Private Trip to Latvian Open-Air Museum and Riga Motor Museum

Riga , Latvia

Private Trip to Latvian Open-Air Museum and Riga Motor Museum

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a private trip to two museums, Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum and Riga Motor Museum. Visit Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, one of the oldest and largest open-air museums in Europe. The next stop is at the recently refurbished Riga Motor Museum to see the largest and most diverse collection of antique motor vehicles in the Baltics.

Please note that this daytrip does not include licensed guide service. Our English speaking driver will give basic info, answer your questions, lead to the ticket offices and will advise best local restaurants for lunch. If licensed guide is requested it can be arranged at an additional cost at the sights that we will be visiting, please inform us in advance if such service is needed so we can book it for you.

Please keep in mind or check sites you desire to visit as during the Winter month some sites do not operate every day of the week. Our drivers will advice alternative sites to fill up your day if any of the sites are closed.

Available options

Up to 7 passengers group

Minivan<br/>Pickup included

Up to 3 passengers group

Car<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Bottled water

English speaking driver

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Private trip

Detailed itinerary

In 1924, the Latvian Council of Monuments signed an order to create the open-air museum in Riga. The plan was to relocate a homestead from all four regions of Latvia – Courland, Zemgale, Vidzeme and Latgale – to the museum. Each of the buildings would represent the different crafts of each area. The new museum acquired land from a state land fund in the sandy dunes near Jugla Lake, just outside the city.

In 1939, there were already 40 buildings erected in the museum. Every region had its homestead and several other buildings of architectural or cultural value represented here. In the 1930s the museum became a very popular place and the community actively participated in the development of the museum.

During World War II, the museum remained mostly undamaged, but most of its pre-war personnel were unavailable after having been repressed or forced into exile. Many documents were also lost during this period. After the war, the new Soviet power didn't understand the nature of the museum and even declared it ideologically incorrect. Only in the late 1960s did the museum see a renaissance, when a new generation of museum specialists started to work in the museum.

When Latvia regained its independence in 1991, the museum started actively collecting and documenting Latvian heritage from the 1920s and 1930s, a period during which Latvian agrarian reforms reshaped the Latvian countryside. Today, the museum organizes many cultural events, such as folk concerts and traditional and craft festivals. The museum promotes traditional Latvian culture and lifestyle with these cultural events.

Riga Motor Museum is the biggest antique vehicle museum in the Baltic countries, located in Riga, Latvia.

The museum was founded in 1989 on an initiative from Latvia Antique Automobile club. Since 1992, the museum is a member of International Association of Transport and Communication Museums.

In 2013 the museum closed for reconstruction works. In 2 July 2016 the museum opened after reconstruction for everyone.

One of the most significant exhibits in the museum is a replica of the 1938 Auto Union racing car Type C/D. The original car was saved from cutting into scrap by Viktors Kulbergs, president of Antique Automobile Club of Latvia but then exchanged for a replica from Crostwaite & Gardiner and Roach Manufacturing after negotiations with Audi AG in 1995. Original 1938 car can now be admired in Audi`s museum mobile in Ingolstadt.

What's not included

Gratuities

Museum entrances

Food and drinks

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Please bring your walking shoes

Coffee stops and detours can be arranged with driver

Please inform us if you wish to have different pickup time.

Important notes

• IMPORTANT: Please contact the local service provider (+371 29722770) at least 48 hours in advance to confirm pickup location and time
• Please ensure you include your full telephone number including country code when entering phone numbers at time of booking. This ensures our drivers will be able to contact you at time of pickup if necessary
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Please inform us if you wish to have different pickup time.
• Please bring your walking shoes

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.