Excursion A taste of latvia tour at Riga

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.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Riga, Central Market, Tastings, Old Town, Churches, John’s Yard, Town Hall Square, Free Time, Old Town Centre, Dome Square & Cathedral, Black Balsam Degustation

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 3 miles (about 5 kilometres), at times over uneven, cobblestone, and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and three steps at the Black Balsam Bar. This tour is not suitable for guests with food allergies, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, bottled water, a sweater or light jacket, umbrella, and Euros or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary.