Riga old town guide

However, we will give you a small introduction and some interesting facts about places to see in the historical part of the city, so you’re already prepared when going on a tour in what is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the whole of Europe.

Oldest house in Riga 

A complex of 3 houses going by the name of 3 brothers. The oldest residential buildings in Riga, built in the timeframe from 16th to 17th century. One of them dates back as far as the very beginning of the 16th century when the first Dutch inspired renaissance buildings began appearing in Riga.

Museums

Now remember what we said about it being impossible to explore all of Riga old town in one day? Let’s change that to one week because there are 17 museums in the historical part of this city. From all forms of art all the way to wars and everything that comes with them. 

What’s craziest, there’s no possible way to point out which are more important because all of them hold a part of what has created the country of Latvia as we know it.

Churches 

No worries, there are not as many churches in this small area but they’re up there in the race with museums. 4 of them stand out due to the magnificently gigantic size while 5 others are more intimate and romantic. Nevertheless, there’s one for nearly every taste. 

This you will surely see in most tourism guides but still important to point out that the tallest of them – St. Peter’s church, which may also be climbed up all the way to the tower bells. Up until World War 2 this was the tallest wooden church in entire Europe.

Doma laukums

Complementing the gorgeous Doma church, this square is home to numerous important buildings. Radio of Latvia, former Bank of Latvia premises, multiple iconic restaurants. More importantly, the central square of Riga has always played an important role for Latvian people. From 1991, when defendants of the city gathered here to 2009, when the only known mass disruption in the history of Latvia happened.

House of the Black Heads

Many believe this to be the most beautiful building in Riga and although it’s a question of taste, nobody can deny the magnetic appeal of this structure. Explore the medieval cellars and luxurious halls with eccentric ornaments and exclusive silverware. By the way, if you wish to have a wedding or birthday party here – that’s possible too!

House of the Black Heads

Torņa street

Formed in the timeframe of the 17th to 18th century, when a new wall was built right next to the old castle wall that’s still standing there now, reminding of what Riga has looked like since the time of its formation in the 13th century. 

This street is like a walk through the past with multiple history monuments to look at and romantic vintage restaurants to dine in.

What’s on the menu? More than 10 food court restaurants offering oven-baked pizza, traditional Latvian pork chop, Mexican, Georgian, Asian cuisine, a corner for vegetarian food lovers, as well as sushi and some of the best cocktails in town. And the best part: It all comes with a stunning rooftop view

Jāņa sēta

A small hidden area between larger streets of the old town, this yard is like an oasis for hiding from the daily rush and noise of the old town. Couple of bars to sit back and rest in between some of the oldest walls in Riga. Perfect for a hot summer day.

Cat’s House

It’s not what it sounds like. The towers of this building, which was built in 1909 by a wealthy merchant in Riga, are crowned by two black cats with perky tails. There’s also a legend of how these cats found themselves on these towers. You can read all about it here.