What I would pack first
The city is compact, but your feet still do the work.
- Wear shoes that handle cobbles and long flat walks.
- Carry a layer for river wind and cooler evenings.
Riga's old streets are charming in the exact way that can punish bad shoes. If you plan Old Town, the river, Central Market, and Centrs in one day, footwear becomes the quiet hero of the trip.
A light jacket, overshirt, or compact rain layer also earns its space. The day can feel comfortable in a sheltered street and cooler ten minutes later near the Daugava.
