[2025 Riga Attraction] Travel Guide for Cat House (Updated Jul)

Latvia 🇱🇻 Attractions - Livu Square There are several special buildings in this square They are the Big and Little Guilt House, and the Cat House They have some interesting stories According to legend, the Great Guild Chamber of Commerce was founded by wealthy German businessmen at that time The owner of the Cat House refused to join the club Therefore, two cats were installed on the roof to face the chamber of commerce as a vent It went to court But in the end there was a settlement that shifted the position of the cat #New Year's Good Place

📍 Where Is Riga? Riga, the capital of Latvia, sits gracefully on the Daugava River, right at the crossroads of Northern and Eastern Europe. It’s one of the Baltic region’s hidden gems, rich in culture, architecture, and warm hospitality—even in the cooler, quieter months of winter. 🏛️ What Makes Riga Special in Winter? In winter, Riga takes on a peaceful, intimate atmosphere. The historic streets are calmer, the cafés more inviting, and the whole city feels like it slows down just enough for you to truly experience it. It’s the perfect time to enjoy local life, seasonal food, and architectural beauty without the summer crowds. 🧭 What to See & Do in Winter • Old Town (Vecrīga) – Discover medieval buildings, romantic courtyards, and charming alleyways lit with warm lights • House of the Blackheads – A stunning Gothic-style building in Town Hall Square, rich in history and detail • St. Peter’s Church – Go up the tower for panoramic views over Riga’s rooftops and the river • Art Nouveau Quarter – Take a walk through Alberta Street and discover Riga’s world-famous facades • Riga Central Market – One of Europe’s largest markets, perfect for tasting local specialties like rye bread, pickled vegetables, smoked fish, and honey ☕ Where to Warm Up • Parunāsim kafe’teeka – A fairy-tale café hidden in the Old Town, perfect for tea and cake • MiiT Coffee – Local favorite with craft coffee and a cozy, minimalist interior • Rocket Bean Roastery – Industrial vibes, great brunch, and excellent coffee • Mr. Fox – Fresh, healthy food with a Scandinavian touch 🧣 What to Expect Weather-Wise • Winter in Riga is cold and crisp, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to -5°C, but often dry • Overcast skies are common, adding to the city's moody charm • Days are short, but streets and squares are beautifully lit in the evening ✨ Why Visit Riga in Winter? • A more authentic, local experience with fewer tourists • Comfort food, warm drinks, and an easygoing vibe • Ideal for slow travel – museums, bookstores, quiet walks, and cultural exploration • Better hotel deals and off-season prices 🕒 Best Time to Go • Late November to February is ideal if you love city breaks with a calm rhythm • December offers festive decorations and cozy lights • January and February are great for wellness, spa experiences, and slow travel 💡 Final Thought Winter in Riga doesn’t have to mean snow—it means quiet beauty, Baltic elegance, and comfort at every corner. Whether you're enjoying a hot coffee in a candlelit café or admiring the city's graceful architecture, Riga will charm you with its refined simplicity and thoughtful calm.

Latvia is one of the Baltic states, and it's not a country that most people would typically visit 😂. I stopped by while traveling to Russia! After visiting Russia, the streets and shops in Latvia felt so charming and cute 😂. Latvia is famous for Riga, especially the cat 🐈⬛ perched on top of a house. You wouldn't notice it unless someone pointed it out 😂. During this trip, I joined a walking tour to explore the city! The guide showed us the cat, bars with hidden entrances, and other interesting spots. Surprisingly, Riga is said to be the birthplace of the Christmas tree 🎄! The guide shared such fun tidbits with us. It's a cozy little city, so I highly recommend joining a walking tour!

✨Riga, Latvia✨ My favorite city among the three small countries❤️ Really, really fun to visit and comfortable! The most surprising place on this trip is Riga~ The old town is so big and beautiful, and there are stories everywhere you walk Not only historical buildings, but also cute cat houses and check-in churches The streets after the rain are like European movie scenes🌧️ 🛍My favorite is Lidl supermarket (laughing European Lidl is really fun to visit and take pictures And it’s cheap and has many special snacks that you can bring back as souvenirs! 💒 I went to: ✔️ The Three Brothers House (a cute old house with a sense of age) ✔️ The Blackheads Palace (the exterior wall is super gorgeous, it is a landmark photo spot) ✔️ The Cat House (remember to find where the cat is🐈) ✔️ The Cathedral (I heard it has the most beautiful organ in Europe) 📍It’s also very convenient to walk in the city. Many places in the city center can be visited by walking for a whole day! If you have enough time, I also recommend taking a ride to "Jurmala Beach" It is a seaside town in Latvia, and it is really suitable for relaxing in the summer~ 🌳 I also accidentally discovered a luggage collection place near the train station. Although it is a bit hidden, it is very cheap and suitable for travelers who want to go shopping after checking out! 🍽️ In ​​terms of food, I ate: 🍛 Asian restaurant, Thai cuisine (home-style) 🍖 Super special Georgian cuisine There is also a local chain store "Lido", which is very similar to a buffet but tastier than you think! 📸 If you are interested in accommodation, you can leave a message and I will send you the airbnb information of the accommodation privately There are McDonald's and Burger King downstairs, which is super convenient! And the nearby park unexpectedly took a photo from an angle that looks like a photo hahaha📷 — In short! If you are planning to come to the three Baltic countries, I strongly recommend Riga to book at least 2 nights, and play slowly to enjoy it🧳 If you have any questions, please feel free to ask me, I can give you accommodation, luggage storage or itinerary suggestions🙌 #Latvia #Riga #European niche travel #Riga tourism #Baltic three small countries #EuropeFreeTravel #TravelShare #TravelRecommendations #XiaohongshuTravel #LidlSupermarket #CatHouse #ThreeBrothersHouse #FreedomMonument

Beautiful sunny day walking past the cat house in Riga Latvia 🇱🇻 . Must see building

The Cat House in Riga is a historic building with a fascinating backstory. Built in 1909, it’s most famous for the two black cat sculptures on its roof. Legend has it that the building's original owner placed the cats with their backsides facing the Great Guild as an act of protest after being denied membership. This humorous feud has become a beloved tale in Riga's history, making the Cat House a symbol of defiance and a must-see attraction in the city. It is a quirky and fun spot to visit. Located in the heart of the Old Town, the two black cats perched on the roof, adding a bit of mystery and charm to the building. It’s a great place for photos and to learn a bit about the city’s history. How to Reach Cat House is by going to the following tram stop: Nacionala opera tram stop Nacionalais teatris tram stop

| Discover the Treasure of the Baltic Sea. Riga, the capital of Latvia, is known as the "Beating Heart of the Baltic." This city blends medieval mystery, Art Nouveau romance, and modern vibrancy, making it a must-see European destination. Let's explore Riga and experience its unique charm. Best Time to Visit & Climate Riga has a temperate broadleaf forest climate, offering a unique experience in each season🌳. Summer (June–August) is the most comfortable, with average daytime temperatures of 23°C and nighttime temperatures of 11°C. Long daylight hours bring the city to life, and you can enjoy various open-air concerts and cultural events. Winter (December–February) is cold, with average temperatures of -2°C to -3°C in coastal areas and -6°C to -7°C inland. However, Riga transforms into a fairytale world during the Christmas season, with bustling Christmas markets filled with the aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread. Spring and autumn are relatively short but offer beautiful scenery, with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn, making them pleasant times to visit. Must-See Attractions 1. Riga Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town invites you to wander through cobblestone streets lined with Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture. The House of the Blackheads, with its ornate red facade, tells stories of the Middle Ages. St. Peter's Church boasts a 123m spire that pierces the sky. Take the elevator to the 72m viewing platform for panoramic city views. Don't miss the Cat House, with its two proud cat sculptures on the roof and an intriguing story behind them🐱. 2. Central Market: One of the largest markets in Europe, Riga Central Market comprises five massive pavilions, a paradise for food and everyday goods. Freshly caught fish, rich cheeses, freshly baked bread, and various local snacks await. Be sure to try the local rye bread porridge and savory pancakes with different fillings for an authentic Riga culinary experience. 3. Freedom Monument: This 42m-high monument is a Riga landmark, built to commemorate Latvians who died during the Latvian War of Independence (1918–1920). The Liberty statue at the top holds three stars, symbolizing freedom over every inch of Latvia, a solemn and sacred image. Local Cuisine 1. Black Sausage: A traditional Latvian dish made with pork, beef, and spices. Its dark brown exterior hides a rich and complex flavor. It's often served with sauerkraut and potatoes and can be found in local restaurants and markets. 2. Latvian Herring: Pickled or smoked herring is a staple in Latvian cuisine. Served as an appetizer with onions and potatoes, it's refreshing and palate-cleansing. Enjoy it with a local beer in the summer for a perfect combination. 3. Latvian Cheesecake: A delight for dessert lovers! Made with fresh cheese, it's smooth, sweet, and not too rich. Enjoy this treat in cafes or at family gatherings. Things to Note 1. Language: The official language is Latvian, but English proficiency is high among younger generations. Communication is generally easy in major tourist areas and restaurants. Downloading a translation app is recommended, just in case. 2. Currency: The Euro is used. Currency exchange is available at the airport, banks, and exchange offices. Credit cards are also accepted at some businesses. 3. Etiquette: Latvians value politeness and order. Maintain quiet in public spaces and respect local customs.

🧐 Built in 1912, the Cat House is a beautiful Art Nouveau building. A rather "interesting" anecdote surrounds the wealthy merchant who owned the building. He applied to join the guild across the street, full of anticipation, only to be rejected. Not one to be easily defeated, the merchant expressed his displeasure in a unique way. He added two black cat sculptures to the roof of his building, with their backsides pointed towards the guild hall, a playful act of revenge. This escalated into a legal battle that continued until the outbreak of World War I. Perhaps the war made such disputes seem trivial, and the cats were eventually turned. However, the "Cat House," with its story of feline defiance, became one of Riga's most famous buildings. 😻 Walking through the streets surrounding the Cat House, you'll experience its unique charm. The surrounding architecture is diverse, from ancient Baroque buildings to modern skyscrapers. But no matter what, the Cat House always catches your eye first. Its two black cat sculptures seem to silently tell the story of the past. Even today, standing on the street looking up at the Cat House, you can still imagine the merchant's anger and stubbornness. 🎉 Stepping inside the Cat House is like entering a palace of art. Every corner exudes the elegance and sophistication of Art Nouveau. The exquisite murals on the walls, the ornate chandeliers, and the uniquely shaped furniture all showcase the superb architectural and artistic standards of the time. You can stroll through the building, feeling the passage of time, and imagine the lively balls and gatherings that once took place here. 😉 Near the Cat House, there are many interesting small shops. There are handicraft shops full of Latvian character, where you can buy exquisite wood carvings and small hand-woven items. There are also fragrant coffee shops where you can sit, savor delicious coffee, and reflect on the story of the Cat House. Walking among these small shops is like traveling between Latvia's history and its present. 🤳 For photography enthusiasts, the Cat House is an excellent location. Whether it's the morning sun shining on the building or its silhouette against the night lights, you can capture artistic photos. You can capture its beauty from different angles, each photo telling a small part of the Cat House's story. 😘 The Cat House in Riga, Latvia, is more than just a building; it's a place filled with history, culture, and stories. Whether it's the legendary story, the unique architectural style, or the charming surrounding atmosphere, it's worth experiencing for yourself. 💖

1. Riga - the beating heart of the Baltic Sea, don't miss it! The amber-filtered pointed castle, the black cat's fur-ruffled roof, the pink presidential palace, every frame looks like a magical world! [Route] 2. Pulvertornis Powder Tower Cat House There is a cute kitten on the top of the tower. It is said that it originated from a business war Swedish Gate Zviedru v a rti St. James Cathedral Rīgas sveta Jēkaba ​​katedrāle Stunning Gothic spire Three Brothers House Tris Braļi Riga traditional houses, 3. Famous check-in spots, three lovely little houses Riga Castle is now the presidential palace Riga Cathedral Rīgas Doms was built in the Middle Ages, a church that combines Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architectural styles, the originator of the mixed style! 4. The Palace of the Blackheads Melngalvju nams The most magnificent palace in Riga St. Peter's Church Rīgas Sveta Pētera baznīca The church has a 123-meter-high spire. You must climb to the top to overlook the whole city. 10 Freedom Monument Along the streets in the center of Riga's old town, you can walk all the way to the Freedom Monument. The buildings on both sides are very beautiful. 5. The Cathedral of the Nativity Orthodox-style building Alberta Street Alberta iela Art Nouveau architecture show 6. Transportation: You can take bus No. 22 from the airport to the old town. After exiting the airport, follow the "City Bus" signs and you will find it. It is recommended to buy tickets online, which only costs 1.5 euros; if you swipe your credit card on the bus, it will cost about 0.3 euros more. Although Riga is deserted in winter, it is this quietness that makes it so special. If you like traveling with fewer people and a slower pace, this is definitely worth a visit.

#Travel tips for overseas Poland is an Eastern European country facing the Baltic Sea, known for its medieval architecture and Jewish heritage The three Baltic states are the three countries that line the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, south of Finland, from north to south In VOL.2, we will introduce how we traveled from Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, to Kaunas and toured Riga, Latvia This is a record of the eight days from leaving Japan to returning home °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• Travel itinerary 🔸Day 4 8:30 Travel by bus to Kaunas, about 105km, about 1.5 hours🚌 10:00 Arrive in Kaunas Start sightseeing in the city, including Kaunas St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Kaunas Castle, Chiune Sugihara Memorial Hall, etc. 12:00 Lunch 13:00 Travel by bus to Siauliai, approx. 145km, approx. 2.5 hours🚌 15:30 Arrive at the Holy Land, Hill of Crosses 16:30 Travel by bus to Riga, the capital of Latvia, approx. 130km, approx. 2.5 hours🚌 19:00 Arrive at Bellevue Park Hotel Riga ◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹◦⊹⋯⋯⋯⊹ 🔸Day 5 8:30 Start sightseeing in the World Heritage Site, Riga Historic District Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) buildings St. Peter's Church, Blackhead Hall, Riga Castle, Cat House, Three Brothers, etc. Stroll around the Old Town 13:00 Lunch 16:00 Take the tram to the hotel (approximately 10 minutes) 19:00 Dinner °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• 🔹Estonia You may be asked to show proof of overseas travel insurance when entering the country 🔹Estonia, Latvia When entering the country, you will need to purchase overseas travel insurance (with medical and relief coverage of 30,000 euros or more) to cover the duration of your stay 🔹Lithuania You may be asked to show proof of overseas travel insurance when entering the country Securities The following information must be written in Lithuanian, English, German, French, or Russian ◼︎Cover the duration of your stay in Lithuania ◼︎Lithuania must be included in the insurance coverage area ◼︎Contact information and contract number of the insurance company ◼︎Amount of coverage: Minimum 5,795 euros per person ◼︎Includes medical services, including emergency transportation Information current as of July 2024 For more information, please check the website of the embassy of each country #overseastravel #lithuania #latvia #worldheritage #oldtownofriga