A visit to at least one of the best rooftop bars in Riga is a must for anyone craving a drink in the ethereal light of a Baltic summer. And most of these rightfully double as the best rooftop restaurants in Riga, so you can easily go from sunset sips to world-class dining without ever losing your front-row seat to the city's skyline. Each venue carries its own distinct personality, from industrial-chic greenhouses to Michelin-recommended luxury, but all promise a perspective of Riga that is impossible to capture from the pavement.
Skyline Bar
Located on the 26th floor of the Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel, this has been the city’s primary vantage point for decades. This is the highest bar in the city, providing a literal 360-degree panorama. With floor-to-ceiling windows and tiered seating, every guest is guaranteed a view. The cocktail list is a journey through modern mixology, often incorporating local ingredients like cloudberries or Riga Black Balsam. If you’re looking to eat something as well, the bar offers an Asian-inspired menu featuring high-quality small plates and sushi.
Stage 22
Located on the top floor of the Grand Hotel Kempinski, Stage 22 is where luxury meets the skyline. Thanks to being featured in the Michelin Guide, it has cemented its reputation as one of the best rooftop restaurants in Riga, but it also functions as a bar, so it’s perfectly acceptable to visit it for drinks only. The views are perfectly positioned over the Latvian National Opera, with a clear sightline to the Freedom Monument and Bastejkalns park. The kitchen at Stage 22 is a masterclass in Asian fusion - the food is as much of a draw as the architecture outside.
Herbārijs
Herbārijs is a gastro-bar that defies the traditional "rooftop" aesthetic. Located on the 8th floor of the Galleria Riga shopping centre, it is housed entirely within a glass-and-steel greenhouse, creating a lush, year-round botanical sanctuary. Herbārijs offers a close-up look at the chimney pots and roof gardens of central Riga – intimate and connected to the city's urban pulse. True to its name, the drinks here focus on herbs, infusions, and plant-based garnishes, while the kitchen emphasizes local, seasonal, and simple Latvian compositions. It is an ideal spot for a light lunch or a sunset spritz.
Riga Islande Hotel rooftop
The 10th-floor terrace of the Islande Hotel on the island of Ķīpsala offers what many call the "postcard view" - the entire Old Town skyline reflected in the Daugava River. It’s often quieter than the city-centre spots, making it a great choice for an afternoon drink or a sunset dinner with a focus on the panorama. The menu leans into approachable European cuisine - simple, effective, and with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and classic comfort food.
Vertigo
Located on the 6th floor of the Forum Cinemas complex in the very heart of the city, this bar is a favourite for those who want to pair a night at the movies with one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Baltics. Vertigo offers a unique, mid-level perspective that puts you right at the level of the Old Town’s ornate rooftops, particularly striking at night. The drink list features a wide variety of cocktails, aromatic coffees, and refreshing non-alcoholic shakes. In a playful nod to its location, you can even enjoy cinema-style snacks like fresh popcorn alongside more sophisticated treats like truffle cake or cheesecake.
Burzma
For those who want the Riga Old Town rooftop experience, the terrace of the Burzma food court in the Galerija Centrs shopping centre. While one could argue that it’s more of a balcony than a rooftop, it’s hard to deny that this is perhaps the most romantic view in the city, surrounded by the history of Old Riga, with the jagged skyline of church spires creating a unique backdrop for your evening. The food court actually features two bars – Halo Bar and Abra Bar, along with 10 different restaurants, catering to very varied tastes.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best rooftop bar in Riga for a sunset?
Skyline Bar and Riga Islande Hotel Terrace are the premier choices for a sunset. Skyline offers a 360-degree horizon, while Riga Islande Hotel provides a stunning silhouette of the Old Town reflected in the Daugava River.
What is the sunset hour in Riga in the summer?
During the peak of the White Nights in late June and early July, the sun doesn't set until nearly 22:00 (10:00 PM). This means you can enjoy Golden Hour lighting for a good while. For a safe bet to get the best sunset views, we recommend arriving or booking for 20:30 (8:30 PM).
Should I book a table in advance?
Booking is highly recommended in the summer season. Even if you are just going for a drink, many places require a pre-booking during peak sunset hours.
Are there any casual rooftop bars near the city centre?
Yes, Herbārijs in Galleria Riga, Vertigo at Forum Cinemas and Burzma in Galerija Centrs are excellent casual options. They offer great views without the requirement for formal dress or high-end dining prices.
What happens if it rains?
Some of the bars are essentially "glass boxes" with retractable roofs or permanent glass walls, making them fully weather-proof. Others have indoor lounge areas where you can move if a sudden Baltic shower hits.
Are rooftop bars in Riga open year-round?
Some rooftop bars in Riga, including have indoor sections or glass enclosures, allowing them to remain open throughout the winter. Outdoor-only decks usually open in late April or early May and pack in around late September.
Can I visit just for photos without ordering anything?
Generally, no. These are private businesses. However, the 10th-floor lobby area of the Riga Islande Hotel or the public levels of Galleria Riga offer great views - you can snap a quick photo before deciding if you want to stay for a drink.