Riga City Guide

Try local dishes like Grey Peas with Speck and Rye Bread Soup. The city has many international options and growing vegan/vegetarian choices. Late-night food is mainly around Old Town.

Nightlife is lively mainly in the Old Town, with many bars, pubs, and nightclubs.

Strong specialty coffee scene with many roasters and cafes.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. 5-10% in restaurants if no service charge. Round up taxi fares.

SIM cards are sold at the airport and city provider stores (LMT, Tele2, Bite). ID is needed to activate. eSIMs are becoming available.

Riga is clean, especially downtown with regular waste pickup and recycling.

Some 24/7 pharmacies, convenience stores like Narvesen, and late-night food in city center.

Supermarkets like Rimi, Maxima, and Mego sell local and international products. Central Market is good for fresh produce. Most stores open 8-9 AM to 9-11 PM. Larger supermarkets open Sundays; smaller stores may close. Bargaining happens only at the market sometimes.

Card payments work in most places, but cash helps at markets and small vendors.

ATMs are common at banks and malls. Major banks include Swedbank, SEB, and Luminor. Watch for fees on foreign cards.

International schools like International School of Riga and Exupéry offer English curriculums. Apply early due to waitlists.

Digital nomads organize meetups and events, mostly online and in coworking spaces.

Numerous well-kept parks and river areas offer good green space access.

Safe running routes in parks and along the river. Good air quality and running groups.

Multiple gyms offer modern equipment, group classes, and some 24/7 access.

Tennis courts are widespread. Padel courts are growing in popularity.

Padel is not widespread but emerging with new courts available.

Many yoga studios offer classes in various styles, some with English-speaking teachers.

Facilities for BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, and Judo exist with some English-speaking instructors.

Small ski resorts near Riga, like Sigulda and Žagarkalns, open winter months offer beginner slopes.

Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Daugava River are popular. Sailing and windsurfing happen at the coast.

Surfing is rare; some kiteboarding and windsurfing happen on the coast.

Diving options are limited due to Baltic Sea conditions.

Public and private clinics offer decent care. Some have English-speaking staff, mostly private ones. Pharmacies are widespread, some open 24/7. Emergency number is 112.

Tap water is safe to drink in Riga.

Playgrounds and parks like Vērmanes Garden and Esplanāde are great for kids. Cafés welcome families. Attractions include Riga Zoo and natural history museum.

Generally progressive for the region with some inclusive venues and events, though discrimination can occur.

Pet-friendly city with many parks, vets, and some accommodations allowing pets. Import rules apply.