Hafen
Riga

Become familiar with the diversity of architectural styles that make Riga such an architecturally rich city. Historic importance of authentic Old Riga with its charming medieval atmosphere and current renaissance of old buildings with successfully implemented restoration projects reveal Riga in its real beauty. It is estimated that Riga overall possesses the largest collection of German Art Nouveau architecture in the world. Take a walk through the main Art Nouveau street – Alberta street. During this part of your tour, enjoy the opportunity to admire various unforgettable examples of Art Nouveau buildings. Drive along the boulevards, parks and charming green sports of Riga. View Art Nouveau buildings, Latvian National Museum of Art, the Monument of Freedom erected in 1935 on the donations of citizens of Latvia, Latvian University, National Opera and other remarkable buildings. Discover the historical Old Riga on foot and acquaint yourself with the churches, renovated buildings, where the architecture of medieval times and that of the 17th-19th centuries dominate. Look at the Blackheads’ House, St. Peter’s Church and others. Walk to Livu Square where you will have a chance to admire buildings such as the Theatre of Russian Drama, Big and Small Guild Houses and wonderful buildings of Art Nouveau architecture. During the tour you will visit the State Latvian Museum of Art. The impressive building itself is a national architectural monument. After an extensive restoration and reconstruction, the Latvian National Museum of Art was opened to visitors on May 4, 2016. The new permanent exhibition, housed in the 2nd and 3rd floor of museum’s historic building, with more than 500 works of art, focuses on the different development periods of Latvian art.

Riga, the capital of Latvia, was founded more than 800 years ago and has now grown into the most cosmopolitan city in the Baltic States. Founded in 1201 during the Middle Ages, Riga was developed into a Hanseatic city, and by the 18-th and 19-th century had grown into one of Europe’s leading ports and industrial centers. As a cosmopolitan city Riga was once revered as “the Paris of the North''. Years of independence and becoming a member of the European Union have brought great changes and development to the city and to the country itself. Enjoy a short ride along Riga's boulevards, parks and charming green spots. During this part of the tour you will have the opportunity to admire several memorable examples of Art Nouveau buildings, as well as the Latvian National Museum of Art, the Freedom Monument erected in 1935 on donations from the citizens of Latvia, Latvian University, National Opera House and other notable buildings. Discover the historical Old Riga on foot and acquaint yourself with the churches, renovated buildings, and glorious Dome Cathedral – a masterpiece of architecture, which you will have a chance to visit. Foundations for the cathedral were laid in 1211. Large restoration works from the late 19th to early 20th centuries gave it its present look. It is considered the largest Medieval church in Latvia and the Baltic States. The Dome, the tallest of all spires at the time, is famous for its magnificent organ, constructed in 1883, with more than 6,000 pipes. Continue your walk to the Town Hall Square, where you will see House of Blackhead’s, Roland Monument, St. Peter’s church. Stop at the Livu Square and listen to a story about the Cat House, Small and Large Guild Houses.

Mingle with local Latvians by traveling on the train and public buses to several waterfront districts, where you will meander about the attractions. Drive by public transport (bus or train) to Vecaki, a district on the Gulf of Riga known for its beaches. While there, the guide will enhance your understanding of the capital’s turbulent history by elaborating on the nearby fortifications that date to the Napoleonic Wars. You will then board a public bus and enjoy a genuine slice of daily Latvian life on the way to the Vecmilgravis district. The guide will point out buildings constructed during the time that the Soviets occupied Latvia. Like several neighboring Baltic countries, Latvia gained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The most historical building is the White Church. Built near the water during the late 18th century, the wooden Lutheran church features a tower that local fishermen have long used as a lighthouse of sorts to help them navigate. Get an authentic feel for Latvian life by riding the train and/or bus with the locals. Explore the beach-rimmed district of Vecaki, a resort area where the residents relax. Gain an understanding of life under Soviet rule before Latvia became independent in 1991. During your walk, you’ll stop at a local cafe for refreshments.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Get an authentic feel for Latvian life by riding the train and bus with the locals.
• Explore the beach-rimmed district of Vecaki, a resort area where the residents relax.
• Gain an understanding of life under Soviet rule before Latvia became independent in 1991.

Visit a rural farm and tour the fields with the owners, who will be quite willing to discuss how farming and life has changed since Latvia’s independence from the Soviet Union. During the Soviet era, collective farming was practiced, in which government-owned farms banded together to grow crops. When Latvia gained its independence in 1991, farms could be privately owned again. The farm that you will visit grows an abundance of raspberries and strawberries, as the conditions in this part of Latvia are quite favorable for both crops. Growing berries became even more widespread following the Soviet era because the farmers could directly reap the benefits. You may have the opportunity to pick some berries (if available) in the fields and enjoy homemade seasonal pie while lingering over a cup of tea with the owners of the farm. Feel free to ask them about their lives before and after Soviet rule. It is sure to be an eye-opening experience. Gain an understanding of how farming has changed since Soviet rule ended in 1991. Tour a berry farm with the owners and learn more about its challenges and development. Enjoy some berries (if available) and homemade seasonal pie and a cup of tea with the owners as they discuss post-Soviet rural life.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Gain an understanding of how farming has changed since Soviet rule ended in 1991.
• our a berry farm with the owners and pick your own raspberries and strawberries.
• Enjoy the berries and a cup of tea with the owners as they discuss post-Soviet rural life.

Make yourself comfortable and get ready for the photo highlights of the Latvian capital. Drive through the streets of Riga where you can enjoy the medieval architecture and examples of the Art Nouveau style, as well as see the city's modern architecture and lifestyle. Pass by the Old Town of Riga, with panoramas outlined by many church spires. You will see the 14th century Powder Tower, which is the only remaining tower of the former city defense wall and you will then make a stop at the City Hall Square for a great photo opportunity. A stop at the Freedom Monument will give you the chance to take a memorable photo of this symbol of Latvian independence, which was erected in 1935 and was again at the heart of the Latvian independence movement in the late 1980s. Cross the River Daugava for a magnificent panoramic view of the Old Town. Don't miss this postcard view for your photo album of the journey.

Jurmala is a resort town west of Riga, with white sand beaches stretching nearly 20 miles and sandwiched between the Gulf of Riga and the Lielupe River. While Latvia was a part of the Soviet Union, Jurmala was a favorite holiday-resort and beloved tourist destination for high-level Communist Party officials. Although many amenities such as beach-houses and concrete hotels remain, some have fallen into disrepair, Jurmala remains a tourist attraction with its long white-sand beach facing the Gulf of Riga and romantic wooden houses built in the Art Nouveau style. The town is well-known for its natural treasures – the mild climate, sea, healthy air, curative mud and mineral water. The allure of Jurmala lies in its almost 20-mile long white sand beach, large pine forests and the natural border of the city – the river Lielupe. A drive of about 30 minutes will take you to Jurmala, where after a short panoramic drive you will pass the Dzintari Concert Hall, built in 1960, where the popular festivals are held in the summer, and the railroad station. Take a walk around town and learn about the most distinguishing architectural feature in Jurmala - the prevalence of wooden houses dating from the 19th and first half of the 20th century. Most of the buildings were built by Baltic German and Latvian architects. The architecture of Jurmala typically falls into classicism, national romanticism, and modern styles. The town has an official list of 414 historical buildings under the protection of the state. There is plenty to do in town; the long, main pedestrian street offers an opportunity to people watch and an assortment of friendly cafes and restaurants as well as shops and green areas. Head to the beach and experience the freshness of the Jurmala sea-side. Perhaps you will want to use your free time to dip your toes in the water and take a walk along the shore.

Head to the picturesque town of Sigulda, located about 30 miles from Riga. During the drive you will enjoy the forest scenery and views of the River Gauja valley. Sigulda is often called the Latvian Switzerland and is well known as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Latvia. Visit the 13th century Turaida Castle and the fortification tower, where you can enjoy the picturesque landscape from a bird's-eye view. By the Turaida church under an old linden tree, you will find the grave of a young girl - the Rose of Turaida - the heroine of a true love story from the 17th century. Visit the sculpture park dedicated to Latvian folklore. You will also stop for a look of the renovated ruins of the 13th century Sigulda Castle and the 19th century Kropotkin’s Manor House. With a long history of battles that severely damaged the castle, it suffered great damage during the centuries. After years of renovations, it offers a perfect venue where to hold many events and impressive views of the Gauja River Valley. Along the way, you will stop for a short visit of the Gutmana cave; the object of many legends. Its name derives from the German words for gut mann, as the cave was home to a good man who healed locals with the waters of a nearby spring. When you return to Riga, have a short photo stop at the Town Hall Square in Riga Old Town before driving back to the ship.

Discover the iconic landmarks and flavours of Latvia during this immersive, half-day sightseeing and tasting excursion.

Riga, Sightseeing Drive, Central Market, Pavillions, Tastings of Local Specialities

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour sightseeing drive through the elegant and fascinating boulevards of Riga en route to the Central Market, Europe's largest market and bazaar. One of the most renowned structures from 20th-century Latvia, the Central Market is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main structures of the market are five pavilions built by repurposing old German Zeppelin hangars, and incorporating Neoclassicism and Art Deco styles. The market is approximately 778,000 square feet (about 72,300 square metres) wide, with more than 3,000 trade stands. During your guided walking tour, explore the pavilions and enjoy tastings of local specialities.

Old Town, Churches, John’s Yard, Three Brothers, Guild Buildings, Town Hall Square, Free Time

Your city exploration continues with a guided stroll through the Old Town, Riga’s other UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, pass by iconic sites that include the 13th-century St. Peter's, St. George's, and St. John's churches, and walk through the medieval John's Yard. In addition, see the medieval dwelling houses known as the ‘Three Brothers’, and the large and small Guild buildings, en route to Town Hall Square. Upon arrival, some free time is made available for shopping and exploring at your leisure.

Old Town Centre, Dome Square & Cathedral, Local Bar, Riga Black Balsam Degustation

Next, walk to the centre of the Old Town, Dome Square, to see the magnificent Dome Cathedral. Afterward, a stop is made at the locally-renowned Black Balsam Bar for a unique opportunity to participate in the famous Riga Black Balsam degustation, which is topped off with a nice cup of coffee. Often considered to be the national drink of Latvia, Riga Black Balsam is a very bitter liqueur that is brewed with a traditional recipe combining 24 different ingredients. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Sigulda is one of Latvia's most beautiful towns. There are not many places in the world where the beauty of nature becomes an integral part of the town.Discover the land filled with Medieval castles and beautiful forested country sides during this picturesque, half-day excursion to Sigulda.

Scenic Drive to Sigulda

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate 30-mile (about 48-kilometre) ride to the picturesque town of Sigulda. En route, take in the beautiful forest scenery and magnificent views of the Gauja National Park and River Valley. Sigulda, often called the 'Latvian Switzerland' because of the beautiful mountainous region, is among the most popular destinations in the country.

Sigulda Castle

Upon arrival in Sigulda, visit to the remains of the 13th-century Sigulda Castle. Located by the river and largely in ruins, the castle features an outdoor amphitheatre and offers splendid photo opportunities. Following the Sigulda Castle.

Gutmanis Cave and Turaida Castle

Next, visit the Gutmanis Cave, which is covered with markings dating from the 16th century, including the coats-of-arms of Old World hunters. The tour continues with a visit to the Turaida Castle, Church and the 19th century Kropotkin's Manor House. The 13th-century Turaida Castle and fortification tower offer excellent views over the valley and the meandering river below.

Following your visit, re-board your coach, for the approximate 1 hour and 30 minutes drive back to the pier. Along the way enjoy a short photo stop in Old Town, Town Hall square and before returning to the ship.

Experience the seaside beauty of Jurmala City in a healthy new way during this scenic and invigorating, half-day bike excursion.

Riga, Jurmala City, Expansive Seashore, Silky Quartz Sand, 11 Beaches, Breath-Taking Sea Views

Depart the pier for scenic, approximately 40-minute drive to an e-bike shoppe in Jurmala City, the biggest resort city on the shores of the Baltic Sea. The presence of the sea, approximately 15-mile-long (about 24-kilometre-long beach and romantic wooden architecture combine to create the unique ambience of the city. The Jurmala seashore, with its silky quartz sand, 11 well-maintained beaches, and breath-taking panoramic views of the coast and Baltic Sea, is an enticing destination for locals and visitors alike, and the ideal setting for your picturesque and invigorating bike adventure.

Bike Instruction, Guided & Narrated Bike Tour

Upon arrival at the bike shoppe in Jurmala City, meet your guide and receive your biking safety briefing and instructions on how to use the controller, gears, brakes, etc. Afterward, don your safety helmet, hop on your bike, and begin the cycling portion of your guided and narrated, approximately 6.2-mile-7.4-mile (about 10-kilometre-12-kilometre) biking adventure. Your approximately two-hour bike-ride takes place mostly on packed, sandy soil, and is suitable for all riders with a moderate level of fitness.

Fresh, Seaside Air, Pine Scented & Covered Dunes, White-Sand Beach

Jurmala is one of the few European cities where you can breathe in the fresh seaside air whilst enjoying the natural aromatherapy provided by the pine forests. A third of the city’s area is forested, and, in most places, the white-sand beach is hidden behind a belt of pine-covered dunes. Best of all, it offers a unique opportunity to bike directly on the beach. The underlying strength of the packed, sandy soil makes it easily navigable by bike. A refreshment stop is included. Your Jurmala City biking trek concludes back at the bike shoppe. Upon arrival, return your bike and helmet, re-board your coach, and commence the approximately 50-minute drive back to the pier.

Riga is the capital of Latvia, the largest city of the country and the most cosmopolitan town of the Baltic capitals. It is a well-known and highly appreciated industrial, commercial, cultural and financial center of the Baltic States as well as one of the most important seaports of the region. Experience the splendid, Old World architecture and landmarks of Latvia during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion through this historic city.

Art Nouveau District and Opera House

Depart the pier for the brief drive past the Presidential Palace to the unique Art Nouveau area.  Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of Alberta Street, home of some of the finest Art Nouveau architecture in Europe.  Afterward, re-board your coach and drive past the Old Zeppelin Hangers, Boulevard Circle, Latvia University and the National Opera House.

Old Town Walking Tour

Next, pass by the Freedom Monument en route to the Monument of the Latvian Riflemen, then take a guided walking tour through the historic centre of Riga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  While strolling through the Medieval Hanseatic Old Town, pass the red-brick Gothic building, the tallest in Old Riga, the early-13th-century St. Peter's Lutheran Church, St. John's Lutheran Church, the big and small Guilds, House of Blackheads, Dome Lutheran Church, and the romantic Convent Courtyard.

Latvian Folk Show

Stop at a unique venue to enjoy a brief folk music concert.

From here, visit Pils Square, home of the imposing, 14th-century Riga Castle.  Additional sights to be seen include the Three Brothers, the oldest building in Riva, St. Jacob's Church and the remains of the city's fortified Medieval wall.

Your tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore the largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in the world during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion to Riga.

Riga, Art Nouveau District, Streets & Buildings

Depart the pier for the short drive to Riga’s Art Nouveau District. Riga is amongst the most exciting cities and tourist destinations in the Baltic states. The historical importance of Old Riga, with its charming medieval atmosphere and current renaissance of beautifully-restored old buildings, reveal the city’s authentic beauty. Overall, it is estimated that Riga possesses the largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in the world. Upon arrival at Riga’s Art Nouveau District, take a guided walking tour through the main Art Nouveau streets of Strelnieku and Alberta. Along the way, marvel at various unforgettable examples of Art Nouveau buildings and architecture.

Latvian National Museum of Art, Boulevards, Parks, and Green Areas of Riga

Your art and architectural tour of Riga continues with a guided visit to the Latvian National Museum of Art. Here, approximately 500 works of art from the museum’s collection are housed on the 2nd-floor and 3rd-floor of the museum’s historic building. A highlight of your visit is the permanent exposition, ‘Latvian Art of the 19th–20th Centuries’, which presents an overview of Latvian art history over the course of two centuries. Afterward, re-board your coach for a scenic drive along the boulevards, parks, and charming green areas of Riga en route to the Old Town.

Old Town, Blackheads’ House, Churches, Guild Buildings, Daugava River, Agenskalns Market

Next, discover historic Old Riga on-foot and acquaint yourself with its churches and renovated buildings. Pass by the Blackheads’ House, 13th-century St. Peter’s, St. George’s, and St. John’s churches, then walk over to Livu Square. Upon arrival, marvel at buildings such as the Theatre of Russian Drama, large and small Guild houses, and other wonderful examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Before returning to the port, drive to the left side of the Daugava River to see its superb examples of wooden architecture, followed by a photo stop to capture a beautiful Riga panorama and some free time for shopping and a snack  at the Agenskalns Market. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach for the short drive back to the pier.

Experience the highlights of Riga in a unique new way during this panoramic city tour by land and sea.

Modern Riga City Drive

Enjoy a scenic drive through the modern part of the city. The bus will take you through the boulevards of Riga city centre with its fine examples of Art Nouveau architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Pass by Academy of Arts and the State museum of Fine Arts, Orthodox Cathedral, the Council of Ministers and the main business street in Riga - Brivibas.

Wooden Boat Canal Ride

Continue your journey through Riga on a small wooden boat for a beautiful trip to enjoy Riga's marvelous layout, breathtaking buildings, wonderful parks, boulevards and charming city canal.

Old Riga On Foot

Enjoy a walking tour of the Old Riga. Freedom monument, National Opera house, Dome Cathedral, St. John' s yard are just some of the sites you will see in this marvelous part of the city. Stop at the Town Hall Square, where you will see Blackheads House, Town Hall Building and St. Peter's church.

After the tour, board your coach for the short transfer back to the port.

Discover the Latvian culinary heritage on a journey through Riga's iconic food outlets. Accompanied by one of the top Latvian Chefs, explore the local market, browsing for the ingredients that will then be used for a traditional cooking class, followed by a delicious meal.

Scenic Drive

Board your coach and enjoy driving around elegant and fascinating Riga to the Central Market, which is Europe's largest market and bazaar in Riga, Latvia. It is one of the most notable structures from 20th century in Latvia and has been included in Unesco World Heritage Site list together with Old Riga in 1998.  

Riga Central Market

At Riga Central Market be greeted by a famous Latvian Chef and visit all the pavilions to find the ingredients necessary for your cooking class. Who knows the market better than the chef who visits the market every morning to choose products for the restaurant! After having purchased the ingredients and tasted some special and unique products in the market, travel to the restaurant for a unique cooking class.

Cooking Class

Cooking takes place under the direct supervision of one of the two chef, who will explain the cooking process, show what must be done, and allocate tasks to each participant. All groups will work simultaneously, but participants can hear and see what the other groups are doing.

Latvian Lunch

Of course, the cooking experience will be followed by a tasty lunch prepared all together.

After the lunch, take a short walk back to the port or board the bus to the ship to continue your journey.

The Three Chefs' Restaurant

The three chefs' restaurant „Tam labam bus augt" (The good must grow) is a restaurant with open kitchen, founded in September 2011 by two famous Latvian chefs, Martins Sirmais and Eriks Dreibants.

Chef Eriks Dreibants

He is a volcano of ideas, passion and energy. His philosophy has always been in harmony with the Slow Food movement. Several years ago he started a collaboration with the "Earth Market" or local producers market in Straupe, and in August 2019 he launched the Latvian Cooks' Alliance, the first in the Baltic countries. For him cooking is a mix of biology, art, geography, history, chemistry, politics and fashion. He tries to put the whole world on a plate while at the same time maintaining the dominance of a product's natural taste.

Chef Martins Sirmais

He is one of the best known chefs of Latvia. He has published new kitchen advice book that teaches how to become a cooking fan. He is always ready to revel kitchen secrets, give advice on how to distinguish one product from another. Attractive cook has gathered recipes that everyone should know that are published in his book as well as shown in TV series called "Sirmais Cult Food" where he visits different country learning about the local ingredients, traditions and food preparation.

Explore Riga at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Riga at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Riga at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Riga at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Riga mal anders erkunden – mit einer Oldtimer Straßenbahn entdecken Sie die Stadt aus einer ganz besonderen Perspektive. Die Straßenbahn aus dem Jahr 1910 ist liebevoll nach alten Zeichnungen restauriert worden. Freuen Sie sich auf so einige architektonische Besonderheiten entlang der Straßenzüge und genießen Sie den Charme der Nostalgie.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Zu Fuß in Rigas Altstadt
• Rund 1-stündige Straßenbahnfahrt mit der Oldtimer Tram
• Rundgang durch die Altstadt, etwa 1 Stunde
• Zu Fuß zurück zu Mein Schiff ®, individuelle Rückkehr möglich