The Latvian National Museum of Art is one of the most frequently visited sights in Riga. It is the most significant depository in the nation for works of art. Reopened in May 2016, the building itself has been upgraded and modernized, still preserving its majestic beauty from a long-gone era.
The permanent exposition, marking the fully renovated building’s reopening, is a comprehensive collection on Latvian art in both the 19th and 20th centuries, with emphasis on the various stylistic periods and the artists who were instrumental. Spanning two floors in the renovated main building, it shows the development of Latvian art, focusing on the various periods, those who made it all happen, and the highlights of each time.
Since its renovation, many of the visitors flocking to the museum, are also interested in the modernized building itself, making the time spent here even more worthwhile.
Certainly, one of the upgrades is the app to be downloaded on your mobile phone titled "Mākslas muzejs" in Latvian, for an interactive guide while visiting the museum. The app is free of charge, and available in Latvian, Russian and English on Google Play and AppStore.
Why visit
The Latvian National Museum of Art is a cultural treasure at the heart of Riga, offering the country’s largest and most diverse collection of visual art. From classical 18th-century portraits to bold 20th-century modernism and contemporary exhibitions, the museum captures the full arc of Latvian artistic expression. The museum’s recent renovation also adds to the experience, featuring a sleek underground extension, a bright central atrium, and rooftop access with views of the city skyline.
Historical highlight
Built between 1903 and 1905, the museum was designed specifically to house art - an architectural rarity in the Baltics at the time. Its creator, Wilhelm Neumann, blended historicist styles with Baroque influences, giving the building an elegant yet imposing presence. Over time, the museum not only became a central pillar of Latvia’s cultural life but also a symbol of national pride.
How to get there
Located on Jaņa Rozentāla Square, right next to Esplanāde Park, the museum is easily accessible by foot from most major landmarks in central Riga, including the Freedom Monument and the Old Town. Public transport options are plentiful - buses and trolleybuses stop just a short walk from the entrance, with routes including trolleybus lines 3, 5, and 25, and buses 11, 31, and 53. Whether you arrive on foot, by bike, or via public transport, the museum is conveniently positioned for a relaxed and inspiring visit.
