Riga is the capital of Latvia and is home to 614,618 inhabitants (2021), which is a third of Latvia’s population. Being significantly larger than other cities of Latvia, Riga is the country’s primate city. It is also the largest city in the three Baltic states and is home to one-tenth of the three Baltic states’ combined population.
Warnings & Dangers in Riga
OVERALL RISK : LOW
Riga is considered one of the safest cities in the region. The crime rate is low here. You should beware of the outskirts of the city and watch your belongings, especially during the holidays.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW
Public transport is well-developed and safe. Taxis are convenient for getting around, but sometimes drivers can rip off tourists at exorbitant prices. Make sure the taxi has a taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Pickpocketing happens just like everywhere else - in the area of train stations, in the main squares, and in places where tourists gather. Always keep track of your belongings, do not leave your wallet and phone unattended.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
The city is not subject to any serious risks of natural disasters.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
The risk of serious robbery and armed attacks is very low in Riga. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is very small.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Riga. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Riga. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.
How Safe Is Riga for Tourists?
Riga is a reasonably safe city to travel to.
The crime index here ranges from low to medium.
The main problems are related to corruption and bribery.
Riga is a quiet city for its size, and the crime rate is meager compared to other EU capitals.
On weekends, the Old Town area is crowded with tourists so that it can be a bit noisy in the evenings. However, the rest of Riga remains quiet and calm as most tourists prefer the bars in the Old Town area.
Watch out for your pockets and bags in this area – pickpockets attract crowds of idle tourists.
That being said, there is many police throughout the city, and if you ever need an officer, head to the Freedom Monument, where the police are on duty 24/7.
The area on the banks of the Daugava – Maskavas – is considered one of the more dangerous areas in Riga.
Maskavas had a bad reputation for high crime rates, dilapidated buildings, and homeless vagabonds.
It is essential to maintain common sense and watch out for your surroundings.
Riga Bus Station is relatively safe. However, precautions must be taken to avoid fraud or robbery.
Always keep your bags and personal belongings with you and in plain sight.
Men are encouraged to use situational awareness when approached by casual women.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Riga?
A visa is not required for visits of up to 90 days in a 180‑day period for nationals of those countries for which the European Community has abolished the visa requirement. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Riga?
Like many countries in the EU, Latvia uses the Euro. The euro is the official currency of 19 of the 27 member states of the European Union. The euro, which is divided into 100 cents.
How's the Weather like in Riga?
Riga’s summers are comfortable and partly cloudy, and the winters are long, freezing, dry, windy, and mostly cloudy. The best time of year to visit Riga for warm-weather activities is from late June to late August.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Riga?
Riga Airport is the international airport of Riga, the capital of Latvia. It is located 13 kilometers from the city center, on the territory of the Marupe region. Riga Airport is the largest airport in the Baltic States in terms of freight and passenger traffic. At the end of 2019, the airport’s passenger traffic exceeded 7.7 million people.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Riga?
Riga is famous for its wooden buildings and Art Nouveau houses. Shops and restaurants are open to visitors in the pedestrianized medieval Old Town, while the lively Livu Square offers bars and nightclubs in the area.
Is the Water in Riga Safe to Drink?
Tap water is safe to drink.
Is Uber Safe in Riga?
There is no Uber taxi in Beijing. You can use any other local taxi services.
