Overview
Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a captivating mix of medieval charm and Art Nouveau elegance sitting on the banks of the Daugava River. The UNESCO-listed Old Town features cobblestone streets, Gothic church spires, and one of Europe s largest collections of Art Nouveau architecture. Best of all, Riga delivers all this at prices that make Western European capitals look absurdly overpriced. The local currency is the euro, making budgeting straightforward for European travelers.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Budget travelers ($60/day): Stay in well-rated hostels from $16/night, eat at canteen-style restaurants and the incredible Central Market for under $20/day, use public transit passes, and enjoy free walking tours and church visits throughout Old Town.
Mid-range travelers ($150/day): Book a comfortable hotel in or near Old Town, dine at excellent Latvian restaurants where a full meal with drinks runs $15-25, take day trips to Jurmala beach or Sigulda, and visit top museums and the Latvian National Opera.
Luxury travelers ($380+/day): Stay at boutique hotels like Hotel Bergs or Grand Hotel Kempinski, enjoy fine dining at Riga s growing gourmet scene, hire private guides for Art Nouveau architecture tours, and indulge in spa treatments at world-class wellness centers.
Where to Save
Riga Central Market, housed in five enormous former Zeppelin hangars, is one of Europe s largest markets — grab smoked fish, fresh bread, and local cheese for a few euros. Free walking tours run daily and cover Old Town s highlights brilliantly. Most churches charge under 3 EUR for entry, and wandering the Art Nouveau district on Alberta Street costs nothing. A 24-hour transit pass is just 5 EUR. Happy hour cocktails in Riga often run 3-5 EUR.
Where to Splurge
Book a table at Vincents or 3 Pavaru Restorans for Latvian fine dining that rivals any Western European capital at half the price. A day trip to the stunning Rundale Palace — Latvia s Versailles — is well worth the investment. The Latvian National Opera offers world-class performances at remarkably affordable ticket prices. Treat yourself to a traditional Latvian black balsam tasting experience at one of Old Town s historic bars.
