Historic Centre of Riga: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Explore Riga's Historic Centre: a UNESCO site blending medieval charm & Art Nouveau elegance. A journey through time in Latvia's capital.
The Historic Centre of Riga, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997, showcases a captivating blend of medieval history and stunning Art Nouveau architecture. As a former Hanseatic League center, Riga's well-preserved urban fabric reflects its rich cultural and economic past, drawing visitors into a world of cobblestone streets and architectural marvels.
A brief summary to Reconocimiento UNESCO al Centro Histórico de Riga
- Riga, Central District, 1050, LV
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone streets of the Old Town.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds.
- Take a guided walking tour to fully appreciate the rich history and architectural details.
- Try local Latvian cuisine at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area.
- Check for local events or festivals happening in Doma laukums (Cathedral Square) to immerse yourself in the culture.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Freedom Monument, a central landmark in Riga, walk south along Brivibas bulvaris. Continue straight, passing the Latvian National Opera on your right. After a few blocks, you'll enter the Old Town through the Bastion Hill park area. From there, follow the cobblestone streets towards Doma laukums (Cathedral Square), where you'll find the UNESCO World Heritage marker. This final approach is free and takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
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Public Transport
Several trams and buses serve the Old Town area. From Riga International Airport, take bus number 22 to the city center. Get off at a stop near the Old Town, such as Aspazijas bulvāris. From there, it's a short walk to the heart of the Historic Centre. A single public transport ticket costs €1.15 if purchased in advance or €2.00 from the driver. Consider purchasing a Riga Card for unlimited travel if you plan to explore other parts of the city.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Riga. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app like Bolt. A taxi ride from the central train station to the Old Town will cost approximately €6, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The base fare is around €2.50, with an additional €0.70 per kilometer.
Discover more about Reconocimiento UNESCO al Centro Histórico de Riga
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Herdera laukums 6-8
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Explore Riga Cathedral: a majestic blend of architectural styles, rich history, and spiritual significance in the heart of Riga's Old Town.
Viduslaiku restorāns LĀSĪTE
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Saeima
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Explore the heart of Latvian democracy at the Saeima, a historic parliament building in Riga's central district. Guided tours available.
Monument and former place of residence of Dr. Ernst Von Bergmann
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Commemorating a pioneer in aseptic surgery, this monument marks the former residence of Dr. Ernst Von Bergmann in Riga's historic Centra District.
Discover Latvia Tours
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UNESCO Latvijas Nacionalas komisijas sekretariats
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Triangula Bastion
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Latvian War Museum
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Kungu iela 3
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Explore Kungu iela 3 in Riga's Old Town: A captivating blend of architectural styles and historical significance in the heart of Latvia's capital.
Roland's Statue
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A historic landmark in Riga's Town Hall Square, symbolizing freedom, justice, and the city's Hanseatic heritage.
Rātslaukums
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Powder Tower
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Plac Ratuszowy
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Rathausplatz Riga
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Kalēju iela 3
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Unmissable attractions to see
Doma laukums
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Dome Square
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VR viewer "Riga's Time Jump"
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Vecrīga
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Mākslas muzejs RĪGAS BIRŽA
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Riga Cathedral
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Latvijas Arhitektūras muzejs
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Three Brothers, Latvian Museum of Architecture
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Museum of the barricades of 1991
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Riga Beer Bike
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Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church, Virsvalde
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Cosmos Illusion Museum
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Barricades Memorial
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Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation
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St. Jacob’s Catholic Cathedral of Riga
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Essential places to dine
Key to Riga
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Olde Riga Restaurant
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Black garlic
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Kalku Varti
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B Bārs Restorāns
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Le Dome Restaurant
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Dome Hotel
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Rozengrāls (Vinarium civitatis rigensis)
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Restorāns NEIBURGS
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PEPPO’s - Pizzeria Contemporanea
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Garage
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Tēvocis Vaņa
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The Good Father
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Zilā Govs Restorāns
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
EKO SUVENĪRS Rīga /ECO SOUVENIR Riga
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Hobbywool
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ELKOR Gift Shop suvenīru veikals
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Linen and Souvenirs
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One Wolf Boutique
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Black Cat Souvenirs
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Stikla galerija
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PLAZA OUTLET
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Latviskie darinājumi
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Suvenīri
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Candy Pop
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COINSTORE
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Souvenir Shop
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Gallery ETMO
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Baltic Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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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Ms&Mr Beer
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The Christmas Bar Riga
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This Place Doesn't Need A Name Šķūņu
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Republika
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Piana Vyshnia
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Long Island Bar
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O'Paps
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Gastro Pub Duvel's
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DM Bar Riga
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Queens
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Black Magic
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