Background

The Playful Charm of Donkey Sculpture in Riga

Explore the whimsical Donkey sculpture in Riga, a charming tourist attraction that embodies the city's artistic spirit and playful nature.

★★★★★5 (60)

Discover the whimsical Donkey sculpture located in the heart of Riga, an enchanting tourist attraction nestled behind St. Peter's Church. This playful artwork invites visitors to immerse themselves in a unique blend of culture and creativity. Perfect for families and art enthusiasts alike, the Donkey serves as a delightful photo opportunity and a symbol of Riga's artistic spirit.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Donkey

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
Rātslaukums 5, Riga, Central District, 1050, LV

Explore places near Donkey

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of Donkey

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Car

    If you're traveling by car, start from anywhere in Kurzeme and head towards Rīga. The most direct route is to take the A9 highway towards Rīga, which will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Once you reach Rīga, follow signs to the city center. As you approach the city, merge onto the A1 road (Brīvības iela) which will lead you directly into the Central District. Look for Rātslaukums 5, which is located near St. Peter's Church. There is limited street parking, so be prepared to find a parking spot nearby.

    Public Transportation (Bus)

    To reach Donkey using public transport, take a bus from any major town in Kurzeme to Rīga. The most common bus operators are Lux Express and Ecolines, which offer comfortable services. The journey takes around 2 to 3 hours. Once you arrive at Rīga's Central Bus Station, exit the station and head to the nearby tram stop at 'Autoosta'. Take tram line 1 or 2 towards 'Tīna' and disembark at the 'Rātslaukums' stop. From there, Donkey is just a short walk away, located at Rātslaukums 5, behind St. Peter's Church.

    Public Transportation (Train)

    If you prefer to travel by train, take a train from a station in Kurzeme, such as Liepāja or Ventspils, to Rīga. Train services are provided by Latvian Railways and the journey typically lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours. Once you arrive at Rīga Central Station, walk for about 15 minutes to reach Rātslaukums 5. Head towards the Old Town, passing the Freedom Monument, and continue until you reach the square near St. Peter's Church.

    Local tips

    Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos.
    Combine your visit with a tour of St. Peter's Church, located just steps away.
    Bring along a local snack to enjoy while sitting in the square.

    Discover more about Donkey

    The Donkey sculpture is a delightful gem located in the vibrant city of Riga, Latvia. Nestled in the picturesque Rātslaukums square, just behind the iconic St. Peter's Church, this playful artwork is a must-see for tourists of all ages. The sculpture, known for its whimsical and charming design, captures the imagination and serves as a joyful reminder of the city's rich artistic culture. Visitors often find themselves enchanted by its quirky appearance, making it a popular spot for photos and a great place to take a break from sightseeing. As part of Riga's array of cultural attractions, the Donkey sculpture stands out not only for its visual appeal but also for its strategic location. The square itself is surrounded by historical architecture and offers a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls. While here, visitors can enjoy the lively ambiance, filled with locals and tourists alike, and perhaps even indulge in nearby cafés or shops that showcase the local crafts and cuisine. This artistic installation encourages interaction and engagement, with many tourists taking the opportunity to sit on or beside the sculpture for memorable photographs. The Donkey symbolizes playfulness within the city, making it a delightful addition to any itinerary. Whether you're a family with children or an art enthusiast, the Donkey is an inviting attraction that adds a touch of whimsy to your visit to Riga, ensuring a memorable experience in this beautiful Baltic city.

    A brief summary to Donkey

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    File:Kuldīga, Kurzeme, Latvija, Vecpilsēta.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

    More about Kurzeme

    Discover Kurzeme, Latvia's hidden gem, where scenic coastlines, historic castles, and vibrant culture await to enchant every traveler.

    Tell me more about Kurzeme

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.