Old Town Riga – where history and culture meet in every cobblestone

Riga’s Old Town, known as Vecrīga in Latvian, lies at the very heart of Latvia’s capital. This enchanting district combines the charm of a medieval city with the vibrancy of a modern European hub. 

With its cobbled streets, colourful façades, and a skyline crowned by church spires, Old Riga offers a journey through eight centuries of history while remaining one of the most dynamic areas for culture, dining, and nightlife.

Founded in 1201 by Bishop Albert and granted city rights in 1225, Riga quickly became a key trading hub within the Hanseatic League. Its rich past is still visible in the maze of narrow streets where merchants once bartered goods from across Europe. More than 500 historic buildings stand within this UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing a dazzling mix of architectural styles, from Romanesque and Gothic to Baroque and Art Nouveau.

Wandering down Rozena Street, the narrowest lane in Riga, visitors can touch both walls with outstretched arms, or stroll to Skarnu Street, where artisans sell hand-crafted souvenirs and tell tales of Riga’s trading heritage. Landmarks such as the Three Brothers, the city’s oldest residential houses, or Riga Castle, now the official residence of Latvia’s President are places travellers won’t want to miss.

A spiritual and cultural heartbeat

Faith and architecture intertwine in Old Riga. Within a small area, five denominations have coexisted peacefully for centuries, each leaving its mark. The Riga Dome Cathedral, begun in the 13th century, remains one of the largest churches in the Baltics and is famed for its magnificent organ. Nearby, the Gothic-style St Jacob’s Church serves as the seat of Latvia’s Catholic Cardinal, while St Peter’s Church invites visitors to climb its 72-metre tower for sweeping views of the city.

Today, Old Town Riga is far from a static museum piece. Its courtyards, such as John’s Courtyard and Konventa Courtyard, offer pockets of calm amid the bustle, while lively cafés, restaurants and bars bring the area to life from morning to night. Whether enjoying traditional Latvian dishes like karbonāde or sipping coffee in the shadow of centuries-old spires, visitors quickly understand why Vecrīga is considered the beating heart of Riga, a place where history, culture and everyday life meet in beautiful harmony.