In just one day, you can experience many sides of Riga – from its medieval Old Town to its vibrant modern culture. Whether you’re wandering along cobbled streets, enjoying local food or exploring nearby parks, Riga offers a compact and memorable city break.
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Photo: Riga Investment and Tourism Agency
Riga: A Baltic Gem Now Just a Flight Away from Oulu
Riga, the Baltic’s hidden gem, is now just a short flight away from Oulu! AirBaltic’s direct connection will get you to the heart of the city in just 1.5 hours, where history, culture, and stunning architecture await. The UNESCO-listed Old Town, architectural wonders, and a vibrant food scene make it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or a quick day trip.
But Riga isn’t just about its own charm – it’s also a great gateway to other European destinations. With excellent flight connections from Riga Airport, you can easily hop onto a connecting flight to your next European adventure. Spend a day exploring Riga, and then catch a flight to other nearby cities or countries, making the most of your travels.
And if you want to go beyond the city, Riga is surrounded by beautiful destinations for a day trip. Take a short train ride to Jūrmala, with its sandy beaches and relaxed vibe, or head to Sigulda for stunning nature walks and castle visits. For a taste of history, explore Rundāle Palace, a baroque masterpiece just outside the city.
Whether you’re passing through or staying a little longer, Riga is the perfect stop on your journey!
Photo: Riga Investment and Tourism Agency
Start your day right – Breakfast in Riga
With early morning flights from Oulu, it’s worth heading straight to breakfast. Several hotels in Riga serve breakfast early in the morning, so you can simply choose a hotel you like, enjoy a relaxed breakfast there, and pay just for the meal. One convenient option is also to have breakfast at the airport cafés.
Read more about everything you can do at Riga Airport here.
Early breakfast options:
Other great breakfast spots:
- Mulberry – Homemade flavors from granola to cold-smoked salmon
- Lowine – A Michelin Guide-listed spot with an extensive breakfast menu
All-day favorites:
- This Place Doesn’t Need a Name – Creative breakfast and great cocktails
- Big Bad Bagels – Filled bagels, perfect for a quick and tasty start
Explore Riga – Must-see sights
Riga is home to one of the largest collections of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe, with nearly a third of the city centre built in this ornate and distinctive style. The best place to explore these buildings is the Quiet Centre, about a 10-minute walk from the Old Town, with streets like Alberta iela showcasing some of the finest examples.
Start your day with a walk through Bastejkalns and Kronvalda Park, then continue to the iconic Freedom Monument. From there, head into the Old Town (Vecrīga), a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of history and charm. While the Old Town and its cobblestone streets are already a sight in themselves, the nearby Art Nouveau district offers a different but equally impressive perspective of the city.
Top sights to visit:
- House of the Blackheads – One of Riga’s most iconic landmarks
- St. Peter’s Church – panoramic views from the tower
- Riga Central Market – one of Europe’s largest markets
Cozy cafés in Riga
In Riga, coffee breaks are an essential part of the day. Whether you’re a coffee lover or a sweet tooth, the city’s cafés offer the perfect spots to unwind, enjoy a comforting drink, and indulge in delicious treats. Here are some of the best cafés to enjoy a peaceful moment and satisfy your cravings:
Little Lane Café
A small and charming café with a warm Old Town atmosphere, perfect for a quiet coffee break or a relaxed morning indoors.
Parunāsim Café
Known for its romantic courtyard and peaceful vibe, this café is the ideal spot for rainy afternoons or quiet conversations. It’s a place to pause and reflect.
Art Café Sienna
An elegant spot where art, sophisticated interiors, and carefully prepared dishes come together. The cosy yet refined atmosphere is perfect for those who enjoy a stylish but laid-back café experience.
Café Mio
With its classic European café atmosphere, Café Mio is known for its comforting menu and inviting, romantic interior. It’s the perfect place to unwind and indulge in a warm, delicious meal.
Mon Chéri
A charming French-style café and patisserie where you can enjoy sweet treats, brunch, or a cosy moment with a cup of coffee or tea.
Brasserie Vivien
This stylish brasserie serves French-inspired cuisine in a warm, elegant setting, making it perfect for a leisurely lunch or dinner with friends.
Kūkotava
A beloved Latvian cake shop known for homemade desserts and a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. It feels like a local favourite, and the honey cake is an absolute must-try!
Shopping and souvenirs in Riga: Must-visit stores
Riga also offers great shopping opportunities, from modern shopping centres to unique local boutiques. Near the Old Town, you’ll find shopping centres like Galerija Centrs and Galleria Riga. A bit further away—easily reached by bus—is AKROPOLE Alfa, the largest shopping centre in Latvia, offering a wide range of clothing, accessories and home goods stores. If you’re looking for unique finds, Riga’s concept stores showcase local design, creativity and sustainable products—from fashion to handcrafted items. Here are some must-visit spots: SVINAM! Store & Studio – A design-driven store offering Latvian-made interior accessories and gifts, perfect for both everyday moments and special occasions. Riija – Showcasing contemporary Latvian fashion, accessories, and design objects with a strong, unique identity. Mūsmāja – A concept store blending Latvian traditions and craftsmanship, with modern designs for both everyday living and celebrations. M50 – One of the top fashion concept stores in Riga, offering clothing, jewellery, and accessories by local designers, alongside souvenirs inspired by Latvia’s Oscar-winning film, Flow. Diplomats Riga – A quirky concept store combining gourmet products, souvenirs, and Nordic humor, brought to you by Latvia’s Diplomats fish cannery brand. ETMO – A sustainable Latvian fashion brand, known for clean, minimalist designs and timeless elegance. Hobbywool – The perfect stop for craft lovers, offering high-quality yarns, knitting tools, and accessories for creative projects. Studio Pienene – A Latvian design store and café where you can enjoy locally made products in a warm, welcoming space. Baltic Gifts – A treasure trove of carefully selected gifts and design items, ideal for finding authentic souvenirs from Latvia and the Baltic region. Northern Grip – For vintage clothing enthusiasts, this store curates high-quality garments from around the world, offering a sustainable alternative to fast fashion.
Photo: Riga Investment and Tourism Agency
Lunch & brunch spots in Riga
Riga offers plenty of great options for both lunch and brunch, whether you’re looking for something light and casual or a more relaxed dining experience.
Gutenbergs Rooftop Terrace – Enjoy a delicious meal paired with an exceptional view over Old Riga’s rooftops. Perfect for a gastronomic journey that delights all the senses.
Neiburgs – A Michelin Guide-listed restaurant that blends refined European cuisine with a distinctly Latvian touch. The menu highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients for a taste of Latvia in every bite.
Māsa – A contemporary and elegant spot that feels like home—if your relative happens to be an incredible cook. The carefully curated menu and quiet ambiance make it the perfect place for a relaxed lunch.
- Smor Bistro – A chic newcomer to Riga’s food scene, combining French elegance with Scandinavian calm. Ideal for those who appreciate simple, fresh dishes with a creative touch.
For a lighter lunch or brunch, try This Place Doesn’t Need a Name, Lowine or Mulberry. If you’re travelling with children, Mr. Bunny Kitchen is a great choice.
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This Place Doesn’t Need a Name
Dinner & evening spots in Riga
Riga’s dining scene shines in the evening, offering everything from traditional Latvian flavours to modern cuisine and stylish rooftop bars.
Dinner recommendations:
- Riviera – Mediterranean flavours with a Northern European touch
- Ferma – Modern Latvian cuisine with seasonal, local ingredients
- Snatch – Contemporary Italian cuisine in a bold and stylish setting
- Chef’s Corner – Known for high-quality steaks and bold flavours
- Bella Napoli – Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza made with carefully selected ingredients
Local flavours:
- LIDO – A great place to try traditional Latvian dishes in a relaxed, authentic setting
- Juusu – A modern take on Latvian cuisine, focusing on local ingredients and food heritage
Rooftop bars:
- Herbārijs – A botanical rooftop oasis with beautiful city views
- Skyline Bar – Cocktails with panoramic views over Riga
For a glass of wine:
- Noble Wine – Carefully curated wines in a relaxed setting
- Lowine – Natural wine bar with seasonal dishes
- B7 – Cozy, minimalist brasserie atmosphere
Pullman Riga Old Town
Where to stay in Riga – Hotels near the Old Town
Riga’s Old Town offers a wide range of accommodation options at reasonable prices, making it easy to find a stay that suits your style—whether you’re looking for boutique charm, modern comfort, or something in between. Here are a few hotel options located in or near the Old Town:
Why travel to Riga from Oulu in spring & summer 2026
Riga is an easy and refreshing city break from Oulu—offering a mix of culture, food and seasonal experiences just a short flight away. In spring, the city comes alive with events like the Riga Taste Festival (13–26 April), where restaurants and bakeries serve special menus inspired by Old Riga.
Easter brings a festive atmosphere with concerts, traditional celebrations and events across the city, while parks fill with spring decorations and activities for all ages. From late April, cherry blossoms and magnolias bloom, making Riga especially beautiful for walks and outdoor experiences.
Food lovers can explore vibrant markets like Riga Central Market and Āgenskalns Market, while summer continues with lively terraces, cultural events and a relaxed city vibe.
Photo: Riga Investment and Tourism Agency