Riga Castle: A Symbol of Latvian History
Explore Riga Castle: A historic landmark and the official residence of the President of Latvia, showcasing centuries of Latvian history and architecture.
Riga Castle, standing on the banks of the Daugava River, has been a silent witness to Latvia's complex history for over 700 years. Founded in 1330, it has served as a stronghold for the Livonian Order, a seat of power for various empires, and today, as the official residence of the President of Latvia.
A brief summary to Riga Castle
- Pils laukums 3, Riga, Central District, 1050, LV
- +37167092106
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours, as they may vary due to state events.
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the castle's history and significance.
- Be prepared for a security check before entering the castle.
- Consider visiting the Museum of the Presidency to learn more about Latvia's political history.
- Explore the surrounding Old Riga area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its charming streets and historic buildings.
Getting There
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Walking
Riga Castle is located in the heart of Old Riga, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From the Freedom Monument, walk along Kalku iela towards the Daugava River. Cross the Stone Bridge (*Akmens tilts*) and continue straight ahead. The castle will be visible on your right, a short walk from the riverbank. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
Several buses, trams, and trolleybuses stop near Riga Castle. Take tram number 5, 7, 8 or 11; trolleybus 5, 12 or 25; or bus 2, 11, 13, 24, 30, 37, 41, 53 or 57 to the 'Nacionālais teātris' or 'Pils laukums' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the castle. A single 90-minute e-ticket costs €1.50. Tickets can be purchased in advance at kiosks, shopping centers, or via the Mobilly app.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Riga. Simply provide 'Riga Castle' or 'Pils laukums 3' as your destination. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between €6 and €10, depending on the distance and traffic. Taxi Start is €2.50 and each KM is then priced at €0.70. It's advisable to agree on the price with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about Riga Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monument and former place of residence of Dr. Ernst Von Bergmann
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Viduslaiku restorāns LĀSĪTE
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Saeima
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Herdera laukums 6-8
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Latvian National Theatre
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Witness Latvian history and culture come alive on stage at the architecturally stunning Latvian National Theatre in Riga.
Triangula Bastion
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Discover Latvia Tours
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Latvian War Museum
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UNESCO Latvijas Nacionalas komisijas sekretariats
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Cat House
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Explore the whimsical Cat House in Riga, a stunning architectural treasure filled with history and charm, perfect for a memorable visit.
Powder Tower
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Riga City Hall
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Coats of Arms of Latvian Municipalities Mural (LV100)
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Roland's Statue
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Rātslaukums
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Unmissable attractions to see
National History Museum of Latvia
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Pils laukums
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Our Lady of Sorrows Church
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Children’s Monument
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Sculpture "Kristaps the Great"
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Riga tourism transport (ferry)
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Arsenāls
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St. Jacob’s Catholic Cathedral of Riga
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Three Brothers, Latvian Museum of Architecture
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Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church, Virsvalde
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Latvijas Arhitektūras muzejs
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Mākslas muzejs RĪGAS BIRŽA
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Stargorod Riga - Czech brewery
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Barricades Memorial
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Cosmos Illusion Museum
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Essential places to dine
Vecmeita ar kaķi
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Piazza Italiana
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Rīgas Pērle
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PEPPO’s - Pizzeria Contemporanea
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Dome Hotel
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Le Dome Restaurant
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B Bārs Restorāns
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The Good Father
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Zviedru vārti restaurant
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Key to Riga
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Black garlic
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Harper Woolf
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Garage
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Olde Riga Restaurant
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Kalku Varti
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
COINSTORE
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Linen and Souvenirs
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Hobbywool
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EKO SUVENĪRS Rīga /ECO SOUVENIR Riga
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ELKOR Gift Shop suvenīru veikals
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PLAZA OUTLET
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Gallery ETMO
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Tautas terpu centrs Sena klets , SIA
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Black Cat Souvenirs
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One Wolf Boutique
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Stikla galerija
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Latviskie darinājumi
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Suvenīri
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Candy Pop
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Baltic Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
DM Bar Riga
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Republika
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Ms&Mr Beer
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Cuba Cafe
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Spot Kafe
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Greenwood bar
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Victory Pub Riga
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The Christmas Bar Riga
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This Place Doesn't Need A Name Šķūņu
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Shot Cafe
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Gastro Pub Duvel's
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Piana Vyshnia
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Long Island Bar
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O'Paps
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CARTEL Bar
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