# Riga/Vecrīga

Old Riga — Vecrīga in Latvian — is the old town of Riga. Vecrīga is famous for its old churches and cathedrals, such as Riga Cathedral and St. Peter's Church. Vecrīga is one of two world heritage sites entirely situated in Latvia (the other is the old town of Kuldīga).

## Understand

Vecrīga is here defined as the area east of Daugava, south of Krišjāņa Valdemāra iela, west of the city canal and north of the railway that crosses Daugava.
Due to Covid-19 lockdowns and the following financial difficulties, many shops and eateries that used to be popular have closed down business or have moved outside Vecrīga to where the locals live.

## Get in

The central railway station and the bus station are right at the south-eastern corner of the old town. From anywhere in Centre, it's around a kilometre to anywhere in the old town, wherefore walking can also be an option.
If you're coming from the airport can get in by bus 22, going along the southern rim of the old town and terminating near the railway station. The city's main transport hub, there's a bus, trolleybus or tram going here from almost anywhere in Riga, have a look at the network maps to see which line you should take.
If you travel by car, better leave it outside Vecrīga; most streets are pedestrianised and cheap parking is next to impossible to find. In case the car is essential for you, parking within Vecrīga begins at €15 for a 24 hours period.

## See
### Old Town Square and surroundings

The Old Town (Vecrīga) is both a place of historical tourism sites, as well as the centre of night-life for locals. The area around Old Town was mostly built between 1860 and 1914 and has many buildings that resemble Berlin, Paris, or Rome.

#### Viewpoints near Old Town Square

* 56.9480124.103181 Triangula Bastion, 11. novembra krastmala 17. 09:00:22:00. A modern building with an excavated fragment of the historical fortification wall system along the river. The building has the best view terraces in Riga. Free. (updated Jun 2017)

#### Monuments and historic buildings near Old Town Square

* 56.9474124.106552 Statue of Roland (in the centre of the Town Square). Statue of St. Roland, the patron of Riga. The original statue erected in 1897 was destroyed in World War II; now a replica stands there. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.94713924.1069173 House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju nams), Kaļķu iela 1, ☏ +371 670 44300, eventvenues@riga.lv. The House of Blackheads is where the merchants-to-be had their guild. Part of this building is the tourist information office, the rest is a fascinating museum. The upper levels house grand ballrooms while the basement has a wine cellar and several exhibits relating to trading in Riga. €7, €1.50 students. (updated Jun 2017)The Town Hall of Riga
* 56.9477324.106354 Town Hall. Pretty to look at, but not open for visitors. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9476524.110065 Bremen Town Musicians (side of Skārņu iela, between St. Peter church and Convent Yard). Amazing sculpture based on a fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9444124.107896 1905 Bloody Sunday Monument, 11. novembra krastmala 35 (next to river). This monument remembrance of the events of Bloody Sunday 13 January 1905. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9456224.108177 House of Dannenstern, Mārstaļu iela 21. The house was built by and is named after Ernst Metue von Dannenstern. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9484724.106358 Riga monument to Christmas tree, Tirgoņu iela 17. First Christmas tree in Riga was in 1510! (updated Jun 2017)The Big and Little Guild buildings
* 56.94969124.1081679 The Large Guild, Amatu iela 6, ☏ +371 67224850. Housed the guild of the tradesmen, who would join after being a member of the Blackheads (see House of Blackheads). Home to the Latvian Philharmonic – you can't just walk inside. It's the exterior that's worth seeing though. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.94949224.10809210 The Small Guild, Amatu iela 5, ☏ +371 67223772, maza.gilde@latnet.lv. Another pretty building just behind the Big Guild, this one housed the craftsmen's guild. Like the Big Guild, you can't go inside except for a performance. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.95018624.10842511 The House of the Black Cat, Meistaru iela 10 (Next to the Big Guild). This building (also housing a pub of no particular note) is most famous for the two statues of black cats on the roofs. The legend has it that a disgruntled tradesman who was not accepted into the Big Guild, built this house and put the cats on it with their tails pointing towards the Big Guild, thus expressing his scorn. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.94924.1105312 Wagner Concert Hall, Vāgnera iela 4. Wagner once lived in Riga, on the street now named after him. This hall where he performed occasionally holds concerts. (updated Jun 2017)

#### Museums near Old Town Square

* 56.94709224.10636413 Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, Strēlnieku laukums 1, ☏ +371 67212715, omf@latnet.lv. This noticeable and austere black building is clearly out-of-place. In the Soviet days, this housed a museum to the Red Riflemen, a group of Latvians who volunteered for the service to Russia during the Russian revolution of 1917. Now it houses a museum of Latvia's time under the Nazi and Soviet occupations. Very long, but very moving – essential for anyone interested in the history of the USSR or Nazi Germany. Outside the building away from the town square stands the Soviet-era Monument to the Riflemen. €5. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.948124.109414 Museum of Decorative Arts and Design, Skārņu iela 10/20, ☏ +371 67830900, dmdm@lnmm.lv. 10:00-17:00 (closed Mondays). The Museum of Decorative and Design Art is located in the former St. George’s Church building (1204), which is the oldest stone building in Riga. It features seven collections of decorative and design art work. Adults €5, students €2.5. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.94569424.11097215 Riga Film Museum, Peitavas iela 10 (Entrance from Mazā Peitavas Street), ☏ +371 67358873, juris.freidenbergs@kinomuzejs.lv. Tu W 11:00-18:00, Th 11:00-20:00, F 11:00-18:00, Sat 11:00-17:00. This museum holds various exhibitions that display different aspects of cinema art, actors and film history. Adults €2.90; students, pupils, seniors €1.40. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9482724.1104716 Porcelain Museum, Kalēju iela 9/11, ☏ +371 67012944, rpm@riga.lv. 11:00-18:00 (closed Mondays). Covers the history of porcelain in Riga through the 19th and 20th centuries. Adults €2.50, children €1.00, free for preschoolers. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9463324.1108117 Latvian Sports Museum, Alksnāja iela 7, ☏ +371 67225127, sportmuz@apollo.lv. 10:00-17:00 (closed Sundays). Historic sports equipment and sportswear, photographs from a variety of sporting events. Adults €0.71; school children, students, seniors €0.43; children aged 6 and under, people with disabilities free. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9448224.1088618 Latvian artists union museum, 11. novembra krastmala 35, ☏ +371 29138952, muzejs@lmsmuzejs.lv. W Th 10:00-17:00. The collection covers the period from 1945 to 1991 in Latvia. Free. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9472524.1139519 Sun Museum, Valnu iela 30, ☏ +371 67225587, info@saulesmuzejs.lv. Daily 09:00-18:00. One of Riga's weirdest museums, it covers the history of sun mythology and its role in Latvian culture. Adults €4.00, students/seniors €3.50. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.95627824.11252220 Latvian National Museum of Art, 1 Janis Rozentāls Square, ☏ +371 67226467, lnmm@lnmm.lv. Tu-Th 10:00-18:00; F 10:00-20:00; Sa Su 10:00-17:00. Latvian National Museum of Art is the most significant depository in the nation for works of art. Adults €6; students, seniors €3. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.95083324.10138921 National History Museum of Latvia, Brīvības bulvāris 32, ☏ +371 67221357, fax: +371 67220586, info@lnvm.lv. 10:00-17:00 (closed Mondays). The History Museum is interesting, however there is little English (every room has its exhibits summarized on a single plaque). However, the museum does give a very good idea of Latvian history, and will give you a good understanding of the area. Adults €3.00; pupils €0.75; students, seniors €1.50. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9465524.1105322 Latvian Photographic Museum, Mārstaļu iela 8, ☏ +371 67222713, info@fotomuzejs.lv. Contains photos of Latvia since 1839, with focuses on the World Wars and 1905 Revolution. Pupils €0.57, students €0.85, adults €2.13. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9486524.1077423 Riga Photonics Center, Šķūņu iela 4, ☏ +371 27862021, vid.beldavs@fotonika-lv.eu. Riga Photonics Center is part of University of Latvia. Occasional events. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9466724.107824 Riga Fashion museum, Grēcinieku iela 24–1, ☏ +371 20033450, fashionmuseumriga@gmail.com. Daily 11:00-19:00. Only fashion museum in the Baltics, created in one of the most popular tourist attractions in Old Riga opposite to the House of the Blackheads. Adults €7; pupils, students and seniors €5; children under 5 years free. (updated Jun 2017)
* Mentzendorff House56.9470224.1085725 Museum of Ancient Baltic Jewellery, Grēcinieku iela 11/2, ☏ +371 67220270, info@balturotas.lv. M-Sa 10:00-19:00, Su 10:00-17:00. The Museum of Ancient Baltic Jewellery was established by two well-known Latvian jewellers. (updated Jun 2017)

#### Art galleries near Town Square and surroundings

* 56.9471124.1113626 LUMAS Riga, Audēju iela 6, ☏ +371 67 272777. M-F 10:00-20:00; Sa Su 11:00-18:00. LUMAS Art Gallery offer latest movements in the young art scene. Free. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9463324.1105327 Art Gallery Bastejs, Alksnāja iela 7, ☏ +371 67225050, bastejs@latnet.lv. M-F 10:00-18:00, Sa 11:00-17:00. Contemporary art from Baltic states. Solo and group exhibitions. Free. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.945924.1105328 Art Gallery Putti, Peitavas iela 5-31, ☏ +371 67214229, gallery@putti.lv. M-F 10:00-20:00; Sa Su 11:00-18:00. Riga art gallery since 2000. Free. (updated Jun 2017)

#### Religious buildings near Old Town Square

* 56.947524.10944429 St. Peter's Church, Skārņu iela 19, ☏ +371 67037861, fax: +371 67211375, lita.retko@riga.lv. St. Peter's Church, dating to 1209, is Riga's oldest church. Besides its ensemble of architecture, the church has an elevator to the tower from where you can see all of Riga (service not available on Mondays). Adults €3, students €2, students (school age) €1. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.947524.110830 St. John's Church, Jāņa iela 7, ☏ +371 29632455, janabaznica@gmail.com. Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00. A smaller, less spectacular church near Saint Peter's. There is a nice altar inside, and unlike most Riga churches, this one is free. The altar is from the Renaissance period and depicts the death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus. The ceiling is from the Gothic period, and has 5 separate vaulted compartments. There is also a huge pipe organ, and many stained glass windows. This church dates back to the mid 1200s. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.94972224.10194431 St. Saviour's Anglican Church, Anglikāņu iela 2A, ☏ +371 26531409, chaplain.riga@gmail.com. Riga's only Anglican church has English language services every Sunday at 11:00, and free concerts every Wednesday. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.95083324.10472232 St. Jacob's Catholic Church (Jēkaba Katedrāle), Jēkaba iela 9, ☏ +371 7326419, Jekaba.katedrale@tvnet.lv. M-Su 07:00-18:30. Dating to 1226, this is one of the few Catholic churches left in Riga. At one point, it housed one of Riga's first schools. Free. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9464624.1102433 Reformed Church, Mārstaļu iela 10, ☏ +371 22436891. (updated Jun 2017)

### Cathedral Square and surroundings
#### Monuments and historic buildings near Cathedral Square

* 56.9509524.10063634 Riga Castle (Rīgas Pils), Pils laukums 3 (near the Northern boundary of the Old Town), ☏ +371 67092106, prese@president.lv. One of the medieval castles in Latvia, on the bank of the river. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9497424.1000735 Great Kristaps, 11. novembra krastmala. Great Kristaps is popular with film industry people. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9479324.1044236 Peter I house, Palasta ielā 9. House what was gifted to Peter I and house he visited during his travels. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9504124.10418637 The Three Brothers, Mazā Pils iela 17, 19, and 21, ☏ +371 67220779, Ilze.Martinsone@mantojums.lv. Tu-Th 09:00-17:00, F 09:00-16:00. The oldest dwelling houses in Riga. One of them has a small architecture museum inside, along with changing exhibits about Latvia. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.951124.104438 Latvian Parliament (Saeima), Jēkaba iela 11, ☏ +371 67078321, info@saeima.lv. A rather plain building housing the Saeima, Latvia's parliament. It has had a number of uses, including as a Soviet-era museum. Not open to visitors. (updated Jun 2017)The Swedish Gate
* 56.951424.106439 Swedish Gate (between Torņa and Aldaru iela). The last remaining gate from the old city walls. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9500124.1036240 Woman with amphora (corner of Pils iela and Miesnieku iela). Statue of woman with amphora on a building. (updated Jun 2017)

#### Museums near Cathedral Square

* 56.95077824.10155641 Art Museum Riga Bourse, Doma laukums 6, ☏ +371 67223434, rigasbirza@lnmm.lv. Tu-Su 10:00-18:00. The Art Museum Riga Bourse stores the largest collection of foreign art in the Baltic states. Adults €6; students, seniors €3. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.948624.1059142 Museum of the Barricades of 1991, Krāmu iela 3, ☏ +371 67 213525, barikazu.muzejs@gmail.com. M-Sa 10:00-17:00. Covers the dramatic events that occurred in the tumultuous final year of the USSR, when Soviet authorities sent troops into Riga to overthrow the elected Latvian government. Free. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.94871924.10383243 Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation, Palasta iela 4, ☏ +371 67356676, direkt@rigamuz.lv. May-Sep: daily 11:00-17:00, Oct-May: W-Su 11:00-17:00. Actually two museums plus a number of special exhibits, though you pay one price. English, German and Russian descriptions of each permanent collections are provided in a booklet inside each exhibit hall. Both of the main museums are quite interesting, and they provide a good idea of what Riga was like in the past. €5 plus more for photo permission. (updated Feb 2019)
* 56.9515924.1041344 Arsenal Museum of Art, Torņa iela 1, ☏ +371 67357519, Velga.Pule@lnmm.lv. Apr-Sep: Tu-Su 11:00-19:00, Oct-Mar: Tu-Su 11:00-17:00. Arsenal Museum of Art is one of the largest exhibition halls in Riga. It is located in an important architectural monument – a customs warehouse or arsenal built at the beginning of the 19th century in the late Russian Classicism style. It was adapted for museum use in the second half of the 1980s. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9511424.1024145 Literature and music museum, Pils laukums 2, ☏ +371 67 216 425, komunikacija@rmm.lv. For about 50 years it was a large union of memorial houses devoted to a range of writers. The latest reorganisation in 2009 has resulted in more simple and recognizable establishment – Literature and Music Museum. Under €3 per person. (updated Jun 2017)

#### Religious buildings near Cathedral Square

* 56.94916724.10444446 Riga Cathedral (Rīgas Doms), Herdera laukums 6, ☏ +371 67 227573, ­doms@doms.lv. M-Su 10:00-17:00. Dating to 1207, the cathedral is one of Riga's symbols. The 6768-pipe organ inside is particularly spectacular. Besides the organ, however, the interior is rather Spartan, and may not be worth the entrance fee (even the organ is being restored, though). (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.95079224.10327547 St. Mary Magdalene's Catholic Church, Klostera iela 2, ☏ +371 29127456, ­jskapars@yahoo.com. M-Su 06:30 - 20:00. St. Mary Magdalene's Church was made of stone in late 13th century. You can find perpetual worship nearby. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.95031124.10166448 Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Pils iela 5, ☏ +371 67227177, harisime@inbox.lv. M-Su 07:30 - 18:00. First stone church built in Riga after the Reformation had reached Livonia. (updated Jun 2017)

#### Art galleries near Cathedral Square

* 56.9487924.1056249 Gallery Makslas Banka, Jauniela 14, ☏ +371 67226690, fax: +371 67358099, info@makslasbanka.lv. M-Sa 11:00-18:00. Individual and group fine art gallery. (updated Jun 2017)

### Powder Tower and City Wall
#### Monuments and historic buildings near Powder Tower & City Wall

* 56.9513824.1072950 St. Jacob's Barracks, Torna iela 4. The primary attraction here is the last remaining stretch of city wall directly opposite the barracks. (updated Jun 2017)

#### Museums near Powder Tower and City Wall

* 56.95116724.10902851 Museum of War, Smilšu iela 20, ☏ +371 67223743, info@karamuzejs.lv. May-Sept: W-Su 10:00-18:00, Oct-Apr: W-Su 10:00-17:00. 22 collections of Latvian and Soviet military equipment starting from World War I until today. free admission. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.94857824.111652 Latvian Museum of Pharmacy, Riharda Vāgnera iela 13-15, ☏ +371 67213008, farmacija@mvm.lv. Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00. In a renovated 18th-century house. The museum showcases pharmaceutical equipment, traditional medicine and herbs and what pharmacies looked like a century ago. Pupils €0.71; students, seniors €1.14; adults €2.13. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.946824.1082553 Mentzendorff House, Grēcienieku iela 18, ☏ +371 67212951, info@mencendorfanams.com. W-Su 11:00-17:00. Former residence of a wealthy merchant built in 1720, now a museum dedicated to life in Riga in the 17th & 18th centuries. Adults €1.42, students €0.71, pupils: €0.57. (updated Jun 2017)

### Near the Freedom Monument

* 56.9504224.1120354 Laima Clock (just south of the Freedom Monument). Laima is a Latvian chocolate manufacturer and means good luck in Latvian. The Clock is a traditional meeting place for people in Riga. (updated Jun 2017)

#### Art galleries near Powder Tower & City Wall

* 56.9526824.1054655 Art gallery "Jēkabs", Jēkaba iela 26/28, ☏ +371 29528684, galerija@inbox.lv. M-F 11:00-20:00, Sa 11:00-15:00. Jēkabs art gallery offers exhibitions and fine art auctions. Free. (updated Jun 2017)

## Do
### Theatre

* 56.95527224.1046691 Latvian National Opera, Aspazijas bulvaris 3, ☏ +371 67073777, info@opera.lv. A pretty building in its own right, this is also a nice place to see an opera or ballet. €5-65, depending on seat and show. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9497624.10812 Latvian National Symphonic Orchestra, Amatu iela 6, ☏ +371 67 224850, lnso@lnso.lv. It is a team of highly professional musicians with strong traditions, generous sound and devoted performance. €2-70, depending on seat and show. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9477524.110183 Theater-Club "Hamlets", Jāņa sēta 5, ☏ +371 26595843, dace.gerasimova@gmail.com. Occasional events. Riga Theater-Club in heart of old city. Costs varies. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.94895324.1096584NOT EXISTING LISTING IMAGE Mikhail Chekhov Riga Russian Theater, Kaļķu iela 16, ☏ +371 67225 395, biletes@trd.lv. the booking-office is open daily from 12:00 till 19:00. Oldest Russian theatre in the world outside Russia. €10-50, depending on seat and show. (updated Jun 2017)

### Parks and gardens

* 56.9520324.110775 Bastion Hill, Between Raina Bulvaris and Basteja Bulvaris. A small, pleasant park surrounding Brivibas Bulvaris. Sites in the Bastejkalns include a Chinese and a Japanese building, and the Bridge of Love over the Pilsetas Canal. The Bridge of Love has several locks on the railings put up by recently married couples. There is also a memorial to the two people killed here in the tumultuous events of 1991. (updated Jun 2017)

## Buy

If you are looking for typical Latvian tourist souvenirs and trinkets, the largest selection can most likely be found in Vecriga. Shop around for prices as there are many small shops offering souvenirs and trinkets.
* 56.9479324.112581 Galerija Centrs, Audēju iela 16, Centra rajons, ☏ +371 67 018 018. Daily 10:00-21:00. A Latvian shopping mall experience. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.94806424.1101522 Convent Yard, Behind St. John's Church. A former convent courtyard that now contains several touristy shops. (updated Jun 2017)

## Eat
### Budget

* 56.94697624.1131861 Karjala Grill Bar, Kalēju iela 50. (updated May 2022)
* 56.94609624.1076492 Late Night Munchies, Peldu iela 21. (updated May 2022)
* 56.94953424.1028863 Spināti un sviests, Miesnieku iela 10. (updated May 2022)
* 56.95107124.1105024 Daily lunch restaurant, Zigfrīda Annas Meierovica bulvāris 12. (updated May 2022)

### Mid-range

* 56.949124.106745 LIDO Alus Seta, Tirgoņu iela 6, ☏ +371 67222431, alusseta@lido.lv. M-W Su 11:00-23:00; Th F Su 11:00-24:00. Literally Beer Yard. Serves huge portions of excellent meat and two veg from a grill at the front of the tavern, as well as an excellent choice of beer. Probably the best value place in town, with two courses easily costing less than €7. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9478924.114076 Wok to Walk, Aspazijas bulvaris 30, ☏ +371 67220196, info@woktowalk.com. 10:00-00:00. The Latvian location of the international chain of stir-fry restaurants. Choose your ingredients and watch them being cooked in a giant wok. €6. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9508924.102717 Alus Arsenals, Pils laukums 4, ☏ +371 67322675, eriks@alus-arsenals.lv. 12:00-22:00 mostly. A nice, cozy restaurant in the Riga old town serving various meat and fish oriented dishes with quality local beer. Located right next to the Riga castle so it's easy to find. The actual interior of the restaurant is in a cellar, but in summertime, the restaurant features a spacious outdoor terrace. Main courses €6-18. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9464424.106598 Fat Pumpkin, Grecinieku Iela 30/25, ☏ +371 67 304 069. 12:00-22:00. Delicious vegan food. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9465624.107189 Gardenia at Hotel Garden Palace, Grecinieku iela 28 (City centre, Old Riga), ☏ +371 29122331, fax: +371 67359749. 12:00-23:00. Mediterranean and European cuisine. Cosy and elegantly casual restaurant. €5 and up. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9506324.1021910 Vecmeita ar kaķi, Mazā Pils iela 1, ☏ +371 67 325 077. This restaurant and bar is a more upmarket option than Lido, serving very good Latvian food.

### Splurge

* 56.948524.1060311 Rozengrāls, Rozena iela 1, ☏ +371 25769877, info@rozengrals.lv. 12:00-00:00. An authentic medieval restaurant in a real medieval basement in the Old Town. Serves tasty medieval foods and beverages. €20-30.
* 56.9490624.1088512 Steiku Haoss, Meistaru iela 25, ☏ +371 67222419, vecriga@steikuhaoss.lv. 11:00-00:00. As is evident from the name, the restaurant focuses on steaks. There are steaks of every kind of beef cut imaginable, and the price depends on the cut. The quality of the steaks is pretty much close to the best in Riga. The meat is tender, juicy and extremely tasty. Note however that by ordering a steak, you only get the actual meat. Side dishes, such as potatoes, cost extra, as do sauces. Combining all these, you can easily run up to €50 per a single meal. But it's worth trying at least once. Steaks €8-37.

## Drink
### Cafes

* 56.9478724.113421 Mārtiņa Beķereja, Vaļņu iela 28, ☏ +371 67 213 314, martina@bekereja.lv. M-Sa 07:30-21:00, Su 08:00-21:00. Traditional Latvian café, popular amongst locals. Always fresh pastry. Cash only sales. There are five Mārtiņa Beķereja cafés in Riga. Vaļņu iela 28 is located in Old Town Riga.

### Bars

* 56.9466724.113842 Backpackers Pub, 43 Valnu Iela (Riga Old Town Hostel), ☏ +371 67223406. Th-Sa 10:00-03:00; Su-W 10:00-02:00. Riga’s first Aussie pub promises to provide plenty of authentic down under atmosphere, but thankfully without any stuffed koalas, Fosters beer posters or, God forbid, any portraits of Paul Hogan. Spread out across three floors, the pub offers 12 local beers on draught for affordable prices served from a bar that’s actually an old VW combi van. Live bands play frequently in the basement and if the cheap happy hour prices are too much for you to handle you can always crash at its hostel upstairs. Beer: €2.50-3.00; Cocktails: €4.50-7.00.
* 56.9485724.102773 Cuba Cafe, 15 Jauniela, ☏ +371 67 22 43 62, cubacafe@cubacafe.lv. 12:00-03:00. Cozy bar with DJs in the evenings. Salsa dancing on Tuesdays starting at 21:00. 2-for-1 drinks during happy hour (17:00-19:00).
* 56.9461424.107754 FolkKlubs Ala Pagrabs, Peldu 19 (Old Town), ☏ +371 27796914, info@folkklubs.lv. 12:00-01:00. Huge beer selection with 28 beers on tap, folk dancing, live music performances, and great authentic food. Beer: €2.50-3.00. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.947924.108825 Kiwi Bar, Skarņu iela 7, ☏ +371 27705466, kiwi@kiwibar.lv. 09:00-05:00. Sports bar with karaoke nights. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9469424.110036 Paddy Whelans Irish Pub & Sports Bar, Grecinieku iela 4, ☏ +371 67 210 150, paddy@pub.lv. F-Sa 11:00-03:30; Su-Th 11:00-01:00. A popular Irish bar. (updated Jun 2017)

### Clubs

* 56.9497324.109887 Kalku Varti, Kaļķu iela 11a, ☏ +371 67830702, info@kalkuvarti.lv. 12:00-23:00. Ground-level restaurant with nightclub in the basement. €20-30. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9515224.108578 Shot Café, Torņa iela 4 (near the Powder Tower), ☏ +371 26433549, shotcafe@inbox.lv. 11:00-03:00. Popular with young Latvians.
* 56.9459424.10789 Pūce, Peldu iela 26 (there is no sign on the door), ☏ +371 25714192. 19:00-06:00. A trendy place popular with a younger crowd. The main floor has a dance floor with rock and pop music while the basement has a room with techno and/or alternative sounds. It is a very busy place on Th F Sa and is closed on Su M. Entrance: free + face control. Beer: €2-3, Long drinks: €4-6, Cocktails: €6-9.

## Sleep

Many of the splurge hotels in Vecriga offer spa, massage and wellness. In Latvia there is a difference between the generic mild "massage" (masāža) that is offered and "sports massage" (sporta masāža), which is the one where the body is worked over. Sometimes the sports massage is somewhat less expensive than the generic massage, the latter being offered for around €70 a session.

### Budget

* 56.9485424.107371 Doma Hostel, Maza Jaunavu iela 8, ☏ +371 67213101, info@domahostel.lv. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Clean, safe, cheap, and in a great location. Friendly and helpful staff. Free coffee and tea. Dorm bed: €8-13.50.
* 56.9490324.106752 Blue Bird Capsule Hostel, Tirgonu iela 4, ☏ +371 26 303 075. Check-out: 12:00. Friendly, English-speaking staff. Capsule hotel style. $27.
* 56.9469224.113033 Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hostel, Kaleju Iela 50, ☏ +371 67220073, info@thenaughtysquirrel.com. Check-in: 14:00 - 00:00, check-out: 11:00. Comfortable beds with curtains for privacy and darkness. Offers adrenalin tours, pub crawls, hockey game excursions, and other communal activities. 24-hour reception. Reception sells beer. Free shot of Riga Balsams upon check-in. Friendly staff. Dorm bed: €12-18.
* 56.9473424.111054 Red Nose Hostel, 14 Jana Iela, ☏ +371 27721414, info@rednose.lv. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. Red Nose hostel is on a quiet and narrow cobbled backstreet of Old Town, just behind St.Jana church. Dorm bed: €8.50-16; Single: €21-25; Double: €30-40. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9467324.11385 Riga Old Town Hostel, Valnu Iela 43, ☏ +371 67223406, info@rigaoldtownhostel.lv. En suite rooms, very popular bar, sauna, and 24-hour reception. Dorm bed: €11-15.
* 56.9468524.113726 Wicked Weasel Hostel, Valnu Iela 41, ☏ +371 20323462. Check-in: 14:00 - 23:00, check-out: 12:00. Dorm bed: €13-16.

### Mid-range

* 56.9488624.106397 Kolonna Hotel Riga, Tirgoņu iela 9, ☏ +371 67087516, fax: +371 67358255, hotel@kolonna.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. 41 rooms. €70-100.
* 56.9469624.114688 Metropole Hotel, Aspazijas bulvaris 36, ☏ +371 66010300, fax: +371 67752694, metropole@semarahhotels.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Not quite as central as some other hotels, but still quite near Old Town. All rooms have satellite TV and minibar. €93 and up. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9486124.112259 Old City Boutique Hotel, Teātra iela 10 (tram to Nacionālā opera), ☏ +371 67356060, reservations@oldcityhotel.lv. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. The Old City Boutique Hotel is a 4-star hotel and has a central location in Riga’s Old Town. €47-117. (updated Jun 2017)
* 56.9490124.111310 Old Riga Hotel Vecriga, Gleznotāju iela 12/14 (tram to Nacionālā opera), ☏ +371 67216037, vecriga@vecriga.lv. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Old Riga Hotel Vecriga is located in the historical and cultural centre of Riga, on an ancient Gleznotaju street (Painters’ and Goldsmiths’ Street). €42-85.
* 56.945124.1094111 Rixwell Old Riga Palace Hotel, 8 / 10 Minsterejas Street, ☏ +371 67259925, reservations@mogotel.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. In a quiet street in Riga’s Old Town, within walking distance from all the main attractions. €60-200.
* 56.9470924.1125412 Wellton Centrum Hotel and Spa, 33 Kaleju Street, ☏ +371 67259989, reservations@mogotel.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. €90-250.

### Splurge

* 56.9502524.1028713 Grand Palace Hotel, Pils iela 12 (100 m from Riga Castle; take tram 5, 7, 9 or bus 5, 7, 25 to Nacionālais teātris), ☏ +371 67 044 000, fax: +371 6704 4004, info@grandpalaceriga.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. €300–500.
* 56.9469824.1108914 Rixwell Centra Hotel, Audeju iela 1 (tram to 13. Janvāra iela), ☏ +371 67212012, info.centra@rixwell.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. In a historic building. €80 and up.
* 56.9500424.1116815 Hotel Roma, Kalku iela 28 (200 m from the Freedom Monument), ☏ +371 6749 1500, reservation@hotelroma.lv. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. €140 and up.
* 56.9465524.1071916 Hotel Garden Palace, Grecinieku iela 28, ☏ +371 29 122 331, fax: +371 67 359 749. Check-in: 13:00, check-out: 12:00. Elegant boutique hotel with 65 guest rooms. €55 and up.
* 56.9483424.1054517 Neiburgs Hotel, Jauniela 25/27, LV-1050, ☏ +371 67115522, fax: +371 67 359 749, reservation@neiburgs.com. Check-in: 14:00–00:00, check-out: 01:00–12:00. 55 suites. Large, clean, modern rooms. From €125, discounts with early bookings.
* 56.9483824.1077618 Royal Square Hotel & Suites, Kaļķu iela 3a (on Riga’s main pedestrian street, which connects the Town Hall Square with the Freedom Monument; tram to Grēcinieku iela), ☏ +371 67 214 555, hotel@royalsquare.lv. Check-in: 14:00–00:00, check-out: 01:00–12:00. €100–1,500.
* 56.9522224.1053819 Pullman Riga Old Town, Jēkaba Iela 24 (hidden behind a bright red historic facade), ☏ +371 67815444, H9619@accor.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Opened in 2016 and housed in a complex of buildings including what is said to have been Baron Muenchhausen's stables, the Pullman carries the equine theme in its decor, while adapting Pullman's modern feel and standards to the historic construction. The top-floor pool with views over the area is certainly a highlight. €144.
* 56.9449724.1080320 Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel, 11. novembra krastmala 33, ☏ +371 66777850, info.riverside@wellton.com. 4-star hotel with the most expensive rooms directly overviewing the Daugava River. On the 8th floor there is access to a splendid rooftop deck with panorama view to all sides of the building, including the river. EUR 100 and up depending on season. (updated Sep 2023)

## Stay safe

Since the 2010s the Riga old town has changed from an inhabited part of Riga to a tourist attraction with very few inhabitants. This means that Riga old town mainly consists of shops, offices and hotels and the odd tourist trap. Outside of working hours most people frequenting Riga old town are tourists.