For those with a passion for history, culture, and art, Riga offers an impressive selection of museums that provide deep insights into the city's past and artistic heritage.
This guide highlights some of the must-visit museums in Riga, their key exhibits, locations, and practical visitor information.
National History Museum of Latvia
Established in 1869, the National History Museum of Latvia holds one of the largest collections of historical artifacts in the country. The museum showcases exhibits covering different periods, from ancient times to the 20th century. Visitors can explore archaeological findings, cultural artifacts, and exhibitions detailing Latvia's historical development.
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Ticket Price: Adults – €4, Students – €2, Free entry for children under 7
Art Museum Riga Bourse
Home to the most extensive collection of international art in the Baltic region, the Art Museum Riga Bourse features paintings, sculptures, and decorative art from different parts of the world. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.
Opening Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Ticket Price: Adults €6, Students €3
Latvian National Museum of Art
Recently renovated, the Latvian National Museum of Art is one of the most significant cultural institutions in the country. It houses an extensive collection of Latvian artwork and contemporary pieces, offering a fascinating journey through the nation's artistic evolution.
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Ticket Price: Adults €5, Students €2.50
Riga Art Nouveau Centre
Riga is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, and the Riga Art Nouveau Centre provides an in-depth look into this artistic movement. Located in a beautifully preserved historical building, this museum showcases authentic interiors and decorative elements characteristic of the era.
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Ticket Price: Adults €9, Students €5
Art Center Zuzeum
This contemporary art hub offers visitors a mix of exhibitions, installations, and cultural events. Art Center Zuzeum features modern art collections and provides a vibrant space for creative expression through workshops, lectures, and film screenings.
Opening Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Ticket Price: Adults €8, Students €4
Riga Motor Museum
Automobile enthusiasts will find the Riga Motor Museum fascinating, as it boasts the most extensive vintage vehicle collection in the Baltic States. The museum features interactive exhibits that tell the story of automobile development and key historical figures in the automotive industry.
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Ticket Price: Adults €10, Students €5
Latvian National Museum of Natural History
This museum offers an engaging experience for visitors interested in the natural world. Its exhibitions cover topics such as animal life, ecosystems, geological formations, and space exploration.
Opening Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Ticket Price: Adults €3, Students €1.50
Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation
One of the oldest museums in Europe, the Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation covers over 800 years of Riga's past. The exhibitions highlight trade, maritime activities, and cultural milestones in the city's development.
Opening Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Ticket Price: Adults €5, Students €2.50
Museum of the Occupation of Latvia
This museum provides a detailed account of Latvia's history from 1940 to 1991. Through photographs, documents, and personal testimonies, the exhibits explore the impact of foreign rule on the country and its people.
Opening Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Ticket Price: Suggested donation €5
Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum
Spanning 87 hectares, this museum showcases traditional architecture and lifestyle elements from Latvia's four cultural regions. Visitors can explore historic wooden houses, farmsteads, and handicrafts from past centuries.
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Ticket Price: Adults €4, Students €2
The Corner House
Once the headquarters of a notorious security agency, this building has been transformed into an exhibition space that sheds light on past surveillance practices. Guided tours offer a deeper understanding of its historical significance.
Opening Hours: Thursday–Sunday, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Ticket Price: Adults €7, Students €3.50
Pauls Stradins Museum of the History of Medicine
This museum presents an overview of medical advancements from ancient times to modern innovations. The exhibits include historic medical instruments, illustrations, and reconstructions of past treatment methods.
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Sundays and Mondays)
Ticket Price: Adults €4, Students €2
Summary
Riga's museums offer something for everyone, from history and science to art and technology. Each institution presents unique insights into different aspects of Latvian heritage and global culture. Whether exploring historical artifacts, admiring artistic masterpieces, or engaging in interactive exhibitions, visitors will find these museums both educational and inspiring. Plan your visit and discover the rich cultural landscape of Latvia's capital!
