The time of the year has come when days in Riga get shorter, the wind blows somewhat more frequently, and we experience one of the most beautiful seasons in the Latvian calendar, Autumn. A perfect time to visit and a great opportunity to stroll through the city and the Latvian nature.
I suppose the trick to enjoying autumn in Riga is to really just get outside, rain or shine, and to take advantage of the slower pace with fewer tourists and more fresh air.
What to expect from Autumn in Riga?
With all the autumnal changes, this means only one thing: it is time to grab your jacket and head outdoors, taking in all the magic that Latvian nature has to offer at this time of year. So where can you go and what can you do to make the most out of this wonderful time of year?
We have created a short list for you, lovely visitors to Riga, to help you make the most of autumn in Riga and Latvia. Do not be afraid to hop on a train or take a tram to the outskirts of Riga to explore the beauty that Latvia has to share with you.
Join a Riga walking tour
We could not miss the opportunity to plug our walking tours! Running every day at 10:00, 12:00, and 15:00, we have the perfect activity for autumn days waiting for you. Just remember to wrap up warmly and make a reservation to secure your space on one of our tours. Check out the Riga Free to schedule to see what we have on offer.
As a special treat this year we have also created 6 special tours just for Halloween. Yes, you read it correctly. We will be hosting a series of tours themed around the Great Cemetery and some of the darker stories that Riga has to offer. You can sign up for the Halloween tour of Riga in the link
Explore Riga's Parks and Gardens
Riga really is spoiled when it comes to parkland, and even around the Old Town, one can take in the parks that run along the canal of Riga. You may also wish to hop on Tram 11 and head all the way to Mežaparks, where you will find a vast forest, lake, and zoo. Perfect for autumn walks.
Check out The best guide to Riga's Parks and gardens to find out more of the amazing parks that Riga has to offer.
Day trip to Sigulda
Every Latvian knows Sigulda; it is one of Latvia's oldest tourist destinations. An autumn in Latvia without a trip to Sigulda is not a real autumn for many locals. Sigulda, famous for its vast valley, river, castles, and hiking trails, is a must-do day trip for visitors to Riga. From Latvia's capital, Riga, Sigulda is only a 1-hour train ride away, where you will find yourself in the heart of Latvian nature. Check out more information for a Day trip from Riga to Sigulda
Walk along the Jurmala coast
Any visit to Latvia without a trip to the beach is a missed opportunity. Riga is just 30 minutes from the long stretching Jūrmala coastline, and with regular trains leaving throughout the day, there is no excuse not to hit the beach for an autumn-time stroll. The Latvian coastline is typically lined with woodland dunes, making for an amazing contrast in color while getting some fresh air and taking in the landscape. Check out more information for a Day trip to Jūrmala
Ķemeri national park
Latvia is rich in wetlands, swamps, and bogs, serving as nesting grounds for migratory birds. Just to the west of Riga, a short train ride brings you to the town of Ķemeri. Once a resort town famous for its clean air, various natural benefits, and springs, Ķemeri has become a favorite among Latvians to explore the natural wetlands found across this region of Latvia. Boardwalks across the wetlands bring you right into the pristine nature. There are a number of walks, so make sure to read the links to find the ones that suit you best.
Check out more information for a Day trip to Ķemeri national park & visit the official Latvia Travel info page
Take in Riga's Museums & Galleries
Riga has so many great museums and galleries, and we are not going to list them all! We just want you to remember that if the weather turns sour, you can always take advantage of Riga's many indoor options. One of them, in particular, is the amazing abundance of cultural, historical, and themed museums and galleries in Riga. Many of which are free to visit. Check out Free things to do in Riga for more ideas.
Oh yes, last Sunday of the month you may fine the Bourse, National Art musuem and Decorative Arts museum offer free entry to permanant exhibitions ;)
Enjoy Riga Restaurant Week
Riga hosts its Riga Restaurant week this autumn from 28 October - 10 November with a wide range of Riga's top dining spots gettiing involved. Dinners range from 30 - 40 euro for a 3 course menu and should be booked in advance. This is a really good way to get your taste buds tingling across some famous locations such as 3 Chefs, Restaurant "5 elementi", Cafe Annas dārzs, B-Bārs Restaurant and many more.
Do not miss out on the chance to try some local restaurants trying to showcase themeselves to both locals and tourists a like.
Head to the Opera & Ballet in Riga
Riga is home to the Latvian National Opera & Ballet where you can see all the upcoming events here. Riga is famous for its high culture and arts and the best thing about this is that everything compared with other European cities is very affordable and accesible for visitors.
Do make sure to book in advance to get the seats you want, whether it be Dracula or Swan lake there is something for everyone. They are even hosting a guided tour in English of the Latvian National Opera on 26th October. Do not miss out!
Whatever you do this autumn in Riga, make sure to dress correctly for the weather. If it rains while you are exploring the city, we have a great guide on what to do on a Rainy day in Riga
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