Start with a coffee and rye-bread sandwiches at Riga Central Market’s small cafés; the market is a great introduction to Latvian produce and architecture (Soviet pavilions).
Self-guided or guided stroll through the medieval core to see the House of the Blackheads, Riga Cathedral and narrow lanes; excellent for Gothic and Hanseatic architecture. Many churches open 10:00–17:00 but check seasonal hours.
Walk Alberta and Elizabetes streets to admire Riga’s unparalleled Art Nouveau façades and decorative details; guided museum (Art Nouveau Museum) typically open 10:00–18:00 (check hours).
Take the ferry (check current timetable) and enjoy island views; ferries run multiple times daily but frequency varies seasonally—book cars in advance.
If interested in border-town architecture, continue to Narva to see Hermann Castle overlooking Russia—note some places have limited hours; check local advisories and opening times.
Choose brewery tours or, for a deeper cultural experience, visit the award-winning Estonian National Museum in the Raadi area (check opening hours, typically 10:00–18:00).