Where to Stay in Riga
Latvia
|Pop. 743K
|4 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Sven Pieren / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Old Town (Vecrīga) is the best neighbourhood to stay in Riga. Historic heart with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and lively squares. Ideal for first-timers, couples, culture. Budget travellers can get by on EUR 45/day.
Areas to Avoid in Riga
Safety rated "safe". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Town (Vecrīga) | Historic heart with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and lively squares. | Luxury | first-timers, couples | Generally safe during the day, but be aw... |
| Art Nouveau District (Centrs - Albert Street area) | Elegant and visually stunning, characterized by ornate Art Nouveau architecture. | Luxury | couples, culture | Very safe day and night; it's a well-mai... |
| Kalnciema Quarter | Bohemian and creative, featuring wooden architecture, artisan markets, and a relaxed atmosphere. | Mid-range | solo travelers, budget | Generally safe, but it's more residentia... |
| Centrs (South of Old Town) | A mix of residential buildings, commercial areas, and green spaces, offering a local feel. | Mid-range | families, solo travelers | Safe during the day; at night, while gen... |
Old Town (Vecrīga)
LuxuryHistoric heart with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and lively squares.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas; at ...
Art Nouveau District (Centrs - Albert Street area)
LuxuryElegant and visually stunning, characterized by ornate Art Nouveau architecture.
Very safe day and night; it's a well-maintained and populated residential and co...
Kalnciema Quarter
Mid-rangeBohemian and creative, featuring wooden architecture, artisan markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Generally safe, but it's more residential and can be quiet at night; stick to ma...
Centrs (South of Old Town)
Mid-rangeA mix of residential buildings, commercial areas, and green spaces, offering a local feel.
Safe during the day; at night, while generally okay, be mindful of your surround...
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Riga
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Old Town (Vecrīga)
Historic heart with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and lively squares.
Our top picks in Old Town (Vecrīga)
Art Nouveau District (Centrs - Albert Street area)
Elegant and visually stunning, characterized by ornate Art Nouveau architecture.
Our top picks in Art Nouveau District (Centrs - Albert Street area)
Kalnciema Quarter
Bohemian and creative, featuring wooden architecture, artisan markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Our top picks in Kalnciema Quarter
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Things to Do in Riga
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
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Riga at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Riga
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Purchase a Riga Card for free public transport and discounts on attractions; it can be very cost-effective if you plan to see multiple museums and use trams/buses frequently.
Getting Around
Download the 'Rīgas Karte' app to easily purchase e-tickets for public transport and avoid needing cash.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by unlicensed taxis (use official apps or agree on price beforehand).
Solo Female Travel
Riga is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas late at night and being aware of your surroundings apply, especially in less touristy spots.
Hidden Gems in Riga
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Kalnciema Quarter Market
FREEA vibrant weekend market showcasing local produce, crafts, and food vendors, often featuring live music and a relaxed, community atmosphere.
Miera iela (Peace Street)
FREEThis charming street, once known for its industrial past, is now a hub for artisans, independent shops, cozy cafes, and quirky street art.
The Art Nouveau Museum (Jugenda Stila Muzejs)
Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau apartment building, this museum offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Riga's early 20th-century elite.
Dzeguze (Cuckoo) Cafe
A beloved local cafe known for its delicious homemade cakes, pastries, and hearty Latvian dishes, all served in a cozy and welcoming setting.
Kipsala Beach
FREEA surprisingly serene stretch of sandy beach offering fantastic views of the Old Town skyline and the Daugava River, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Black Balsam Bar
Experience the iconic Latvian Riga Black Balsam liqueur in its birthplace. This bar offers a taste of this unique herbal spirit in various cocktails or neat.
Things to Do in Riga
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated Riga tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
What It Costs in Riga
Daily budget per person in EUR
💡73% cheaper than London
EUR 45/day
EUR 90/day
EUR 200/day
Where to Stay in Riga
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Central Market15 min
- Art Nouveau District10 min
- Daugava River Embankment5 min
Pros
- +Centrally located with easy access to major sights
- +Abundant restaurants, cafes, and bars
- +Charming atmosphere
Cons
- -Can be very crowded, especially in summer
- -Accommodations can be pricier
Top stays in Old Town (Vecrīga)
Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga
$$$$Luxurious hotel with stunning city views and a rooftop bar.
Hotel Neiburgs
$$$Elegant boutique hotel housed in a historic Art Nouveau building.
Old Riga Apartments
$$Offers well-appointed apartments for a more independent stay.
Hotel Bergs
$$$A historic luxury boutique hotel known for its personalized service.
Best for
Walk to
- Old Town10 min
- Vērmanes Garden5 min
- Riga Central Station15 min
Pros
- +Architecturally unique and beautiful
- +Quieter than the Old Town
- +Good selection of upscale restaurants and cafes
Cons
- -Fewer budget accommodation options
- -Can feel a bit formal
Top stays in Art Nouveau District (Centrs - Albert Street area)
Best for
Walk to
- Daugava River5 min
- Kipsala Island20 min
- Central Market (via tram)25 min
Pros
- +Unique wooden architecture
- +Vibrant weekend markets and events
- +More affordable options
Cons
- -Further from the main tourist attractions
- -Fewer dining options compared to the center
Best for
Walk to
- Old Town15 min
- Central Market5 min
- Bastejkalns Park10 min
Pros
- +Good value for money
- +More authentic local experience
- +Proximity to Central Market and parks
Cons
- -Less visually stunning than Old Town or Art Nouveau district
- -Can be noisy due to traffic
Top stays in Centrs (South of Old Town)
Areas to be cautious
- Industrial outskirts (e.g., Daugavgriva): These areas are primarily industrial or sparsely populated residential zones with little of tourist interest and can feel desolate at night.
Insider tip: Purchase a Riga Card for free public transport and discounts on attractions; it can be very cost-effective if you plan to see multiple museums and use trams/buses frequently.
Where to Stay in Riga
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Old Town (Vecrīga)
Historic heart with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and lively squares.
Stay in Art Nouveau District (Centrs - Albert Street area)
Elegant and visually stunning, characterized by ornate Art Nouveau architecture.
Stay in Kalnciema Quarter
Bohemian and creative, featuring wooden architecture, artisan markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in Riga
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List Your PropertySafety in Riga
SafeSolo Female Travel
Riga is generally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas late at night and being aware of your surroundings apply, especially in less touristy spots.
At Night
The Old Town and main central streets are well-lit and busy. Stick to these areas and avoid deserted side streets, especially after midnight. Public transport is generally safe but can be empty late at night.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxis (use official apps or agree on price beforehand).
- 2Pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas like the Old Town and Central Market.
- 3Distraction theft (e.g., someone spilling something on you to steal your wallet).
Compare hotel deals in Riga
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
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Travel Insurance for Riga
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in Latvia
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for Latvia and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting Around Riga
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Bus 22 (approx. 30-40 min, 2 EUR), Taxi/Rideshare (approx. 15-25 min, 15-25 EUR).
🎫
Day Pass
24-hour pass: 5 EUR.
Single: 1.50 EUR (if purchased onboard), 1.15 EUR (e-ticket via Riga Card or app).
🚶
Walkability
Very WalkableUber, Bolt
📶
WiFi
Excellent50-100 Mbps
Public Transport
Trams (lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11) and Buses are efficient for reaching most areas.
Ride-share
Bolt, Uber (expect 5-15 EUR for short city rides).
Transport Tip
Download the 'Rīgas Karte' app to easily purchase e-tickets for public transport and avoid needing cash.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Cafes, restaurants, public libraries, some parks, and public transport hubs.
Coworking
Fishbone (15 EUR/day), L-Craft (12 EUR/day).
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: May, Jun, Sep
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Hotels & Accommodation in Riga
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Who Is Riga Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
It's the historical and geographical center, offering immediate immersion into Riga's main attractions and atmosphere.
Culture Enthusiasts
This area showcases Riga's unique and extensive collection of Art Nouveau architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Budget Backpackers
Offers more affordable accommodation and a chance to experience local life and markets away from the main tourist crowds.
Couples Seeking Romance
The charming cobblestone streets, historic ambiance, and numerous cozy restaurants create a romantic setting.
Digital Nomads on a Budget
Provides a good balance of affordability, access to amenities, and proximity to co-working spaces and city center attractions.
About Riga
Riga ( REE-gə) is the capital, primate, and largest city of Latvia and the second largest in the Baltics. Home to 591,882 inhabitants (as of 2025), the city accounts for a third of Latvia's total population. The population of Riga metropolitan area, which stretches beyond the city limits, is estimated at 847,162 (as of 2025).
Frequently Asked Questions About Riga
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