Riga, Latvia is a gem of a destination. The largest city of the 3 Baltic countries boasts an exquisite historic center, great food and nightlife. It used to be pretty difficult to get to Riga, given that it was also part of the former Soviet Union. But now that several European discount carriers fly there or to neighboring Vilnius, Lithuania and Tallinn, Estonia, more people are discovering all that Riga has to offer. While it has many beautiful attributes, the ridiculous Latgale Tirgus flea market is not one of them. But it’s one of the quirkiest things we’ve come across in our travels. Here’s why you may want to pop in for a short visit if you happen to be in town.
If you never leave the old town of Riga, you may get the impression that this grand city doesn’t have a host of economic struggles. But a short pop over to the Latgale Tirgus flea market will give you a relatively safe (I’d definitely still be mindful of potential pickpockets) and interesting glimpse into the past and present of this Russian, German and Scandinavian influenced town.
Latgale Tirgus literally overflows with bicycle parts, tires, obsolete electronics and a seemingly endless assortment of junk. But the most interesting stall we came across was one selling an abundance of antique pins, mostly from the Soviet era.
Address: F.Sadovņikova iela 9 a.
Directions: Go from Central Railway Station, walk along Gogola street (about 10 minutes), cross Dzirnavu street and it is on the left hand side.
Open every day except Mondays (when open)
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I love the Latvale Tirgu…no cheap Chinese stff, I find little bits and pieces of things to tinker with and much less tgan storss… never had a pick pocket occurance in all my years going! Friendly Russian guy there to greet you as you enter and turn right…more than willing sellers will dig through their mounds of “treasures” if they think they have something you want. Not a latte and sun hat place, it’s sometimes muddy and grundgy, but if you like to haggle, your up for a treat!!
Hey Mike. Thanks for sharing your experiences at the Latgale Tirgus flea market with us. Ha yes, not a “latte and sun hat place.” We’re glad to hear you’ve had good experiences there!