Riga, the capital of Latvia, may not top everyone’s European bucket list, but that’s exactly why you should go. Tucked away on the edge of the Baltics, this city impresses with its medieval Old Town squares, grand Art Nouveau architecture, great food spots, and a lively café culture. Here’s how to spend a perfect three days discovering this underrated treasure. And since it’s still often overlooked in favour of other European capital, it’s still remains more of a hidden gem in Europe and a fantastic destination for a short weekend getaway.

During my trip, I stayed at the Wellton Centrum Hotel & Spa, which was perfectly located on a cobblestone street lined with bars. Just a short walk from all the major landmarks, it was ideally located for some sightseeing and a lovely place to wind down after a full day of exploring.

Day I

Start your trip wandering the cobbled streets of Riga’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of charm. Admire the colorful facades, soak up the atmosphere in the main squares, and don’t miss the House of the Blackheads, an ornate building that’s just as photogenic as it is historic.

For one of the best views in the city, climb the tower at St. Peter’s Church. From up here, you’ll also get a great sense of Riga’s layout with its church spires, red rooftops, and the Daugava River winding through the city. Rest your feet and grab a coffee break at MiiT Coffee, a local favorite for quality espresso and tasty vegetarian bites.

In the afternoon, stop by the Freedom Monument, a symbol of Latvian independence and pride and then stroll through the city’s parks and past the grand National Opera building. For dinner, make a reservation at MILDA and try traditional Latvian dishes with a rustic twist. End the evening at Skyline Bar on the 26th floor of the Radisson Blu and visit during sunset for a golden panorama over the city.

Day II

Begin your day with a delicious brunch at This Place Doesn’t Need A Name Avotu, then head for a walk to Riga’s Art Nouveau district, just outside the Old Town. Alberta iela is a must-see street, lined with intricately decorated buildings that make you stop and stare every few steps.

Make your way toward the Three Brothers, a trio of medieval houses that show how local architecture evolved from Gothic to Baroque. Nearby, you’ll find the Cat House, famous for its black cat statues on the roof. Head to Riits for lunch, a warm and cozy spot that blends Latvian and European flavors with finesse.

In the afternoon, explore Riga Castle, a historic fortress serving as the official residence of the Latvian president, and the nearby Cathedral, one of the largest medieval churches in the Baltics. Then, cross the bridge to check out the Latvian National Library, an impressive modern building with exhibitions, reading rooms, and views back over the Old Town.

Pop into Black Magic Bar for something sweet or spirited as this café/bar with an interior that feels like an old-world apothecary, specializes in herbal liqueurs and decadent desserts. For dinner, book a table at Rosemarine, a stylish and elegant restaurant offering a refined take on European cuisine with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Day III

Kick off your final day with a late breakfast at Katkevich and visit the nearby Latgale Market afterwards, a fascinating spot where you’ll find everything from vintage tools to antiques and secondhand bicycles.

Next, make your way to the Nativity of Christ Cathedral, a golden-domed Orthodox church that stuns inside and out and head towards the Daugava River for lovely views of the harbor and city skyline.

Before you leave, head to Avotu Ezītis Miglā, a laid-back and cozy bar with a bohemian atmosphere offering a great selection of drinks and a casual menu. The perfect place to raise a glass to your 72 hours in Riga.

Although this was just a short weekend trip and there would have been much more to see, I still got a good glimpse of the Latvian capital and was even blessed with sunny weather. Riga surprised me with its rich history, friendly vibe, and unexpectedly vibrant food scene. However, I’m still wondering: what are the Town Musicians of Bremen doing in Riga?