This list of Riga’s top ten unusual places to visit brings together the quirky, the haunting, and the historic. These sights invite you to explore the city from new perspectives and immerse yourself in the stories that continue to shape Riga today.

1. Riga Central Market
Located in five massive former Zeppelin hangars, the Riga Central Market is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Europe. With over 3,000 market stands, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers everything from fresh produce and seafood to handmade crafts. Exploring these colossal hangars and outdoor areas, you’ll get a true taste of Latvian culture, both literally and figuratively.

2. The Corner House (KGB Building)
For a glimpse into Latvia’s turbulent 20th-century history, visit The Corner House, the former Latvian headquarters of the Soviet Union's notorious KGB. Now a museum, this site serves as a haunting reminder of Soviet-era repression. Guided tours of the interrogation rooms, detention cells, and exhibitions shed light on the city’s dark history under Soviet occupation.

3. The Three Brothers
The Three Brothers are the oldest medieval dwellings in Riga and represent a fascinating architectural timeline. These three neighboring buildings, constructed over three centuries, showcase the evolution of design in Latvia. Each house boasts unique architectural styles, from medieval simplicity to Dutch Renaissance flair, making this one of the most photogenic spots in Riga.

4. Art Nouveau District
Riga is known as one of the world’s Art Nouveau capitals, with over a third of its central buildings showcasing this elaborate style. The Art Nouveau District is packed with buildings adorned with intricate sculptures, floral motifs, and mythological figures. Alberta iela (Albert Street) is particularly famous for its concentration of Art Nouveau masterpieces, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

5. The Black Cat of Riga
In Riga’s Old Town, you’ll find the famous Black Cat House, easily recognizable by the cat statues perched on its roof. Legend has it that the merchant who built the house was denied entry to the City Guild, so he placed the cats with their tails pointed toward the guild as an act of protest. Today, it’s a whimsical part of Riga’s charm and a favorite photo spot for visitors.

6. Castle of Light (National Library of Latvia)
The Castle of Light, Latvia’s national library, is a striking modern building designed to resemble a symbolic mountain from Latvian folklore. Known locally as Gaismas Pils, it houses millions of books and documents. Its impressive glass facade and sharp angles make it a standout structure on the Riga skyline, while inside, visitors can explore exhibitions and historical archives.

7. The Very Old Oak Tree
Estimated to be around 3,500 years old, Riga’s Very Old Oak Tree is a remarkable natural wonder. This ancient oak has witnessed millennia of history, and though it’s preserved indoors now, it offers a rare opportunity to connect with Latvia’s ancient past. For nature lovers and history buffs alike, it’s a humbling experience to stand before one of Europe’s oldest trees.

8. P. Stradins Museum for History of Medicine
This one-of-a-kind museum is perfect for curious minds and fans of the bizarre. Named after a prominent Latvian surgeon, the museum features historical medical equipment, anatomical specimens, and even the remains of the infamous two-headed dog experiment by Vladimir Demikhov. The P. Stradins Museum provides a fascinating, if eerie, look at the evolution of medical science.

9. House of the Blackheads
Originally built in the 14th century for the Brotherhood of Blackheads, a guild for unmarried merchants, the House of the Blackheads is one of Riga’s architectural gems. Destroyed during World War II, it was meticulously rebuilt in the 1990s to match the original design. With its ornate facade and unique history, this building is a must-see for anyone exploring Riga’s Old Town.

10. Jauniela (New Street)
Jauniela, a picturesque cobblestone street in Riga’s Old Town, has appeared in various films and TV shows. Most notably, it doubled as Baker Street in the Soviet Union’s adaptation of Sherlock Holmes. With its charming pastel-colored buildings and tranquil atmosphere, Jauniela feels like a scene from another era and offers a unique photo opportunity for those exploring the city’s quieter corners.

Riga’s unusual places offer a unique blend of history, culture, and a dash of mystery that makes exploring the city a true adventure. From storied markets and haunted KGB buildings to architectural marvels and ancient oaks, each location provides a fascinating lens through which to view the Latvian capital. These ten sites, both iconic and hidden, invite visitors to discover the intriguing stories that lie beyond Riga’s postcard-perfect facades. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, Riga’s eclectic mix of attractions will ensure your visit is anything but ordinary.