Student Handbook

Residence permit and long-term visa for full time degree students

Citizens of EU, EEA and Switzerland 

Degree students, who are Union citizens and reside in the Republic of Latvia for more than 90 days, counting from the first day of entry, must register at the OCMA and receive a registration certificate.

Citizens of visa-free countries 

There are several countries (besides EU, EEA and Switzerland), whose citizens do not need visa to enter Latvia and can reside in the Schengen Area up to 90 days within a half year. If a student remains here longer than 90 days starting from the first day of arrival within a half year, student must apply for the residence permit at the OCMA. N.B. When taking non-direct flights to Latvia, it is highly recommended to choose the flight route, where Latvia is the first Schengen entry country.

Citizens of other countries

After the invitation (prepared from UL coordinator) is approved at the OCMA: 

• Students from countries with additional assessment must apply for the residence permit at the Embassy of Latvia in their country of residence;
• Citizens of other countries may enter Latvia with a visa and submit the documents for residence permit on the arrival in Riga, but UL suggests to apply at the embassy, as well.
• The following students are advised to contact the coordinator at UL:
• If there is no Embassy of Latvia in your country of residence;
• If you are a citizen of a country that requires visa to enter Latvia, however, you have a valid residence permit in one of the Schengen countries. 

Other nationals with EU residence permit 

Degree students (non-EU citizens), who already have a residence permit from other EU country, can remain in Latvia no longer than 90 days within half a year. If a student stays longer than 90 days starting from the first day of arrival, he/she has to apply for the Latvian residence permit at the OCMA.

Further information on visa and residence permit for degree students

Long-term visa for exchange students

Citizens of EU, EEA and Switzerland 

Exchange students who do not plan to reside in Latvia for more than 12 months do not need to register at the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA).

Citizens of visa-free countries 

There are several countries (besides EU, EEA and Switzerland) whose citizens do not need visa to enter Latvia. If student needs to remain in Latvia for more than 90 days, after arrival in Riga he/ she has to apply for a long-term (D-type) visa at the OCMA. N.B. In this case, when taking non-direct flights to Latvia, it is highly recommended to choose the flight route, where Latvia is the first Schengen entry country. It is also possible to apply for visa at the Embassy of Latvia before coming to Latvia. 

Citizens of other countries 

Exchange students from the countries, whose citizens need a visa to enter Latvia, have to apply for a long-term visa in person at the Embassy of Latvia at their country of residence (outside Schengen Area). 

The university world is extensive with vast amplitude of the processes taking place in it. There may be things that you initially might not be aware of. UL life takes place in various locations of Riga (and beyond) – from the historic central building of UL on Raiņa bulvāris in the very heart of the city to the Academic Centre in Torņakalns and elsewhere. Therefore, it is a good idea to research in advance what is located where, and then you will know where to go on every occasion.

UL central building at Raiņa bulvāris 19

This historical yellow brick building was constructed in the second half of the 19^th century as the Riga Polytechnic Institute, but since the founding of the University of Latvia on 28 September 1919, it has become a symbol of the leading higher education institution in Latvia, which is also the largest university in the country. Currently, the building encompasses the UL Rector’s Office and Administration, the Faculty of Law, and the Computer Science Department of the Faculty of Science and Technology. Please, note – the office of Student Services is located here. It is your main assistant in solving various issues of student life.

The building also houses Information centre with a gift shop, UL Library, Museum, Culture Centre and Astronomy Tower. The Great Hall (Aula Magna) and the Small Hall are places for ceremonial events (graduations, promotion ceremonies, etc.), academic and cultural occasions. All the Song and Dance Festival Battles of Choirs – traditional singing competitions – and various nationally significant events also take place in the central building of UL.

UL Academic Centre (Jelgavas iela 1 and 3, Riga)

Academic Centre (AC) in Torņakalns is the largest infrastructure development project of UL, aiming to bring together the University’s study and research activities in one location. Upon completion, it will be one of the most modern study and research centres in Northern Europe, gathering together about 90% of the University’s students and employees.

At present, AC encompasses House of Nature (2015) and House of Science (2019), soon to be joined by House of Letters (2026). In the future, the AC complex will be supplemented by other buildings. The AC territory has a sports area with a basketball court and outdoor exercise equipment, recreation areas and the UL Community Garden.

UL House of Nature at Jelgavas iela 1 is amongst the most modern study and research centres in Latvia in the field of natural sciences. It is home to the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) and the Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences (FMLS), attended by:

• Students of the Department of Biology,
• Students of the Department of Chemistry,
• Students of the Department of Geography and Earth Sciences,
• Students of Optometry and Vision Science.

House of Nature also includes two research centres – Institute of Microbiology and Biotechnology and Institute of Chemical Physics, conducting international scientific studies in collaboration with other research centres in Latvia and abroad.

In House of Nature, you will find:

• Modern auditoriums and laboratories with advanced equipment;
• Open-type library with a spacious study and relaxation area;
• Quiet booths for individual work;
• Information centre, cloakroom and cafeteria;
• Inner courtyard for relaxation and events.

UL House of Science at Jelgavas iela 3 is a modern study, work and research space. It is home to the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) and the Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences (FMLS), attended by the students of the Department of Medicine, as well as students of the Department of Physics, Mathematics, Mathematicians-Statisticians and Computer Science. The building also houses six scientific institutes of the University of Latvia:

• Institute of Physics;
• Institute of Atomic Physics and Spectroscopy;
• Institute of Geodesy and Geoinformatics;
• Institute of Astronomy;
• Institute of Materials Mechanics;
• Institute of Numerical Modelling;
• Institute of Cardiology and Regenerative Medicine.

House of Science offers students and researchers:

• Modern auditoriums and laboratories with advanced equipment;
• Open-type library with a multifunctional learning and working environment;
• Quiet booths for individual work and relaxation areas;
• Information centre with a gift shop, cloakroom and cafeteria;
• Spacious atrium for relaxation and events.

Aspazijas bulvāris 5, Riga

This historic building is home to the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences, Radio “NABA”, University of Latvia Press and UL Sports Centre. Various sports activities and training sessions for students and staff are held here.

Visvalža iela 4a, Riga

The building houses the Faculty of Humanities, attended by the students enrolled in the study programmes of linguistics, history and archaeology, philosophy, and theology.

Lauvas iela 4, Riga

This building is used by the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences to teach the programmes of sociology, social work, political science and communication science. It also houses the University’s multimedia studio "KIWI TV".

Imantas 7. līnija 1, Riga

This is home to the Faculty of Education Sciences and Psychology, raising young teachers, designers, and psychologists. 

K. Valdemāra iela 161, Riga

This building houses the UL BA School of Business and Finance, – a part of the University ecosystem since 2025, offering practical, internationally recognized business education.

O. Kalpaka bulvāris 4, Riga

This historical building houses UL Professional Development Academy, Doctoral School, and UL Library.

Accommodation

UL has two dormitories, which are located outside the city centre (approx. 15 min. by trolleybus): “Prima” (single and double rooms (EUR 187–276 per month)); and “Rēznas” (double rooms (EUR 131 per month).

Further information about accommodation options at UL

We encourage students to use the options offered by UL Accommodation, and Erasmusplay platform to ensure scam-free accommodation solutions.

UL Library

UL Library is the largest university library in Latvia, providing access to a wide range of information resources, supporting UL study programmes and research areas. Its collections are located in various buildings of the University and form a single UL library network. Its collection consists of approximately 3.2 million information resource units. You can use the library services by presenting a valid UL student ID card. Detailed rules of use: Regulations for the use of the Library of the UL are available here: Regulations for the use of the Library of the UL

At UL Library, you can:

• Electronically order and reserve information resources from the union catalogue;
• Access databases created and subscribed to by UL;
• Order documents from other libraries in Latvia and abroad;
• Receive consultations and instruction;
• Copy, print, scan, bind and digitize documents;
• Use computers and an internet connection.

Library addresses:

• Library at Aspazijas bulvāris 5;
• Library at Raiņa bulvāris 19;
• Library of Natural Sciences at Jelgavas iela 1;
• Library of House of Science at Jelgavas iela 3;
• Library of Humanities at Visvalža iela 4a;
• Library of Education Sciences and Psychology at Imantas 7. līnija 1;
• Library of Social Sciences at Lauvas iela 4.

Additional information – at Library of the University of Latvia website

UL Botanical Garden at Kandavas iela 2, Riga

The UL Botanical Garden is a remarkable research and study centre, and at the same time – a place to enjoy the diversity of nature, informative and cultural events, and organize private events. Several 18^th–19^th-century buildings in the territory of the garden are national monuments of wooden architecture heritage. Admission to the Botanical Garden is free for UL students and employees upon presentation of an ID card.

Garden offers various collections for viewing and research:

• Collection of medicinal plants;
• Exposition of poisonous plants;
• Collection of swamp plants;
• Diverse stands of moss, lichen and mushrooms;
• Palm House;
• Tropical Butterfly House.

More information – on the website of UL Botanical Garden. 

UL Museum at Raiņa bulvāris 19, Riga

Learn about the history of the university, the development of science and cultural heritage – visit the historical 19^th-century student solitary confinement cell and climb the Astronomical Tower! The UL Museum consists of various collections located in central building of UL, as well as the faculty buildings (zoology, astronomy, botany and mycology, geology, computer science and informatics collections, etc.). The UL Museum regularly organizes thematic exhibitions, lectures and seminars, and participates in the Museum Night and Researchers’ Night activities with special programmes. Visiting the museum is free for UL students, excursions and thematic classes are also available.

As you begin studies at UL, you become part of the Alma Mater community, and it is essential to us that your experience at the University is positive. Therefore, when you don’t know what to do, or encounter difficulties and challenges, we are here for you. To help you successfully navigate different life situations, UL has established tools to assist you. Explore the services and types of support available to UL students and find out where to turn for support to resolve various issues

Student Services

Student Service will help you with the formalities of admission (matriculation) and completion of studies (ex-matriculation) – here you can receive your student ID, find out information about the UL study offer and opportunities, as well as apply for documents and certificates. The specialists will also help with questions about granting a state-guaranteed study loan or state scholarship, selection of Part C (elective) courses, and will also provide support in choosing a further study and career path (the Career Centre also operates under the auspices of Student Services). If necessary, psychological counselling is available here.

Career Centre

If choosing a future career confuses you or causes uncertainty, the specialists of the UL Career Centre will help you with advice, suggest a direction, and help you identify the possibilities so that you can make important decisions for your future. The goal of the UL Career Centre is to support student growth and promote graduate employment, – here you can receive information about labour market opportunities and participate in various training courses. Find out more about support options on the website of UL Career Centre.

Psychological support

If you feel that you are overwhelmed by various challenges in your studies, your daily life is overshadowed by a personal tragedy, or you need encouragement for personal growth, apply for a free psychological counselling session. A conversation with a specialist is possible in person or online – whichever is more convenient for you to receive the necessary support in a timely manner in any life situation.

Receive an appointment for free counselling by emailing to psihologs@lu.lv .

For additional information, recommendations for stress management, problem solving, and other topics, turn to the section Psychological counselling at UL portal.

IT Service

UL IT Service is an assistant in all matters related to e-services. If you encounter difficulties with LUIS, e-studies, use of University databases, shared programs, IT infrastructure or other technical issues, feel free to contact the IT service staff. Also, familiarize yourself with the catalogue of IT tools available to students.

Mentor Program

You are kindly invited to take part in the Mentor Program! The Mentor Program is the best way to begin your university journey and adjust to your studies at the University of Latvia! Acquire assistance in your study process from another student with longer experience at the University.

Develop social connections within your faculty and the university;

Ensure a smooth settling-in process and interaction with the university staff;

Participate in student life, expand your network and make new friends! 

Sign up now: mentors.lu.lv (please select EN at the bottom of the page). 

In case of questions, please get in touch with lusp@lusp.lv !

ERASMUS STUDENT NETWORK (ESN)

Buddy programmes at the University of Latvia and Erasmus Student Network (ESN) provide exchange students with local buddies (mentors), who can help international students become adapted to the new study environment and offer practical advice about everyday life in Latvia. ESN buddies are regular students of the University of Latvia, who are willing to assist newcomers on a voluntary basis. 

UL Support for Ukraine 

The University of Latvia is in solidarity with Ukrainian students at the time of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. UL offers a range of support measures and opportunities for Ukrainian refugees. 

A number of further support measures have been initiated, including free tuition and accommodation. More information on UL webpage

A large amount of information is created and circulated at the University of Latvia on a daily basis. To make it easier to obtain information in various situations, the most important communication channels and the information therein are described below.

The UL portal www.lu.lv is the University’s “face” – here you will find comprehensive information about the university’s organizational structure, study programmes offered here, daily news and a calendar of events. The portal also publishes the key documents and statistical data regulating the operation of UL, contacts of various institutions and structural units and links to other information channels where you can obtain more specific and detailed information. The portal also serves as a gateway to the University’s closed intranet for students and employees.

Websites of the faculties provide faculty news, a calendar of planned events, here you can obtain information about study and research opportunities, international mobility opportunities, student loans, scholarships, and other information relevant to the students of a particular faculty.

Social media is the fastest way to acquire information about the latest news at the University, its students and researchers, and to receive valuable recommendations. Here you will also find out what UL faculty and students think and do, what achievements UL is proud of, and what opportunities for participation are open to you as a UL student. Follow UL accounts on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn and x.com, and you will always be informed of the key news and events!

Bulletin boards and information screens – information about upcoming events at the university, as well as announcements for courses, seminars and research projects, commercial information and other current events useful to UL students are posted here. If you are interested in the possibilities of posting information on UL screens and bulletin boards, take a look at the section “Cooperation” of the UL portal.

Information centres and gift shops. UL information centres operate in the UL main building at Raiņa bulvāris 19, in the House of Nature at Jelgavas iela 1, and in the House of Science at Jelgavas iela 3. At the information centres, you can ask where to turn for advice to solve specific issues, report emergency situations, and get directions to the room in the specific building you need to find. The information centre staff will also help you to locate the faculty member or the person responsible for the issue you are interested in. 

You can also buy UL merchandise at the information centres – T-shirts, hoodies, bags, thermos mugs, backpacks, umbrellas and other things with UL logo. These items are a great way to express your belonging to the University community, and a tasteful gift for others. If you have ideas on enhancing or expanding the range of UL gifts, write to us: info@lu.lv!

University of Latvia Press. As a research university, UL has its own publishing house – University of Latvia Press. It publishes scientific works of UL researchers, reference materials and books, which can serve as an excellent source of information for both academic staff and students. Check out the e-shop gramatas.lu.lv and the online publication catalogue.

E-career portal offers the most current vacancies from employers and information about internship opportunities specifically for UL students. Regardless of whether you are looking for a short-term opportunity to work, a paid internship or a permanent job, check out the UL Career Portal!

To ensure sustainable development of UL and to encourage UL community to act responsibly towards the environment and natural resources in their daily lives, UL has established Eco-Council. It educates UL employees and students about responsible resource consumption, promotes environmentally friendly daily habits and implements various eco-initiatives. UL participates in the global Eco-Schools programme and other certification systems and cooperates with environmental organizations.

UL has developed guidelines on how to promote equal opportunities and an inclusive environment for students with functional disabilities. The buildings of the Academic Centre in Torņakalns are fully adapted to accessibility requirements, while solutions are sought in other buildings according to specific needs.

UL provides social programmes, support scholarships, tuition fee reductions, as well as a flexible approach to planning lecture venues to ensure physical accessibility. If students need customized study materials or assistant support, UL seeks particular solutions.

Already during your studies, you have the opportunity to get involved in science and research – to work side by side with experienced researchers and collaborate with UL research institutes. If you are considering a career in science in the future, UL offers you various opportunities to become immersed in scientific activities both within and outside the study process, for example, by helping your faculty organize the Researchers’ Night events.

Research institutes and centres

UL has 18 scientific institutes that conduct high-level fundamental and applied research in various fields. The institutes of the faculties conduct interdisciplinary research in physics, chemistry, astronomy, geography, economics, as well as linguistics, history and philosophy, biology, microbiology, cardiology, clinical medicine and biotechnology, making a significant contribution in the vast range of spheres – from natural and medical sciences to social and humanitarian fields.

UL Institute of Solid State Physics and Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science carry out high-level research in materials science, informatics and mathematics, strengthening the country’s innovation capacity. The UL agency – the Institute of Literature, Folklore and Art is the leading centre for research into cultural heritage, literary history and traditional culture in Latvia. These institutes represent the research potential of UL and promote the country’s research excellence both nationally and internationally. The institutes often implement international projects and cooperate with state and industry partners.

Six study centres of UL provide interdisciplinary study programmes, coordinate academic projects, and develop areas of strategic importance to UL, such as languages, pedagogy, or information technology, whereas faculty study centres organize the study process, provide support to students, and coordinate teaching staff within their specific fields.

Grant programmes

UL offers various types of regular grant programmes that enable students of all study levels to implement research projects under the guidance of experts. UL also participates in international research projects that provide students and academic staff with the opportunity to participate in research, mobility and development programmes, as well as access to international research infrastructures. By participating in international projects, you can gain experience working in interdisciplinary and multicultural teams, build new contact networks for the exchange of ideas and professional growth.

Doctoral studies

Doctoral studies are the highest level of studies that follow master’s studies. If you have a calling to become a scientist, explore the opportunities provided by UL to build a career in research and science! Currently, UL is introducing a new doctoral study model, which provides for a transition to doctoral studies with employment and interdisciplinary studies. This means that doctoral students can devote themselves to studies/research during their studies and engage in academic activities already at the beginning of their research, receiving remuneration for their work.

All doctoral study programmes and promotion, career development of young researchers, monitoring and improvement of doctoral programme quality, as well as promotion of international cooperation are implemented by the UL Doctoral School.

Becoming a UL doctoral student means participation in international projects and UL research support grants. These grants are intended to promote the involvement of doctoral students in active research, promote the development of high-quality doctoral theses and create a sustained generation of researchers in Latvia.

After acquiring your doctoral degree, you can continue your academic and research career by participating in postdoctoral research competitions. These projects provide an opportunity to receive financial support to carry out individual research work, develop international cooperation and strengthen your position in the early stages of your research career.

Regularly check the section “Science” of the UL portal and the website “Ozolzīle”, – here you will find programme announcements, information about current projects, opportunities and applications for doctoral studies and research.

The University of Latvia is the largest and leading higher education institution in Latvia, founded on 28 September 1919 as the national higher education institution of the then newly established state of Latvia. Currently, UL consists of six faculties, six regional branches and 18 scientific institutes. Around 15 000 students from more than 70 countries study at UL, and it employs more than 3000 members of academic and administrative staff. The university’s management team consists of Rector Gundars Bērziņš and three vice-rectors – Vice-Rector for Studies Kristīne Strada-Rozenberga, Vice-Rector for Research Guntars Kitenbergs and Vice-Rector for Development Enno Ence. The university is affectionately known as Alma Mater (literally “Nurturer/bounteous mother”), thus indicating its essential role in the life path of each of its students.

The mission of UL is characterized by its historical slogan “For Science and Fatherland” (Scientiae et Patriae), as its goal has always been to ensure active participation and significant contribution to the development of science, higher education and the state. The University of Latvia contributes to the global processes of science, higher education, knowledge, technology transfer and innovation, ensures the growth of Latvia’s democracy and culture, the development of the Latvian language and the prosperity of the national economy.

Emergency telephone numbers 

A toll-free emergency number in EU countries, the operator will connect caller with the necessary emergency service, also serves as the number for fire brigade – 112 

Ambulance – 113 

Gas or carbon monoxide emergency – 114

Psychological help in crisis situations – +371 67222922 

Police – 110 

SOS search and rescue at sea – + 371 67323103 

Loss of bank cards – + 371 67092555

Taxi services and shared-mobility 

Taxis

There are a number of taxi services in Riga with varying prices. Payments are either composed of a starting fee and price per kilometre, or a fixed price determined prior to the ride, for example, through a taxi app. Some options for taxis include, but are not limited to*: 

• Bolt
• Forus taxi
• BalticTaxi

Shared mobility services 

Car-share

Car-share services are an easy-to-use way to get around the city. A number of cars and vans around Riga (and surroundings) are accessed by the use of an app. There is also a designated parking space at Riga International Airport, which makes these car services a good option for travel to-and-from the airport. The minimum age to use these services is usually 21 years. Some options include, but are not limited to*: 

• CityBee
• Bolt
• CarGuru

Electric scooters 

Multiple companies offer renting electric scooters in the warmer months. There are many more providers with new ones appearing every year. The prices vary slightly, but commonly there is an unlock fee and an additional fee per minute. Examples include, but are not limited to*: Bolt and taxi app.

Postal services 

Latvijas Pasts is the national postal service. There are a number of post offices and yellow post boxes situated around the city. Stamps can be purchased at post office branches as well as kiosks and some bookstores. Latvijas Pasts

Opening a bank account 

If a student wishes to open a bank account, they should contact UL Department for International Cooperation for assistance. Most banking services are offered in English.

Mobile telephone service providers 

It is possible to purchase prepaid SIM cards as well as open contracts. eSims are also becoming increasingly popular. Many of these companies offer home WiFi options, too. Terms and prices are available on each respective company’s website. Some examples include, but are not limited to: 

• LMT
• Tele2
• Bite

E-sims: airalo

Food, consumables and other goods

Examples of the stores include, but are not limited to the following: 

Grocery stores: 

• Rimi
• Maxima
• Mego
• Lidl
• Stockmann 

Narvesen newsstands often have items such as SIM cards, public transportation tickets, postage stamps etc. 

Necessity stores: 

• Drogas (cosmetics, beauty and hygiene products, household goods)
• Ikea (household goods, furniture, interior decor, good eatery)
• Jysk (household goods, furniture and interior decor)
• Depo (building materials, household goods, household goods)
• Cenu klubs (household goods, furniture and interior decor) 

Ordering meals via apps or online: 

• Wolt*
• Bolt Food*
• Edienupiegaderiga.lv/en
• Est.lv/en (app version also available)
• Foodout.lv (only in Latvian; app version also available), offer an option of grocery home delivery 

Specialty food stores (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free, etc.) 

• Bioss.lv
• Bioteka.lv
• Dabasstacija.lv (Lāčplēša iela 17)
• Zalagovs.lv (Krišjāņa Barona iela 34)
• Veggo.lt/en
• Halal Riga and Halal Latvia
• Košera veikals / Kosher shop (Dzirnavu iela 29)

No smoking policy 

Students should avoid smoking in public areas, including clubs, bars, cafés, public transport stops, playgrounds, parks and places that indicate “NESMĒĶĒT 10 M NO IEEJAS” (Do not smoke 10 m from the entrance). These notices can be found by the main entrances of schools, public buildings, etc. The sale of tobacco products is prohibited to people under 20 years of age.

Alcohol 

Open containers of alcohol are restricted in all public places. Outdoor alcohol consumption in Riga is permitted only in summer cafés and beer gardens. Shops are allowed to sell alcohol on Mondays to Saturdays from 10:00–20:00, and on Sundays from 10:00-18:00. The legal drinking age in Latvia is 18 years. The sale of alcohol is prohibited to people under 18 years of age.

Further tips 

• As with all cities, you should take care of your personal belongings (bags, contents of your pockets, etc.) – especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
• Never leave your belongings unattended in public areas.
• Wear safety belts while in a car.
• Wear a helmet when travelling on bicycles and electric scooters.
• When driving a car, headlights are required to be on at all times (including during the daylight hours).
• The blood alcohol content drink driving limit in Latvia is 0.5‰, and 0.2‰ for drivers with less than 2 years’ experience (novice drivers). Penalties for driving over the blood alcohol limit include heavy fines fine and jail sentence.

Trips to neighbouring countries 

As Latvia is located in the very middle of the Baltic states, it is quite easy to travel to Lithuania and Estonia. There is a good bus connection with the biggest cities (Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipeda, Siaulai in Lithuania, and Tallinn, Johva, Narva, Parnu, Tartu in Estonia). More information:

• Riga International Coach Terminal (Rīgas starptautiskā autoosta) website
• Ecolines website
• Lux Express webiste
• Flixbus website
• Eurolines website

Cinema

• Forum Cinemas 13. janvāra iela 8, Riga

Largest Cinema in Riga with extensive viewing options to choose from, showing all the latest films. 

Opening hours: 

Monday–Thursday + Sunday 11:00–21:30 

Friday and Saturday – 11:00–22:30 

• Apollo kino Akropole (with iMax) Akropole Shopping Centre, Maskavas iela 257, Riga
• Cinamon Shopping centre “Alfa” Brīvības bulvāris 372, Riga
• Apollo kino Plaza Akropole, Maskavas iela 257, Riga
• K. Suns Elizabetes iela 83/85, Riga. Specialises in arthouse cinema.
• Splendid Palace Elizabetes iela 61, Riga. This cinema offers a very diverse programme with an emphasis on European cinema and frequent film festival programmes, as well as premieres. Many Western films reach Latvia earlier than its neighbour countries.

Museums

• The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum 

This popular museum showcases everyday Latvian life from the 16^th to 19^th century. The museum was founded in 1924 on parklands bordering a beautiful lake shore on the outskirts of Riga. 

• Museum of the Occupation of Latvia 1940–1991 

The museum reveals Latvia’s history from 1940 to 1991 during occupations by both the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany. 

• Art Museum Riga Bourse 

The former Riga Stock Exchange is transformed in a wonderful art museum. 

• Riga Art Nouveau Centre 

The Riga Art Nouveau Centre is the only museum in the Baltics that presents a complete picture of the historical heritage of Art Nouveau and offers an authentic environment for discovering and savouring Art Nouveau in an early 20^th century apartment in Riga. 

• Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation 

This is one of the oldest museums in Europe, dedicated to the history of Riga from its foundation to 1940. 

• Latvian National Museum of Art 

Museum is the largest depository of professional art in Latvia, a focal point in collecting, preserving and popularizing the cultural heritage values in Latvia and foreign countries. It regularly organizes art exhibitions, educational activities and cultural events. 

• Latvian Museum of Natural History 

This museum was founded in 1845. Its expositions are devoted both to the Latvian and international natural worlds. The exposition is divided into six sections: Geology, Botany, Zoology, Anthropology, Nature Protection, and Palaeontology. 

• Turaida Museum-Reserve 

Protected monument of culture established in 1988 and embracing the centre of Turaida.

More information about museums. 

• Opera

The Latvian National Opera (LNO) is located in the centre of Riga (Aspazijas bulvāris 3). LNO shows nearly 200 productions per season and on average prepares six new productions. The basic repertoire of the Opera includes the majority of the golden classics, the productions of which frequently turn into surprising and bold long-term projects, such as Richard Wagner’s tetralogy. Prices range from EUR 3 to EUR 85. Full-time students and ISIC cardholders, upon presenting their card, have a 15% discount (excluding premieres). LNO also offers tours of the opera building – a unique architectural masterpiece of the 19^th century. The tour guides will lead you through the interior of the building and talk about the life and times of the opera. Tours are conducted in Latvian, Russian, English, and German. Tickets: EUR 8, students: EUR 6.80, minimum group size: 10. Register by calling +371 67073820 or by sending an email to education@opera.lv.

• Theatres 

Usually, the theatre plays in Latvia are in Latvian, and some also in Russian, and at times there is a teletext facility providing subtitles in English. In most theatres, students are offered a discount, just be prepared to show your student card. 

• Latvijas Nacionālais teātris / Latvian National Theatre Kronvalda bulvāris 2, Riga
• Dailes teātris / Dailes Theatre Brīvības iela 75, Riga

Evening ticket box: Two hours before each play, it is possible to buy the still available tickets for a special price: from EUR 2 to EUR 4. Special night offer – from midnight to 6am it is possible to buy tickets online with 20% discount. 

• Jaunais Rīgas teātris / New Riga Theatre Lāčplēša iela 25, Riga
• Mihaila Čehova Rīgas krievu teātris / Mikhail Chekhov Riga Russian Theatre Kaļķu iela 16, Riga
• Ģertrūdes ielas teātris / Ģertrūdes Street Theatre Ģertrūdes iela 101a, Riga

Tickets for performances available on web at www.bezrindas.lv and gallery ISTABA, Krišjāņa Barona iela 31a, Riga. The prices range from EUR 5 to EUR 9, but for students and holders of the ISIC, ITIC, IYTC cards – EUR 5, if not stated otherwise. For reservations, please write: git@git.lv . 

More information about plays and ticket prices on: www.bilesuparadize.lv www.bilesuserviss.lv

Recreation

• Pepsi Centre Uzvaras bulvāris 10, Riga, LV-1048

Opening hours: 12:00–21:00 on Monday–Thursday + Sunday, 12:00–23:00 on Friday and Saturday 

Biggest bowling centre in Riga, alongside billiard, squash, floorball, tennis, table tennis, and indoor football which can be reserved. 

• Jūrmala 

Beach town located west of Riga along the coast, about 45 minutes by train. Small stores, coffee shops, restaurants and beaches. 

How to get there: Train from Central Station, every 30 minutes.

National Library Mūkusalas iela 3, Riga, LV-1423

Opening hours: 10:00–15:00 on Monday, 9:00–17:00 on Tuesday and Thursday, 12:00–20:00 on Wednesday and Friday, 10:00–17:00 on Saturday, closed on Sunday.         

National cultural institution, a study place used by many students. 

Going out:

In Riga, everyone can find a place to relax, either with a coffee, cocktail or a beer. Riga offers many different places, most of which are located in the Old Town. Visitors can find trendy cocktail bars and beer pubs. There are also some alternative districts emerging all over in Riga like Miera iela, which includes Tallinas ielas kvartāls, Spīķeri, Kalnciema kvartāls, each offering a particular flavour of local atmosphere. If you feel like dancing, there are many places offering a versatile range of music.

For various events, consult LiveRiga, Riga This Week, Events in Riga  

Restaurants 

• Big Bad Bagel
• Ausmena Kebabs
• Foodbox
• DerBruder Sushi
• Shoyu Ramen Riga
• Street Burger
• The Catch
• Old town Bars Middle of Old town, where most of the bars are located, like Rock café, Sinners, shot café, Sound Factory Bar, Valhalla night club etc.  Prime time place to meet up with friends and new people to enjoy some fun extracurricular activities like dancing, karaoke, or just chill out. Opening hours: 16:00–late night.
• Herbārijs: Galleria Riga, Dzirnavu iela 67, Riga, LV-1011 Opening hours: daily from 12:00
• Sky Bar Radisson Blu: Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel, Riga: Elizabetes iela 55, Riga
• Folkclub “Ala Bar” Latvian pub fare, beer & concerts in an ancient wine cellar, Peldu iela 19, Riga, LV-1050
• Tallinas kvartāls 16 buildings form a modern and street art and houses modern art coupled with places to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere of street food, performances, alongside an urban atmosphere. Tallinas iela 10, Riga, LV-1001, Latvia Opening hours: 11:00– 00:00 daily