As in most great love stories, feelings for Riga will emerge gradually in winter. Winter days will be snowy, but they will be beautifully overcome by a number of magical moments - walking through snow-covered parks illuminated by light installations, sipping a hot drink and tasting roasted almonds at the Christmas market, and of course, let's not forget about winter joys in the fresh air.
As in most great love stories, feelings for Riga will emerge gradually in winter. Winter days will be gloomy, but they will be beautifully overcome by a number of magical moments - walking through snow-covered parks illuminated by light installations, sipping a hot drink and tasting roasted almonds at the Christmas mark, which, by the way, entered the TOP of the best Christmas markets, and of course, let's not forget about winter joys in the fresh air.
Active leisure
Refreshing dip
Embracing the exhilarating trend of the season, winter swimming in Riga energizes with the thrill of icy waters. Despite the initial shock, enthusiasts swear by its refreshing effects on both body and mind. The icy plunge is said to awaken the senses, boost circulation, and strengthen resilience. With more people taking the plunge, the tradition gathers a community of adventurous spirits seeking the ultimate winter thrill. As the icy waters embrace them, a sense of euphoria sets in, reinforcing the belief that this chilly ritual holds the key to a revitalized spirit and an unwavering zest for life.
Go swimming to: Vecāķi, Vakarbuļļi, “Lucavsalas līcis”, Rumbula and Bābelītis
Cross-Country Skiing
Although Latvia is mostly flat, during the winter months, the landscape is often covered with a significant layer of snow, making it perfect for cross-country skiing. There are several free ski trails right in the city. Riga is ready to see you show off your winter sports skills! Don’t worry about gear – every trail offers equipment rentals.
Ice Skating in the City
This winter season and until March 1, a public ice rink will be open in Esplanāde Park. Use of the rink will be free of charge for those with their own equipment, but skate and accessory rentals will also be available for a fee. Please note that the rink's operating schedule will depend on weather conditions.
Scavenger hunt games
Embrace the winter wonderland of Riga with a thrilling scavenger hunt by Roadgames. Explore hidden treasures in the historical heart of the city, and uncover the charm of remote districts such as Sarkandaugava, Bolderāja, Mangaļsala, and Āgenskalns. Sharpen your tactical and topographical skills as you solve mysteries, and capture the most picturesque moments for your Instagram feed. Gather a friend and embark on an exciting journey through Riga's wintry landscapes, where every twist and turn promises an adventure to remember.
Taste of winter in a restaurant
It's no secret that love goes through the stomach. Use the opportunity to visit the best restaurants in Riga this year to experience their unique festive and winter special offers. Traditional Latvian dishes, classic European cuisine, or other world culinary masterpieces can help you better overcome the cold outside and will warm up even the biggest winter sceptics. When you enter the snowy Vērmanes Garden, go to the Whitehouse restaurant to warm up, but in the small and cosy streets of Vecrīga, the masterpiece of modern Latvian cuisine, the 3 Pavāru restorāns, the excellent seafood restaurant Barents and the cosy Kaļķu Vārti are hidden. Entresol, Chef's Corner and FERMA restaurants are definitely worth a visit in the city centre. Of course, these are not all the restaurants to enjoy this winter, so visit our Eat and Drink section!
Cosy cafes
On a chilly winter day, there's nothing quite as delightful as sinking your teeth into a freshly baked, warm bun, a delectable cake that practically melts in your mouth, or savouring a steaming cup of tea. Take a well-deserved break and get cosy at one of Riga's charming cafes. You'll discover delightful pastries and other culinary gems at Mulberry Cafe. If you're exploring Old Riga, don't miss out on the scrumptious delights at the Cruffins patisserie, which has quickly become a local favourite. For a hidden gem in the old town, look no further than Parunāsim. Kafe'teeka! Craving both classic and unique flavours? Kūkotava is a go-to spot for the locals. And when it comes to sweets, Riga residents rave about the heavenly almond croissants at Mīkla Bakery.
Instagrammable places
Old Riga, with its historic buildings, narrow streets, and cozy cafes, already feels like stepping into an 18th-century postcard on any given day. But when the city is dusted with snow like powdered sugar and festive decorations and lights appear overhead and in shop windows, you'll feel like you've wandered into a winter fairytale from your childhood. If you're planning to add a new and vibrant gallery to your Instagram profile, these picture-perfect spots in Riga won’t disappoint:
The canal promenade and city parks will be decked out for the holidays, with hundreds of twinkling light strings above, making every walk magical and providing the perfect backdrop for stunning Christmas photos.
Grab your Google Maps, find Jauniela in Old Riga, and you might just discover that it’s the most Instagram-worthy spot in the city! How could it not be? The pastel tones of the buildings on Jauniela are made for capturing unforgettable memories in photos.
Enjoy live music events
In winter, life in Riga is bubbling in the indoor spaces of bars, restaurants and hotels, where those gathered can enjoy charming evenings of live music and who knows, maybe even show off their moves on the dance floor! Jazz lovers are invited to go to the concert venue M/Darbnīca, where talented artists perform several times a week, while free jazz concerts are held in the Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel, Riga lobby bar every Thursday from 20:00 to 22:00. Fun and Latvian-inspired dance and live music evenings are regularly held in the "Ala Pagrabs" Folk Club, while in the bars "St.Black" and "Blues House" you can enjoy various concerts - from romantic acoustic to rock music concerts. Find out about other current events by going to the our Events section.
Pampering spa treatments
During the dark, cold months of the year, self-care is doubly important. Warm up your body for the remaining winter months in one of Riga SPA centres. Relaxing rest will be provided by "Wellton SPA Riverside" spa, exclusive treatments can be enjoyed at "Hedonic SPA", as well as "Taka SPA", "Kempinski Spa" and "ESPA Riga".
Culture events
Riga's winter event lineup will be truly impressive, offering something for everyone! Music enthusiasts can look forward to an array of delightful holiday concerts, while art lovers will be treated to a diverse selection of exhibitions throughout the city. Even the opera and ballet scenes stay vibrant, adding a touch of warmth and grandeur to the holiday season. For more details on Riga's cultural happenings, be sure to explore our Events section.
Winter architecture
During the Christmas season, Riga turns into a magical place to explore. The heart of the city, Riga Old Town, lights up with dazzling decorations and festive markets. You can't miss the stunning architecture, like the tall spires of St. Peter's Church and the grand Dome Cathedral. Walk through the streets to admire the beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. Cross the river to Ķīpsala to see charming wooden architecture that provides a lovely contrast. And to cap off your day, visit the modern and striking National Library of Latvia, where the holiday spirit fills the air.
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