Riga stands out in the Baltic region for its lively food scene, especially thanks to its large, historic markets and the variety of local dishes that reflect Latvia’s unique culinary traditions. If you’re a food lover, Riga offers more than just restaurants; it’s about experiencing the city through its authentic tastes and local stories. We particularly enjoy tours that combine traditional food with historical insights — like the Riga Central Market tour, where you can sample 20+ Latvian flavors in a lively, colorful setting. Exploring UNESCO-listed markets and small-group tastings makes for memorable experiences that go beyond the typical tourist fare.
For those who want an immersive introduction, the Riga: Central Market Traditional Food Tour in a Small Group is a standout. If you prefer a comprehensive day-trip experience that combines beach visits, nature, and food, then the tours to Jurmala and Kuldiga are excellent choices. And for travelers seeking a quick, culture-rich walk through Riga’s Old Town with delicious bites, the Flavours of Riga: Food, History & Hidden Gems Tour offers a taste of local history and cuisine in just 2.5 hours. Below, we detail each tour to help you pick the right culinary adventure.
1. Riga: Central Market Traditional Food Tour in a Small Group
This tour is an excellent way to dive into Latvian gastronomy at one of Europe’s largest covered markets. It’s a 2-hour walk through the Riga Central Market, where you’ll taste over 20 traditional Latvian foods while learning about the history of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour includes a Black Balsam tasting at the Black Heads house, giving you a taste of Latvia’s iconic herbal liqueur, and a guided walk that covers both the market’s stalls and Riga’s neighborhood. The knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging, sharing stories about Latvia’s food traditions and historical context, which makes this more than just a tasting.
What makes this tour stand out is the small group format, which ensures you get personalized attention. For groups of 10 or more, they use a tour guide system to improve audibility, so no one misses the details. Most reviews highlight the variety of food and the guide’s expertise, with one stating, “We tried a wide variety of traditional Latvian food, and our guide was so knowledgeable about how and when they are enjoyed.” The tour ends at the market itself, perfect for exploring further or picking up souvenirs like honey, Balsam liquor, or Latvian candies.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for food and culture lovers wanting an authentic, intimate experience.
2. Latvian food tasting tour at Riga Central market
This tour is a great introduction for those who want to wander through Europe’s largest open-air market on foot. Over approximately two hours, you’ll walk through all five of the market’s zeppelin hangars, sampling meats, cheeses, breads, fermented vegetables, and drinks. The focus is on providing a full sensory experience of Latvian ingredients and food traditions in a lively, bustling environment. The guide’s storytelling shines, with reviews mentioning how well they tied each sample into family history and Latvian culture, making it educational as well as tasty.
At just $45.18 per person, it’s an affordable way to sample many different foods in a short time. The small group size allows for more focus and interaction, and the tastings are plentiful enough to be considered a full meal. One review notes, “The stalls we visited and the various food tastings were very much up to expectations.” This tour is perfect for those wanting a broad overview of Latvia’s cuisine without getting lost in the details.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for food-curious travelers eager to explore Riga’s markets with a knowledgeable guide.
3. Jurmala, Kuldiga, Ragaciems Beach, Kemeri N park, Food & Drink
Looking to combine scenic beauty with authentic Latvian food? This full-day tour takes you outside Riga to explore some of Latvia’s most picturesque spots. You’ll visit Jurmala’s upscale beach, the historic town of Kuldiga with its famous waterfall, and the Kemeri National Park for a relaxing walk amid nature. Along the way, you’ll sample local specialties like craft beers, cheeses, and traditional bread, all with the added bonus of discovering Latvia’s natural landscapes.
Jimmy, the guide, is praised for his knowledge and hospitality, making the day both educational and fun. One reviewer wrote, “Jimmy knew the history and looked after us, and the picnic was a great surprise.” The trip also includes soft trekking in Kemeri, which is suitable for most fitness levels, making it a nice blend of nature, sightseeing, and food.
While this is a longer, more expensive experience, it’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of Latvia’s culture, scenery, and cuisine in one day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and authentic Latvian food in a single trip.
4. Jurmala, Kuldiga, Ragaciems Beach, Kemeri N Park, Food & Drink
This tour is very similar to the previous, but with a slightly more refined focus on authentic local places outside of Riga. Over 10 hours, you’ll explore Jurmala’s beaches, the waterfalls of Kuldiga, and the Kemeri bog walk, along with tasting Latvia’s best local foods and drinks. It’s a longer, more in-depth experience that emphasizes off-the-beaten-path sights like Europe’s widest waterfall and the less-visited parts of Kemeri National Park.
Jimmy is again highly praised for his friendly, knowledgeable style, and reviewers mention that it was worth the time for the beauty and authenticity. One reviewer notes, “The waterfalls, the bog walk, and the Baltic beaches were all worth seeing. The picnic with Latvian craft beers and cheeses was unforgettable.” This tour suits travelers who want a full day of sightseeing outside Riga while enjoying authentic food.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a full-day adventure that combines nature, quaint towns, and Latvian cuisine.
5. Flavours of Riga: Food, History & Hidden Gems Tour
If you’re short on time but want a rich taste of Riga’s culinary and cultural highlights, this 2.5-hour tour covers the essentials. The routes include Riga’s Old Town, where you’ll explore medieval sites and taste local snacks. The guide takes you to hidden locations and food spots that most travelers miss, with stops for Latvian spirits and sweet treats. The itinerary includes multiple food tastings and short guided walks, making it perfect for a quick but immersive experience.
One review mentions, “The tour was very informative and took you to places you’d never find. The food choices were delicious.” While the rating is modest at 3.7/5, the reviews highlight the quality and uniqueness of the food experience rather than the length or scope. This tour is ideal for history lovers and those wanting a quick cultural fix.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers with limited time who want a curated taste of Riga’s history and cuisine.
How to Choose
When deciding which Riga food tour is right for you, consider your budget, available time, and interests. For a deep dive into Riga’s market culture and traditional foods, the Riga: Central Market Traditional Food Tour is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more extensive exploration outside Riga, the day trips to Jurmala and Kuldiga are perfect, especially if you wish to combine nature and local cuisine.
For those short on time but eager to experience Riga’s hidden corners and local snacks, the Flavours of Riga tour delivers a concise but meaningful taste. Budget-wise, the tours priced around $45-50 offer great value, especially considering the amount of tasting included.
Booking early is wise, especially in summer or peak travel months, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid missing out.
Final Thoughts
Riga provides a range of food experiences that cater to different tastes and schedules. For those wanting an immersive, hands-on market exploration, the first two tours stand out. For travelers interested in combining scenery, history, and local flavors, the scenic day trips are a perfect choice. And if your time in Riga is brief but you want a rich cultural snapshot, the shorter, curated tour hits the mark.
Whether you’re a foodie eager to try Latvian specialties or a traveler curious about the city’s stories through its cuisine, Riga’s food tours offer a practical, engaging way to see the city’s culinary soul. Book early, enjoy your tastings, and savor every bite of Latvia’s distinctive flavors.