How to make the most out of your layover in Riga

For a long time, the Baltic countries of Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia flew under the radar. Only relatively adventurous travelers made it here, in northern and eastern Europe. But in recent years, Latvia has started to attract more tourists, thanks in part to its capital, Riga.

Riga is home to the largest food market in Europe, which makes it a great destination for foodies who want to try something new. It also has a charming Old Town, and the city centre is quite compact, which makes it easy to explore even if you only have a few hours to enjoy the place. In fact, while Riga has more to offer tourists than you might think for a city its size, it's also a small place where you can get a taste of it quite quickly, making it an ideal destination for a quick layover.

Once you've gotten through passport control with the boarding pass for your connecting flight in your hand, you can start thinking about how to spend your limited time in Riga. There is an express shuttle bus that will take you directly from Riga Airport to the city center and the central railway station. You can begin enjoying Old Town Riga right away and see why the capital is such a gem.

To make exploring easier, don't forget to leave your bags behind with a Bounce luggage storage in Riga. We partner with local businesses close to the airport and throughout the center of town to store any size of bags, from backpacks to cabin baggage to large suitcases. That way, you can enjoy the central market and the beautiful architecture of the Old Town with a minimum transfer time, then head back to the airport to catch your next flight to your final destination.

Things to know before leaving Riga Airport

Getting through the airport

Riga International Airport (RIX) is well-organized, making it easy to navigate for travelers on short or long layovers. If your arriving and departing flights are with the same airline, transfers are usually seamless, especially for short layovers.

When it comes to immigration, note that Latvia is a member state of the European Union, which means that if you're a citizen of another European Union country you have an indefinite right to stay in Latvia for as long as you want. Latvia is also part of the Schengen area, which means there is effectively no border to cross if you're coming from another European country in this area. In other words, if you are arriving here from France, Germany, Spain, or any of the other 26 countries in this group, you're not subject to passport control at all.

On the other hand, if you're arriving from outside the Schengen area, that means Latvia will be your entrance to this borderless region. In that case, you'll need a valid passport and visa, unless you come from a country that has a visa-free agreement with the EU. That includes the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the UK, and most of South America. Other European countries that are member states of the EU but a non-Schengen country - Ireland, for example - do not need a visa but will need to show a passport.

Minimum layover times in Riga

The center is just 10 kilometers (about 6 miles) from the airport, so it's easy to visit during a layover. Here’s a breakdown of how much time you’ll need:

• Short layover (2-3 hours): Stay at the airport to enjoy its dining and shopping options.
• 4-6 hour layover: You’ll have time to visit Riga’s Old Town, see key landmarks, and enjoy a quick meal.
• 8+ hour layover: Explore the Old Town, visit museums, and take a leisurely walk along the Daugava River.

Transportation to the City Center

Riga International Airport offers several transportation options:

• Bus No. 22: This direct route to the city center takes about 30 minutes.
• Taxis and rideshares: Available outside the terminal; a taxi to the Old Town takes about 15-20 minutes.
• Shuttle services: Some hotels and tour operators offer shuttle services for travelers.

What to do in Riga during a layover

Riga’s compact city center is packed with history, architecture, and vibrant cultural spots. Getting around is easy, and everywhere you go, you're likely to encounter something new to discover. Naturally, that's a lot easier if you're not carrying more than you need to. Download the Bounce app to help you find luggage storage partners near you. Our multiple locations mean you never risk not having a place to leave your things. Plus, your belongings will be protected by our extensive coverage, so you can leave your belongings with total peace of mind while you explore this fascinating city.

Short layover in Riga (4-6 hours): Old Town and key landmarks

Riga’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the heart of the city and a must-visit for any Riga layover. This is where you'll find the top attractions of the city along with its best restaurants. Of course, this is also the most crowded part of the city, but although Riga has been getting more popular in recent years, it is not exactly Paris or London, so you can usually avoid crowds without too much trouble.

Activities

• Start with a visit to the House of the Blackheads, a stunning Gothic-style building that dates back to the 14th century. You could also check out the famous Cat House with its wrought copper cats.
• Walk to Riga Cathedral, one of the largest medieval churches in the Baltics, and admire its impressive architecture.
• Explore the Three Brothers, a trio of historic buildings showcasing the evolution of Latvian architecture and the long history of the city.
• Stroll along the Daugava River for fresh air and scenic views.

Food Options

• Grab a quick bite at Lido Alus Sēta, a popular spot in the Old Town offering traditional Latvian cuisine.
• Try Street Fries Kitchen for a casual dining experience with locally inspired street food.

Half-day layover in Riga (6-8 hours): Old Town and Art Nouveau District

With a bit more time, you can explore beyond the Old Town to see Riga’s famous Art Nouveau district.

Activities

• Start with a self-guided tour of the Old Town’s landmarks.
• Head to the Art Nouveau District on Alberta Street, known for its ornate and colorful facades. The Art Nouveau Museum provides insight into this architectural style.
• Visit the Central Market, housed in historic zeppelin hangars, to experience local flavors and shop for unique souvenirs.

Lunch options

• Stop by Rozengrāls, a medieval-themed restaurant offering hearty meals in a unique setting.
• Milda is another great choice for traditional Latvian dishes in a cozy environment.

Full-day layover in Riga (8+ hours): Museums and cultural experiences

If you have a full day in Riga, dive deeper into the city’s rich history and culture.

Activities

• Start at the Latvian National Museum of Art to see a vast collection of Latvian and European works. Large bags aren't allowed inside, so make sure to drop yours off at a Bounce luggage storage before you visit so you don't run into any problems.
• Visit the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, which tells the story of the country’s Soviet and Nazi occupations.
• Take a leisurely walk in Bastejkalns Park, a serene green space near the Old Town.
• Finish your tour with a visit to Riga Castle, home to Latvia’s president and a fascinating piece of the city’s history.

Dinner options

• Enjoy a meal at Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs, a lively venue with live music and traditional Latvian food.
• For a more refined experience, try Bibliotēka No1, known for its modern Latvian cuisine and elegant atmosphere.

Tips for making the most of your Riga layover

• Plan for security: Leave enough time to return to the airport, especially if you need to clear customs for an international flight.
• Currency: Latvia uses the Euro (EUR), and most places accept credit cards.
• Weather: Riga’s weather can vary, so dress appropriately, especially if you plan to walk around.
• Local customs: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few Latvian phrases like "Sveiki" (hello) or "Paldies" (thank you) is appreciated.

Riga’s charming Old Town, rich history, and friendly atmosphere make it an excellent destination for a layover. This small city is perfect for exploring on a tight timeframe, but if you do have longer in town, you won't run out of things to do. Leave the bags behind with Bounce, and you can fully enjoy this underrated city before your next flight leaves.