Riga's Architecture: A self-guided audio tour of the city's art nouveau history

Riga , Latvia

Riga's Architecture: A self-guided audio tour of the city's art nouveau history

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(3 reviews)

30m - 45m

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this self guided audio tour, we’ll explore Art Nouveau’s history, visit the city’s most iconic examples of the style and hear about its architects – like Mikhail Eisenstein, whose son Sergei became a legendary Soviet filmmaker. Riga is a true Art Nouveau metropolis with over 800 buildings in this unique architectural style. In fact, it has the world’s highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture.

On this tour you’ll discover:

How to identify an Art Nouveau building
The incredibly decorative work of Michael Eisenstein
The courtyard of one of Riga's most impressive residential buildings
How Riga’s architects developed a unique Latvian style called National Romanticism

Available options

Riga's Architecture: A self-guided audio tour of the city's art nouveau history

What's included

VoiceMap App for Android and iOS

Lifetime access to this tour in English

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts at the Latvian National Museum of Art.

The tour stops briefly at Elizabetes 10b.

The tour stops briefly at Alberta 2a.

The tour stops briefly at Alberta 4.

The tour stops briefly at Alberta 11.

The tour stops briefly at Alberta 13.

The tour ends at Alberta 12.

What's not included

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Smartphone and headphones

Transportation

Food/Drink

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Riga

Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a vibrant city known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, medieval Old Town, and lively cultural scene. With its rich history, beautiful parks, and bustling markets, Riga offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy.

Top Attractions

Riga Old Town

The heart of Riga, the Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant squares.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Art Nouveau District

Riga is famous for its Art Nouveau buildings, particularly in the district around Alberta Street. This architectural style is a must-see for visitors.

Architecture 2-3 hours Free to explore

Central Market

One of the largest markets in Eastern Europe, the Central Market offers a variety of fresh produce, local foods, and souvenirs.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free entry, prices vary

Riga Motor Museum

This unique museum showcases a collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, providing a fascinating look at the history of transportation in Latvia.

Museum 1-2 hours €5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pelēkie zivtiņi

Gray peas with bacon and sausages, a traditional Latvian dish often served with potatoes.

Main Course Contains meat and pork

Rupjmaize

Dark rye bread, a staple in Latvian cuisine, often served with butter and cheese.

Bread Vegetarian

Skābeņu zupa

Sour rye soup, a traditional Latvian soup made with rye flour, meat, and sour cream.

Soup Contains meat and dairy

Pīrāgi

Small buns filled with bacon or other savory fillings, often served as a snack or appetizer.

Snack Contains meat

Popular Activities

Bobsledding in Sigulda Zip-lining in Sigulda Hiking in Kemeri National Park Spa treatments in Jūrmala Sunbathing at Jūrmala Beach Strolling through Riga's parks Visiting museums and historical sites Attending concerts and performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals and events. The weather is ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Latvian
Widely spoken: Russian, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET), GMT+3 (EEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Riga is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night

Getting there

By air

Riga International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Riga Central Station

By bus

Riga Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a convenient and affordable way to get around Riga. The system is well-connected and easy to use.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, eTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Art Nouveau District Spīķeri

Day trips

Jūrmala

25 km from Riga • Full day

Jūrmala is a popular seaside resort town known for its beautiful beaches, wooden architecture, and spa facilities.

Sigulda

50 km from Riga • Full day

Sigulda is a picturesque town known for its medieval castle, beautiful nature, and adventure activities.

Cēsis

85 km from Riga • Full day

Cēsis is a charming town known for its medieval castle, beautiful parks, and local crafts.

Festivals

Riga Jurmala Music Festival • May Riga Christmas Market • December Riga City Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit the Central Market for fresh produce, local foods, and souvenirs.
Explore the Art Nouveau District for stunning architecture and unique shops.
Take a day trip to Jūrmala for beautiful beaches and relaxation.
Try traditional Latvian dishes like pelēkie zivtiņi and skābeņu zupa.
Visit Riga's museums and historical sites to learn about the city's rich history.