TL:DR
I spent 48 hours in Riga, Latvia, and it was unforgettable—one day hit the hottest temperature of 2023, and the next brought a massive hailstorm, making it the wettest day of the year. Here’s how I made the most of my short trip!
Introduction to 48 hours in Riga
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Spending 48 hours in Riga is the perfect way to experience Latvia’s vibrant capital, a city filled with cobblestone streets, striking architecture, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re short on time and wondering how to make the most of your visit, this guide will help you explore the very best of Riga.
Optional Itinerary for 48 hours in Riga, Latvia
Day 1. The Perfect Start to Your 48 Hours in Riga
Morning: Exploring Riga’s Old Town in 48 Hours
Start your day by visiting Riga’s Old Town, where you can discover the city’s rich history and experience the culture up close. Visit Riga Castle, the official residence of the President of Latvia, and take a stroll through Town Hall Square, where you’ll find the iconic House of the Blackheads, a 14th-century building that’s considered one of Riga’s most famous landmarks.
Lunchtime:
Try a delicious lunch at one of the city’s many cafés. Moules Frites is very popular here, and so is the wine-based drink Aperol Spritz. In the summer months, you will see many terrace cafés and bars serving the bright orange drink. It tastes a little like the Scottish favourite Irn Bru, which surprised me when I first tried it.
Afternoon:
I enjoyed discovering the stunning Art Nouveau architecture that Riga is famous for. I took a walk down Albert Street, where you can see some of the city’s most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, including the Riga Art Nouveau Museum. This museum showcases the history and design behind the style.
Evening: Where to Eat During Your Two Days in Riga
In the evening, I indulged in some authentic Latvian cuisine at one of Riga’s many traditional restaurants. After dinner, I headed to one of the city’s trendy bars and nightclubs, where you can dance the night away and enjoy Riga’s vibrant nightlife scene. Despite being part of the euro currency here. I found it relatively cheap compared to most European city destinations.
Day 2.
Morning: Visit Riga Central Market
Start your second day by visiting Riga Central Market, one of the largest markets in Europe. Here you can find a wide variety of local produce, handmade souvenirs, clothing, and more. Take a stroll through the market and sample some of Latvia’s famous smoked fish or fresh fruits and vegetables.
Afternoon: Explore Riga’s Parks and Museums
After lunch, I visited one of Riga’s many beautiful parks, such as Kronvalda Park or the Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia. Then I took a panoramic riverboat tour down the Daugava River. Later, I headed to the Latvian National Museum of Art. Here you can discover the country’s rich cultural heritage and explore an impressive collection of Latvian art.
Evening: How to Spend Two Days in Riga Like a Local
In the evening, relax and unwind at one of Riga’s many luxurious spas. After a day of exploring the city, a spa treatment, such as a massage or sauna, is the perfect way to rejuvenate your body and mind.
How to get to Riga, Latvia
48 Hours in Riga: Helpful Travel Tips & How to Get There
Riga felt easy for me to reach. You can fly directly from many major cities in Europe, Asia, and North America. The international airport sits only 8km from the city centre, so arrivals feel quick and simple. After landing, you can take a bus, grab a taxi, or rent a car to reach your hotel. I usually recommend the Bolt app in the Baltics and Finland, because it works like Uber in the west and Grab in Asia.
As a result, arriving in Riga feels smooth and stress free. The city offers rich culture, beautiful architecture, and a lively nightlife scene. I think Riga is an ideal destination if you want to discover the best of Latvia’s capital. You should not miss the chance to experience this charming city for yourself. Make the most of your 48 hours, or stay longer if you can.
