Private Old Riga tour with included Black Balsam tasting

2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Explore Riga's Old Town on a guided walking tour and sample the city's signature drink - the Riga black balsam.

Learn about the history of the city and the country, and discover what it's like to live in Riga today.

See the most famous landmarks of Old Riga, including St Peter’s Church, Town Hall Square, and the Monument of Freedom. Find out about the surprising origins of the Latvian language, the fate of churches during the Soviet occupation, and the little-known history of Latvia’s symbol of independence.

Learn about the challenges facing the country today - the impact of joining the European Union, integration challenges, and the current geopolitical situation are discussed.

This is a comprehensive yet personal tour of the Riga old town - with a delightful gastronomic element - which will give you the perfect start to your visit.

What's Included

Professional guide
The Riga black balsam. 2 shots per person. The Riga black balsam is an alcoholic drink made from vodka and a proprietary blend of herbs and spices. The drink dates from 1752 and is the drink of Riga
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Latvian National Opera

At the main entrance of the Latvian national opera

End point

The tour concludes outside St. Peter's church in the old town

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Freedom Monument

    Learn about the fascinating history of Latvia's symbol of independence and how it survived the soviet occupation.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Riga Cathedral

    Take in the largest church in the Baltic states and learn about the intricate history of the former world's largest organ housed in the church, learn about the founder of Riga and the state of Religion in Latvia today.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Latvijas Republikas Saeima

    At the Latvian house of parliament - Saeima - we discuss the current political situation, the unique origin story of the Latvian flag and the legend of Latvia's mythical folk hero - the bear slayer.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Riga Town Hall Square

    At town hall square we will delve into the controversial history of the Christmas tree and it's connection to Riga. Also, Riga during WW2 is discussed.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Cat House

    Learn about Riga's most famous legend - the cat house (not what you think) - and its bizarre and fascinating story.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Learn about the most important moment in the buildup to the Baltic states regaining independence from the Soviet Union - the massive Baltic way protest.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    We will go inside and down to the cellar for our included Riga Black balsam tasting - the signature drink of Riga. Two shots per person are included

    20 minutes Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by TRAVEL MANAGEMENT SIA

Tags

Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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