From February to April, azaleas in the hothouse; in spring, the magnificent magnolias; at the beginning of summer, banks of rhododendrons; in the heat of the summer, roses and peonies and in autumn, dahlias.
About the botanical garden
The Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia can be found across the river, in Pārdaugava, just a 10-minute ride from the central part of Riga. The garden was founded in 1922. Over 15ha visitors can explore hothouses and outdoor collections with some 6,000 different plants. It is one of the most well-loved recreational spaces in Riga - you can slowly walk the garden’s compact yet informationally saturated territory, get to know plants from all over the world, visit the Plants House, the Azalea House as well as the Tropical House, or just enjoy lush nature in the middle of the city. Whether you are a gardening enthusiast, a botanical expert, or just want to spend time in a beautiful and pleasant environment, you will always find something interesting here.
Plant collections
The garden’s collection is wide and carefully chosen - it includes protected plants, or those used for medical treatment, as well as a collection of the poisonous plants of Latvia. Most of the trees and bushes in the arboretum are uncommon for Latvian flora; for example, the witch hazel, cedar, walnut tree, ginkgo tree, mulberries, roses, cork tree and an edible chestnut tree. The garden has a rich collection of perennial plants, dahlias and other decorative plants. A special collection provides an insight into the world of swamp plants as well as different kinds of moss and lichen. The Plant House has various kinds of tropical and subtropical plants as well as different dessert plants, including cactus.
Visitor services
The Botanical Garden provides several amenities that make a visit both informative and enjoyable. Guests can join guided tours led by knowledgeable staff who share insights about the garden’s diverse collections and seasonal highlights. For those inspired to bring a bit of greenery home, seedlings and indoor plants are available for purchase, including unique and carefully cultivated varieties. The garden also offers event space rentals, making it a memorable setting for gatherings, workshops, celebrations, and community events. Whether you’re here to learn, relax, or host something special, the garden offers a welcoming environment for everyone.
Why visit
The Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia is one of Riga’s most peaceful and inspiring green spaces. It’s a place where you can step away from the city and slow down among seasonal blooms, shady paths, and tropical hothouses. Whether you’re interested in learning about plants, enjoying quiet time in nature, or simply strolling through beautifully designed landscapes, the garden offers something enjoyable in every season - from spring magnolias to summer roses and autumn dahlias. It’s also a favourite spot for families, photographers, and anyone seeking a calm escape within the city.
Historical highlight
Founded in 1922, the Botanical Garden was created as a scientific and educational space connected to the University of Latvia. Over the years, botanists carefully developed the garden’s collections. Today, it houses more than 6,000 plant species across outdoor gardens and tropical greenhouses.
How to get there
The Botanical Garden is located in Pārdaugava, just across the river from the city centre. From central Riga, it’s about a 10-15 minute ride by public transport.
You can reach it by:
- Tram: 1 or 4 - stop “Botāniskais dārzs”
- Bus: 4, 21, 30, 37 and others - stop “Dzirciema iela” or “Botāniskais dārzs”
- Trolleybus: 9 or 25 - stop “Botāniskais dārzs”