Why Riga Should Be On Your 2025 Summer Itinerary
Tucked away on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, Riga – the capital of Latvia – is one of Europe’s best-kept summer secrets. With its blend of historical charm, lively cultural scene, and laid-back beach vibes, Riga offers a little bit of everything.
If you’re planning your 2025 summer adventures, here’s why Riga absolutely deserves a top spot on your list.
Why Riga Should Be On Your 2025 Summer Itinerary
A foodie’s delight
Latvian cuisine is hearty and fresh, with lots of seasonal ingredients.
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy local berries, wild mushrooms, smoked fish, and creamy desserts. Try a traditional Latvian cold soup (aukstā zupa) on a warm day, or sample modern twists on classic dishes at one of Riga’s many stylish restaurants.
The city’s culinary scene has been gaining international recognition, and in 2023, Riga was officially added to the Michelin Guide!
Several restaurants in Riga received Michelin stars and recommendations, highlighting the city’s rising status as a gastronomic destination.
Whether you’re dining at a fine-dining spot like Max Cekot Kitchen or exploring creative tasting menus at Barents or Entresol, you’ll find innovation and passion on every plate.
And of course, don’t forget to browse the Central Market – one of Europe’s largest – housed in historic zeppelin hangars and brimming with local flavours.
A slam dunk for sports fans: FIBA EuroBasket 2025
In 2025, Riga will also take centre stage as the main host city for FIBA EuroBasket, Europe’s premier international basketball championship!
This highly anticipated tournament will bring together the continent’s top national teams and fans for an electrifying celebration of the sport.
With Latvia’s growing reputation in international basketball and a passionate local fan base, the atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric. Whether you’re a die-hard hoops fan or just love the excitement of live sports, catching a game in Riga during EuroBasket adds a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime experience to your summer trip.
A fairytale Old Town
Riga’s Old Town (Vecrīga), a UNESCO World Heritage site, is like stepping into the pages of a storybook.
Cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and colourful facades make every corner picture-perfect, and if you’re visiting Riga in summer, it’s even prettier.
You can spend hours wandering its narrow alleys, discovering hidden courtyards, or people-watching from a cosy café in the Town Hall Square.
Don’t miss the iconic House of the Blackheads, St. Peter’s Church, and the Three Brothers – the city’s oldest residential buildings.
Art Nouveau wonderland
Beyond the Old Town, Riga surprises visitors with one of the world’s most impressive collections of Art Nouveau architecture.
Alberta Iela (Albert Street) is the star of the show, lined with ornate facades featuring swirling lines, mythical creatures, and intricate details. It’s a must-visit for architecture lovers and a visual feast for anyone with a camera.
I wrote more about Art Nouveau in Riga in my guide to spending a weekend in Riga, so be sure to check that out if you’re a bit of an architecture buff!
A cultural summer calendar
Riga comes alive in the summer with a packed calendar of festivals and events.
From the Riga City Festival in August to open-air concerts in parks and courtyards, there’s always something happening.
Music lovers won’t want to miss Positivus, the Baltics’ biggest music festival, which now takes place right in Riga, bringing international headliners and a vibrant crowd to the city each summer.
In June, Latvians celebrate Jāņi – the beloved midsummer festival – with flower crowns, bonfires, folk dancing, and plenty of cheese and beer.
Experiencing Jāņi in Riga is a cultural highlight you won’t forget.
Beaches, parks, and Baltic breezes
Yes, Riga has beaches!
Just a short train ride away from the centre of the city is is Jūrmala, a charming seaside resort town with white sand beaches and pine forests.
Back in the city itself, you’ll find spacious parks like Bastejkalna Park and Mežaparks, perfect for picnics, boat rides, or lazy summer afternoons. The Daugava River adds a breezy waterfront charm to Riga’s relaxed summer vibe.
Affordable and underrated
Compared to other European capitals, Riga is refreshingly affordable.
You can enjoy top-notch meals, stylish accommodations, and memorable experiences without draining your travel budget.
Plus, Riga isn’t overrun with tourists (even in the high season!), giving you space to explore at your own pace.
Riga in Summer | Final Thoughts
What makes Riga stand out is its balance: ancient and modern, peaceful and vibrant, coastal and urban.
Whether you’re into history, design, nature, or nightlife, Riga delivers – all wrapped in warm Baltic sunshine and a friendly local spirit.
From exploring centuries-old landmarks and relaxing in leafy parks to beach getaways and world-class dining, the things to do in Riga are as diverse as they are unforgettable.
This city invites you to slow down, soak it all in, and experience a European summer at its most authentic and inspiring.
So, if you’re craving a European destination that’s a little off the beaten path but rich in experiences, beauty, and charm – Riga is calling.
This summer, don’t just follow the crowd – discover what Riga has to offer.
Until next time,
XOXO
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