood!

## Day 4: Shopping Day

Morning:

• Spend your morning at Galerija Centrs, a popular shopping mall in the heart of Riga. You’ll find a mix of international brands and local boutiques.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Art Nouveau district. The architecture here is stunning, and you can pop into some unique shops and galleries. Don’t forget to take photos of the beautiful buildings!

Evening:

• Treat yourself to dinner at a trendy restaurant in the Art Nouveau district. Afterward, check out a local bar for some Latvian craft beer or a cocktail.

## Day 5: Day Trip to Jurmala

Morning:

• Take a short train ride to Jurmala, a charming seaside resort town. Enjoy the sandy beaches and the fresh sea air.

Afternoon:

• Explore the wooden architecture and take a leisurely walk along the beach promenade. You can also visit the Jurmala Open-Air Museum to learn about the region’s history.

Evening:

• Have dinner at a seaside restaurant, enjoying the sunset over the Baltic Sea before heading back to Riga.

## Day 6: Modern Riga and Local Life

Morning:

• Visit the Latvian National Opera. If you’re interested, check if there are any performances you can attend later in the week.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Kipsala district, known for its modern architecture. You can also visit the Zanis Lipke Memorial, which tells the story of a local hero during WWII.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a modern Latvian restaurant, where you can experience a fusion of traditional and contemporary cuisine.

## Day 7: Relax and Reflect

Morning:

• Spend your last morning at Bastejkalna Park. It’s a lovely place to relax, take a walk, and reflect on your trip.

Afternoon:

• Do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs at local artisan shops or the Riga Central Market.

Evening:

• For your final dinner, choose a restaurant with a view of the city skyline. Celebrate your week in Riga with a delicious meal and perhaps a glass of Latvian wine!

Bonus Tips:

• Don’t forget to try Riga Black Balsam, a traditional herbal liqueur!
• If you have time, consider a day trip to Sigulda for stunning nature and medieval castles.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your week in Riga! Enjoy every moment, and don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions or need further recommendations! 🌍✈️