Torņakalns: Neighborhood which deserves a closer look

This neighborhood is located only 30 minutes walk away from the old town, and It’s one of the greenest and most peaceful neighborhoods of Rīga, perfect for a Sunday afternoon stroll. Torņakalns is full of great sights and small, historical streets so feel free to explore around as you wish. There’s plenty to see even without attending the landmarks pointed out below. The real beauty of this neighborhood is out there, no hidden bunkers or underground places. Just a beautiful, scenic and inspiring area.

Museum of Theater of Magic “Mystero”

If you’re into magical mysteries of the world and beyond then this place will surely be something to visit. Museum dedicated just for that with live performances and exhibitions on the history of this exciting art. They’re only opening the doors on demand or during special occasions so feel free to give them a call before going on this tour. 

Mystero

Memorial to victims of communist terror

World War 2 was a tragedy for the entire planet and Latvians know all about it. With more than 55 thousand local intellectuals, business owners and other potential threats to the communist regime deported to Siberia, Latvia lost a lot more than its independence through this war. This memorial is just one of the many small reminders located around the city.

Arkādijas parks

Over time there have been concert venues, theaters and cinemas here but now it’s simply one of the most beautiful parks in Riga. Multiple places for sitting down and simply observing the city view or ducks on their everyday endeavors. 

Historical walking bridges and stairways that might not lead to heaven but to the closest place to it in Riga surely. This small park might not take your breath away with its monstrosity but in tiny beautiful details it surely will.

Museum of Jānis Akuraters

This area has always been and still is a popular neighborhood among artists and poets in particular. This museum is yet another proof for that. Jānis Akuraters is one of those poets and also the first ever winner of the prestigious Fatherland’s Award which was given for important work in the development of Latvia. 

See how the great poet used to live and work by entering his office which seems nearly untouched since the 1930’s or see a virtual 360 tour for more in-depth information on his important work. 

Janis Akuraters museum

Māras dīķis

Some people call it a lake, just like latvian poet Ojārs Vācietis did, while others follow the general consensus in saying it’s a pond. Now it is a tricky case since it’s quite a large pool of water with rivers flowing in and out. There’s a 20 minute long walk around it with multiple places to sit down and a space created for children to play in. 

Regardless of how you choose to define it, for us it’s just another place to make Āgenskalns one of the most beautifully looking places in Rīga. Like a little oasis for hiding from the rush and noise of the city desert. While you’re at it, might as well look into the memorial created for the poet mentioned previously — Ojārs Vācietis. It’s made in a house where he used to live and work, right next to the park. The street is named after him too and house number is 19.

Museum of Ojārs Vācietis

House where one of the greatest poets in Latvian history used to live and work, located between two beautiful locations, Arkādija parks and Māras dīķis – has now been turned into a museum. The museum is dedicated to the artist himself, with voice recordings, videos and personal belongings to help you feel and understand the inner world of Ojārs Vācietis.

Ojars Vacietis museum

Max Cekot kitchen

This gourmet restaurant is exclusively located in a 20th century woodworking factory. Guests are offered a 10-course tasting menu, as well as a vegetarian menu, complemented by a specially selected drink menu.

They’re only open three evenings of the week and this place is on high demand. Give them a call to find out if a table may be arranged during your tour through the torņakalns!

Max Cekot

Annas Dārzs

Anna’s garden would be the precise translation of this restaurant and rest assured, located next to Daugava river, this place is right up there with the more popular garden of eden. They serve all week long and for each part of the day there’s a specified menu. From morning to evening brunch to dinner and lunch. They’ve covered needs of all tastes but meat lovers might just enjoy this place a bit more with some very juicy options available.

Annas Darzs

Pepsi skvoša un boulinga centrs

Obviously, bowling, pool and arcade machines can be found everywhere in the world. It’s guaranteed fun and Pepsi center offers one of the widest range of selection of these activities in Riga. That is exactly why we recommend looking for entertainment here. Whether you wish to play some games or watch a sports match – this place has it all covered.

Pepsi center