If you are planning a trip to Latvia's capital, one of the first questions might be: how much is a beer in Riga? Short answer - that depends. It depends on what you are looking for, as Riga is known for many things, and among them a great food and beer scene, if you know where to look. There is more to it than just price tags – Latvians love beer, and this guide explores not only the cost of beer in Riga but the culture that makes every pint worth savouring.
A brief history of beer in Latvia
Before we get into the numbers, let’s pour a bit of history into our glass. Beer brewing in Latvia dates back to ancient times, with roots in pagan rituals, village festivals and just the necessities of everyday life back in the day, much like in the rest of Europe. Over centuries, the beer culture of the region evolved with German, Swedish, and Russian influences shaping both the brewing styles and drinking customs. In rural Latvia, homemade alus (beer) was once an essential part of every celebration. This is evident in Latvian folklore, as many traditional songs mention it.
The late 19th century saw the appearance of industrialized beer brewing, mostly for the market of the Russian Empire. In the 20th century, Latvian beer production became even more industrialized and expanded, with steep competition of around 35-55 breweries and syndicates, and large breweries like Aldaris dominating the market. During the USSR era, the beer economy was again reshuffled and reshaped. However, since regaining independence in 1991, the largest producers have remained, as have the traditions of home brewing, and Latvia has seen a welcome renaissance of small and independent breweries reviving traditional methods and experimenting with bold new flavours.
Today, Riga stands at the centre of this revival. Beer lovers get a dynamic mix of mainstream and craft options that can cater to both the budget traveller and the seasoned beer connoisseur, with plenty of places that have a vast selection of varieties to pick from.
So, how much is a beer in Riga?
Let’s cut straight to the chase:
€3–€6 for a glass (~0.5L) of local draft beer at most bars and pubs
€1.00–€2.00 for a bottle or can of local beer in stores
€3.50–€8.00 for a glass or bottle of imported or craft beer in upscale bars or specialty breweries, this will depend on type, size and exclusivity.
The average price of a pint in Riga is very affordable compared to Western Europe. Of course, the cost of beer in Riga varies by location. The lively pubs in Old Town (Vecrīga) will typically charge more than local bars in the city's new hip neighbourhoods like Miera iela or Avoti. Similarly, rooftop bars and trendy spots catering to tourists will have slightly elevated prices. Hey, but it is a drink with a view.
The price of beer in Riga’s bars vs. supermarkets
The typical price of a pint in Riga at a bar hovers around €3.50-6.00€. Local staples like Aldaris, Cēsu, and Lāćplēsis are most commonly served. But happy hours are common and can knock the price down by 30%–50%. If you prefer to enjoy a beer in your Airbnb, a bottle of decent local lager will cost around €1.40–€2.00, while craft brands like Labietis or Malduguns can go up to €2.50–€3.50. All in all, these options of choice make Riga a great destination for both travellers who are looking for a proper bar crawl and those budget-savvy who still like to enjoy good quality drinks. Like we said - Latvians love their beer, there is always a way to enjoy a cold one.
Best Beer Places in Riga
The options are as varied as the beer itself. A sit-down with a view, a pub crawl or a cultural deep dive, Riga has a beer spot for everyone. So here are some to get you started.
A cellar bar in the heart of Old Town that combines traditional Latvian food with a massive selection of local beers - many on tap. A cozy, medieval atmosphere and often live music.
A popular craft brewery with an experimental flair, located in the Miera iela district. They brew onsite and offer unique herbal blends and seasonal styles.
A taproom dedicated to Valmiermuiža, one of Latvia’s premier craft breweries. Try their unfiltered pilsner or special limited-edition brews!
A lesser-known gem with great IPA and APA selections. Minimalist decor, friendly vibe, and serious beer know-how.
Nurme - Nurme Bar and Nurme Brewery & Taproom
Producing craft beer since 2016, Nurme says it makes what it prefers rather than what is trendy at the moment. Many intriguing varieties, a true gem for experimental beer lovers.
Finally, more related to time of year than place, around June 23rd is peak beer season, because the most beer drinking happens during Latvian traditional Summer Solstice celebrations, though mostly outside Riga. If you visit around this time, join in!
Kinds of Beer to Try in Riga
Latvia may not have global beer fame like Belgium or Germany, but it has a growing scene worth exploring, especially the craft niche. When thinking about how much is a pint in Latvia, remember it is not just about cost - it’s also about variety and local flavours. Don’t be afraid to ask bartenders for recommendations, as many places have rotating taps with seasonal specialties. Here are some types worth trying:
Gaišais alus – Light lager or pilsner, the most common of traditional beers, a simple and easy option. Frothy and crispy, as it should be.
Tumšais alus – Dunkel or dark lager, often with caramel or roasted notes – the other traditional beer style in Latvia. Worth exploring, as the varieties really are a mixed bag.
Porters and Stouts – A bit more out of fashion nowadays, but Baltic porter has a long history in the region.
Craft IPAs and Pale Ales – Increasingly popular with modern Latvian brewers. Made with more hops to give it a stronger flavour.
Herbal or Spiced Beers – Especially from Labietis, infused with wild botanicals. Definitely a new beer experience.
Sour and smoothie beers – Also increasing in popularity with modern craft breweries, these beers complete the full spectrum of beer flavours.
Beer etiquette in Riga
Drinking in Riga is generally relaxed and social. A few tips to enhance your beer experience:
Toast like a local: Say “Priekā!” (Cheers!) before your first sip.
Mind the strength: Some craft brews can be deceptively strong, going up to 7–9% ABV.
Public drinking: Note that it is illegal to drink alcohol in most public areas like streets and parks unless it is a designated zone.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving around 10% is always appreciated.
Riga delivers a rich beer scene at a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere in Europe and there is no shortage of places to sip something special. So, to sum it up – how much is a beer in Riga? It is affordable and it is good. The average price of a pint in Riga? All in all, we would say €3.50 - 6.00. So raise your glass to Riga! Beer is more than just a drink – it is tradition, creativity, and community in every pint. Priekā!
FAQ
How expensive is a beer in Riga?
The average price ranges from €3.50 to €6, depending on the venue, craft beers can go up to 8€ or even more.
Is Riga cheap or expensive?
Riga is generally affordable. Accommodation, food, and drinks (including beer) are budget-friendly, especially outside the most tourist-heavy areas.
Is it expensive to eat out in Latvia?
No, eating out in Latvia is relatively inexpensive. You can enjoy a hearty meal in a local restaurant for €8–€12, and street food or lunch specials are available for even less.
Do you need cash in Riga?
While most places accept card payments, it is still a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting markets, smaller bars, or rural areas. ATMs are widely available.