Best time to visit Riga

Best Time to Visit Riga: A Month-by-Month Guide to Perfect Travel

Introduction: The Rhythm of a Baltic Jewel

Imagine the light. In Riga, the capital of Latvia and a true Baltic gem, time is measured not just in months but in the quality of illumination that dances across its legendary Art Nouveau facades. One moment, you're chasing the endless, honeyed glow of a midsummer evening along the Daugava River. The next, you're wrapped in a woolen scarf, watching your breath fog in the crisp air as the city's historic center twinkles under a blanket of snow, each cobblestone shimmering with frost. Timing your visit to Riga is the secret key that unlocks entirely different cities, each with its own heartbeat, its own scent, its own magic. A good trip becomes unforgettable when you sync your journey with the city's seasonal soul. This guide is your compass to that perfect alignment. We've woven together the critical threads—the capricious Baltic weather that swings from gentle to fierce, the ebb and flow of tourist crowds that can mean serene solitude or vibrant street life, the fluctuation of prices that dictates luxury or budget, and, most importantly, the pulse of cultural events and festivals that give Riga its authentic spirit. Whether you dream of white nights at an open-air concert, the fiery palette of an autumn in a forest park, the cozy, candlelit charm of a Christmas market, or the triumphant rebirth of spring, understanding the rhythm is everything. Let's step through the looking glass of time and discover when your perfect Riga awaits.

Riga Weather Overview by Season

Riga's climate is a classic Baltic tapestry of distinct, often dramatic, seasons. Winters are long, cold, and dark, with average temperatures hovering between -5°C and 0°C (23°F to 32°F). Snow is common, transforming the city into a silent, glittering wonderland, though grey, slushy periods are just as likely. Humidity from the nearby sea makes the chill bite deeper, demanding serious insulation. Spring is a slow, triumphant awakening. Beginning chilly in March (around 5°C/41°F), it gradually unfolds into mild, sunny days by May (15°C/59°F), though rain showers are frequent and unpredictable, bringing the city's parks explosively to life. Summer is brief but glorious. From June to August, temperatures are pleasantly warm, averaging 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F), with long, lingering daylight—the famous "white nights" peak around the summer solstice. This is the driest season, but Baltic weather remains fickle; a warm week can be followed by a cool, rainy spell. Autumn arrives early and beautifully. September is often golden and mild, but by October, temperatures drop rapidly to around 10°C (50°F), winds pick up, and rain becomes persistent, painting the city in stunning shades of amber and crimson before yielding to the grey damp of November and the impending winter.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January

Weather Snapshot: The heart of winter. Highs barely scrape 0°C (32°F), lows plunge to -5°C (23°F) or colder. Days are short (only 7 hours of daylight), grey, and often snowy. Expect overcast skies and a damp, penetrating chill.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Deep off-season. Tourist numbers are at their annual low. The atmosphere is authentically local, quiet, and introspective—a time for cozy cafes and hushed, snow-dusted streets.
Key Events & Festivals: New Year's Day celebrations linger. The Riga International Film Festival often runs late in the month, offering cinematic refuge.
Hotel Price Ranges: $ - $$. Exceptional deals are the norm, with luxury hotels offering significant discounts.
Best Activities: Ice-skating on festive rinks (if still open), exploring museums like the Art Nouveau Museum without crowds, indulging in spa treatments, and savoring long, hearty Latvian meals in candlelit taverns.
Perfect for: The intrepid, cold-weather romantic and the budget-conscious culture vulture seeking an unfiltered, local experience.

February

Weather Snapshot: Similar to January—cold, dark, and snowy. Temperatures range from -4°C to 1°C (25°F to 34°F). The deepest freeze can occur, but thaws are also possible. Daylight begins a slow increase.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Still very quiet. A sense of waiting pervades as the city endures the last stretch of deep winter. Coziness is a prized commodity.
Key Events & Festivals: Latvia's Independence Day (November 18th) is celebrated, but the main event is the Riga Opera Festival, a highlight for classical music lovers.
Hotel Price Ranges: $ - $$. Prices remain low, mirroring January.
Best Activities: Attending a stirring opera performance, winter walks along the frozen Daugava riverbank (with caution), visiting the Central Market's indoor halls for warm, local snacks, and embracing the hygge lifestyle in bookshops and cafes.
Perfect for: Opera enthusiasts and travelers who find beauty in stark, minimalist landscapes and cherish intimate, crowd-free exploration.

March

Weather Snapshot: A transitional battleground between winter and spring. Averages from 0°C to 6°C (32°F to 43°F). Snow turns to slush, rain showers increase, and the first timid buds may appear by month's end. Wind can be biting.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Off-season persists. The city feels in flux, shaking off winter's grip. Locals emerge cautiously, hopeful for sun.
Key Events & Festivals: The Riga International Short Film Festival and the beginning of the Baltic Ballet Festival signal a cultural reawakening.
Hotel Price Ranges: $ - $$. Excellent value continues, though prices may creep up slightly for Easter.
Best Activities: Witnessing the powerful icebreaker ships on the Daugava, exploring the Latvian National Museum of Art after its winter quiet, day trips to Jurmala to see the windy, empty Baltic beach, and enjoying pre-tourist-season access to all major sites.
Perfect for: The flexible adventurer unfazed by mud and moody skies, and the culture seeker capitalizing on low-season arts festivals.

April

Weather Snapshot: True spring arrives, but capriciously. Highs reach a pleasant 10°C (50°F), lows hover near 2°C (36°F). Sunny days alternate with cold rain and even wet snow flurries early in the month. "Aprīlis" is notoriously unpredictable.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: The shoulder season begins. Tourist numbers rise modestly, especially around Easter. The city feels alive, with parks starting to green and outdoor terraces tentatively opening.
Key Events & Festivals: Easter markets and traditions. The Riga City Festival often kicks off at month's end with concerts and events.
Hotel Price Ranges: $$ - $$$. A noticeable jump from winter, particularly during holiday weekends.
Best Activities: Strolling through the Old Town to see buildings without summer crowds, visiting the Riga Motor Museum, enjoying the first outdoor coffees, and taking a boat tour on the Daugava as the ice fully recedes.
Perfect for: The optimistic traveler who enjoys the drama of changing seasons and the vibrant energy of a city reawakening.

May

Weather Snapshot: Glorious and green. Temperatures climb to a comfortable 16°C (61°F) on average, with lows around 7°C (45°F). Days are long and bright. Rainfall is moderate, but sunshine feels abundant and warm.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Solid shoulder season. A steady stream of tourists arrives, but it's not overwhelming. The atmosphere is joyful, floral, and full of anticipation.
Key Events & Festivals: The Riga Festival (city birthday) in mid-May features parades, open-air concerts, and fireworks. Museums and sites launch their summer programs.
Hotel Price Ranges: $$ - $$$. Prices are firming up. Early booking is advised for the festival period.
Best Activities: Wandering the Art Nouveau district under a canopy of fresh leaves, picnicking in Vērmanes Garden or the Bastion Hill park, day trips to Sigulda's Gauja Valley for hiking, and enjoying al fresco dining across the city.
Perfect for: Nature lovers, photographers, and travelers who want warm weather, long days, and vibrant local life without peak summer crowds.

June

Weather Snapshot: The gateway to summer. Highs average 20°C (68°F), lows a cool 11°C (52°F). The legendary "white nights" begin, with dusk lingering past 11 PM. Weather is generally sunny and pleasant, though occasional rain is possible.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Peak season commences. Tourist numbers swell significantly. The city buzzes with energy, and every café terrace is full. The atmosphere is festive and lively around the clock.
Key Events & Festivals: The massive Riga Opera Festival under the open sky at the Spīķeri Concert Hall. The Jāņi (Midsummer) celebrations at month's end, Latvia's most important folk holiday, with bonfires, singing, and flower wreaths.
Hotel Price Ranges: $$$ - $$$$. Prices are at their highest, especially around Jāņi. Book months in advance.
Best Activities: Experiencing a sunset that never truly ends, attending open-air concerts and festivals, taking evening strolls through the illuminated Old Town, and joining locals for the magical Jāņi celebrations in the countryside.
Perfect for: Festival-goers, night owls, and travelers who thrive on high energy and want to experience Latvia's most profound cultural traditions.

July

Weather Snapshot: The warmest month. Average highs of 22°C (72°F), lows around 14°C (57°F). Long, bright days continue. This is the driest and sunniest period, though not immune to the occasional Baltic shower or cool breeze.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Peak of peak season. Riga is packed with international tourists and European vacationers. The atmosphere is vibrant, cosmopolitan, and sometimes hectic. Reservations are essential.
Key Events & Festivals: The Riga Jurmala Music Festival brings world-class classical musicians. Numerous open-air events, food fairs, and the Positivus Festival often draws crowds.
Hotel Price Ranges: $$$ - $$$$. Maximum prices apply. Last-minute deals are rare.
Best Activities: Beach time in nearby Jurmala (a 30-minute train ride), sailing on the Baltic Sea or Daugava River, exploring the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, and enjoying long, leisurely dinners on bustling terraces.
Perfect for: Sun-seekers, beach-combiners, families on summer holiday, and travelers who want the full, energetic, social summer experience.

August

Weather Snapshot: Summer's last stand. Similar to July, with highs around 21°C (70°F). Nights start to get noticeably cooler by month's end. The first hints of autumn appear in the late-evening light.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Still very busy, but begin to taper off in the final week as European school holidays end. The energy remains high, but a mellower vibe creeps in.
Key Events & Festivals: The Riga City Festival often extends into August. The "Riga's Birthday" celebrations continue with various cultural events. Outdoor cinema and food markets are in full swing.
Hotel Price Ranges: $$$ - $$$$. Prices start to dip slightly in the last week.
Best Activities: Cycling to the beach at Jurmala, kayaking in the Gauja River near Sigulda, visiting the Riga Central Market for summer berries and produce, and catching an outdoor film screening.
Perfect for: Active travelers wanting to combine city culture with Baltic nature, and those looking to squeeze the last drops out of the summer season.

September

Weather Snapshot: The golden month. Early September feels like summer (18°C/64°F), cooling to a crisp 12°C (54°F) by month's end. Rainfall increases but is often interspersed with stunning, clear, sunny days. The light is soft and magical.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Shoulder season returns. Crowds dissipate quickly, leaving a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere. The city belongs again to students and locals.
Key Events & Festivals: The Riga International Film Festival (RIGA IFF) begins. The "White Night" (Nuit Blanche) contemporary art festival often illuminates the city.
Hotel Price Ranges: $$ - $$$. Prices drop significantly from August, offering great value.
Best Activities: Photographing the stunning autumn colors in the city's parks and at the Ethnographic Museum, wine tasting with local berry wines, enjoying museum visits without queues, and taking scenic train rides to see the forest landscapes turn gold.
Perfect for: Photographers, couples, and discerning travelers who prize mild weather, beautiful scenery, cultural events, and a more authentic pace.

October

Weather Snapshot: True autumn. Temperatures fall sharply to averages of 8°C (46°F). Rain is frequent, winds pick up, and the days shorten dramatically. The foliage peaks early in the month before leaves fall, creating a carpet of gold.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Off-season begins. Tourists are few. The mood turns inward, cozy, and contemplative—a perfect time for arts and culture.
Key Events & Festivals: The Riga International Film Festival continues. The "Riga Salsa Festival" brings heat to the cooling city. Halloween is celebrated in bars and clubs.
Hotel Price Ranges: $ - $$. Excellent deals return, especially for longer stays.
Best Activities: Museum-hopping (the Latvian War Museum, the Occupation Museum), exploring the mysterious corners of the Old Town in the mist, tasting seasonal mushroom and game dishes in restaurants, and visiting the Riga Zoo in the crisp air.
Perfect for: Film buffs, foodies eager for autumn harvest cuisine, and travelers who love moody, atmospheric cities and don't mind a bit of rain.

November

Weather Snapshot: The grey month. Cold, damp, and dark. Highs around 4°C (39°F), lows near freezing. Daylight is scarce (less than 8 hours). Rain, sleet, and the first snowflakes are common. A time for indoor comforts.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Deep off-season, similar to January. The city is quiet, with a focus on indoor life. The pre-Christmas buzz starts very late in the month.
Key Events & Festivals: Latvia's Independence Day on November 18th is marked with solemn ceremonies and a military parade. The Christmas markets often open in the last week, bringing sudden cheer.
Hotel Price Ranges: $ - $$. Some of the lowest prices of the year, except for the Independence Day weekend.
Best Activities: Soaking in the ornate beauty of the historic Riga Pirts (sauna), visiting the Latvian National Library, attending classical concerts in ornate halls like the Great Guild, and warming up with hot black balsam in traditional pubs.
Perfect for: The ultimate budget traveler, sauna enthusiasts, and those who find profound peace in empty, rain-slicked streets and the solace of museums and cafes.

December

Weather Snapshot: Winter wonderland potential. Temperatures range from -2°C to 2°C (28°F to 36°F). Snow is likely, creating a picturesque scene. Days are extremely short, with sunset around 3:30 PM, making artificial light constant but festive.
Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: A unique peak! Tourists flock back for the Christmas markets, creating a bustling, joyful atmosphere in the Old Town, while the rest of the city remains local-paced.
Key Events & Festivals: The legendary Riga Christmas Market in Dome Square, with its towering tree. New Year's Eve fireworks over the Daugava River are spectacular.
Hotel Price Ranges: $$ - $$$$. Prices rise sharply for the Christmas and New Year period. Book very early.
Best Activities: Sipping mulled wine at the Christmas market, ice-skating, shopping for handmade Latvian crafts, attending Christmas concerts in the cathedral, and seeing the city sparkle under millions of fairy lights.
Perfect for: Christmas market aficionados, families seeking festive magic, and anyone who believes a snowy European capital is the quintessential winter holiday.

Peak vs. Shoulder vs. Off-Season Analysis

Choosing your season is choosing your Riga adventure. Peak Season (June-August) delivers the quintessential postcard experience: long, sunny days, vibrant street life, and a full calendar of festivals. The pros are undeniable—perfect weather for outdoor exploration, everything is open, and the energy is infectious. However, the cons are significant: premium prices for flights and hotels, crowded attractions requiring patience and pre-booking, and a sometimes overwhelming tourist-centric atmosphere that can mask the local rhythm. Shoulder Season (May & September) is widely considered the sweet spot for the best time to visit Riga. You capture the essence of good weather—pleasantly warm in May, golden and mild in September—with dramatically thinner crowds and lower costs. The city feels more authentic, reservations are easier, and nature puts on a spectacular show of blossoms or autumn foliage. The trade-off is less predictable weather; a perfect week is likely, but a cold snap or rain spell is possible. Off-Season (October-April) is a world apart. This is Riga raw and real. Pros include rock-bottom prices, the luxury of having museums and cafes to yourself, and the profound, cozy charm of winter or the dramatic mood of autumn. The experience is deeply cultural and introspective. The cons are the challenging weather—cold, dark, and often wet—and reduced hours or closures for some seasonal attractions (like boat tours or certain park activities). Your choice hinges on what you value most: guaranteed sunshine and social buzz, balanced value and beauty, or deep immersion and budget freedom.

Best Time for Specific Traveler Types

Best for Budget Travelers: November through March (excluding the Christmas/New Year window). This is when flight and accommodation prices plummet, and you can experience Riga's cultural wealth—museums, concerts, saunas—without the premium. Embrace the cold and the cozy atmosphere for maximum savings.
Best for Honeymooners: Late May or September. These shoulder months offer the romantic trifecta: lovely weather for strolls through the Art Nouveau district, fewer crowds for intimate moments in candlelit restaurants, and stunning natural backdrops (spring blooms or autumn gold) for unforgettable photos. The pace is relaxed, perfect for connection.
Best for Families: July or August. While busy, summer provides the easiest logistics for families. Long daylight hours allow for flexible scheduling, all attractions are open, and the option to combine city sightseeing with a beach day in Jurmala is a huge plus. The festive atmosphere is exciting for children.
Best for Culture Seekers: Shoulder months and off-season. Target your visit around specific festivals: June for Jāņi and Opera, September for the Film Festival, October for ongoing cinema, or February for the indoor Opera Festival. Off-season allows for deep, unhurried museum exploration.
Best for Outdoor Adventurers: May, June, or September. These months provide the ideal conditions for hiking in the Gauja National Park, cycling, kayaking, and exploring the Baltic coast. The weather is cooperative, the days are long (especially in June), and the natural landscapes of Latvia are at their most accessible and beautiful.

Money-Saving Timing Strategies

To master the art of an affordable Riga getaway, timing is your most powerful tool. Flight Booking: For summer travel, book international flights at least 3-4 months in advance. For off-season, you can often find last-minute deals, but monitoring prices 6-8 weeks out is generally wise. Mid-week flights (Tuesday, Wednesday) are typically cheaper. Use nearby airport searches (Vilnius, Tallinn) and consider a short bus ride. Hotel Hacks: In peak season, consider staying just outside the Old Town in neighborhoods like Centrs or near the Central Market—you'll get more space for less money and are still within easy walking distance. In off-season, be bold: directly contact smaller boutique hotels or guesthouses for potential extended-stay discounts. Booking.com's "Genius" tier or Airbnb monthly rates can yield significant savings. Flight Price Patterns: Expect the highest fares in July, around Christmas/New Year, and during major events like Jāņi. The lowest fares are consistently found in deep winter (January, February) and late autumn (November). Local Transportation: Upon arrival, purchase a reloadable e-talons card for buses, trams, and trolleybuses—it's far cheaper than single tickets. Riga is extremely walkable, so you may not need public transport much within the center. For day trips, the electric train to Jurmala is inexpensive and scenic. Dining in the tourist epicenter of the Old Town carries a premium; venture a few blocks away to find where locals eat for half the price.

Festival & Events Calendar

Riga's soul is expressed through its annual celebrations. Planning your visit around these can define your trip. Winter/Spring: The year begins with the Riga Opera Festival (Feb), a world-class affair. Easter brings charming markets. The Riga City Festival in May celebrates the city's founding with parades and fireworks—a joyous, crowded spectacle. Summer: This is the festival zenith. Jāņi (Midsummer) (late June) is non-negotiable for culture seekers; join locals in the countryside for bonfires, singing, and ancient traditions. The Riga Jurmala Music Festival (July-Aug) offers stellar classical performances. Numerous open-air concerts and the Positivus Festival cater to contemporary tastes. Autumn: Culture moves indoors with the prestigious Riga International Film Festival (RIGA IFF) (Sep-Oct), a major draw for cinephiles. The contemporary art "White Night" event illuminates the city. Latvia's Independence Day (Nov 18) is a solemn, proud national observance. Winter: The Riga Christmas Market (late Nov-Dec) transforms Dome Square into a festive wonderland, followed by spectacular New Year's Eve fireworks. These events dramatically affect timing: expect peak crowds and prices during Jāņi, the City Festival, and the Christmas market period. For a culturally rich but less hectic visit, target the film or opera festivals in the shoulder seasons.

Practical Monthly Packing Guides

Packing for Riga means preparing for the Baltic's whims. Winter (Dec-Feb): This is an expedition. Pack a high-quality, insulated waterproof coat, thermal base layers, wool sweaters, a warm hat, gloves, scarf, and waterproof boots with good grip for ice and snow. An umbrella is useless against wind; a hood is better. Spring (Mar-May): Think layers. A waterproof windbreaker, a warm fleece or medium-weight jacket, long-sleeve shirts, comfortable walking shoes (waterproof recommended), a light scarf, and an umbrella are essential. The weather can change hourly. Summer (Jun-Aug): Pack light layers: t-shirts, light trousers, skirts, a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Always include a compact rain jacket or umbrella—a Baltic shower can surprise you. A swimsuit for Jurmala is a must. Autumn (Sep-Nov): Mirror spring packing but lean warmer. A warm, water-resistant coat, sweaters, scarves, gloves (by late Oct), sturdy waterproof shoes, and an umbrella. The key is adaptability. Cultural Notes: For visiting churches or upscale restaurants, smart-casual attire is appreciated. Latvians dress neatly. For the opera or a fine dining experience, men might wear a jacket, and women a dress. Always have a pair of comfortable shoes—Riga's cobblestones are beautiful but unforgiving.

Sample 7-Day Itineraries by Season

Spring Itinerary (May): Day 1-2: Immerse in the Old Town, climbing St. Peter's Tower for views. Day 3: Art Nouveau district tour, then relax in Vērmanes Garden. Day 4: Day trip to Sigulda for Gauja Valley hikes and castle ruins. Day 5: Explore the Central Market and Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum. Day 6: Attend Riga City Festival events and evening fireworks. Day 7: Leisurely canal boat tour and farewell dinner in the Old Town.
Summer Itinerary (July): Day 1-2: Old Town exploration and museum visits. Day 3: Train to Jurmala for a beach day and stroll along Jomas Street. Day 4: Day trip to Rundāle Palace, the "Versailles of the Baltics." Day 5: Explore the Spīķeri district and attend an evening open-air concert. Day 6: Kayaking or biking in the Gauja National Park (organized tour). Day 7: Last-minute souvenir shopping at the market and a sunset Daugava River cruise.
Autumn Itinerary (September): Day 1-2: Old Town and focus on museums like the National Art Museum. Day 3: Photography-focused walk through parks and the Art Nouveau district for fall colors. Day 4: Day trip to the seaside towns of Jurmala for a windswept, atmospheric beach walk. Day 5: Attend RIGA IFF film screenings. Day 6: Visit the Riga Motor Museum and the nearby Mentzendorff's House. Day 7: Food tour focusing on autumn game and mushroom dishes.
Winter Itinerary (December): Day 1-2: Christmas market immersion, Old Town walks, Dome Cathedral concert. Day 3: Museum day (Art Nouveau Museum, Occupation Museum). Day 4: Traditional Latvian pirts (sauna) experience. Day 5: Day trip to Sigulda for a winter wonderland walk (or cross-country skiing if snow permits). Day 6: Cozy cafe hopping, shopping for amber and woolens. Day 7: Ice-skating and final mulled wine at the market.

Conclusion: Finding Your Moment in Riga

So, when is the best time to visit Riga? The answer, beautifully, is that it depends on the story you wish to live. If your heart yearns for endless daylight, street festivals, and the social buzz of a city in full bloom, then target the long, golden days of June or July. If you seek the perfect equilibrium of pleasant weather, vibrant culture, and manageable crowds, set your sights on the glorious shoulder months of May or September. And if you are drawn to the profound, the atmospheric, and the authentic—if you find magic in snow-dusted spires, empty cobblestone lanes, and the cozy glow of a pub window on a dark night—then embrace the deep character of the off-season from October through April. Each season holds a key to a different Riga, each with its own indelible charm. Consider your priorities: budget, weather tolerance, desired activities, and appetite for crowds. Use this guide as your map. Then, step into the rhythm of this magnificent Baltic capital. Whether under the midnight sun or the soft glow of a Christmas market star, your perfect Riga awaits, ready to reveal its layers to those who choose their moment wisely.

FAQ - Best Time to Visit Riga

What is the absolute best month to visit Riga for first-timers?
For a first visit that balances great weather, manageable crowds, and a full cultural experience, May or September are ideal. You'll enjoy mild temperatures, long-enough daylight, the beauty of spring blooms or autumn foliage, and access to all major attractions without the peak summer rush, making for a relaxed yet comprehensive introduction.

Is Riga worth visiting in the winter?
Absolutely, if you are prepared for the cold and dark. Winter offers a uniquely magical and authentic experience with festive Christmas markets, lower prices, and a cozy, local atmosphere. The snow-covered Old Town is breathtaking, and activities like sauna rituals, museum visits, and warm tavern dinners become the heart of the trip.

How crowded is Riga in the summer?
Riga in July and early August is very crowded, especially in the Old Town and at major attractions like the Art Nouveau district and Jurmala beach. You will encounter queues, need reservations for popular restaurants, and pay premium prices. However, the vibrant energy and perfect weather for outdoor activities make it worthwhile for many.

When is the cheapest time to fly to Riga?
The cheapest flights are typically found during the deep off-season: January, February, and November (excluding the week of Independence Day on the 18th). Airfare prices drop significantly after the New Year and again after the autumn festivals conclude.

What should I pack for a trip to Riga in shoulder season?
Packing for shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) is all about layers. Bring a mix of long and short-sleeve tops, a warm fleece or sweater, a waterproof and windproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella, and a scarf. Be prepared for sunshine, rain, and cool breezes all in one day.

Are most attractions in Riga open year-round?
Most indoor attractions like museums, galleries, and churches are open year-round, though they may have reduced hours in the off-season. Some outdoor-specific attractions like canal boat tours, certain open-air museum activities, and beach facilities in Jurmala operate on a seasonal schedule, typically from May to September.

What is the weather really like in Riga? Is it always cold and grey?
While Riga has a reputation for grey skies, especially from October to March, it enjoys a beautiful, warm, and relatively sunny summer from June to August. Spring and autumn can be mixed but often feature stunningly clear, bright days. The weather is changeable, so always be prepared for a shift, but it is far from perpetually gloomy.