Welcome to our starting point, Grēcinieku iela 7. The name of this street translates to Sinners’ Street, which immediately captures the imagination. In medieval times, this was one of the busiest parts of Riga, filled with merchants, sailors and craftsmen. The area was alive with taverns, inns and small workshops, making it a true center of trade and social life. If you close your eyes, you can almost hear the sounds of horses and wooden carts, smell fresh bread and imagine the shouts of traders offering their goods. Today, Grēcinieku iela blends historic architecture with modern cafés, restaurants and shops. It is the perfect starting point for our ride, symbolizing Riga’s balance between rich history and a lively present.
Mentzendorff’s House. Rigans' house-museum
Now we arrive at the beautiful Mentzendorff’s House, one of the best-preserved examples of a wealthy Riga merchant’s home. Today it serves as a museum, but centuries ago it belonged to the prosperous Mentzendorff family, known for their trade in fine goods. Step inside and you are transported back to the 17th and 18th centuries, with richly decorated ceilings, painted walls, authentic furniture, and everyday objects that reveal how Rigans of the upper class once lived. This is not just a house, but a time capsule where you can walk through dining rooms, kitchens, and salons, and imagine the lively conversations, feasts, and business deals that once took place here. It is one of Old Riga’s true cultural treasures.
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church - The Tall Watcher of Riga
Our next stop is St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, one of the oldest and most impressive landmarks in Riga. Built in the early 13th century, this church has stood through fires, wars, and countless reconstructions. Its soaring Gothic spire, reaching over 120 meters, once served as a lookout point, helping merchants and sailors navigate their way back home. Today visitors can climb to the viewing platform for one of the best panoramas of Riga, stretching across the Old Town rooftops, the Daugava River, and beyond. The church remains an important cultural venue, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and events that keep Riga’s traditions alive in the heart of the city.
House of the Blackheads - Riga’s Grand Landmark
Museum of the Occupation of Latvia - A Window Into the Past
Our journey now takes us to the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, a place that tells one of the most important and difficult chapters of Latvian history. The museum documents the years when Latvia was occupied by both the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany during the 20th century. Inside, you will find personal stories, photographs, documents, and objects that show how ordinary people lived through oppression, deportations, and resistance. It is not just a museum but a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Latvian people, who fought to preserve their culture and independence. Visiting here gives us a deeper understanding of Riga, not only as a beautiful city but as a nation that has endured and overcome immense challenges.
Riga Town Hall - The Heart of Civic Life
Here we arrive at the Riga Town Hall, a historic center of the city’s governance and a symbol of civic pride. Originally built in the 14th century, the Town Hall has seen centuries of Riga’s history unfold, from bustling medieval markets to political upheavals. Its elegant architecture, including a striking tower and ornate details, reflects the wealth and importance of Riga as a Hanseatic city. The building has been rebuilt several times, most recently after World War II, preserving its historic charm while serving modern administrative functions. Standing here, you can imagine city officials making important decisions, merchants negotiating deals, and townspeople gathering in the square - a true window into the life of Old Riga.
1991 Barricades Museum - Remembering Latvia’s Fight for Freedom
Our next stop is the 1991 Barricades Museum, a powerful tribute to Latvia’s struggle for independence. This museum is dedicated to the courageous citizens who built barricades and stood guard in Riga’s streets during the January 1991 events, defending the city against Soviet forces. Inside, you will find photographs, personal accounts, uniforms, and artifacts that tell the story of ordinary people performing extraordinary acts of bravery. Walking through the museum, you can almost feel the tension, courage, and determination of those days. It is a place to honor resilience, remember the sacrifices made, and reflect on how far Latvia has come since reclaiming its freedom.
Doma Square - The Heart of Old Riga
Now we arrive at Doma Square, one of the most lively and historic spots in Riga. This large open square is dominated by the magnificent Riga Cathedral, whose towering spire can be seen from almost anywhere in Old Town. Over the centuries, Doma Square has been the center of city life, hosting markets, festivals, concerts, and celebrations. Imagine merchants selling spices and textiles, townspeople gathering to hear news, and musicians filling the air with melodies. Today, it remains a vibrant meeting place, surrounded by charming cafés, shops, and historic buildings. Cycling through Doma Square, you can feel the pulse of Riga, where history and everyday life come together in a lively, unforgettable way.
Riga Cathedral - The Spiritual Heart of the City
Riga Castle - The Living Seat of Power
The Three Brothers – Riga’s Oldest Homes
St. James’s Cathedral – A Symbol of Enduring Faith
