Does Riga have Xmas markets?

Yes, Riga has a popular and picturesque Christmas Market, primarily in the historic Old Town Square (Doma Square), offering a magical, festive atmosphere with local crafts, food, drinks, and activities, known for being family-friendly with unique decorations and crafts like amber and woolens, making it a highlight in the Baltics.

Does Riga have a good Christmas market?

Riga has been named the 3rd best Christmas market in Europe by European Best Christmas Markets 2025--2026 - its highest ranking ever. 🎄✨ This winter, the city glows with twinkling lights, festive cheer, and a magic that wraps you in warmth and wonder. Come experience the heartwarming magic of Riga. 💛✨ 📸: @riga.lv.

What are the dates of the Riga Christmas Market?

On November 28, the Old Town Christmas Market will open on Doma Square and will run until 4 January 2026. For the 25th time, the Market will conjure up a real Christmas fairytale in the heart of Old Riga, inviting everyone to indulge in the festive feeling and enjoy an extensive cultural programme.

Where to avoid in Riga?

You should avoid being careless with belongings in crowded tourist spots like the Old Town, Central Market, and train/bus stations, where pickpicking is common; also, be wary of scams (like petition-signing, inflated taxi fares, card fraud) and drink spiking in bars, especially late at night or in unlit areas, and take Bolt taxis over hailing cabs for safety.
 

Is Riga safe for Brits?

Latvia is an extremely safe destination for solo females, especially within the confines of the Old Town in Riga. Men are generally very respectful, meaning women rarely encounter any catcalling or pestering in the streets.

RIGA Christmas Market FOOD TOUR 🇱🇻 Is $50 Enough in LATVIA!?!?

Are Latvians friendly to tourists?

Latvians are friendly. If you need assistance, Latvians will gladly assist you. Hospitality is ingrained in their culture, and they will welcome you with open arms. You don't require a visa to visit Latvia.

Can you speak English in Riga?

The official language in the country is Latvian, but many people in Rīga speak English well, especially in tourist areas so you should find it easy to get by. Most museums provide exhibitions with English translations. Menus and services in cafés, restaurants and bars are typically available in English too.

Why did Jews leave Latvia?

In mid-June 1941, on the eve of Hitler's attack on the Soviet Union, 14,000 citizens of Latvia, including several thousand Jews, were deported by the Soviet authorities to Siberia and other parts of Soviet Asia as politically undesirable elements.

What to buy at the Riga Christmas Market?

Family-Friendly: Riga's Christmas market is particularly suitable for families, being small, compact, and without massive crowds, with petting areas and craft workshops for children. What to Buy: Look for authentic Latvian goods like amber jewelry, hand-knitted woolens, honey, local spirits, and handmade candles.

Where is the most magical Christmas market?

• 44 Wildly Magical Christmas Markets to Visit in Europe (Ranked!) Last Updated: October 28, 2025. ...
• London, England. OOH. ...
• Budapest, Hungary* ...
• Düsseldorf, Germany. ...
• Stuttgart, Germany. ...
• Paris, France. ...
• Winchester, England. ...
• Essen, Germany.

Is 3 days in Riga too much?

No, 3 days in Riga is not too much; it's considered the perfect amount of time for a first visit to see the main sights like the Old Town and Art Nouveau district, enjoy the food, and potentially take a day trip, while 4-5 days allows for a more relaxed pace or deeper exploration, especially with trips to Jūrmala or Sigulda. For many, 3 days is a solid long weekend to experience Riga's history, architecture, markets, and vibrant atmosphere without feeling rushed. 

What to do in Riga during Christmas?

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.

What should I buy in Riga?

What to shop in Riga? Shop for traditional Latvian souvenirs such as amber jewelry, woolen knitwear, unique hand-crafted items, handmade ceramics, and natural skincare products. You will also find local delicacies like Riga Black Balsam, herbal teas, and pure natural honey.

How cold is Riga at Christmas?

Winter weather. Winter in Latvia usually spans from December to February. The temperature in winter warries from 0° Centigrade (32°F) to -10° Centigrade (14°F). Sometimes temperatures can fall to -20° Centigrade and even to -30° Centigrade (-4°F to-22°F), particularly at night.

Does Latvia support Ukraine or Russia?

Latvia is among the leading countries that advocate strong support for Ukraine until its victory.

What is Riga famous for?

The city is famous for its Central Market, housed in giant former zeppelin hangars, its thriving café culture, and its role as the cultural hub of Latvia with theatres, museums, and festivals throughout the year.

What to be careful of in Latvia?

Safety and security

• Terrorism in Latvia. Although there's no recent history of terrorism in Latvia, attacks cannot be ruled out. ...
• Protecting yourself and your belongings. ...
• Scams. ...
• Bank card fraud. ...
• Drink and food spiking. ...
• Theft from vehicles. ...
• Personal ID. ...
• Alcohol laws and bans.

Is Latvia left or right wing?

In January 2019, Latvia got a government led by new prime minister Krisjanis Karins of the centre-right New Unity. Karins' coalition was formed by five of the seven parties in parliament, excluding only the pro-Russia Harmony party and the Union of Greens and Farmers.

Is Riga safe to walk at night?

Be sure to exercise good situational awareness, vary routes and times of arrival/departure, and choose well-lit, populated routes -- especially while walking at night. Riga Police have reported an increase in reports of “Drink Spiking” at club and bars, followed by robberies of the victims.

Can I drink the tap water in Riga?

Yes. The tap water in Latvia is safe to drink - why not bring a reusable water bottle with you on your trip? This will save you money on bottled water and reduce your plastic footprint, helping to protect the environment in Latvia and beyond.

Is Riga majority Russian?

Profile. Russians constitute by far Latvia's largest ethnic minority group, comprising more than a quarter (25.6 per cent) of the population. Living predominantly in urban areas, Russians have a particularly strong demographic presence in the capital Riga, where they account for close to half of the city's population.

Is Latvia a rich or a poor country?

Among EU members Latvia stands out as a country with one of the lowest income levels, with the greatest inequality and poverty, and one of the highest emigration rates.