Culture Weekends in Riga
Duration: 4 days · Countries: 1 · Sights: 14
Tour Description
A captivating 4-day immersion into one of Europe's most architecturally rich capitals. This short but rewarding city break uncovers the many layers of Riga – from its medieval roots to its thriving contemporary arts and design scene.
The first full day takes you through the medieval Old Town, where centuries of history unfold along cobbled streets lined with landmarks – Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral, the Swedish Gate and the iconic Freedom Monument – before an optional afternoon stroll through the renowned Art Nouveau district, home to some of the finest examples of the style in the world.
The second day reveals a different side of Riga – lively, creative and deeply local. The colourful Kalnciema Quarter and Agenskalns market offer a genuine taste of Latvian community life, while an optional visit to the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design showcases the country's rich traditions in craft and design. The evening offers a fitting finale with an optional performance at the magnificent Latvian National Opera.
With each day offering a new perspective on this remarkable city, this tour is the perfect introduction to Riga's unique blend of history, culture and contemporary creativity.
From €395 per person.
What's Included
- 3 overnights at centrally located Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija****
- 3 x buffet breakfast
- Welcome meeting with champagne-cocktail or juice
- Personalised welcome package
- Entrance to the Riga History and Navigation Museum
- Service of English and German speaking local guide
- 3-hours guided walking tour of Riga Old Town and 3-hours excursion to Kalnciema Quarter and extended program depending on departure date
Tour Program
Day 1: Arrival Riga
Arrival in Riga, optional transfer to Hotel Radisson Blu Latvija****, check-in, welcome meeting, optional welcome dinner at hotel.
Day 2: Riga
Riga, founded in 1201 by the German bishop Albert, is the largest of the three Baltic capitals and boasts a real kaleidoscope of architectural styles. The walking tour of the Old Town includes Riga Castle, the Dome Cathedral, St. Peter's Church, the Swedish Gate, the Three Brothers, the Large and Small Guilds, the Freedom Monument and the Riga History and Navigation Museum. The afternoon offers an optional tour to Riga Art Nouveau district and a visit to the Art Nouveau Museum. In the evening an optional contemporary Latvian cuisine dinner at Restaurant Kalku Varti is offered.
Day 3: Riga
In the morning we go to Kalnciema Quarter, a bright and lively spot in Riga, on the left bank of the Daugava River, in the green and colorful area of Pardaugava. It regularly hosts events for families and children, art exhibitions, plays, open-air concerts, and educational events. Kalnciema Quarter is particularly famous for its weekly market — ever since 2008, on Saturdays, local farmers and artisans have been bringing their versatile produce to Kalnciema Quarter. The cluster of renovated wooden buildings contains a Wooden Architecture Center, wine shop and cafe, a restaurant, an art gallery and a design salon. We end the visit at nearby located Agenskalns market. We continue by exploring Riga arts and crafts and contemporary fashion and design, visiting local craftsman stores in the Old Town and learn about amber and knitted fabric traditions. The afternoon offers an optional guided visit to the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design, open to the public since 1989, with seven collections spanning textile art, ceramics, metal, leather, decorative wood and glass art, as well as a design collection covering the dominant styles from the end of the 19th century to the present day. The evening offers an optional ballet or opera performance at the Latvian National Opera.
Day 4: Riga Departure
Optional transfer to the airport.