Riga transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, with its charming Old Town, historic landmarks, and lively markets creating an authentic festive atmosphere. The city’s mix of medieval architecture and cozy holiday traditions makes it one of the best places in the Baltic to experience Christmas. Among the many options, we particularly like the Riga: Old Town Legends & Christmas Spirit Walking Tour for its immersive storytelling and authentic Latvian holiday rituals. It offers a taste of local customs with a warm Riga Christmas drink and Black Balsam, right in the heart of the bustling Christmas market. For those seeking a more private, customizable experience, the Majestic Christmas Private Walking Tour in Riga delivers personalized insights into Riga’s decorated streets and historic sites. Meanwhile, the Riga Christmas Stories Small Group offers a shorter, more casual look at Latvian Christmas traditions, perfect for travelers on a tight schedule or those curious about local holiday myths.
Below, we’ve assembled a list of the best Christmas tours in Riga, each with its own flavor — from guided walks to intimate storytelling sessions. Whether you’re after a lively group experience or a private tour, you’ll find something suited to your style and budget.
1. Riga: Old Town Legends & Christmas Spirit Walking Tour
This walking tour is a fantastic way to experience Riga’s Old Town during Christmas, blending history, local traditions, and festive cheer. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours and includes stops at main landmarks like Dome Square, the Dome Cathedral, and the Three Brothers. What makes this tour stand out is the storytelling — you’ll hear fascinating legends, uncover the city’s secrets, and get insider tips from a local guide.
An essential part of this experience is sampling some special Latvian holiday drinks, including a hot Riga Christmas drink and the famous Riga Black Balsam — a herbal liqueur that’s been part of Christmas celebrations for generations. Visitors often remark on how the guide’s stories make the city’s history come alive, tying in Latvian traditions that are still practiced today. The Christmas market visit adds a festive touch, offering local crafts and seasonal treats.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a rich, narrative-driven exploration that combines cultural insights with holiday cheer. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 rating from six reviews. At just 1.5 hours, it’s a compact yet memorable way to kick off your Riga Christmas adventure.
Bottom Line: A lively, story-rich tour that perfectly captures the spirit of Riga’s Christmas traditions in a short, engaging format.
2. Majestic Christmas Private Walking Tour in Riga
For those who prefer an intimate, tailored experience, the Majestic Christmas Private Walking Tour in Riga offers a personal guide who will craft the tour around your interests. The tour lasts around 2 hours and is designed exclusively for your group (up to 4 people) at a cost of $599, making it a good choice for families or small groups seeking a private, in-depth look at Riga’s festive streets and historic sites.
The itinerary covers key sights like Riga Castle, the Central Market, Riga Cathedral, the Old Town, and the House of the Black Heads. These landmarks are beautifully decorated for Christmas, and your guide will share local stories behind each site. The highlight is the private nature of this experience — no rushing, no crowds — giving you a chance to ask questions and explore at your own pace.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a personalized Christmas experience and prefer a quieter, more reflective visit. The reviews are limited but highly positive, emphasizing the flexibility and quality of the guide. With its comprehensive itinerary and private setting, it offers a luxurious, tailored way to explore Riga’s holiday magic.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you value privacy, customization, and a focused exploration of Riga’s top Christmas sights with a knowledgeable local.
3. Riga Christmas Stories Small Group
If you’re interested in learning about Latvian Christmas traditions through stories and local insights, the Riga Christmas Stories Small Group is a charming, budget-friendly option. This 1.5-hour tour costs around $77.82 per person and is perfect for travelers who want a quick but meaningful glimpse into Latvian holiday customs.
Starting at the Riga Cathedral, you’ll visit the Christmas Market and learn about Latvian Christmas treats and crafts. The tour then takes you to the legendary House of the Black Heads, where you’ll hear the story behind the Christmas tree’s origins — a tradition that’s now celebrated worldwide but has unique local roots. The story of the Riga black cat and its significance to Latvian Christmas folklore adds a fun, quirky element. You’ll also explore the Nativity of Christ Cathedral and Riga City Hall, learning about how Christmas was practiced under Soviet rule and how local rituals are observed today.
This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy storytelling, cultural insights, and a shorter, relaxed experience. The reviews are good, with a 4.0-star rating, praising its engaging stories and local flavor. It’s particularly suited for those on a budget, with plenty of authentic holiday stories packed into a compact itinerary.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, engaging introduction to Christmas traditions in Riga for those looking for a casual, authentic experience.
How to Choose the Right Christmas Tour in Riga
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, schedule, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a quick, story-driven introduction with festive treats, the Old Town Legends & Christmas Spirit Walking Tour is perfect. For a more private, customized experience, the Majestic Christmas Private Walking Tour offers tailored sightseeing with minimal crowds. If you’re curious about Latvian Christmas folklore and traditions without spending much, the Christmas Stories Small Group provides a delightful, budget-friendly overview.
Remember to book early during peak holiday season, as these tours fill up quickly. Also, check whether drinks or admission fees are included, and dress warmly — Riga in December can be quite chilly.
To sum it up, Riga offers a wonderful mix of historic landmarks, festive markets, and local traditions that make Christmas truly special. For a lively storytelling walk, the Old Town Legends tour is hard to beat. If privacy and customization matter most, the private tour delivers a tailored experience. Meanwhile, the Christmas Stories tour is perfect for those eager to learn about Latvian holiday customs without breaking the bank. Whichever tour you choose, booking early and embracing the local holiday spirit will ensure a memorable Christmas in Riga.