Riga: Central Market Traditional Food Tour in a Small Group
Old Town, Riga, Latvia
Discover the flavours of Latvian gastronomy at one of Europe’s largest covered markets. Savour 20+ traditional tastes while exploring the fascinating history of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.
This guided food and culture tour in Riga suits small groups interested in tasting traditional Latvian cuisine at Riga Central Market and exploring Old Town.
Highlights
- Taste fish sandwiches and local bites at Riga Central Market
- Explore one of Europe's largest covered markets with a local guide
- Sample 20 traditional Latvian flavors across fish, meat, dairy, and more
- Learn the history of the Zeppelin hangars and the market inside them
- Small group, maximum 15 people
Description
The tour starts at Riga Central Market, one of Europe’s largest markets housed in former Zeppelin hangars built in the 1920s. These steel structures combine innovative engineering with traditional local food culture. It remains the largest market in the Baltic States and a central point of Latvian daily life.
Your local guide will take you on a one-hour walk through the market’s pavilions, stopping to taste and learn about over 20 carefully selected products. Tastings include salted and smoked fish, artisanal hemp pesto, aged dairy, fresh vegetables, dark rye bread, and seasonal specialties. The guide will share the origins of each item and its role in Latvian traditions.
The second part of the tour leads you through Riga’s Old Town, where the guide will introduce important landmarks and local stories. The tour ends with a traditional Latvian lunch in the Old Town center, followed by a tasting of Riga Black Balsam, the country's iconic herbal liqueur, along with a lesson in local toasting customs.
Includes
- Certified local guide
- More than 20 local food and drink samples
- Small group experience (maximum 15 people)
Excludes
- Tips
Important Information
- Meeting point: Narvesen kiosk outside Riga Bus Station (Autoosta). Your guide will hold a yellow umbrella.
- This tour is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians due to traditional Latvian cuisine's reliance on meat, fish, and dairy.
- The tour requires a minimum of 2 participants; if unmet, options include rescheduling, full refund, or upgrading to a private tour.
- Group sizes max 15; for groups of 10 or more, audio receivers will be provided to ensure clear communication.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water. Morning tours are recommended for fresh market selections.
