Family-Friendly Adventures in Riga, Latvia!

Small Guild (Maza Gilde)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting family day out in the heart of Riga, Latvia, with a visit to the Small Guild (Mazā Ģilde), an architectural gem steeped in history and culture.

Morning

Start your day at the Small Guild, located in the old town of Riga. This striking Gothic-style building, with its ornate façade and beautiful stained glass, is easy to reach by foot from most parts of the old town or by tram stopping at the National Opera nearby. Built in the 19th century, it was originally a meeting place for craftsmans" guilds. Today, it serves as a cultural venue and sometimes hosts concerts and exhibitions that the whole family can enjoy.

Lunch

After exploring the Small Guild, head over to Rozengrāls - a medieval-themed restaurant just a 5-minute walk away. Here, you can enjoy a meal that takes you back in time, with recipes inspired by ancient traditions, and an atmosphere filled with medieval charm.

Afternoon

Post-lunch, make your way to the nearby House of the Blackheads, about a 10-minute walk from the restaurant. This stunningly restored building is another historical marvel of Riga, originally built in the 14th century for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a guild for unmarried merchants, shipowners, and foreigners in Riga. The richly decorated façade and the historical artifacts inside make it a captivating visit for all ages.

Evening

Wrap up your day with a relaxing stroll along the Daugava River, just a few blocks from the House of the Blackheads. Enjoy the scenic views, watch the sunset, and if you’re lucky, catch a local festival or street performance, which are common in this vibrant area.

This itinerary not only immerses your family in the historical charm of Riga but also makes for an educational and memorable trip. Enjoy your journey through time in Latvia"s captivating capital!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Jauniela Street (Jauniela Iela)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Jauniela Street, Riga

Morning: Arrival and Breakfast

Start your day by arriving in Riga"s Old Town, easily accessible by tram (stop at Rātslaukums) or bus. Grab breakfast at the cozy *Black Magic Bar* on Kalku Street, just a 5-minute walk from Jauniela. Here, indulge in traditional Latvian pastries and the famous Riga Black Balsam.

Mid-Morning: Explore Jauniela Street

Take a leisurely stroll to Jauniela Street, known for its picturesque and colorful 19th-century buildings. As you walk, spot film locations used in the BBC adaptation of *War and Peace*. Jauniela is not just a treat for the eyes but also a step back in time with its cobblestone streets and historical architecture.

Lunch Break

Enjoy lunch at *1221*, a charming restaurant midway along Jauniela. They offer a kid-friendly menu with options that cater to all tastes, set in a beautifully restored medieval building.

Afternoon: Museums and Activities

After lunch, head to the nearby *Riga History and Navigation Museum* at Palasta iela 4, just a 10-minute walk from Jauniela. Here, engage with interactive exhibits perfect for kids, learning about the city"s rich maritime history.

Late Afternoon: Souvenir Shopping and Snack

Wander back towards Jauniela and visit local shops for unique Latvian crafts and souvenirs. Stop by *Sweet Amber*, a local candy shop where kids can enjoy watching sweets being made and even try some samples.

Evening: Relax at Bastejkalna Park

End your day with a relaxing walk to Bastejkalna Park, just a 15-minute walk from Jauniela. The park offers beautiful green spaces, a playground for the kids, and scenic views of the Pilsetas Kanals.

Dinner

Conclude your tour with dinner at *Folkklubs ALA Pagrabs* on Peldu iela, famous for its hearty Latvian cuisine and lively music, ensuring a memorable end to your day in Riga.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju Nams)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring House of the Blackheads and Surroundings

Morning: Visit House of the Blackheads

Start your family day out at the House of the Blackheads, located in the heart of Riga"s Old Town. This stunning building, originally built in the 14th century for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a guild for unmarried merchants, shipowners, and foreigners, features a richly decorated façormal and is a marvel of architectural beauty. Fun fact: The name "Blackheads" comes from the patron saint of the guild, Saint Maurice, who was depicted as a black Moor in knight"s armor.

To get there, simply take a walk through the Old Town, as it"s easily accessible by foot from most parts of the city center. If you"re staying outside the Old City, buses and trams to Old Town are plentiful.

Noon: Lunch and Riga Town Hall Square (Rātslaukums)

Just a short walk from the House of the Blackheads, enjoy a family lunch at one of the cozy eateries around the Riga Town Hall Square. Here, you can also see the Riga Town Hall and the statue of Roland that symbolizes freedom of the city.

Afternoon: The Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

A five-minute walk from the House of the Blackheads, take your family to the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia to educate them about Latvia"s 20th-century history. It"s a poignant reminder of the resilience of the Latvian people.

Evening: Riga Cathedral and Dinner

End your day with a visit to the nearby Riga Cathedral, with parts of it dating back to 1211. The cathedral is just a 10-minute walk from the museum. After exploring, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a nearby restaurant that offers traditional Latvian cuisine.

Getting Around

Walking is the best way to explore the compact and picturesque Old Town of Riga. However, for longer distances or tired little feet, trams and buses are both convenient and affordable options.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

St Peter"s Church

Why Visit?

Welcome to St. Peter"s Church, a historical gem nestled in the heart of the city! Here’s a family-friendly itinerary to make the most of your visit.

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by arriving at St. Peter"s Church around 9:00 AM to beat the crowds. If you"re driving, there’s convenient parking nearby, or you can easily access the church by public transport (the local bus or metro stops just a few blocks away).

Explore St. Peter"s Church

Step inside and you"ll be greeted by stunning architecture. The church, dating back to the 12th century, features magnificent stained glass windows and an intricately carved altar. Spend some time admiring the artwork and the peaceful atmosphere. Don’t miss the ancient crypt, believed to be from the early medieval period, which captivates both young and old with its mystery and history.

Attend a Family Workshop

Check the church’s schedule as they often host family-friendly workshops around 11:00 AM. These workshops might involve arts and crafts related to the church’s history or a fun scavatorial hunt that helps children learn about the church"s architecture and sacred art.

Lunch Break

Around noon, head to the small café just outside the church or enjoy a picnic in the adjacent park, where kids can play and adults can relax under the shade of old trees.

Climb the Bell Tower

Post-lunch, gear up for an adventurous climb up the church"s bell tower. The effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the city. It’s a great way for kids to burn off some energy and for everyone to capture memorable photos.

Gift Shop and Departure

Conclude your visit by stopping by the church’s gift shop. Pick up some unique souvenirs like replica stained glass or handcrafted ornaments. Plan to head out by 3:00 PM, leaving the rest of the day free for other activities or some well-deserved rest.

This concise visit to St. Peter"s Church promises a blend of education, fun, and spirituality, making it a memorable day for the entire family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Riga Castle (Rigas Pils)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Riga Castle

Welcome to a magical day at Riga Castle, an architectural gem nestled on the banks of the Daugava River in Latvia"s historic capital. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:

Morning: Arrival and Castle Tour

Start your day early by taking the tram (Line 5, 9, 11, 22, or 25) to the National Library stop, a short walk from Riga Castle. The castle, with origins dating back to 1330, serves as the official residence of the President of Latvia and a fascinating museum complex.

10:00 AM: Museum of Latvian History

Begin your tour at the Museum of Latvian History inside the castle, where interactive exhibits bring the rich tapestry of Latvia"s past to life. Kids will love the medieval armor and ancient artifacts. Don’t miss the Silver Treasury room, showcasing exquisite silverware that tells stories of Riga"s wealthy past.

11:30 AM: The Foreign Art Museum

Next, explore the castle"s Foreign Art Museum, which houses a diverse collection ranging from classic European paintings to intricate Asian ceramics. Look out for family-friendly workshops and guided tours specifically tailored for children.

Lunch Break: Castle Café

By now, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Head to the Castle Café for some Latvian delicacies like ‘piragi’ (bacon rolls) or a hearty ‘Auksta zupa’ (cold beet soup), both of which are surefire hits with kids.

Afternoon: Castle Grounds and Riverbank

Post-lunch, stroll around the castle grounds. Enjoy the lush gardens and perhaps catch a live medieval reenactment if you’re lucky. Continue to the riverbank for a serene walk along the Daugava, offering spectacular views of the castle and Riga skyline.

3:00 PM: Gift Shop and Departure

Wrap up your visit at the castle gift shop, where you can pick souvenirs like handcrafted Latvian jewelry or historical books for kids.

Riga Castle not only offers a peek into Latvia"s illustrious history but also provides a picturesque setting for family memories. Enjoy your journey through time in this storied city!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.