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University of Latvia Botanical Garden: A Green Escape in Riga

Explore global flora in Riga's oldest botanical garden: a 15-hectare oasis with themed gardens, greenhouses, and a tropical butterfly house.

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Escape the city bustle at the University of Latvia Botanical Garden, a verdant oasis established in 1922. Explore diverse plant collections from around the globe, wander through themed gardens, and discover tropical butterflies, all within a 15-hectare landscape in Riga's Kurzeme District.

A brief summary to University of Latvia Botanical Garden

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or summer to witness the most vibrant floral displays and enjoy pleasant weather.
  • Check the garden's schedule for special events and workshops to enhance your visit.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the diverse plant collections and themed gardens.
  • The Tropical Butterfly House is open from March to October; plan your visit accordingly.
  • Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the unique plant species and landscapes.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Riga city center, the Botanical Garden is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram line 5 or 7 to the 'Kandavas iela' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the garden entrance at Kandavas iela 2. A single e-ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 90 minutes. Tickets can be purchased in advance at kiosks, shopping centers, or ticket vending machines. Remember to register your ticket at the electronic validator each time you board.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt and Yandex are readily available in Riga. A taxi ride from the city center to the Botanical Garden typically costs between €6-€10, depending on the distance and traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Alternatively, use a ride-sharing app to get an estimated fare and track your ride.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Kurzeme District, consider walking to the Botanical Garden. From the National Library of Latvia, head west on Krišjāņa Valdemāra iela, then turn left onto Kandavas iela. The garden will be on your right. The walk is approximately 2 kilometers and takes about 25-30 minutes.

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Discover more about University of Latvia Botanical Garden

The University of Latvia Botanical Garden, the oldest in Latvia, offers a tranquil retreat with diverse flora and fauna. Founded in 1922, the garden spans 15 hectares and showcases over 5,500 plant species from various corners of the world. From the Baltic Sea dunes to Australian forests, the Amazon jungle to the Caucasus Mountains, and the Mexican deserts to the Far East, the garden is a tapestry of global ecosystems. Originally located in Dreiliņi, the garden moved to its current location on the former Wolfschmidtshof Manor in 1926. Today, the garden features open-air collections and greenhouses housing over 1,500 tropical and subtropical plants. Don't miss the Tropical Butterfly House, open from March to October, where you can immerse yourself in a jungle-like environment with butterflies from South America, Asia, and Africa. The garden's appeal extends throughout the year. In February and March, the azalea collection bursts into color, while April sees the magnolias bloom. Rhododendrons flourish in late May, roses in summer, and the arboretum transforms with autumnal hues. Explore the Plant Systematics exhibition to learn about plant diversity, or discover local flora in the Marsh and Grassland exhibition. The garden also houses an Earth observation station and the geodetic starting point of the Latvian trigonometric network. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast, a botany expert, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the University of Latvia Botanical Garden offers something for everyone.

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