Riga’s charm isn’t just in its architecture or its lively street life — it’s also in its surprising wine scene. While Latvia isn’t world-famous for its vineyards, the city offers a variety of wine experiences that showcase local flavors and unique settings. Whether you’re floating along the Daugava River on a private boat with sparkling wine or sampling Latvian wines in a cozy manor, Riga proves that wine tasting here is about much more than just the drink itself. Two favorites are the private boat tour with sparkling wine — which combines sightseeing with bubbly indulgence — and the Latvian wine adventure, a tasting tour that highlights local varieties. These experiences stand out for their authenticity and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers looking to combine scenic views with wine.
If you’re interested in a multi-hour journey that includes a scenic cable car ride and a guided tour of Latvian manors, then the Cable Car to Latvian Manor & Wine Tasting offers a truly memorable day out. For those wanting to indulge a bit more, a private yacht tour with a medieval banquet offers luxury and privacy, along with a taste of Riga’s historic side.
Quick Overview
Our list covers water-based tours like boat cruises, wine tastings at local wineries, and even a luxury yacht experience. You’ll find options suited for day-trippers, history lovers, and those seeking a touch of opulence. Each tour offers a distinct way to explore Riga and its surrounding countryside while enjoying Latvian wines and scenic views. Now, let’s take a closer look at each one.
1. Riga: Private Boat Tour with Sparkling Wine
At number one, this private boat tour offers a charming way to see Riga from the water. The tour lasts between 50 minutes and two hours, with departures available at various times (check their availability). You’ll cruise along the Daugava River and Riga Canal, passing landmarks like the Latvian National Opera, the Freedom Monument, and Stone Bridge. The highlight? A bottle of sparkling wine (or champagne) included in the price, served with glasses for an added touch of celebration.
What sets this tour apart is its flexibility and intimate setting. It’s perfect for romantic evenings or small groups wanting a personalized experience. One reviewer called it “a very nice ship with a very friendly guide,” noting that “the price included three bottles of sparkling wine.” The cruise provides a different perspective of Riga’s skyline, especially at sunset. The only potential downside: limited space means it’s best suited for small groups or couples.
Bottom Line: This tour combines sightseeing with a celebratory atmosphere, making it ideal for special occasions or those wanting a relaxing view of Riga’s waterways.
2. Latvian Wine Adventure: Discovering the Best of Baltic Wines
Number two on our list offers a deep dive into Latvian wines with a tasting of six local varieties. This two-hour tour is designed for those eager to learn about the traditional wine-making processes and uncover Latvia’s hidden wine gems. You’ll sample wines made from Latvian fruits and berries, gaining insight into the country’s unique approach to wine production.
What makes this tour special is its focus on authentic, locally made wines. The guide shares stories behind each bottle and offers tasting notes, making it more than just a sip-and-guess session. With perfect reviews rating it a flawless 5/5, it’s clear guests appreciate the quality and knowledge shared. This experience is suited for wine enthusiasts, foodies, or anyone interested in Latvian culture. The only thing to consider is that it’s relatively short — if you want a more extensive exploration, you might opt for a longer wine tour elsewhere.
Bottom Line: For those interested in Latvian wines and traditional production methods, this tasting tour offers excellent value and insight into Latvia’s lesser-known wine scene.
3. Cable Car to Latvian Manor & Wine Tasting
At number three, this full-day experience combines breathtaking views, a scenic cable car ride, and a visit to a historic Latvian manor. It’s perfect for travelers interested in combining a visual journey with a wine tasting and a bit of history. The cable car itself offers panoramic vistas of the Latvian countryside, making it a memorable start. Afterward, a guided tour of the manor reveals its architectural beauty and stories of Latvian nobility. The day concludes with a wine and snack tasting, featuring local wines paired with regional delicacies.
This tour is ideal for those wanting an immersive cultural experience. Its long duration (about 10 hours) makes it suitable for travelers with a full day to spare. The guided nature means you’ll learn about Latvian history, wine, and architecture in one sitting. The reviews mention the stunning views and the comfortable transportation, which handles the logistics smoothly. The only drawback? It’s a long day, so it might not suit travelers with limited time or mobility issues.
Bottom Line: This tour is a great pick for those who want a scenic, educational journey that combines natural beauty with wine tasting in a relaxed setting.
4. Riga Lipstick Masterclass & Wine
Number four offers a fun twist with a lipstick-making masterclass paired with wine. This 1.5-hour experience is perfect for those wanting a creative, hands-on activity while sipping on delicious wines. Led by an expert, you’ll learn how to create your own personalized lipstick, then take home a unique product. During the session, you’ll enjoy tasting a selection of wines, making it a great mix of beauty and leisure.
What makes this standout is its originality. It’s not often you get to craft your own lipstick in Riga, and the combination with wine makes it suitable for: bachelorette parties, girls’ trips, or anyone looking for something different. Reviews rave about the experience, emphasizing the personalized aspect and the relaxed atmosphere. The only thing to keep in mind: it’s a shorter, more casual event, so if you’re after a full-day tour or extensive wine tasting, this isn’t it.
Bottom Line: A creative, engaging experience for those who want to enjoy quality wines while crafting a memorable keepsake.
5. Riga Private Yacht Tour Medieval Banquet and Wine Tasting
For those seeking ultimate privacy and luxury, the private yacht tour with medieval banquet is a standout. Priced at over $6,400 for a group of up to 13, this five-hour adventure features a luxury yacht cruising the Daugava River, followed by a medieval-style dinner with local wines. The yacht provides a plush, intimate setting, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or impressing guests.
The journey includes exploring a medieval cellar, learning wine secrets from monks, and enjoying a meal in a historic environment. It’s ideal for travelers who want exclusivity, a touch of history, and excellent wine in a scenic setting. Reviewers mention the magical atmosphere and the knowledgeable guide, making it worth the splurge if your budget allows. The main limitation? It’s a high-cost option, so it’s best suited for groups or special events.
Bottom Line: A luxurious choice for celebrating milestones or entertaining clients, combining scenic sailing with a historic dining experience.
6. Vidzeme Wine Tasting Tour
Finally, the Vidzeme Wine Tasting Tour offers a six-hour journey exploring local Latvian micro-wineries, including Krimulda Manor and Ligatne. This tour is perfect for those interested in small-scale wine production and regional flavors. The itinerary includes lunch in Sigulda, a charming town with a lot of character, before returning to Riga. Guests enjoy tasting wines made from Latvian fruits and berries — surprising many with the variety and quality.
What makes this tour attractive is its focus on local, handcrafted wines and its ability to cover different vineyard settings in one day. Reviews mention the fascinating wineries and the chance to see how Latvian wine is made at places like Ligatne. The tour is longer and more comprehensive, suited for travelers wanting to learn about Latvia’s wine culture beyond the city.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wine lovers who want to explore micro-wineries and learn about Latvia’s innovative approach to fruit and berry wines.
How to Choose the Best Riga Wine Tour for You
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re seeking a relaxed water-based experience, the Riga private boat tour with sparkling wine is perfect. For connoisseurs eager to taste local Latvian wines, the Latvian Wine Adventure offers a focused tasting in a small-group setting.
Travelers wanting a scenic day with a bit of history should consider the Cable Car & Manor Tour. Those wanting a fun, creative activity might opt for the Lipstick Masterclass, which combines beauty and wine in a casual setting.
Finally, if your budget is flexible and you’re celebrating a special occasion, the luxury yacht experience offers unmatched exclusivity. Meanwhile, the Vidzeme wine tour provides a broader look at Latvia’s micro-winery scene and regional flavors.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Riga Wine Tour
Riga presents a surprising variety of wine experiences that cater to different tastes. Whether you prefer a scenic boat cruise, a comprehensive wine tasting, or an indulgent private yacht day, there’s something here for everyone. For a romantic escape, the boat tour with sparkling wine is hard to beat. If you’re more into the local wine scene, the Vidzeme wine tour offers a fascinating look at Latvian wineries.
Remember to book early, especially for popular experiences like the private yacht or the wine adventure, as they tend to fill up fast. With these options, you’re guaranteed to discover the flavors of Latvia while enjoying some truly memorable settings.
Happy wine tasting in Riga!