Honest tour of Riga with the best private guide in town

Riga , Latvia

Honest tour of Riga with the best private guide in town

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(37 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Honest tour of must-sees with the best* private guide of Riga

Every city has it's good, bad and the ugly, and there's always the option of highlighting just one side of the coin. On this tour we try our hardest to stay as honest and objective as possible, not loosing the perspective of a local at the same time. 4-5 hours, including a coffee break, might seem long, but a half day tour like that is the shortest possible time to cover all the most important sights that Riga's heart has to offer without a rush. Still - depending on your desire or availability, it can be longer or shorter as well - you can decide during the tour. It's customisable as well, so if you'd like to drop a thing from the itinerary or add something different (eg, central market), the guide will be happy to adjust.

We don't take tours more than 5 times a week, so the tour would stay fresh and the guide wouldn't become a machine of spouting facts and figures.

* as described by his mother and some of his friends.

Available options

Honest tour of Riga with the best private guide in town

Pickup included

What's included

Everything, except your coffee/snacks at the break.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This is the oldest part of Riga, here you'll see the history - how the city of Riga and nation of Latvians formed during last 8 centuries. The most important medieval churches, merchants' houses, parts of fortification systems and even last few residential buildings of simple people that have survived from medieval times. You'll hear stories of how people lived starting from times back when the city was just founded, through centuries up until soviet occupation and the modern life of the independent Latvia.

The circle of boulevards and parks serves as a transitional area between the centuries-old medieval German Riga and the "modern" Riga built by Russians and Latvians. Here you'll have a nice stroll through the greenest part of central Riga, see some monuments and museums, hear some stories of how the actual cultural transition happened.

So-called modern center of the city is the part of Riga that formed during the turn of 19th and 20th centuries - the last decades of Russian Empire. Here you'll see the beautiful facades of Riga's Art-Noveau (aka Jugendstil), and, if lucky, get a glimpse on the interiors as well. Riga is the city that has the highest concentration of Art-Noveau buildings in the world, so you're in for a treat. You'll hear about the time of new-found cultural identity of Latvian people, the art, the architecture, the bourjouis - everything culture related from the turn of centuries.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

26 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Meeting point

Right in the middle of the Albert Square - since it's not a busy place, we'll find each other easily. (Some maps don't have it marked, in such cases use the address Vecpilsētas street 19)

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.