Riga is a fantastic weekend break. The old town is absolutely beautiful; if you are only there for a weekend with no holiday (like I was), then stay in the old town and spend the majority of your time there. Riga is your perfect choice for a quick and affordable weekend getaway.
Why Riga?
Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a hidden gem in the Baltic region. Known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, it offers an incredible experience for travelers. The best part? You can explore this charming city over a weekend without taking any annual leave and without breaking the bank.
Budget-Friendly Destination
One of the main reasons to visit Riga is its affordability. From budget-friendly accommodations to inexpensive dining options, Riga makes it easy to have a fulfilling trip without spending a fortune. Public transportation is efficient and affordable, and many of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance, especially if you’re staying in the Old Town.
The Old Town: Vecriga
Vecriga, or the Old Town, is the heart of Riga and the perfect place to base yourself for a weekend getaway. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and picturesque squares. Here’s why you should spend most of your time in the Old Town:
- Stunning Architecture: The Old Town is home to some of the most beautiful buildings in Riga, including the Riga Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, and the House of the Blackheads. The Art Nouveau district is also a short walk away, showcasing some of the world’s finest examples of this architectural style.
- Rich History: Discover Riga’s past at the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia and the Latvian National History Museum. The Old Town itself is a living museum, with historical buildings and landmarks around every corner.
- Vibrant Culture: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Riga’s Old Town with its numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars. Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs is a great spot to experience live music and sample local beers.
- Convenience: The old town is easily reached from Riga airport, everything is within walking distance – this is all key for a weekend away as you can spend more time enjoying the city and less time travelling!
Perfect Itinerary for a Weekend
To help you make the most of your time in Riga, we’ve created a perfect itinerary that includes all the must-see sights and experiences in the Old Town. You’ll visit historical landmarks, enjoy local cuisine, and even have time for some shopping and relaxation.
Click here to see a great itinerary for Riga
Recommended restaurants:
1221 Restaurant, Old Town
Steiku Hoass, Old Town – https://tripadvisor.tp.st/kNPJVkuD
Rozengrāls, a medieval restaurant with a unique atmosphere – https://tripadvisor.tp.st/FuxHOXen
Recommended accommodation
Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel: A really nice hotel at a very cheap cost, plus a lovely spa access included to rest after a busy day sightseeing. This is where we stayed and it comes highly recommended – https://booking.tp.st/6pBQYYJR
If you are really strapped for cash stay in this small studio: https://booking.tp.st/6p8OK6gy – this will also allow you to have breakfast or lunch in the apartment
Final Thoughts
Riga offers everything you need for a memorable weekend getaway: rich history, beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and affordability. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, Riga’s Old Town will captivate you. Pack your bags and get ready to explore this Baltic treasure without taking any annual leave or straining your budget.
Explore Riga, make unforgettable memories, and return refreshed—all without missing a day of work!
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