Riga Castle stands beside the Daugava at Pils laukums 3, on the edge of the Old Town. Founded in the 14th century, it is now the official residence of Latvia’s president, so visitors can enter only areas open to the public. Restored rooms and interpretation boards bring parts of the building’s history to life; from an upper-floor window, you can look across the river and city. Check whether an exhibition is running before you plan a visit, as the displays can vary.
A castle reshaped over time
The castle’s foundation stone was laid in 1330, when it was built for the Livonian Order. Its position beside the Daugava made it part of Riga’s long history of political change and conflict.
The building has been damaged and rebuilt more than once. Major reconstruction took place from 1497 to 1515, and later work altered its appearance and architectural details. The castle visitors see today is the result of those successive changes, rather than a building preserved in one medieval form.
A working presidential residence
Riga Castle is both a historic landmark and the official home and workplace of Latvia’s president. The presidential use of the building dates to the establishment of the presidency in 1922. It also houses museums, though public access is limited because parts of the castle remain in use by the president.
That working role shapes what you can see. Some rooms have been restored and arranged with interpretation boards, while other areas are not open to visitors. Exhibitions can add context to a visit, so check what is showing before setting aside time for the interior.
Planning an interior visit
Access is arranged in advance through the castle’s official visitor information. Check the current instructions before travelling there, rather than assuming you can enter on arrival. The official visit page is president.lv/en/visit-riga-castle.
Special events can provide access to renovated areas that are not part of an ordinary visit. Museum nights are one occasion to look out for. If the president is in residence, a white flag is flown; the castle remains an active official building, so follow visitor directions and stay within areas open to the public.
FAQ
Can you go inside Riga Castle?
Public access is limited, and some parts are used by the president. Check the official visit page and arrange access in advance.
What can you see inside Riga Castle?
Visitors may see restored rooms and interpretation displays, depending on which areas and exhibitions are open. Some parts of the castle are off-limits.
Where is Riga Castle?
It is at Pils laukums 3, beside the Daugava River in Rīga.
When is the president in residence?
A white flag indicates that the president is in residence.
