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Riga Old Town walking tour, 1,5 h DELIGHTS OF OLD RIGA directions_walk
RiT07 Riga Old Town walking tour #rigatour #riga_old_town #riga_local_guide
A Riga walking tour is a great way for travellers with limited time to discover the highlights of charming medieval old town making the Latvian capital an irresistible destination.
Tour Highlights & Experiences:
-
Splendid views of Riga Old Town
-
Riga small secrets - wonderful nooks and crannies so good for perfect selfies
-
Freedom Monument
-
Riga Medieval Old Town views
-
Three Brothers Dwelling houses
-
Dome Cathedral, St. Jacob´s Church
-
Riga Town hall & Roland Statue
-
Ornate House of Blackheads
Riga Old Town private walking tour description (well suited for tour groups too)
Your private tour guide will give you a heartfelt welcome at your hotel and lead you along the cobbled streets of Old Town through the inspiring history of Riga accompanied by legends of fierce crusaders, tough merchants and brave sailors, that has shaped the city into a stunning Baltic pearl today. Our walk will include views and passages away from beaten tourist paths.
The heart of Riga boasts a rich medieval heritage with a lovely quaint Old Town with occasional but perfect example of Fin-de-Siecle architectural styles including Ars Noveau. The contrast of the robust Gothic setting and splendid Barocco spires is as powerful as the traditional Latvian Black Balsam herbal liquor said to have healed even the Russian Empress Catherine on her visit to Riga – tasting of Black Balsam can be added to tour, please check the offer down the webpage! You will be guided to such magnificent highlights as the Statue of Roland, marking Medieval Free town, in Town Hall Square with background of the most delightful House of Blackheads looked after by their patron Saint Maurice.
Our stops along the very center of old Riga also include the majestic Dome (St Maria) Cathedral and St. Jacob´s Church. Lovely triple houses Three Brothers are undoubtedly pearls of the era, as well as John & Peter churches. The Swedish Gate, the home of the King’s soldiers during the 17th century, mighty Powder Tower and parts of the fortification walls still exist as a delightful reminder of the great battles of the past.
We will make a break to admire the vividly colored Old Guild houses linked to numerous legendary Hanseatic League merchants once hosting lavish feasts and celebrations on their premises. The iconic Cat House with it's enchanting story stands opposite them.
You will also see the esteemed Monument of Freedom, topped with one of Latvian symbols - three golden stars meaning three Latvian historic provinces united.
Our day of exploring ends in the heart of the town, where you can comfortably choose to sit down for a coffee break, full dinner (your private guide will share his/her recommendations as well) or continue exploring on your own.
Your tour guide will delight in directing you to the easiest way to return to your hotel, if desired, or planned dinner restaurant.
An option your guide will be delighted to show if You have some extar hours in Riga is to reach Riga Old Town best viewpoint - St Peter church spire (elevator ticket, optional), or to substitute it with Great Organ Concert experience in Dome Church (ticket, optional).
Tour price per adult:
person
persons
persons
persons
persons
Tour Includes
- 1.5 h (to 1 h 40 min) private guide services
- Guided sightseeing tour of Riga
- Complete Riga Old Town walking tour
Tour excludes
- Gratuities to the guide are not included in the tour price.
Schedule (hours):
- 00:00–01:20 Meet & greet at hotel followed by old town sightseeing and walking tour.
- 01:20–01:30 Guide leads you to selected restaurant or viewpoint, or leads you back to to the hotel
Additional information
Children’s Discounts: 3-year-old and under are free, 15% discount for ages 4-12.
Please note, timing of your visit may be rescheduled due to opening hours of (optional) St Peter Church spire or (optional) Riga Dome Church Organ mini-concert.
A language supplement of 10 Eur/h is added for tours in Chinese language. This supplement will be added to the tour rate published.
no 10:00-18:00
Riga Old Town walking tour, 2 h (3 h with optional Tower Entry and Dome Organ)SECRETS OF OLD RIGA directions_walk
RiT08 Riga Old Town walking tour #rigatour #riga_old_town #riga_local_guide
A Riga walking tour is a perfect way to discover the highlights of this charming medieval old town with a touch of the modern history making the Latvian capital an irresistible destination.
Tour Highlights & Experiences:
-
Splendid views of Riga Old Town
-
Riga small secrets - wonderful nooks and crannies so good for perfect selfies
-
Freedom Monument
-
Riga Medieval Old Town views
-
Three Brothers Dwelling houses
-
Dome Cathedral, St. Jacob´s Church
-
Riga Town hall & Roland Statue
-
Ornate House of Blackheads
Riga Old Town private walking tour description
Your private tour guide will give you a heartfelt welcome at your hotel or cruise harbor and lead you along the cobbled streets of Old Town through the inspiring history of Riga accompanied by legends of fierce crusaders, tough merchants and brave sailors, that has shaped the city into a stunning Baltic pearl today. Our walk will include views and passages away from beaten tourist paths.
The heart of Riga boasts a rich medieval heritage with a lovely quaint Old Town with occasional but perfect example of Fin-de-Siecle architectural styles including Ars Noveau. The contrast of the robust Gothic setting and splendid Barocco spires is as powerful as the traditional Latvian Black Balsam herbal liquor said to have healed even the Russian Empress Catherine on her visit to Riga – you will taste Black Balsam too (included in price)! You will be guided to such magnificent highlights as the Statue of Roland, marking Medieval Free town, in Town Hall Square with background of the most delightful House of Blackheads looked after by their patron Saint Maurice.
Our stops along the very center of old Riga also include the majestic Dome (St Maria) Cathedral and St. Jacob´s Church. Lovely triple houses Three Brothers are undoubtedly pearls of the era, as well as John & Peter churches. The Swedish Gate, the home of the King’s soldiers during the 17th century, mighty Powder Tower and parts of the fortification walls still exist as a delightful reminder of the great battles of the past.
We will make a break to admire the vividly colored Old Guild houses linked to numerous legendary Hanseatic League merchants once hosting lavish feasts and celebrations on their premises. The iconic Cat House with it's enchanting story stands opposite them.
You will also see the esteemed Monument of Freedom, topped with one of Latvian symbols - three golden stars meaning three Latvian historic provinces united.
Our day of exploring ends in the heart of the town, where you can comfortably choose to sit down for a coffee break, full dinner (your private guide will share his/her recommendations as well) or continue exploring on your own.
Your tour guide will delight in directing you to the easiest way to return to your cruise ship or hotel, if desired.
An option your guide will be delighted to offer is to reach Riga Old Town best viewpoint, Saint Peter church spire (elevator, ticket – optional), or, as it is closed on Mondays, to substitute it with Great Organ Concert experience in Dome Church (ticket, optional).
Tour price per adult:
person
persons
persons
persons
persons
Tour Includes
- 2 h (to 2.20 h) private guide services
- Guided sightseeing tour of Riga
- Complete Riga Old Town walking tour
Tour excludes
- Gratuities to the guide are not included in the tour price.
Schedule (hours):
- 00:00–01:50 Meet & greet at cruise port/hotel followed by city center sightseeing and old town walking tour.
- 01:50–02:00 Guide leads you to Peter Spire viewpoint or Dome Organ concert and assists with obtaining ticket, or leads you back to to the cruise port/hotel
Additional information
Children’s Discounts: 3-year-old and under are free, 15% discount for ages 4-12.
Please note, timing of your visit may be rescheduled due to opening hours of (optional) St Peter Church spire or (optional) Riga Dome Church Organ mini-concert.
A language supplement of 10 Eur/h is added for tours in Chinese language. This supplement will be added to the tour rate published.
no 10:00-18:00
Riga walking tour, 1.5 h (2.15 h with optional Museum entry)ART NOVEAU (JUGENDSTIL) IN RIGA directions_walk local_cafe
RiT08 Riga walking (or walk-drive) tour Art Noveau Riga #jugendstil-riga #rigajugendstil #riga-arsnoveau
Discover the bright heritage of the Art Noveau in Latvia with a visit to the Jugendstil Quarter and most picturesque buildings! A must do tour for all those interested in the Art Nouveau movement, its bold and surprising arts and architecture.
Tour Highlights & Experiences:
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Alberta Street Art Noveau creations
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Elizabete Street facades
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Strēlnieku Street (Schützenstraße) Art Noveau views
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Renowned buildings by Mikhail Eisenstein
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Grand Staircase of Alberta Street 12 dwelling house
Art Noveau (Jugendstil) Riga tour description
This is a tour dedicated to all things Art Nouveau in Riga and focusing on the period of Riga Golden Age, the early 1900s, leading up to the end of the Russian Empire. A great way to see and learn more about distinctive art style of the early 20th century shocking the general public and discover Riga’s magical Art Nouveau architecture. You will discover not only the three main streets of Riga broadly known for Art Nouveau architecture, Alberta, Strēlnieku and Elizabetes Street, but also charming spots a bit off the beaten path and often missed by hurried visitors. With hundreds of this style buildings across Riga we offer you to see how the world-wide movement adapted to the Baltic German & Latvian bourger tastes, how it evolved to brightest possible facades, how elements like National Romanticism intertwined into Art Nouveau and how Riga flourished creatively near the fall of the Russian Empire.
We will walk to best photo spots and viewpoints showing off creations by Latvians & Baltic Germans like Laube and Pēkšēns, and most controversial of them, Mikhail Eisenstein from converted Jewish family.
Thereafter our half-day of wonderful walk from one highlight of Riga Art Noveau heritage to another comes to an end with a short walk back to your hotel or cruise harbor. I you wish so, we can provide comfortable vehicle for pick-up, drop-off and drive between the important viewpoints (optional).
A great addition to this tour may be a guided tour of Riga Art Nouveau Museum. The Museum visit lasting approx. 45 minutes introduces to visitor the authentic interior of building of 1903 beautifully decorated and tastefully renovated, complete with period furniture and bric-a-brac. Our guide will helpfully arrange the visit (optional Museum entry).
Tour price per adult:
person
persons
persons
persons
persons
Tour Includes
- 1.5 h (2.15 h with Museum) private guide services
- Guided sightseeing tour of Riga Art Noveau heritage
Tour excludes
- Art Noveau Museum entrance fees if selected.
- Gratuities to the guide and driver are not included in the tour price.
Schedule (hours):
- 00:00–01:30 Meet & greet at hotel followed by city Art Noveau Quarter sightseeing walking tour. Return walk to hotel.
- 1:20-02:45 Optional Art Noveau Museum visit
Additional information
Children’s Discounts: 3-year-old and under are free, 15% discount for ages 4-12.
Please note, the Art Nouveau Museum (optional, if selected) is closed on Mondays. Museum visit will be replaced by visit to Riga Dome Church & organ concert (optional, if selected).
A language supplement of 10 Eur/h is added for tours in Chinese language. This supplement will be added to the tour rate published.
no 10:00-18:00
Riga walking tour, 2 hRIGA CENTRAL MARKET & WAREHOUSE QUARTER SPĪĶERI directions_walk
RiT08 Central Market & Spīķeri quarter Private tour of Riga #rigamarkettour #rigacentralmarket
Riga Central market tour will introduce you to the Belly of Riga, the largest covered market in Europe of 1930 included in UNESCO heritage. Watch locals selling & buying food, immerse in colours, smells and tastes of fruits of the land, taste yourself bites and gulps of produce! Admire the historic WWI Zeppeline airship hangars and activities going on, see surrounding historical Warehouse quarter Spīķeri and Daugava river Promenade.
Tour Highlights & Experiences:
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Riga Central Market industrial heritage - Zeppelin hangars
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Great choice of Latvian fruits of the land and the sea
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Local food tasting
-
Old Warehouse quarter Spīķeri, creative hub of Riga
-
Daugava river Promenade views
Riga Central Market & Spīķeri Warehouse Quarter tour description
The Central Market is the Europe’s largest indoor market and bazaar of 1930 containing the brightest and most diverse food-stuffs from land and sea in Baltic countries. We will get close to the local food culture and traditions by getting to know the typical and unique products here – from old to new flavors of Latvia. Aside from being one of the most notable structures of 20th century in Latvia, it included in UNESCO World Heritage list as well. It's historic value lies in five pavilions transformed from mighty Zeppelin airship hangars of the World War I by adding Neoclassicism and Art Deco structures.
Local people are selling and buying goods here in their daily life and it will be hard to find another place where so many fresh vegetables and fruits are sold right from the local farms, as well as seasonal produce from woodland and even swamps. The guide will explain the characteristics of the national cuisine and food. During the tour you will try delicacies from different pavilions, and you can be treated with Latvian beer or rye drink ‘kvas’ (ask the guide about products). Bazaar tasting includes cheese or smoked products, pickled vegetables & fish.
After Market visit we will have a good look around historic Warehouse quarter Spīķeri, now home of many creative industries. Daugava river Promenade will offer great looks of the mightiest river in all the Baltic countries. Thereafter our time of seeing, tasting and smelling Rigas's grand Central Market comes to an end with a comfortable short walk back to your hotel or cruise harbor.
Tour price per adult:
person
persons
persons
persons
persons
Tour Includes
- 2h private guide services
- Guided sightseeing tour of Riga Central market
- Central Market produce tasting (included) & opportunity to buy the preferred goods
- Spīķeri Quarter and Daugava Promenade sightseeing
Tour excludes
- Gratuities to the guide and driver are not included in the tour price.
Schedule (hours):
- 00:00–01:20 Meet & greet at cruise port/Riga Center hotel followed by Central Market walking tour incl. tastings
- 01:20–01:40 Visit to the Spīķeri Quarter
- 01:40–02:00 Daugava Panorama walk followed by return to hotel/cruise port
Additional information
Children’s Discounts: 3-year-old and under are free, 15% discount for ages 4-12.
A language supplement of 10 Eur/h is added for tours in Chinese language. This supplement will be added to the tour rate published.
no 10:00-18:00
Riga Drive & Walk tour, 5 h (or 5h walking only)RIGA PRIVATE TOUR WITH OLD TOWN, ART NOVEAU & CENTRAL MARKET directions_walk local_cafe directions_bus
RiT08 Riga drive & walk tour Old Town, Art Noveau and Central Market area #rigatour
Tour Riga, the Baltic gem, combining the comfort of your private vehicle and strolling the cobbled lanes of stunning Old Town, from Daugava shore panoramic viewpoints to Art Nouveau Quarter masterpieces and famous Riga Central Market (also available as walking tour only).
Tour Highlights & Experiences:
-
Scenic Daugava riverbank & classic panorama viewpoint
-
Riga Medieval Old Town views
-
Riga Castle
-
Three Brothers Dwelling houses
-
Dome Cathedral, John, Peter & Jacob Churches
-
Riga Town hall Square & Roland Statue
-
Ornate House of Blackheads
-
Swedish Gate & Powder Tower
-
Art Noveau (Jugendstil) Quarter
-
Riga Central Market
-
Latvian Freedom Monument
Riga tour description
The combination of rich historical, cultural and architectural heritage makes Riga a must-see stop along the beautiful Baltic Sea coast. During the introduction part of this popular sightseeing tour we will admire the iconic views of Daugava river panorama, historic Riga Castle and new National Library of Latvia. The heart of Riga boasts a rich medieval heritage with a lovely quaint Old Town encircled by a perfect examples of Fin-de-Siecle architectural styles including Ars Noveau, where old encounters the new. The contrast of the robust Gothic setting and splendid Barocco spires and Ars Noveau facades is as powerful as the traditional Latvian Black Balsam herbal liquor – you will taste it too!
The Old Town is ideal for an entertaining stroll back in time to the days when the capital of Livonia established it’s leading role in commerce between Nord, East and West enhanced by Hanseatic League. You will be guided to such magnificent highlights as the Statue of Roland in Town Hall Square. Riga Dome Cathedral and Houses of Three Brothers are undoubtedly pearls of the era, as well as John, Peter & Jacob churches. The Swedish Gate, Powder Tower and parts of the fortification walls still exist as a delightful reminder of the great battles of the past. Free time will be reserved to enjoy a spot of shopping or a coffee break.
Wonderfully entertaining legends and stories of the time allow us to take a closer look into a Hanseatic citizens' lifestyle and habits. Time will be allocated to enjoy a break for a coffee or local souvenir shopping. We will see one of the Latvian national symbols, the Freedom Monument with delicate three stars on top that indicate the sovereignty of the three historic regions of Latvia. Next to the UNESCO World Heritage listed historic town center, an equally enchanting discovery of harmony and wonderful details of Art Nouveau style awaits us. The unkind Baltic climate has not tempered the imagination of the renowned Art Noveau architects like Mikhail Eisenstein and Konstantīns Pēkšēns, who gave us the gift of hundreds of wonderfully imaginative buildings. This splendid style is found all the way from the city center to the celebrated quarter itself. Recognized as one of the finest collections of Art Nouveau style in Europe, the captivating details of hundreds of facades are utterly fascinating.
We will enjoy a short drive to Jugendstil streets, then experience a guided walk to the highlights of this mesmerizing quarter in Riga. After the extravagant facades we will enjoy the drive to Riga Central Market.
The Central Market is the Europe’s largest indoor market and bazaar of 1930 containing the brightest and most diverse food-stuffs from land and sea in Baltic countries. We will get close to the local food culture and traditions by getting to know the typical and unique products here – from old to new flavors of Latvia. Aside from being one of the most notable structures of 20th century in Latvia, it included in UNESCO World Heritage list as well. It's historic value lies in five pavilions transformed from mighty Zeppelin airship hangars of the World War I by adding Neoclassicism and Art Deco structures.
Local people are selling and buying goods here in their daily life and it will be hard to find another place where so many fresh vegetables and fruits are sold right from the local farms, as well as seasonal produce from woodland and even swamps. The guide will explain the characteristics of the national cuisine and food. During the tour you will try delicacies from different pavilions, and you can be treated with Latvian beer or rye drink ‘kvas’ (ask the guide about products).
Our spectacular day of touring Riga comes to an end with your choice either to spend more time in Central Market shopping for some delicacies, or take a short walk back to the Old town located comfortably near, or return by our vehicle to your hotel or cruise port.
Tour price per adult:
person
persons
persons
persons
persons
Tour price per adult for walking tour:
person
persons
persons
persons
persons
Tour Includes
- 5h private guide services
- 5h private tour vehicle
- Riga Old Town walking tour
- Art Nouveau Quarter tour
- Coffee break (optional refreshments)
- Tasting of Riga Black Balsam
- Riga Central Market tour
- Tasting of local produce in Riga Central Market
Tour excludes
- Gratuities to the guide and driver are not included in the tour price.
Schedule (hours):
- 00:00–01:45 Meet & greet at cruise port/hotel followed by city center sightseeing and old town walking tour.
- 01:45–02:45 Visit to the synagogue and some free time for coffee break or shopping
- 02:45–03:30 Panoramic drive to Latvian Ghetto & Holocaust Museum, inside visit
- 04:45–05:00 Comfortable drive back to the cruise port/hotel
Additional information
Children’s Discounts: 3-year-old and under are free, 15% discount for ages 4-12.
Please note, the Art Nouveau Museum is closed on Mondays. Museum visit will be replaced by visit to Riga Dome Church & organ concert.
A language supplement of 10 Eur/h is added for tours in Chinese language. This supplement will be added to the published tour rate.
no 10:00-18:00
Riga walking tour, 3 hMOSCOW FORSTADT or MASKACHKA, RIGA'S SHADIEST SUBURB directions_walk
RiT08 Riga Moscow Forstadt Private tour #rigatour #maskachka
You have seen charming and cosy Riga Old Town - let us surprise you with very different world! Travel back in time in unruly, shabby and charming mix of cultures and populations - to the Riga Moscow Forstadt or Maskachka.
Tour Highlights & Experiences:
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Moscow Forstadt views from top observation platform of Stalinist Science Academy skyscraper
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Picturesque decrepit lanes among wooden houses
-
Lifestyles of Latvians, Jews, Orthodox & Old-Believer Russians co-existing for generations
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Former Riga Jewish Ghetto area
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Colourful churches of five different denominations
-
Lively and patchy Thieves market Latgalite
Riga Moscow Suburb (Maskachka) tour description
Rich in history and bearing marks of different cultures, Jewish and Latvian, traditional Russian and Old Believers (secluded Orthodox sect), with lots of wooden architecture and green gardens, the Moscow Forstadt (suburb), colloquially known as Maskachka is by far one of the least explored parts of Riga having plenty of character.
The Moscow Forstadt, Maskavas Forštate in Latvian, is one of the oldest suburbs of Riga, and has undergone the least change – it means a walking tour through it can be like travelling back in time. Here neglected early 20th-century Art Nouveau masterpieces mingle with traditional 19th-century working-class wooden homes, some of which appear to be on the verge of collapse. Churches of various styles and five different denominations share common real estate with Soviet housing estates, while meandering cobblestone streets often flank large empty spaces intended as parks.
Your private tour guide will meet and welcome you at your hotel or cruise harbor.
Passing Riga Central Market and rail tracks you will see the first skyscraper of Riga - Collective Farmers’ Palace, now housing Latvian Academy of Sciences and still known by locals as Stalin's birthday cake. It is characteristic of excessive Stalinist period architecture and built straight over the main trading post of Russian traders, the Russian Merchant yard, a Russian version of shopping arcades. You and your guide will head up to the 17th floor platform (elevator, ticket included), from which you'll be able to admire incredible panoramic views of Riga. This height opens great view of Daugava river islands and Maskachka suburb spread out like a carpet almost under your feet.
Nearby small and brightly painted Orthodox Church of Annunciation of St. Virgin is passionately called U Nikolushki (at Nicolaus) by Central market petty merchants due to miracle working icon – but the great Italian writer Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa married his Baltic wife there as well. The first church that once stood here was destroyed when the whole suburb are was razed in 1812 to deprive advancing Napoleon’s army of shelter (alas, army took a different route).
Once home to a large Jewish population part of Moscow Forstadt became the Jewish Ghetto of Riga during WWII subjecting inhabitants to forced labour, deprivations, starvation and violence. Today the quarters once housing the Ghetto are run down, a little sad and in need of attention. We will walk along the narrow cobbled streets spotting occassional bum or drunkard – that’s their realm.
Emerging from picturesque streets, You will see historic Sarkanā kalniņa (Red hillock) market square, trading place for hay, horses and firewood. When salted herrings were added to product range the pervasive smell in hot weather soon forced the city to close all trade here. This beautiful square is still flanked by Omnibus depot, later Horse Tram depot building.
You will see the site of Great Choral Synagogue (Die Greise Hor Shul). Although the colossal edifice no longer exists, it’s thought-provoking to see what remains of this place of worship and to recall events of 1941 when hundreds of Jewish refugees from Lithuania and local Rigan Jews were herded into the basement of the synagogue which was then put on fire. Only ruins and memorial stones remain. A small memorial to Latvians who saved hundreds of Jews is located next.
Nearby small plaza around the Lutheran Church of Jesus includes an embassy and a fair hotel and looks as if it could be a part of the Old town, but few steps around the corner return you back in Maskachka landscape dotted with stray cats, leaning fences and lilac shrubs. When the Swedish Empire gained control of Riga in 1621, to celebrate an end to war they decided that a church should be built outside the city gates. It is the largest wooden church in Baltic states.
Among brick smokestacks of previous factories you will spot the round tower and bright golden cupola of Grebenshchikov Old Believer Church. It is home to large but somewhat reclusive congregation, one of the largest landowners in Riga. This Orthodox Christian sect was persecuted in Russia and fled to Siberia and Baltics.
A bit further stands the only Armenian Church in Baltic states so the whole 3000 members strong community belongs to this parish.
To complete the picture, you will see catholic St Franciscus Church adorned with two slender spires, and Orthodox St John The Forerunner old and new Churches surrounded by Ivana Cemetery offering few glimpses of local Russian burial culture.
We recommend to take a short tram ride at this spot, to shorten the distance as well as to observe the public using this means of transport (your guide will provide for the ticket, included in price).
One of highlights of Maskacha walk is so called ‘’Latgalīte’’, dense mix of classic flea market & thieves market – buy anything you can imagine from colourful vendor types hawking goods to similar buyers.
The suburb itself is a bit fragile so we ask travellers not to be too loud or to take intrusive photographs of the local residents. It is not a zoo after all, and we have great respect for those that live there.
It is time to say farewell to Moscow Forstadt, and your guide will bring you back across the tracks to the more ordinary and comfy world of your hotel or cruise port.
Tour price per adult:
person
persons
persons
persons
persons
Tour Includes
- 3h private guide services
- Guided sightseeing tour of Riga Moscow suburb
- Riga Old Town walking tour
- Tram ride
- Top Observation Platform of Science Academy building
Tour excludes
- Gratuities to the guide are not included in the tour price.
Schedule (hours):
- 00:00–01:45 Meet & greet at cruise port/hotel followed by Maskachka walking tour.
- 01:45–02:15 Visit to the highrise observation desk
- 02:15–03:00 Return back to the cruise port/hotel
Additional information
Children’s Discounts: 3-year-old and under are free, 15% discount for ages 4-12.
Please note, visiting some churches en-route is subject of opportunity (ladies are requested to cover hair inside Orthodox churches) – in that case charitable donation is welcome but not mandatory. Observation platform may be unavailable November to March, during this period it will be replaced by Red Warehose Quarter and Daugava River Promenade visit.
A language supplement of 10 Eur/h is added for tours in Chinese language. This supplement will be added to the tour rate published.
no 10:00-18:00
Riga Walk & Drive tour, 4 hJEWISH RIGA & GHETTO directions_walk directions_bus
RiT08 Jewish Private tour of Riga #jewishtour
Discover the heritage of the 700-years-old Jewish life in Latvia complete with a visit to the medieval old town and inspirational symbols of local Jewry.
Tour Highlights & Experiences:
-
Panoramic drive by Daugava River
-
Peitav šul Synagogue in Riga Medieval Old Town
-
Ghetto & Holocaust Museum
-
Jewish Ghetto site in Riga Maskachka Forstadt
-
Ķīpsala island panorama
-
Righteous Žanis Lipke Memorial in Ķīpsala
Jewish Riga tour description
Riga Jewish City tour takes you to the Riga Synagogue, Ghetto & Holocaust Museum, follows to Riga Ghetto quarter sights sand rounds the experience with Žanis (Janis) Lipke Memorial on Daugava river island Ķīpsala.
Our day of exploring the engaging and lively atmosphere of Riga starts from the very heart of it all - the medieval Old town containing the only working Sinagogue of Riga. We will leave our transport and walk to the historic buiding along old cobbled lanes with inviting street cafes.
Wedged between the narrow medieval dwelling houses is the only functioning Synagogue of Riga Peitav šul with beautifully decorated interior. Its unique location is one of the reasons the building is still intact after the disappearance of many others during the flames of II WW. However, after the hardships the local community has been reinvented.
While in Old town, a short break for some rest, tea or coffee is offered.
Passing the ruins of Great Synagogue turned into monument we will follow to Riga Ghetto & Holocaust museum, a beautiful example of rebirth of community, an open book of Jewish heritage in Latvia. Endless lists of names and stories will be brought to life by your private tour guide. Stepping down the original pieces of stone from the streets of Riga Ghetto, the strength of the messages around us will be palpable.
No Jewish tour of Riga can be complete without visiting Riga Ghetto area where all Jews from Riga and the vicinity were relocated while the non-Jewish inhabitants were evicted by Nazi. We will pause at men's, women's and German ghetto sections, small dwelling quarters in Moscow Forstadt of Riga.
After that we will make our way across the Daugava River to the unique Žanis Lipke Memorial located on the picturesque Kipsala island with beautiful scenic views of Riga panorama. We will drive and walk down the Kipsala bank admiring the splendid marriage of some modern and many delicately preserved old wooden houses.
The building in Riga fisherman's homestead is simple - essentially a wood shed with dugout under it, but it demonstrates unparalleled goodness of character and exceptional bravery of a man. Distinct among 88 Latvians named Righteous Among the Nations, Lipke risked his own life and those of his loved ones to protect more than 50 people from the Jewish ghetto during the war. The Museum building itself is an ascetic windowless structure of modern style used to voice the events of the past.
Thereafter our day of looking behind the façade of Riga and it's Jewish heritage comes to an end with a comfortable drive back to your hotel or cruise harbor.
Tour price per adult:
person
persons
persons
persons
persons
Tour Includes
- 4h private guide services
- 4h private tour vehicle
- Guided sightseeing tour of Riga Jewish heritage places
- Entrance to Riga Synagogue
- Latvian Ghetto & Holocaust Museum
- Žanis Lipke Memorial & visit
Tour excludes
- Gratuities to the guide and driver are not included in the tour price.
Schedule (hours):
- 00:00–01:45 Meet & greet at cruise port/hotel followed by city center sightseeing and old town walking tour.
- 01:45–02:45 Visit to the synagogue and some free time for rest or coffee break
- 02:45–03:30 Panoramic drive to Latvian Ghetto & Holocaust Museum, inside visit
- 04:45–05:00 Comfortable drive back to the cruise port/hotel
Additional information
Children’s Discounts: 3-year-old and under are free, 15% discount for ages 4-12.
Please note, order of visits in the tour itinerary is subject to change depending on the opening hours of the Synagogue due to religious services and therefore can not be guaranteed on Jewish Holidays. Entrances to Ghetto & Holocaust Museum and Žanis Lipke Memorial – charitable donation required. Riga Synagogue and Ghetto & Holocaust Museum are closed for visitors on Saturdays (Sabbath).
A language supplement of 10 Eur/h is added for tours in Chinese language. This supplement will be added to the tour rate published.
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Riga Walk & Drive tour, 2.5 h (3.15 h with optional Cheka Cellars Museum)SOVIET MONUMENTS & RELICS IN RIGA directions_walk directions_bus
RiT08 Soviet Private tour of Riga #sovietriga #rigatour
Discover the emotionally charged heritage of the Soviet period in Latvian history from ground level and from 16th floor viewing platform on the top of Stalinist skyscraper.
Tour Highlights & Experiences:
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See Stalinist building style in it's best (or worst) in the highrise building of Academy of Sciences
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Enjoy the hidden gem of it's observation deck that offers great views of the city and the river including Brutalist TV Tower on Hare island
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Visit the train station where the mass deportations to Siberia started
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Drive and walk through typical Soviet ''sleeping district''
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Visit the emotionally charged spot of recently demolished massive Soviet Monument of the Liberators
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Enjoy post-tour traditional Soviet style meal at the Soviet style canteen
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Free option - visit KGB Building museum (Cheka Cellars), the scariest place in Soviet Riga
Soviet Riga tour description
Your private tour guide will meet and welcome you at your hotel or cruise harbor. Soviet heritage viewpoints and monuments are scattered throughout Riga, and your comfortable private vehicle is a must. Our first stop to learn more about this brutal and tragic period in life of Latvia is Stalinist highrise near Old Riga.
Driving past Riga Central Market you will see the first skyscraper of Riga - Collective Farmers’ Palace, now housing Latvian Academy of Sciences and still known by locals as Stalin's birthday cake. It is characteristic of excessive Stalinist period Socialist Classicism. You and your guide will head up to the 17th floor platform (elevator), from which you'll be able to admire incredible panoramic views of Riga. This height opens great view of another Soviet brutalist creation - the Television Tower on Daugava river island. ‘’Sleeping district’’ Ķengarags lies nearby, also Soviet built, home to tens of thousands of people but still stigmatised as ugly and depressing.
You will cross the river Daugava via Soviet built October Bridge (now Stone Bridge) to reach two meaningful places. Railway Station Tornakalns was the last stop on Latvian land for thousands to be deported in Soviet extermination and deportation campaigns. Cattle wagons rolled to Siberia Gulag camps, for many Latvians that was journey without return. Near the station a preserved deportation wagon stands as a memorial. A bit further a large field was dominated by Riga most controversial architectural ensamble, Soviet Monument to Liberators, with proper five-point stars and monumental bronze figures. This great example of Socialist monumental art was revered by Red army war veteran families and their sympathisers, and just tolerated by most of local society. It is gone now along with most of remaining Soviet monuments.
Now it is time to see the living suburbs of Soviet citizens still used by majority of population – prefabricated concrete panel housing units arranged in ‘’sleeping districts’’, with similar flats, schools and kindergartens, bearing the same look across all previous USSR.
Thereafter our time of exploring unexpected remains of Soviet epoch of looking behind the façade of Riga at it's Soviet Era concrete, stone & bronze creations comes to an end with a comfortable drive back to your hotel or cruise harbor, or by your wish in heart of the Old town, where you can continue exploring on your own.
If you are in the right mood, your guide will happily direct you to one of Riga canteens & bars, furnished like a Soviet flat – the best environment for the taste of true Soviet style dinner!
We offer free option: to bring you to the previous KGB (Soviet Secret police) building on Stabu street for locally guided tour of Cheka prison and torture cellars and upper floor offices where you'll discover why the secret police hedquarters was such a feared place.
Tour price per adult:
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Tour Includes
- 2.5 h private guide services
- 2.5 h private tour vehicle
- Viewing platform entry ticket
Tour excludes
- Optional post-tour KGB Building (Cheka Cellars) Museum ticket
- Gratuities to the guide and driver are not included in the tour price.
Schedule (hours):
- 00:00–01:00 Meet & greet at cruise port/hotel followed by drive to Science Academy highrise and lift to the viewing platform
- 01:00–01:55 Crossing the river Daugava and visit of Rail Station Torņakalns and Monument to the Liberators
- 01:55–02:20 Panoramic drive along and through Soviet ''sleeping districts''
- 02:20–02:30 Comfortable drive back to the cruise port/hotel/Soviet style dining place
- 02:30-03:20 (free option, if selected) Guided visit to KGB Building Museum (Cheka Cellars)
Additional information
Children’s Discounts: 3-year-old and under are free, 15% discount for ages 4-12.
Please note, the viewing platform of Academy of Sciences Building is open April to November. During winter months this item of initerary is replaced by Soviet built main street - Moscow Street drive and typical locality market visit.
A language supplement of 10 Eur/h is added for tours in Chinese language. This supplement will be added to the tour rate published.
no 10:00-18:00
Can there arise extra expenses during the excursion?
there can be extra payments during a guided tour if we have agreed about them at ordering.
These may include entry tickets if any objects with paid entry are part of the programme. We may include ticket price in Your invoice or you will be asked to hand necessary cash amount to Your guide.
These may be public transport tickets (bus, tram or ferry), if such means of transport are mentioned in our programmes or we have agreed about them at ordering.
These may be coffee-break or lunch costs, if free time for this is included in programme. We can include coffee break or meal costs in excursion price if the customer wishes so.
Art Noveau (Jugendstil) in Riga
Papildu informācija un Rīgas gida pasūtījums
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Kad piedāvājums Jūs apmierina, sagatavojam rēķinu par samaksu, kuru Jūs apmaksājat i-bankā vai bankā. Pēc tam nosūtām vaučeru ar tikšanās vietas informāciju un gida kontaktiem.
Visu vajadzīgo var izdarīt, arī ierodoties mūsu birojā, un tas dod iespēju pārrunāt ekskursijas nianses. Mēs pārzinām mūsu piedāvātās vietas, programmas ir izmēģinātas un pārbaudītas.
Tad norunātajā laikā un vietā sāksies aizraujoša Rīgas ekskursija!
no 10:00-18:00