Impressive Art Nouveau display in this upscale living area. Nice to stroll around on your own or to participate to one of the walking tours !

Must see! Even if you are only in town for a couple of hours or a day. It is a highlight of the city. Recommend guide or downloading a digital guide for more info about it.

Must visit in Riga. Impressive street with art nouveau buildings

Must visit when in Riga! Superb Art Nouveau buildings

UNESCO world heritage street due to the many art nouveau buildings in the street brought about by the English mayor of Riga 1910-15

Wonderful 24 homes designed by same architect.

Alberta Street is one of Riga’s most beautiful and elegant streets, a true open-air museum of Art Nouveau architecture. Built mostly between 1901 and 1908, the buildings here were designed by some of Latvia’s most talented architects, including Mikhail Eisenstein, father of the famous film director Sergei Eisenstein. What makes these façades so captivating is the incredible attention to detail—flowing lines, ornate balconies, sculpted faces, floral patterns, and mythological figures all blending into a harmonious whole. This style, popular at the turn of the 20th century, reflected both the prosperity of Riga’s merchant class and the artistic freedom of the time. Walking down Alberta Street feels like stepping into a different era, when beauty and craftsmanship were just as important as function. The colors, textures, and whimsical details invite you to stop, look up, and admire every corner. ⭐ Tip: Visit in the morning for the best light for photography, and don’t forget to explore the nearby Art Nouveau Museum for more insight into this fascinating style.

The Riga Cathedral is one of the oldest religious buildings in Latvia and the Baltic region. It was founded in 1211. The Cathedral has been rebuilt and enlarged several times over the centuries, having the architectural elements of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque etc. The Cathedral has one of of the world's most valuable historic organs from 19th century. There is an entrance fee to visit the Cathedral, but it's worth every penny. It's truly majestic and very beautiful inside. Don't miss the cloister and courtyard area that contain a collection of artifacts and canons too. There is an option to attend organ concerts, explore the organ balcony, and take tower tours, though we didn't do any of these. Highly recommend a visit to this

Riga Cathedral is the largest cathedral in the Baltic region, located in the old town of Riga. Unfortunately, there is a fee to enter, but if you are not interested in church architecture, it may be more interesting to visit other places such as museums. Also, on some important days in Latvia, free concerts are held in the cathedral.

Visited for the piccolo concerto, I hesitated as it was not cheap for only 20min… it was worth every penny !!!! Instantly got goosebumps when the organist started hitting the keys and pedals. Such a unique experience in a beautiful cathedral.

You can't miss it! Everything about Riga Cathedral is big, bigger or biggest. It is the largest church in the Baltic States, the church is located on the largest square in the city and the organ was once the largest instrument in the world. The first church was built in 1211 by Bishop Albert van Buxhoeveden, the Romanesque altar is a reminder of this. At the end of the 14th/beginning of the 15th century the church was enlarged and given a Gothic appearance. The new, partly wooden tower that was completed in 1595 was one of the highest in the world at 140 meters. Because the tower had fallen into disrepair over the centuries (wooden structures were rotten), the Riga city council decided in 1775 to replace it with a smaller, "only" 90 meters high, Baroque copy. Despite all the destruction caused by fires and the Reformation, the interior has plenty of interesting things to offer: medieval tombstones, the pulpit from 1641, and the 6718-pipe organ. Riga Cathedral: you can't miss it, you shouldn't miss it.

Went for the organ concert at 12:00. It's a bit tricky to chose where to sit. I recommend coming around 15-20 minutes early to be zhere before tourist groups. Sit on the front benches facing the side of the cathedral. that way you can see the screen projectors on the collums at the front (they have a camera showing the organ player) and thr organ pipes in the back.

Impressive Lutheran cathedral in the centre of the old town. Lovely cloisters to walk around.

Haven't been inside but from the outside it's beautiful. Definitely recommend visiting here if you're in Riga.

Plac Ratuszowy, also known as Town Hall Square, is a historic cobbled market square in Riga, Latvia, dating back to the 13th century. Although it was destroyed during World War II, the square has been meticulously reconstructed, showcasing beautiful Hanseatic architecture and monuments.  The square is home to notable landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads, a stunning building that dates back to the 14th century, and the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, which offers insights into Latvia’s 20th-century history under Soviet and Nazi occupations.

The heart of Riga and a must-see stop. Home of the amazing House of the Black Heads and also outdoor cafes to enjoy the view and people watching. Seek out a small sculpture that commemorates the world's first decorated Christmas tree in 1510. Men from the House of the Black Heads decorated one with roses, danced around it, then set it on fire!

Just great we really loved Rigas and would have to be the cleanest city we have visited. Just wandering around the old town and parks is really worth the journey there and don't forget the market it was fantastic.

Parking in the center costs 5€ per hour, the next hour costs 8€. Throughout the city, 1 hour of parking is 1€. The food is delicious, prices are like in most European cities ( pasta 10,90€, Hamburger 12€). We are lunching on the main square. Big city, beautiful and interesting.

So many beautiful buildings around to see! Lovely Church! Love to walk around and explore! Such a beautiful city!

Nice place for a photo opportunity, house of the black heads is a one of the iconic architecture in Riga

Beautiful square with nice dutch renaissance style buildings.

Good exhibition if you want to learn about the history of latvia during the 2nd world war and the period after until the 1990s. Would recommend the audio guide and if you are interested in reading more about the exhibits to plan in around two hours.

Be sure to allow time in your visit to Riga to tour this museum. Ideally visit when you can take the guided tour with a staff member. we did and it added so much more context to the visit. I would allow two hours if possible. Great bathrooms and lockers to make your visit even easier. no café but nearby there are many places to grab a cup of coffee afterwards and process what you’ve learned.

Dramatic museum about Latvia's traumatic recent history under the Soviet and Nazi occupations during the second world war and up to 1991. Lots to read and there are some dramatic films and exhibits. Makes you want to celebrate Latvia's independence with them by the end and wave a Latvian flag! There are lockers for bags but no cafe (there are restaurants nearby).

A super interesting collection detailing the Soviet Occupation of Latvia and the struggle of the people to reestablish their sovereign state. We did an English tour that was pretty rushed. We went back through the entire museum. It is laid out in chronological order and there is a "path" to follow. There's a cute teddy bear character that might keep kids interested with a few interactive displays. There are adult interactives also. The museum tells the tale of brave resistance fighters and you leave with a sense of the great national pride that Latvians have today, as they should !

An incredibly powerful museum with a very important story to tell. A good mix of modern interactive displays and more traditional museology exhibits that will help you understand the struggle of Latvia against several neighbours and the horrible impact of recent history, yet, their ability to persevere. A very enlightening experience for anyone.

I started learning about the history of Latvia on a free walking tour so decided to go into this museum. This was the best museum I’ve ever been to in my life, it has so much history and knowledge and I loved learning so much new things, it’s made me fall in love with Riga and Latvia even more, I recommend this amazing museum to anyone and everyone

I very much enjoyed the tour of the museum of occupation. I took a guided tour that was excellent as it manage to convey feeling and perspectives related to this difficult time of history. I also visited the KGB museum but f2la the occupation museum provided me with more fact and information. I highly, highly recommend taking a guided tour as it really help with the understanding.

Nice to see. Impressive reconstructed fassade. Nice exhibition inside but not necessary to pay entrance and to see the view rooms. For longer stay or if you are really interested. Otherwise just enjoy it from outside

The House of the Black Heads is one of the most iconic landmarks in Riga’s Old Town. Originally built in the 14th century as a guild for unmarried merchants, shipowners, and foreigners, it has always been a center of culture and celebration. The building you see today is a faithful reconstruction, as the original was destroyed during World War II. With its striking Gothic façade decorated with Renaissance details, it is a masterpiece that reflects Riga’s rich history and vibrant spirit. Inside, you’ll find beautifully restored halls, exhibitions about the city’s past, and a glimpse into the life of the Brotherhood of Black Heads. I warmly recommend adding the House of the Black Heads to your itinerary when exploring Riga. It’s not only a chance to admire one of the city’s most stunning architectural gems but also to step into a place where history, art, and culture truly come alive.

Wonderful museum and reconstructed building. The original building was completed destroyed in the Second World War, and the present building was opened in 1999 but it's a beautiful replica as close to the original as possible and an iconic building of Latvia. The outside is spectacular and the indoor tour starts with a tour of the original foundations in the basement and historical information. The upper floors are grand hallways and stately rooms which are impressive. One of our favourite buildings in Riga.

Very nice museum. I liked the way the underground exhibition was organized, with stories abot what was happening in Riga, Latvia, Europe and the world at a particular time in history. The audio guide provides good information. The other floors are also interesting and beautiful. The silver colection is amazing. Well worth the visit.

🏰✨ An absolute gem in the heart of Old Riga! The House of the Blackheads is one of the most stunning buildings I’ve ever seen — beautifully restored, full of history, and glowing with character. The exterior alone is jaw-dropping 😍 with its intricate details, bright colors, and medieval charm. And once you step inside, it gets even better — gorgeous halls, historic artifacts, and a museum that brings Riga’s merchant past to life 📜⚔️🕯️. The ambiance is magical both day and night — it’s also one of the most photogenic spots in the entire city 📸✨. If you’re in Riga, this place is an absolute must-visit. 💯 Highly recommended for history lovers, architecture fans, and anyone who wants to experience the soul of Riga ❤️🇱🇻

an amazing museum. when i went there werent many people so it was great. i definitely recommend it

A stunning gem in Old Riga with a captivating façade that reflects centuries of history. Originally built in 1334 for merchant gatherings and later home to the Brotherhood of Blackheads, this landmark features ornate Renaissance-Mannerist ornamentation added in the 1600s and late‑19th‑century sculptures by August Volz. It was destroyed in WWII and lovingly reconstructed from 1996–1999 with public and city funding. Today it houses a museum and elegant ballrooms, offers multi‑language audio guides, and displays a medieval cellar dating back to the 14th century. Perfect for history lovers and architecture fans!

The Freedom Monument in Riga stands proudly at the heart of the city, symbolizing Latvia’s independence and the spirit of its people. Just steps away, you’ll find the charming Bastejkalns Park, the elegant Opera House, and the bustling Old Town, each offering its own unique charm. A visit to Riga would not be complete without pausing at this monument and exploring the vibrant landmarks that surround it.

Freedom Monument – Riga We visited the Freedom Monument last Sunday on a cold, drizzling day, which somehow made the atmosphere even more powerful. Standing tall in the heart of Riga, the monument is a striking symbol of Latvia’s independence and resilience. Built in 1935, it honours those who gave their lives during the Latvian War of Independence, and remarkably, it survived both Soviet and Nazi occupations as a quiet but steadfast reminder of national pride. Even in the grey weather, the monument and the surrounding area felt peaceful and dignified. The eternal flame and the changing of the guards add a special sense of respect and history. Definitely worth stopping by—whether for the history, the symbolism, or just to take in one of Riga’s most meaningful landmarks.

A Powerful Symbol of Latvia’s Spirit The Freedom Monument is one of the most important and iconic landmarks in Riga. Standing tall and proud in the heart of the city, it’s a powerful tribute to Latvia’s independence and resilience. The sculpture is striking, and the surrounding area — especially with the canal and Bastejkalna Park nearby — makes it a beautiful spot to visit, reflect, and take photos. I’ve passed by many times but haven’t yet had the chance to attend one of the ceremonial guard changes or national events here — hoping to catch one in the future. Even without stepping closer, the atmosphere around the monument feels respectful and meaningful. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand Latvia’s history and national pride.

The Freedom Monument (Brīvības piemineklis) is a must-see in Riga, symbolizing Latvia’s independence and national pride. It's beautifully located in the city center and perfect for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset. Changing of the guard happens hourly—don’t miss it! Tip: Combine your visit with a walk through Bastejkalna Park or stop by the nearby Old Town. Benches nearby offer a great rest spot. Ideal for history lovers and first-time visitors!

Spectacular monument in the heart of Riga. The Riga sign and Laima clock is also located here. Large space to wander around.

Visiting the Freedom Monument in Rīga was a truly moving experience. Standing tall in the heart of the city, it’s more than just a striking piece of architecture—it radiates the spirit of Latvia’s independence and resilience. The figure of Liberty holding three gilded stars is a powerful symbol of unity and hope. A must-see when in Rīga

The Freedom Monument in Riga is a must-visit! A beautiful and meaningful landmark that represents Latvian independence and pride. The area around it is also lovely, with a peaceful park nearby that's perfect for a stroll or just relaxing. A great spot to take in some history and enjoy the city’s charm.

Beautiful church right in the heart of Riga’s Old Town. St. Peter’s Church is an impressively restored building, with restoration work still ongoing. A highlight is the elevator ride up the tower – the elevator may feel a little shaky, but it takes you safely to the top. From there you get a fantastic view over Riga and the Old Town. Definitely a worthwhile stop on a city walk.

Really beautiful church, well worth stopping by even if not religious. The building is stunning & the architecture is immense. You can pay extra to go up in the tower, which is an incredible experience. You get panoramic views of the whole city, including the river. It's a bit scary at first as the lift opens directly out onto the tower, but definitely power through!

St. Peter’s Church in Tallinn is one of those places where history, architecture, and atmosphere all come together beautifully ⛪✨. The church itself has a calm, almost timeless feel to it—like it’s been quietly watching the city change for centuries. The high ceilings and intricate details make you feel both small and amazed, the kind of place where you whisper automatically even if no one tells you to. What I loved most was how it blends solemnity with charm. It’s not just about bricks and stained glass; it’s about stories, traditions, and that sense of being part of something much larger than yourself. And of course, like every good historic church in Europe, it also gives you that gentle reminder that your photography skills will never do it justice. 📸😂 Whether you’re into history, architecture, or just need a quiet escape from the bustle of Tallinn, St. Peter’s Church is worth stepping inside. It’s a place that makes you pause, reflect, and maybe even wish your own ceiling at home was a little more “cathedral-like.”

St. Peter’s Church in the heart of Riga’s Old Town offers an unforgettable experience, the soaring 13th-century tower provides panoramic views over the red-rooftops, the Daugava River and the modern city skyline. Inside, the blend of Gothic and Baroque architecture is impressive, and the history that echoes in the walls makes it more than just a photo-stop. A must-see when in Riga.

An absolute must-visit in Riga! ⛪✨ The towering architecture of St. Peter’s Church is breathtaking up close — truly one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The interiors are peaceful and filled with history, and for a small fee you can take the elevator up to the observation deck 🌆⬆️ which surprised me with stunning panoramic views of the whole city — rooftops, river, bridges, everything! 😍 The atmosphere around the church is vibrant, full of cafés and street life, making it the perfect stop during a walk through Old Town 🚶‍♂️💛. Definitely worth the visit if you want to experience Riga from its most beautiful angle! 📸✨

9EUR to visit the church and do up to the tower via 3 flights of stairs and an elevator. As soon as you step out of the elevator you are on the viewing platform which can be very windy but views are beautiful especially with nice weather. Church itself is nice and peaceful.

St. Peter’s Church is one of Riga’s must-see landmarks, especially because of its stunning viewing tower. After taking the lift up, you’re rewarded with a panoramic view over the entire city.

If you like great food at a reasonable price, the central market is waiting for you. SO MUCH FOOD! Everything was fresh and was as alluring to the nose as it was to the palate. So much variety, you will hardly know where to start. It's even fun if you're not hungry... just walk around and take it all in. Definitely recommend!

The best open market I’ve ever visited. Traditional meeting the modern in a wonderful mix. Vegetables, fruits, nuts fish, poultry, beef, clothes and lot of other things. I will be back.

I visited Riga Central Market, and it was such a vibrant experience. The market is huge and full of life you can find just about everything here, from fresh flowers and local foods to meats, cheeses, spices, and handmade goods. It’s a great place to discover authentic Latvian flavors and everyday life. The market is set inside historic old Zeppelin hangars, which gives it a unique and impressive atmosphere. Each pavilion specializes in different products, making it easy to explore and sample a wide variety of items. I especially enjoyed seeing the fresh produce stands and traditional Latvian treats. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s also a cultural experience, perfect for walking around, tasting, and soaking in the local vibe. Prices are fair, and you’ll find both locals and tourists enjoying the market. If you’re visiting Riga, this is definitely a must-see. 📍 Location: Nēģu iela 7, Riga, Latvia

Nice and quick lunch spot in the gastronomy market they have different restaurants where you can have local food and buy local cheeses and souvenirs. A nice quick stop in the city. Haven’t take any picture of the dumplings but they were very good.

Great place to sample the local food. There are plenty of fruit and veg stalls, flower stalls and clothing stalls as well as a food market inside. They sell all the traditional dishes for extremely reasonable prices so a great way to eat like the locals. It’s a vibrant, buzzing area that’s definitely worth a visit.

Really big market with so much variety. There are different halls dedicated to different types of goods (the meat hall, the fish hall, etc). There's a hall that has eateries, and there are other retain shops throughout. Outside there are fresh fruits and vegetables as well as flowers. Definitely a must visit location for anyone visiting Riga.

A very unique market where each of the four large hangars offers something different, with wonderful caviar, meat, and fish products for sale, and outside, a marketplace and florists. I really liked it.

Little museum consentrated on different aspects of history- history of St.Trinity church, History of Jelgava and more. Museum exhibits are interactive and they have thought about children aswell accessability. Tower has elevator to move up and down. You still have to open the door to get into exhibition room and use glass staircase to get to city viewing area just under the glass roof. This may be an issue for some people. On top floor you can enjoy Jelgava city views through glass roof. Interesting place to visit. Not too time consuming unless you go through absolutely everything. Then it can take hours. Lady in the ticket office while I visited was really friendly and helpful.

The crown jewel of the city. The tower has the best city views, the story of this important Latvian city, an excellent example of a romantic cafe (the best cafe ever for my very well travelled friend) with outstanding food and service, fun interactive galleries (try wedding clothes or period jewellery!), and paintings by Latvian artists.

Not much to see there! The digital expositions are just ok. The view of the city at the top is not any great as the metal structure and the glasses disturb the view. Pictures are not worth up there, as you can see in one of my pics. Just the outside view of the tower is interesting.

The Jelgava St. Trinity Church Tower is a charming historical site with a lot of character. Climbing to the top rewards you with fantastic panoramic views of Jelgava and the surrounding area. The tower is well-maintained, and the staff are friendly and helpful, sharing interesting details about the church’s history. It can be a bit crowded during peak hours, but the experience is worth it for both the views and the insight into local history. A lovely spot for visitors exploring Jelgava!

I didn't expect this place to be so interesting! There are only 4 floors of thd tower open but each floor has a room with something interesting to find out. There is a floor dedicated to the city history, the church and Jelgava fashion. The 9th floor is a cosy place made of glass where you can seat and enjoy the view of the city. The 8th floor is the restaurant. The entrance fee for adults is 2.50€. There is WC and the elevator. Do spend some time in each room: it's worth it, especially the fashion room. They show a short video about fashion changing through the years. Recommended for visiting 💯%

Beautifully renovated tower. On the top you can oversee the whole city through the glass roof. On some levels exhibitions. While on the level with clocks you will find great restaurant. During lunch hours you can try simple, but very interesting lunch offers. In the evenings you can have nice dinner. Tasty choices for vegetarians. Interior fabulous.

Nice view on the observation deck of the tower on the 9th floor. Only $1 euro per person to take elevator up. We took the stairs down to visit the gallery and had lunch on the 8th floor. Beautiful decor and relaxing atmosphere. The frog legs, snails & mussels were all yummy.

Absolutely stunning church. The blue domes are beautiful from the outside, but the real magic is inside... 😍 full of rich colours, gold details, and peaceful energy.

Stunning orthodox church with a sad story. The church traces its history to 1710, when Peter the Great, Tsar of Russia, arranged the marriage of his niece Anna to Frederick William, Duke of Courland. The duke promised to build an Orthodox church in Jelgava (then known as Mitau), his capital, but his premature death prevented this. Anna wanted to get married in this church that was yet to be built.

Extremely beautiful temple - inside and outside! It's also nice that they let you take pictures inside, which I could not in others!!...

Next to the palace in Jelgava, one of the most beautiful places in this city

Beautiful church!

Another beautiful church with a great history.

Beautiful orthodox church on the way from the railway station to the city centre

Perhaps the jewel of Latvia. The palace is in really good condition, thanks to everyone's hard work. The gardens are certainly kept in immaculate condition. Most of the rooms are open to visitors, including the bedrooms and bathrooms of the Duke and Duchess — definitely worth a visit. It's usually not very crowded on weekdays. You can use an audio guide.

Beautiful, rich collection, friendly staff, almost no tourists in November yet highly operational. Interesting to see powder rooms and toilet closets. Impressive collection of “ household” peaces. Wonderful cafe switch beautiful service. Food served in aristocratic dish-ware. The clock outside is restarted with beautiful music playing at each hour with the sound stretching through whole yard yard. Very happy with our visit.

The Baltic Versailles! Amidst the vast fields and meadows of Zemgale (Semgallen) stands the most beautiful baroque palace in the Baltic States: the Rundāles Pils (Rundāle Palace). The palace was commissioned by Ernst Johann Biron, the lover of Tsarina Anna Ivanova who bestowed him the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia. The famous Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli designed and built a palace inspired by Versailles. Since the Duke was exiled to Siberia by his political enemies in 1740, the construction of the palace took place in two phases. During the first phase (1736-40) the palace itself was built, and during the second phase (1765-68) the furnishing of 138 rooms and halls was completed. During the Latvian War of Independence in 1919, the palace was badly damaged. In 1933, the palace was restored/rebuilt when a school was established. After the Rundāle Palace Museum was founded in 1972, a thorough and long-term restoration was immediately started, which was only completed in 2015. Thanks to this restoration, the palace once again radiates its 18th century grandeur, which visitors can admire in 40 rooms and halls. In addition to the magnificent interior, the French gardens are certainly worth a visit. So all in all, Rundāle Palace is a destination that should not be missed on your itinerary!

Amazing place! Worth the drive from Riga. We enjoyed it very much! Unfortunately rainy weather stopped us from going to their beautiful gardens. A lot of visitors even on weekday.

Really glad we decided to drive and visit Rundāle Palace. If you had a car - don't skip this easy day trip from Riga. The gardens are beautiful - and it's aways interesting to see intricate buildings preserved. Impressive! We spent about 2.5 hours here in total. We visited on a Wednesday and bought tickets when we got there.

The Rundale Palace in Latvia was built in the 18th century. Though originally built as a palace it was used for various purposes including a school. In 1972 the palace and the surrounding gardens was established as a museum. It has 40 rooms exhibiting furniture, decorative pieces, paintings including painted ceilings. Very impressive from outside and inside, one of the most well preserved palaces in the world. The French garden adds to the charm of the palace. Ticket can be purchased together for the palace and the garden. We visited it on a "Tour and Transfer" from Riga To Vilnius. Highly recommend it.

The Palace of amazing beauty 🤩🥰 with a large French park nearby. The beginning of the palace dates back to the 16th century, although Rundale Manor is mentioned from the 15th century. To walk the main paths in the garden, inside the palace - will be about 6.2 km, and if you explore all the passages of the garden it will be more of km. 🙃 and you should dedicate at least 3.5 hours (you can run around faster, but it is better to walk slower 🙃). The price for an adult to visit all the places is 23 €, but you can also visit the garden and palace for 17 €, but then you will not enter one of the palace "wing" with another exposition. If you have already arrived at the place and have an opportunity - it is definitely worth visiting all possible places.

Perhaps the jewel of Latvia. The palace is in really good condition, thanks to everyone's hard work. The gardens are certainly kept in immaculate condition. Most of the rooms are open to visitors, including the bedrooms and bathrooms of the Duke and Duchess — definitely worth a visit. It's usually not very crowded on weekdays. You can use an audio guide.

Beautiful, rich collection, friendly staff, almost no tourists in November yet highly operational. Interesting to see powder rooms and toilet closets. Impressive collection of “ household” peaces. Wonderful cafe switch beautiful service. Food served in aristocratic dish-ware. The clock outside is restarted with beautiful music playing at each hour with the sound stretching through whole yard yard. Very happy with our visit.

The Baltic Versailles! Amidst the vast fields and meadows of Zemgale (Semgallen) stands the most beautiful baroque palace in the Baltic States: the Rundāles Pils (Rundāle Palace). The palace was commissioned by Ernst Johann Biron, the lover of Tsarina Anna Ivanova who bestowed him the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia. The famous Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli designed and built a palace inspired by Versailles. Since the Duke was exiled to Siberia by his political enemies in 1740, the construction of the palace took place in two phases. During the first phase (1736-40) the palace itself was built, and during the second phase (1765-68) the furnishing of 138 rooms and halls was completed. During the Latvian War of Independence in 1919, the palace was badly damaged. In 1933, the palace was restored/rebuilt when a school was established. After the Rundāle Palace Museum was founded in 1972, a thorough and long-term restoration was immediately started, which was only completed in 2015. Thanks to this restoration, the palace once again radiates its 18th century grandeur, which visitors can admire in 40 rooms and halls. In addition to the magnificent interior, the French gardens are certainly worth a visit. So all in all, Rundāle Palace is a destination that should not be missed on your itinerary!

Amazing place! Worth the drive from Riga. We enjoyed it very much! Unfortunately rainy weather stopped us from going to their beautiful gardens. A lot of visitors even on weekday.

Really glad we decided to drive and visit Rundāle Palace. If you had a car - don't skip this easy day trip from Riga. The gardens are beautiful - and it's aways interesting to see intricate buildings preserved. Impressive! We spent about 2.5 hours here in total. We visited on a Wednesday and bought tickets when we got there.

The Rundale Palace in Latvia was built in the 18th century. Though originally built as a palace it was used for various purposes including a school. In 1972 the palace and the surrounding gardens was established as a museum. It has 40 rooms exhibiting furniture, decorative pieces, paintings including painted ceilings. Very impressive from outside and inside, one of the most well preserved palaces in the world. The French garden adds to the charm of the palace. Ticket can be purchased together for the palace and the garden. We visited it on a "Tour and Transfer" from Riga To Vilnius. Highly recommend it.

The Palace of amazing beauty 🤩🥰 with a large French park nearby. The beginning of the palace dates back to the 16th century, although Rundale Manor is mentioned from the 15th century. To walk the main paths in the garden, inside the palace - will be about 6.2 km, and if you explore all the passages of the garden it will be more of km. 🙃 and you should dedicate at least 3.5 hours (you can run around faster, but it is better to walk slower 🙃). The price for an adult to visit all the places is 23 €, but you can also visit the garden and palace for 17 €, but then you will not enter one of the palace "wing" with another exposition. If you have already arrived at the place and have an opportunity - it is definitely worth visiting all possible places.

Perhaps the jewel of Latvia. The palace is in really good condition, thanks to everyone's hard work. The gardens are certainly kept in immaculate condition. Most of the rooms are open to visitors, including the bedrooms and bathrooms of the Duke and Duchess — definitely worth a visit. It's usually not very crowded on weekdays. You can use an audio guide.

Beautiful, rich collection, friendly staff, almost no tourists in November yet highly operational. Interesting to see powder rooms and toilet closets. Impressive collection of “ household” peaces. Wonderful cafe switch beautiful service. Food served in aristocratic dish-ware. The clock outside is restarted with beautiful music playing at each hour with the sound stretching through whole yard yard. Very happy with our visit.

The Baltic Versailles! Amidst the vast fields and meadows of Zemgale (Semgallen) stands the most beautiful baroque palace in the Baltic States: the Rundāles Pils (Rundāle Palace). The palace was commissioned by Ernst Johann Biron, the lover of Tsarina Anna Ivanova who bestowed him the Duchy of Courland and Semigallia. The famous Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli designed and built a palace inspired by Versailles. Since the Duke was exiled to Siberia by his political enemies in 1740, the construction of the palace took place in two phases. During the first phase (1736-40) the palace itself was built, and during the second phase (1765-68) the furnishing of 138 rooms and halls was completed. During the Latvian War of Independence in 1919, the palace was badly damaged. In 1933, the palace was restored/rebuilt when a school was established. After the Rundāle Palace Museum was founded in 1972, a thorough and long-term restoration was immediately started, which was only completed in 2015. Thanks to this restoration, the palace once again radiates its 18th century grandeur, which visitors can admire in 40 rooms and halls. In addition to the magnificent interior, the French gardens are certainly worth a visit. So all in all, Rundāle Palace is a destination that should not be missed on your itinerary!

Amazing place! Worth the drive from Riga. We enjoyed it very much! Unfortunately rainy weather stopped us from going to their beautiful gardens. A lot of visitors even on weekday.

Really glad we decided to drive and visit Rundāle Palace. If you had a car - don't skip this easy day trip from Riga. The gardens are beautiful - and it's aways interesting to see intricate buildings preserved. Impressive! We spent about 2.5 hours here in total. We visited on a Wednesday and bought tickets when we got there.

The Rundale Palace in Latvia was built in the 18th century. Though originally built as a palace it was used for various purposes including a school. In 1972 the palace and the surrounding gardens was established as a museum. It has 40 rooms exhibiting furniture, decorative pieces, paintings including painted ceilings. Very impressive from outside and inside, one of the most well preserved palaces in the world. The French garden adds to the charm of the palace. Ticket can be purchased together for the palace and the garden. We visited it on a "Tour and Transfer" from Riga To Vilnius. Highly recommend it.

The Palace of amazing beauty 🤩🥰 with a large French park nearby. The beginning of the palace dates back to the 16th century, although Rundale Manor is mentioned from the 15th century. To walk the main paths in the garden, inside the palace - will be about 6.2 km, and if you explore all the passages of the garden it will be more of km. 🙃 and you should dedicate at least 3.5 hours (you can run around faster, but it is better to walk slower 🙃). The price for an adult to visit all the places is 23 €, but you can also visit the garden and palace for 17 €, but then you will not enter one of the palace "wing" with another exposition. If you have already arrived at the place and have an opportunity - it is definitely worth visiting all possible places.

This park is beautiful in each of four seasons. It was great to see it in the beginning of September.

Very nice, small and unique gardens, with fantastic landlord. Friendly to the dogs. Loved landscape.

Absolutely not friendly for going there with kids the terrain is like from ww2 trenches, mosquito tsunami, not recommended. :(

Beautiful park, perfect for relaxing and meditation🧘‍♀️. Many trees planted are not typical for the Baltics.

This park is Little hidden gem, so nice, peaceful and clean. Nice paths for quiet romantic walks.

Not big, if you are a lover of trees and nature you will like this

So peaceful and beautiful place

This really old castle is located by the former main road and river. It's a very well restored location. There is still work to do but they are very far. It's more that worth to visit it. To the top of the tower is 85 steps one way. We enjoyed it very much.

Far from where tourists go but the place has a big history that's well explained. Most signs are strictly in Latvian though, some are translated into English. Be prepared to go up and down some steep stairs.

An interesting and heavily restored castle. History of the owners of the castle and their furniture, dress and military. Nice climb up the tower which gives great views of the town €4.50 for seniors

Passed Bauska for so many years 😬 and only now visited the castle - it was definitely worth it 🤩. A relatively small but beautiful castle, which was built in the middle of the 15th century by the Livonian Order in this place to strengthen its influence in Zemgale. Currently, the castle has been partially restored, other surviving parts have been preserved, and a museum is open. To get around the nearby territory and inside - it was about 3.7 km.

Must to visit place, a beautiful castle located in memorising landscape. Perfect place for Instagram photos, don't miss the largde bauska photo frame in the river side. Highly recommended place to spend time.

Another beautifully restored castle with well though out presentations offering glimpse into the life of germanborn in Baltics during the fellowship centuries.

We chose not to go inside and wanted to see the castle from the outside; we were on a tour and had 45 min at this stop. It is peaceful and quite beautiful. May 2025

We were disappointed with our recent visit to Pakruojis Manor. Compared to our visit three years ago, when everything felt magical and beautifully maintained, this time it was underwhelming. The little island that used to have romantic swings, dreamcatchers, and freely hopping rabbits is now empty and lifeless. All those charming touches were gone. Despite the €20 ticket price per person, the experience didn’t live up to our expectations. Sadly, it seems the place has lost much of its former charm.

You arrive on Saturday for an overnight stay with massages, and then you're told there's a BBQ evening and all the spots are taken — and that there's no other restaurant in the whole manor where you could get food. They just suggest you go eat somewhere else :) Yes, we did receive an email a few days before the visit saying we could reserve a spot for the BBQ evening, but it wasn't mentioned that without that, there would be nowhere else to eat. The price, of course, is sky-high, and honestly, it shouldn't be like this — you pay for a stay at a manor, you arrive, and end up going hungry. There wasn’t even a place to get a drink. The cherry on top — the Miller’s House isn’t actually part of the Pakruojis Manor territory, so if you want to visit it, you have to pay extra :) We paid, only to find out the event was already over and the area was about to close. But they told us it was fine, and we could come back Sunday and the tickets would still be valid. What they didn’t say is that the gates wouldn’t open in the morning, and half of the attractions inside would be closed. The sculpture area was also quite tasteless. The rooms were super small and nowhere near as impressive as in the photos. I don’t know — the idea is fine, but they try to squeeze money out of you at every turn. It shouldn’t be this way. We paid, went to the massages, and then spent the whole evening sitting in a tiny room eating pizza because there was nowhere else to go.

Ended up paying for the double amount of tickets to the park than what I put in the cart, because after initiating a payment via one provider I decided to use another payment service. When I returned to the cart the amount of selected tickets doubled, which I haven’t noticed due to screen layout on the phone. Contacted the Pakruojo dvaras - the reply was “sorry, we have no means of refunding the tickets”. Good thing it wasn’t a big family trip, so I only overpaid 30 EUR instead of 100+. Definitely will not be visiting this place again.

Good service, food was ok, bad that main building was closed an in the rooms were like 15 degrees cold, for 145 per night was not expecting that, radiators were cold. Parking on hard top was full, needed to park in grass area, bad that taking more people than they have facilities.

We visited Pakruojo Dvaras with a family group of nearly 20 people, and the experience was extremely disappointing from beginning to end. Booking activities and the restaurant in advance was unnecessarily complicated. When we arrived, the issues continued. Some of our guests were late to lunch, and even though the restaurant was nearly empty, the staff were rude and complained, which made us feel unwelcome. Due to bad weather, we chose to skip the Flower Festival performances and instead go straight to the prepaid degustation event. To our shock, the staff refused to let us in unless we purchased Flower Festival tickets, even though the last performance of the day was happening at the same time as the degustation. We had already paid close to €200 and expected to pay €150 more, but they demanded over €450 extra. They wouldn’t let us attend the event we already paid for—and kept the money. We ended up leaving early. I had guests who came all the way from France, and this was not the experience I wanted for them. The staff seemed uninterested and unhelpful, despite the venue being mostly empty. Sadly, it felt like they were more focused on squeezing money out of us than actually providing a good experience. We felt scammed, disappointed, and completely let down. I cannot recommend this place to anyone.

A little kitschy but a great place for any age visitor, loads of flowers and sculptures, animals, interesting old items, and activitities. In the bar you can taste delicious cumin kvass and localy made craft beer. The restaurant has interesting meniu of old time local foods.

Amber museum, loved it 😍 and somehow... it felt as if I was brought back century ago, viewing a piece of time itself permanently frozen. 👏👏

It was a gastronomic revelation and that is why we visited the restaurant two days in a row! Its' interior reminds a manor-like appartments, the food is superb and variety of beers could be served in jars - which provides an opportunity to have a small tasting ceremony.

Terrible experience! We arrived about 50 minutes before closing. We just asked to have some beers in the bar. Not even food. Ladies were extremely rude and made us clear they want us to leave from the place. They pretended that they don’t speak English and did not even answered our questions. Bad memory from a beautiful city. We just wanted to taste the local beer also.

Nice food for a good price. Tried the beer plate. Most of the beer was nice. The salad and pork were good. Salad 6.80 EUR. Pork with grilled vegetables and potatoes 10,50 EUR. Large beer (500 ml) - 2,50 EUR.

Seed crepes with salted salmon and lime cream definitely worth to try 🍻

Very nice food and beer. Wide selection if their home made beers and you can do a brewery tour also

Amazing beer tasting experience combined with really great food! Totally worth visiting when in Birzai area. Plus there is a shop on premises with total selection of Rinkuskiai beer, including those mixed beer tasting kits.

Take a tour! Perfect place to relax.

Visited recently on a day trip from Panevezys. There’s lots of free parking nearby, and a really interesting museum inside. Some interactive areas too, such as a weighted vest showing how much the chainmail vests weigh and a projected animation of how the swedes attacked the castle. Well worth a visit!

Historic Biržų pilies rūmai offers charming insight into Lithuanian nobility with restored interiors and informative exhibits. The castle grounds are pleasant for a stroll, though some rooms feel underwhelming. And yes, worth a visit.

Beautiful castle with a large museum exhibition. Entrance is €5 per person and you get to visit the museum which has three floors and the arsenal building located right next to the castle. The exhibition was interesting. The organisation of the exhibits could have been better. Also, there’s not so much history that would be specific to the Biržai region. The video in the arsenal building is poorly made. After spending 15 min watching the film we were left with so many questions. Overall it was a great 2 hours spent wandering around the museum and its beautiful garden.

A cute castle in the small town of Biržai. Interesting culture venue. In addition to the nice local library, we found the Jonas Mekas’ archives, two painting exhibition, and a small museum.

Entrance ticket cost to Castle inside where is located museum- 5eur. Around castle is nice and well maintained garden with nice view to lake. The museum is old fashioned with exposition which consist almost only on all kind of old stuff and junk. Nothing entertaning. Castle interior is plain, if you enjoy architecture or interior, inside there is not nothing impressive and worth seeing. The best view and experience is exterior and garden with amazing location.

Very nice place. You could walk around the castle and get amazing view over Birzai. The entrance still has old entrance and looking good. There was some construction work around area. We were in the evening, so the castle was closed but we will definitely go inside next time.

Beautiful castle in the middle of a nice park and lake. Well worth to take a walk and look around. Playgrounds in the vicinity.

Typical soulless shopping mall, but located nicely close to main road, if you are driving through Lithuania and need to buy somethings.

nice mall

Good mall, lots of good stores

Seems nice and contemporary, although was there with specific need and very shortly.

Only couple of clothes stores such as H&M and Vero Moda, many shoe stores, cosmetic stores, liquir stores, supermarket, and other stores.

A shopping mall with some shops that still have good prices on shoes and t-shirts. I bought 2 pair of shoes in good quality for 50 euro. And of course they have alcohol and food also.

Can find most of the stuff a shopping mall can offer. but the atmosphere was so so, most of the shops were expensive for the everyday person, and there wasn't any good shops for my interest.

Amazing place. Really interesting part of Lithuanian history

Like it here. Second visit in 7 years and not much has changed. Seem to be pretty relaxed about you having a go on things. Reccoment going to find out about this little railway gem for yourself.

Great museum. The guide was great. Told a lot about thehistory of the local railway. I personally liked a lot the exposition of cars. Recommend. The kids liked the place as well, spent some time in the room with small trains and toys. Driving with dresina was nice.

I'm not expecting that good fun. Small local museum worth to visit. You can touch, sit in vehicles and get wee travel uncommon machines like rail bike.

It was closed during the week, but you could walk around.

We enjoyed a quick guided tour of this museum. There are a lot of history and fun facts, particularly for those obsessed with trains.

This is a very interesting museum with interesting exhibits. there is also a history of narrow gauge railways and vintage cars. Thanks to the tour guide for a great tour!

I’ve visited this place a few times now, the tree top walk and viewing platform are great fun. The view from the viewing platform is great, but a word of warning the floor is constructed from metal grates so you can see though it - you’ll need a head for heights. During the summer there can be lots of mosquitoes as I found out, I’d recommend wearing trousers! Well worth a visit.

It's a great family activity. Walking above the trees is a very interesting experience. After the trail, there are two cafes with a fairly wide selection of food, which is also nice.

The Tree Top Walking Path offers a unique and refreshing experience walking among the treetops with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding forest. The path is mostly flat and accessible, making it suitable for all ages. The highlight is the observation tower with breathtaking vistas and a fun 55-meter tunnel slide for some added adventure. The adjacent Adventure Forest playground is perfect for families, with plenty of activities for kids. The staff are friendly, and the facilities, including clean toilets, are well maintained. It's a peaceful nature escape with interesting birdwatching opportunities and beautiful seasonal colors, especially in autumn. A small entry fee applies, but the experience is well worth it. Highly recommended for nature lovers and families alike!

Very nice and relaxing place to be. Cost is loe, but for me the track was just too short. Nonetheless - still something different and enjoyed it. :)

A short quality experience in Anykščiai, in our case there was no wait for the tickets, cards are accepted. Lots of parking on the road to the path.

Nice surroundings in the middle of the national park but I expected longer treetrop walking path. We were in and out in about 10-15minutes (including going to the top of the lookout tower). The information center is quite nice and the people who work there are even nicer!

Unique treetop walking path near Anykščiai. Ticket price for adults 5€, entrance for children is free.

This stone (more like pebble) is the most overrated destination in Baltic states, maybe in the whole World. Worst stone I have ever visited. I will not attach any pictures, because I did not even bother to make one and waste precious battery energy and storage in my phone. This is not even the largest stone in Lithuania.

Nice place, worth of visiting and spending couple of calm hours when in Anykščiai. Lajų takas and sculpture park are close for more activities.

Hi everyone. That's true rewies. This time Puntukas stone. Going on weekend with a god weather? Go very early. Really busy, but REALLY nice.... they r selling kebabs😂😂ok that's true but am joking. Nothing to right about, but go. For 100% it's good for kids, weather, free parking (if u gonna find it). Don't take dogs, not everywhere its allowed.

Slightly worn out papers on the history of the place, and on the top of the tower over viewing the area, the words are barely readable. Other than that 5 stars

Mother of all stones. The place is massive but it could have been more interesting if they gave more history. Where they found it, how hard to put it in place and the carving of the two Lithuanian pilots, which was done in secret as Soviet Lithuania did not recognized them as heros.

It is the second largest boulder in Lithuania. In 1943 the sculptor Bronius Pundzius completed the bas-reliefs and words from the testaments of Steponas Darius and Stasys Girėnas, the pilots that have flown across the Atlantic Ocean.

You can tell the stone is ancient and has seen many souls over the centuries

Nice trail to take a walk, has a stunning view during the sunset.

Lovely place to go for a walk or have a picnic

Interesting to find more about Lithuanian history, it's places and castles. Also there is a lovely town nearby with modern church, old bell tower and historical tavern.

Wild nature track for walking, nice views. Needed to cut off grass and some trees. Possibilities to see ruins of castle during work week limited

Though it's just a hill now with a small museum, it's a must for anyone interested in history. Nice walk around

The castle remains are in a protective building, so it doesn't deteriorate further. It's free to enter.

Interesting and beautifully restored historic place. No toilet, not accessible by wheelchair.

Visiting Trakai Island Castle was like stepping into a living piece of Lithuanian history. The moment you cross the wooden bridge over Lake Galvė, the red-brick towers appear in full majesty — calm, proud, and full of stories. Inside, each hall has its own character: the Grand Duke’s chamber feels royal and atmospheric, the armory impresses with real swords and armor, and the exhibition about Vytautas the Great brings the medieval world to life. I loved how well-preserved everything is — you can almost imagine knights, musicians, and nobles walking through these halls centuries ago. Helpful Tips for Visitors: Arrive early, especially on weekends — it gets crowded quickly. Book tickets online in advance to skip the queue. Take a guided tour or audio guide — it adds so much depth to the visit. Bring cash for local shops or snacks — not all vendors accept cards. Don’t miss the inner courtyard and lake views — perfect for photos. Families with kids should visit the dungeon and towers — they’re always a hit! After the castle, try the legendary kibinai at “Senoji Kibininė” nearby — the perfect finish to your day. Trakai Castle isn’t just a tourist attraction — it’s a real time machine that lets you feel the spirit of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. A must-see for anyone who loves history, architecture, or simply beautiful places that make you pause and breathe in the past.

Stunning castle in one of the most beautiful settings in the world. We were lucky with the weather as it had been raining all day the previous day. The restauration of the castle is amazing and still ongoing. Certain areas were closed because of that and because we visited out of season. But still lots to see with a huge number of period artefacts. Gives you an idea of how important trade was. Tranquil setting with nice walks in the area. Not many visitors but I can imagine it gets very busy in Summer. Good restaurants around on the lake side leading to the castle. It's a good walk from the station, about 3km, but beautiful along the lakes. The whole experience was magnificent and the on site toilets were immaculate. Access for wheelchair users a bit tricky and you need to be fairly sure footed due to the old cobbled roads and paths. But what a place. Return rail ticket from Vilnius was about €6.

A very cool medieval castle and a museum! Despite some rain and October gloomy weather, we had a great time exploring the castle. The grey skies gave the whole location a nice vibe, and the forest and lake surrounding the castle looked stunning.

Had an lovely experience visiting Trakai. Nestled in nature, the entire environment is incredibly calming and beautiful. The colorful houses and the vibrant surroundings make it a truly picturesque destination. The peaceful ambiance, especially with water all around, adds to the tranquility. And of course, if you visit, you absolutely must try the kibinai, a delicious local treat that adds an authentic touch. Absolutely worth the trip!

I visited Trakai Castle in October, and it was absolutely stunning. The autumn colors made the entire island look like something out of a fairy tale — golden leaves reflecting on the calm lake, with the red brick walls of the castle standing proudly in the middle. The weather was cool but pleasant, perfect for exploring without crowds. The walk across the wooden bridge to the castle is beautiful and gives you plenty of photo opportunities. Inside, the museum is well-organized, with interesting exhibits about Lithuanian history, the Grand Dukes, and medieval life. There’s also a sense of calm and history that you can really feel as you wander through the courtyards and towers. Even though some areas felt a bit touristy (like the souvenir stalls near the entrance), it didn’t take away from the experience. I’d recommend stopping at one of the nearby cafés to try kibinai, the local pastry — warm and delicious on a chilly autumn day. Overall: A must-visit if you’re in Lithuania. Trakai Castle in autumn is simply magical — peaceful, picturesque, and full of history.

We visited a beautiful, photogenic castle situated on an island surrounded by water. During our visit, a portion of the castle was closed for renovation, which unfortunately affected the quality of our photographs. The interior of the castle is rich in history, and the local guide was very knowledgeable in sharing its stories.

The Trakai Island Castle (Trakų salos pilis) is a stunning medieval fortress set on an island in Lake Galvė, Lithuania. Reached by wooden bridges, it feels like stepping into a fairytale. The red-brick towers, calm waters, and scenic surroundings make it one of the country’s most photogenic spots. The museum inside is informative, and boat views are magical at sunset. A must-visit day trip from Vilnius for history and nature lovers alike.

A beautiful old Orthodox church) It has its architectural features and it's difficult to get past. Unfortunately, the church may be closed even on weekends.

This is a beautiful church in a breathtaking place in Lithuania, a couple of dozen kilometers from the capital, from Vilnius. This place, this town, Trakai, which is located between the beautiful lakes and which in the old days was the capital of the Lithuanian duchy, simply incomparably magnificent. This church was founded in the first half of the 19th century, during the Russian imperial occupation of Lithuania. First, a small building was built. During the brutal First World War, the church was badly damaged. After several years of worship, the divine service was restored there.

A beautiful church worth visiting. However, it may not be easy to park a car nearby, and the church itself is not always open.

🤗

It's Sunday, where is my money

Nice little church

Beautiful church

A beautiful old Orthodox church) It has its architectural features and it's difficult to get past. Unfortunately, the church may be closed even on weekends.

This is a beautiful church in a breathtaking place in Lithuania, a couple of dozen kilometers from the capital, from Vilnius. This place, this town, Trakai, which is located between the beautiful lakes and which in the old days was the capital of the Lithuanian duchy, simply incomparably magnificent. This church was founded in the first half of the 19th century, during the Russian imperial occupation of Lithuania. First, a small building was built. During the brutal First World War, the church was badly damaged. After several years of worship, the divine service was restored there.

A beautiful church worth visiting. However, it may not be easy to park a car nearby, and the church itself is not always open.

🤗

It's Sunday, where is my money

Nice little church

Beautiful church