Welcome to Riga
Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a stunning city known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, rich cultural history, and vibrant old town. Located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, Riga is a major port city offering a blend of medieval charm and modern attractions. Cruise passengers will find a variety of experiences within easy reach of the port.
Cruise Docking Information
Cruise ships dock at the Riga Passenger Terminal, which is conveniently located just 1.5 km (0.9 miles) from the city center. The terminal is well-equipped with modern facilities, including tourist information services, taxi stands, and shuttle buses to the Old Town.
Transportation Options
- Walking: The Old Town is within a 20-minute walk from the cruise terminal.
- Taxi: Taxis are available at the terminal and can reach the city center in about 5 minutes.
- Public Transport: Buses and trams run frequently from the terminal to key locations across the city.
Nearby Attractions
- Riga Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with medieval buildings, cobbled streets, and historic landmarks.
- House of the Blackheads: A stunning 14th-century guild building in the heart of the Old Town.
- Riga Central Market: One of Europe’s largest markets, offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.
- Art Nouveau District: Riga is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, with over 800 buildings showcasing this elegant style.
- Freedom Monument: A significant national symbol dedicated to Latvia’s independence.
Local Foods
- Rupjmaize: Traditional Latvian dark rye bread, often served with butter or cheese.
- Grey Peas with Bacon: A hearty dish made with locally grown peas and smoked bacon.
- Piragi: Small pastries filled with bacon and onions, a popular Latvian snack.
- Sklandrausis: A sweet rye pastry filled with carrot and potato.
- Riga Black Balsam: A traditional herbal liqueur with a rich and distinctive taste.
Top 5 Attractions
- Riga Old Town
- House of the Blackheads
- Riga Central Market
- Art Nouveau District
- Freedom Monument
Interesting Facts
- Riga is home to the largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in the world.
- The city was founded in 1201 and has a rich Hanseatic trading history.
- Riga’s Central Market is housed in former Zeppelin hangars from World War I.
Geographical Position and Surroundings
Riga is situated on the banks of the Daugava River, near the Gulf of Riga in the Baltic Sea. The city experiences a temperate climate with mild summers and cold winters. Its location makes it a key hub for travel between Western and Eastern Europe.
Local Customs and Culture
Latvians take pride in their folk traditions, including intricate song and dance festivals. Respect for nature is deeply ingrained in the culture, and visitors are encouraged to experience Latvia’s scenic landscapes and national parks.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Children up to 6 years old: Visit the Riga Zoo or enjoy interactive exhibits at the Latvian Museum of Nature.
- Children between 7 and 12: Explore the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum for a hands-on historical experience.
- Teenagers aged 13 to 18: Discover the wonders of science at the Zinoo Science Centre or take a river cruise along the Daugava.
Google Maps Link
Riga
Notice
*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app.*