ITINERARY: 4 DAYS LATVIAN JEWISH HERITAGE TOUR
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN RIGA
- Arrival in Vilnius
- Meet English speaking guide at airport and transfer to hotel;
- Overnigh
DAY 2: RIGA OLD TOWN TOUR & JEWISH HERIATGE
- Breakfast at the hotel;
- Riga sightseeing
During the tour you will enjoy the beauty of the ancient Hanseatic city, while strolling through the cobble-stone, picturesque streets of the Old Town. In Old Riga you will see the Dome Cathedral which boasts one of the world’s largest pipe organs, St. Peter’s Church with magnificent views of the city from its steeple, the old Guild Houses, the Swedish Gate, the architectural ensemble Three Brothers, St. Jacob’s Church, the Parliament House, Old Riga Castle, and view the many wonderfully restored buildings, now housing cozy restaurants, cafes, bars and souvenir shops.
- Jews in Latvia Museum visit
The Jews in Latvia Museum offers a comprehensive insight into the history and cultural life of Jewish communities in Latvia from the 16th century to the present day. Located in Riga, the museum presents authentic documents, photographs, and personal stories that illustrate the vibrant prewar Jewish society, its contributions to Latvian culture, and its tragic destruction during the Holocaust. Through its thoughtful and informative exhibitions, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the resilience and legacy of Jewish life in Latvia.
- Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum
The Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum is located in the historic area of the former Riga Ghetto and offers a meaningful insight into the history of Jewish life in Riga before and during World War II. Through photographs, personal testimonies, and reconstructed elements, the museum presents the story of the Jewish community, its cultural richness, and the challenges it faced during the Holocaust. Set in an open-air environment, it provides a reflective and educational experience, helping visitors better understand this important chapter of Latvia’s history.
- Visit Riga Synagogue
The Peitav Synagogue is the only surviving synagogue in Riga and an important center of Jewish religious life in Latvia. Built in the early 20th century, the synagogue reflects architectural influences of the period and has remained in continuous use despite the dramatic events of the 20th century. Located in the Old Town, it stands as a symbol of the resilience and continuity of the Jewish community. Today, it offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Jewish traditions and experience the living heritage of Riga’s Jewish population.
- Overnight in Riga
DAY 3: SALASPILS MEMORIAL
- Breakfast at the hotel;
- Travel to Salaspils Memorial
The Salaspils Memorial is a powerful remembrance site dedicated to the victims of Nazi persecution during World War II, including Jews deported to the camp. Located on the grounds of a former camp, the memorial features striking concrete sculptures and a vast open landscape that conveys the scale of suffering and loss. Through its symbolic design and solemn atmosphere, it offers visitors a place for reflection on the трагic fate of Jewish communities and other victims during this dark period of history.
- Drive to Rumbula Forest
The Rumbula Forest is an important memorial site connected to the history of the Jewish community in Latvia during World War II. Located just outside Riga, it commemorates the lives of thousands of Jews from the Riga Ghetto and surrounding areas. Today, the forest is a reflective place, marked by memorials that honor those who lost their lives. Surrounded by nature, it offers visitors a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the past and remember the rich Jewish heritage that once flourished in the region.
- Visit Zanis Lipke Museum
The Žanis Lipke Memorial is dedicated to the extraordinary story of Žanis Lipke, who risked his life to save Jews during World War II. Located near the former Riga Ghetto area, the memorial is built on the site where Lipke hid those he rescued. Its unique and symbolic architecture, combined with personal stories and historical context, creates a deeply moving experience, highlighting courage, humanity, and moral strength in the face of persecution.
- Drive back to the hotel.
- Overnight in Riga.
DAY 4: DEPARTURE
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Depending on your flight times, transfer to the airport for your flight.
