Discover the best housing options, read reviews from those who've already done this exchange, and connect with peers from universities worldwide!
Discover the best housing options, read reviews from those who've already done this exchange, and connect with peers from universities worldwide!
Suzanne
From: IÉSEG
To: RISEBA
2025 • Fall
Life is frankly calm. You have to be ready to be cold and let it get dark late but it’s really hot. In addition, it allows to make lots of trips that we would…..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
450
Where was it located?
In the historic center which is according to me the best place to live in Riga because close to everything
How can someone find this place?
a contact
Would you recommend it?
As I was able to say, the place is really great, the apartment is not bad but I unfortunately came across some terrible roommates, and since the apartment is poorly insulated, it was quite annoying. I would recommend living there, but at least with a friend.
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
The social life there is not very hectic, but if we make good friends, we can still find fun things to do. As a nightclub, I recommend the Code Red. For the shot bars, all those in the center are the same. To go have a chill drink, the Cartel bar is cool and for the afternoon, it’s very nice to stroll in the mezza park.
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
One can choose between two programs and I advise not to take the one for finance because the one for marketing has very few courses and they are all very simple (sometimes level first year).
Do you have some tips?
Between this university and that of LU, I advise RISEBA because they do not pay attention to the presence in class and this kind of thing. Afterwards, I personally met some very good friends at this university but I know that there are many more students in LU as well as more choices at the course level. But if you are not there to go to class, it’s better to go to RISEBA because you will always end up meeting those from LU with other occasions.
Best trips to do?
N/A
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Life is frankly calm. You have to be ready to be cold and let it get dark late but it’s really hot. In addition, it allows to make lots of trips that we would never do while discovering Eastern Europe. I recommend going to all the Baltic countries and also to visit other cities in Latvia like Jurmala. Life is cheaper than in France but it’s not CHEAP either. And we must absolutely be careful that we can no longer buy alcohol after 8 PM on weekdays and 6 PM on weekends
NO
Jehanne
From: IESEG
To: RISEBA
2025 • Fall
We were in a group with 30 friends. The location was the best and the flat was very big. If I can recommend you one flat it is this one !!!!!!..
What kind of place was it?
Classic Apartment
How much was the rent per month?
295+CHARGES
Where was it located?
JEKABA IELA 3/5
How can someone find this place?
+37128617767
Would you recommend it?
We were in a group with 30 friends. The location was the best and the flat was very big. If I can recommend you one flat it is this one !!!!!!
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
RED ROOM, SINNER CLUB, ROCK CAFE, CARTEL BAR. ESN CARD.
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
The non finance block.
Do you have some tips?
The integration is nice !! but there is not really a life in the campus
Best trips to do?
TALLIN/ HELSINKI OSLO VILNIUS
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
A lot of french and german.
Tanguy
From: Kedge Business School
To: Riseba University
2025 • Fall
The city life depends essentially of the weather, during the summer period everybody goes out and it's super cool to walk in the city. Otherwise the city is…..
What kind of place was it?
Classic Apartment
How much was the rent per month?
300
Where was it located?
In the old Riga, next to the St Peter Church
How can someone find this place?
Website
Would you recommend it?
Yes, it was really well located next to everything. The old Riga is lovely
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Folkklub, Rock Café, Valhalla, One One, First ... and check the ESN account on instagram to have international party
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
The classes have been chose by the School
Do you have some tips?
The campus is not cool, really small, and there are no associations or groups on the campus
Best trips to do?
I traveled a lot, That's the advantage of Riga, you can move around Europe for a cheap price. Moreover ESN group proposes you big reduction on some trips.
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
The city life depends essentially of the weather, during the summer period everybody goes out and it's super cool to walk in the city. Otherwise the city is calm, secure, cheap, people are not really friendly due to the historic event.
Saja
From: Riseba , Latvia
To: riseba
2024 • Full year
I highly recommend this place! The location is great it’s right across from some faculties and just a 10-minute walk from the main universities. It’s also not…..
What kind of place was it?
Student Residence
How much was the rent per month?
569
Where was it located?
in riga , 10 min from school
How can someone find this place?
residence website
Would you recommend it?
I highly recommend this place! The location is great it’s right across from some faculties and just a 10-minute walk from the main universities. It’s also not far from the city center. The residence itself is very spacious, with lots of common areas, which makes it easy to meet people from different backgrounds. Finally, the rooms are very clean and modern; overall, a great experience!
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
There are also lots of great bars and nice cafés in Riga, which makes the city even more enjoyable to live in.
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
The courses were pretty good. The level was quite easy, but the teachers were very nice and supportive.
Do you have some tips?
RISEBA was a great exchange choice ,friendly professors, light academic workload, and a fun student atmosphere.
Best trips to do?
I went to Lapland with a student association based in Riga — it was such a cool experience! Definitely recommend if you're up for an unforgettable winter adventure.
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Riga is actually a really cool place to live, especially during the second semester — you get both snow and sunny days. There’s a beach nearby, fun activities on the lake when the weather is nice, shooting ranges, and some great hiking spots. The city also has lots of shopping malls, and you’ll never run out of bars and cafés to check out!
Maïa
From: Esilv
To: Rtu
2024 • Fall
There is no sun and people are anges all the time. Coffe are a safe place and automn is beautiful for the Colors o f the trees..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
I don’t remember
Where was it located?
20 min with bus and foot
How can someone find this place?
Website of pinecone
Would you recommend it?
No, don’t go with this agence, we had a lot of problems and for example they never send us our deposite back
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Bars are cool
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
Fluid mechanic
Do you have some tips?
Yes it was a Nice place
Best trips to do?
Lapland with
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
There is no sun and people are anges all the time. Coffe are a safe place and automn is beautiful for the Colors o f the trees
Never go to pinecone for the appartement. Don’t live alone because the winter can be hard
Fatima-Zahra
From: ESILV
To: RTU
2024 • Fall
C'est tellement à côté de plein de pays que j'ai plus passé de temps assise dans l'avion qu'en classe..
What kind of place was it?
Student Residence
How much was the rent per month?
480
Where was it located?
Latgales
How can someone find this place?
Website
Would you recommend it?
Oui
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
La vie nocturne s'arrête à 19h à part les soirées étudiantes mais bof
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
Rien à dire en particulier
Do you have some tips?
L'université est cool et est facilement joignable
Best trips to do?
C'est tellement à côté de plein de pays que j'ai plus passé de temps assise dans l'avion qu'en classe
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Le seul hick c'est la nourriture et les gens sont plus aigris qu'à Paris mais sinon c'est très bien
Ceux qui ont le permis kiffer avec les locations de bolt
Romeo
From: Emlv
To: Riseba
2024 • Fall
Les petits scooter rouge sont vraiment super pratiques, les fast food sont bons et moins chers qu'en France. Pour la carte de transport il faut aller la faire…..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
400
Where was it located?
Dans le vieux Riga
How can someone find this place?
Site internet, agences de location
Would you recommend it?
L'appartement était vraiment bien et pas cher (70 m² pour 800 € à deux chargé non comprises) mais il y avait quelques problèmes avec une fenêtre qui a pas été résolu. La ville est très sympa pour les étudiants mais il faut faire attention pour les filles dans les boîtes de nuit. Par contre les lettons ne sont pas toujours très accueillants ou chaleureux. Sinon quand on a un bon groupe pour sortir et faire des activités c'est vraiment sympa. Au niveau des cours ça va on était pas trop surchargé.
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Alabar, valhalla, arcadia, First club
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
Il y a deux programmes pour les étudiants en école de commerce, un assez tranquille et un autre plus difficile avec des matières comme corporate finance, financial management and risks (très compliqué), cost accounting. J'ai bien aimé les cours d'économie et de psychologie
Do you have some tips?
Le "campus" est juste un bâtiment avec des salles de cours et une machine à café mais y a un magasin pour acheter des croissants et du café juste à côté. L'université était pas mauvaise mais pas exceptionnel non plus.
Best trips to do?
On peut aller dans les pays à côté (Lituanie, Estonie) pour une vingtaine d'euros en bus, les vols sont pas très chers pour la Norvège par exemple (100 €aller retour) et on peut découvrir toute l'Europe de l'est
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Les petits scooter rouge sont vraiment super pratiques, les fast food sont bons et moins chers qu'en France. Pour la carte de transport il faut aller la faire dans un immeuble spécifique mais ça peut être difficile parce que les lettons parlent très mal anglais pour la plupart et ne font pas beaucoup d'efforts avec les étrangers. La salle de sport coûte cher et il faut s'inscrire pour l'année mais si vous prenez l'option de paiement chaque mois et que vous payez avec une carte numérique que vous alimentez quand vous avez besoin et quand vous avez plus besoin vous détruisez la carte comme ça ils peuvent plus vous prelever. Par contre après la salle de sport vous harcèle un peu et vous menace de vous poursuivre en justice mais sinon ça va.
Quand il fait chaud aller à la plage à Jurmala, visitez la bibliothèque nationale, le musée du kgb, de l'occupation, faites du sport à côté et hésitez pas à voir les pays à côté (la Norvège est vraiment super, la Laponie aussi mais très chère)
Célian
From: EMLV, France
To: RISEBA
2024 • Fall
The cost of living is lower than France so it was pleasant to live there. There are a lot of bus and tramway connections. In terms of safety I have never got…..
What kind of place was it?
Student Residence
How much was the rent per month?
300
Where was it located?
Duck Republik, student residence. 15 minutes in bus from the main city activities
How can someone find this place?
Duck Republik website (duckrepublik.eu)
Would you recommend it?
Many kitchens at disposal, own fridge in your room, gym avalaible, able to wash & dry your clothes for 4€, one market 100 meters from the residence and a bigger one within one or two kilometers. I would go there again.
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
The old town of Riga is one beautiful part of the city. There are a lot of bars, shops, and some clubs nearby
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
I followed the erasmus 2 courses, which included human resources, marketing, european entrepreneurship, cognitive psychology, sales management and more. Highly recommend it. The teachers are great and the courses are interesting.
Do you have some tips?
I would gladly pick the same university for another exchange. The teachers, the students, the building and campus were awesome.
Best trips to do?
If you have some savings, you can organize a trip which will take you to nearby cities in Latvia. Do it before december because otherwise it will be really cold outside.
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
The cost of living is lower than France so it was pleasant to live there. There are a lot of bus and tramway connections. In terms of safety I have never got any troubles and it is mostly safe. The weather is overall cold but still enjoyable. There are a lot of fast food/restaurants where you can enjoy local meals (or traditional KFC/McDonald if you prefer).
Before buying a full price subscription to bus and tramways, you should first ask to your exchange university a paper that proves that you are an exchange student. You will pay far less for the same result :)
Adam
From: Esilv
To: RTU
2024 • Fall
Coin sympathique..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
600
Where was it located?
Riga
How can someone find this place?
Airbnb
Would you recommend it?
Yes
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Coin sympathique
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
.
Do you have some tips?
.
Best trips to do?
Lofoten Norvège
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Pas cher
Madeleine
From: ESILV
To: RTU
2025 • Spring
Depend the vibe you are searching for, for chill drinks Ezitis migla is good. For parties you can go to the Rock cafe or others. I recommend following ESN Riga…..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
around 450
Where was it located?
Latgale, 15 min from the train station and 20 from the old Riga
How can someone find this place?
the landlord email : imants.jankovskis@gmail.com
Would you recommend it?
It was good, the place is spacious and livable. There are two separates rooms, but I would recommend going with someone you know or at least meeting before. If I had to choose again, I would probably choose something still in old riga but maybe closer to the university/ stores.
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Depend the vibe you are searching for, for chill drinks Ezitis migla is good. For parties you can go to the Rock cafe or others. I recommend following ESN Riga on insta for some good parties with a lot of internationals. Other than that, there is a fun game club: Players club XL, with a lot of differents games. I definitely recommend.
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
I recommend AI and database, do not choose OR even if it can be an easy pas you still have a lot of things to do ( not sure the teacher reads them), Random processes is an easy pass with a cool teacher.
Do you have some tips?
not the best but ok, the library is cool
Best trips to do?
You can go to Tallinn or Vilnius by taking a bus. You can also go to Riga's countryside, by bus or train, I definitely recommend Jurmala's beach, in the summer and the winter. And then there is hikes in Ogre, kemeri or Sigulda. If you want to go by plane, you can also visit Stockholm, Oslo or Helsinki
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Take a transport student card (12 euros/month), can be useful, go to walk in the city center, if you arrive in september, you should enjoy while the weather is good. go to picnics on the island or whatever, it is such a beautiful city.
Jade
From: ESILV
To: RTU
2024 • Fall
The transport system is okay, the food is not of good quality but is cheap, the alcohol is really cheap but there city center is small. Don’t count on visiting…..
What kind of place was it?
Student Residence
How much was the rent per month?
300
Where was it located?
Lauvas iela 1, Latgales priekšpilsēta, 45min from RTU and 20min from bars
How can someone find this place?
https://www.instagram.com/duck_republik?igsh=MWFkNW5ibDNodmM5bw==
Would you recommend it?
Yes, i met a lot of erasmus students and had a great time. the amenities are good
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Good Erasmus party but there is only a few other good club in the city( valhalla) … a bit repetitive.
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
I recommend requirement engineering because most of the classes are online.
Do you have some tips?
The campus is cool and there is lot of options to eat nearby.
Best trips to do?
The tickets are very cheap from riga. quoi can visit Lapland (with the ESB trip) and Sweden
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
The transport system is okay, the food is not of good quality but is cheap, the alcohol is really cheap but there city center is small. Don’t count on visiting riga more then once.
Ludovic
From: Ecole Supérieure d Ingénieur Leonard de Vinci
To: RTU
2025 • Spring
Travel in Latvia : go with esn trip (cheaper, well organized, full of erasmus) Outsife Latvia : ≈20€ plane ticket to stockholm,Copenhag,Gdansk, or bus ticket…..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
445
Where was it located?
Reina Bulvaris, Between Centrs n Old town district, 5min bus from school, 5min walk from pub/club
How can someone find this place?
Via HousingAnywhere
Would you recommend it?
Didnt spent much time at home, a 5-bedrooms shared appartement, cool to meet foreing ppl, the place looked brand new & clean on the picture but that wasnt the case, and multiple furnitures were malfunctionning
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Top bar : Piga,Limonade,FunnyFox,Esitis Migla,Sinner, Tallinas Top club : Sinner, Rock café, Valhalla, Tallinas, Top event: follow esn riga/latvia on instagram
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
👍 : Introduction to IA, SQL advanced, programmation & automatisation 👎 : Proba, signal theory
Do you have some tips?
Registration easy, cool campus with sport facilities (swimming pool, gym etc). But u will always eat the same thing at the canteen :/
Best trips to do?
Travel in Latvia : go with esn trip (cheaper, well organized, full of erasmus) Outsife Latvia : ≈20€ plane ticket to stockholm,Copenhag,Gdansk, or bus ticket to vilnius (lituania) or Tallin (estonia) Trip with ESN : ≈600€ for a week in Lofoten/Saariselka (Norway/Lapland) activities and housing included
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Transport : use bolt / every day commutes --> 12€/month bus card Good vodka at very good price. Ask for the Rimi card to get discounts Safe country, be aware of the drunk russians Can be really cold in winter ( ≈ -15) with cold wind and snow
Enjoy
Mohcine
From: ESILV
To: RTU
2024 • Fall
Dans mon domaine, je recommande : - Network security (chaque semaine un TP noté mais très simple à valider) - Reliability of information systems (quelques…..
What kind of place was it?
Airbnb
How much was the rent per month?
700
Where was it located?
In Riga center, 15min from the university
How can someone find this place?
https://www.airbnb.com/l/9L7rUOr4
Would you recommend it?
Simple, efficace, bien placé, arrêt de bus à 3-4 min à pied puis à 15min max de l’université
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
.
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
Dans mon domaine, je recommande : - Network security (chaque semaine un TP noté mais très simple à valider) - Reliability of information systems (quelques rendus simple à faire + qcm final) - Cryptography - Design and Maintenance of Telecommunications Networks (un peu plus dur que les autres mais très intéressant) - Pour les voyageurs, je recommande « System Theory ». Un cours interessant, avec des TD à rendre, un exam final plutôt compliqué mais ce cours est en full remote…
Do you have some tips?
Campus plutôt sympa, avec un centre co, une salle de sport, un hypermarché juste collé
Best trips to do?
L’aéroport de Riga est un hub permettant de voyager un peu partout ! Pour pas cher !!! Une dizaine d’euros A/R pour la norvège, la finlande, la suède, pologne etc Profitez en !!! Lituanie et estonie à faire en voiture si possible. J’ai fait Dubai pour 300e A/R sans escale, un prix jamais vu à partir de la France
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
La ville de riga est bien mais pas extraaaaaordinaire… Belle ville, ambiance jeune et festive. Je recommande
Utilisez les applications VTC (bolt etc) qui permettent de louer des voitures sur place, comme les locations de trottinettes, à des prix vraiment top !
Paul
From: ESILV
To: Rigas Tehniska Universitate
2024 • Fall
Yes, it was nice because we were 4 for an 5 people appartment but there were no living room Si we transformed the remaining room into a living room. Problem is…..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
375
Where was it located?
15 from Old Riga (bars etc...)
How can someone find this place?
Facebook Marketplace
Would you recommend it?
Yes, it was nice because we were 4 for an 5 people appartment but there were no living room Si we transformed the remaining room into a living room. Problem is that the landlord never answered us during the whole semestre so we had to deal with minor inconveniences ourselves, like repairing the shower
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Fox Bar and Sound factory to get 50 shots for 25€.
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
Do not take the Ecological class, it is boring has hell
Do you have some tips?
It is the best uni in Riga and administration work was pretty easy
Best trips to do?
I went to Sweden,Poland and most importantly Finland
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
There is a rooftop accessible above the Radinson Hôtel with the best view on the city. You definitely have to try the Sound Factory bar. And most importantly you have to follow the ESN Riga account on Instagram so you can register yourself to many great activities
If you're an extrovert like me don't go alone cause the sun going down at 3PM can be really depressing sometimes
Margot
From: EMLV
To: RTU
2024 • Fall
The events in the city was so so but we used to do some apartments partys between the colocations of our team, also the casino in the city center is good and…..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
600 because rent of 1800€ divided by the 3 of us
Where was it located?
Ganu Iela in the center
How can someone find this place?
Facebook blog for Riga’students and then landlord’s number
Would you recommend it?
Yes it was nice to discover a Baltic country, also the experience of colocation with friends , cheap travels across all the Europe. However, the content of the courses were quite light.
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
The events in the city was so so but we used to do some apartments partys between the colocations of our team, also the casino in the city center is good and Burma la the beach at only 30 minutes is very nice when there is good weather. Grab car location with the app was very practical.
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
I didn’t had the choice for my courses, only economic section, but we received good presentations of the link between Europe Riga and the parlement.
Do you have some tips?
Registration easy and the campus quite basic.
Best trips to do?
Grab car location so practical and also tramway/bus quite cheap
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Weather with snow !!
If you want to appreciate your future experience in Riga leave well accompanied to better discover and don’t be afraid about the cultural différenciation which is quite important.
Erwan
From: ELMV
To: RTU
2024 • Spring
The best bar is the rock cafe and the club Valhalla night club..
What kind of place was it?
Airbnb
How much was the rent per month?
600
Where was it located?
In riga 10 min from the center
How can someone find this place?
Airbnb
Would you recommend it?
Ye, it was really nice for two people
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
The best bar is the rock cafe and the club Valhalla night club
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
I don’t know, my school has been chosen for me
Do you have some tips?
take the metro card, go to rimi for shopping
Best trips to do?
Stockholm, lapland, Norway
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
the cost of the life isn’t really expensive
Selma
From: Esilv
To: Rtu
2025 • Spring
Yes newest equipment very good vibes..
What kind of place was it?
Student Residence
How much was the rent per month?
800
Where was it located?
University of Riga
How can someone find this place?
Shed Coliving
Would you recommend it?
Yes newest equipment very good vibes
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Monkey club the best Valala is bad
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
Startup development
Do you have some tips?
Registration easy
Best trips to do?
Stockolm vilnius
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Weather always windy and rainy
Go with friends
Asna
From: EMLV
To: Riga Technical University
2025 • Spring
Live your best life in Riga, especially if you come like me during the second semester, the spring semester. I arrived in January, and let me tell you: bring…..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
465
Where was it located?
Located in a quiet family-friendly neighborhood, close to a school, and just 15 minutes by tram from the center of Riga.
How can someone find this place?
https://youthments.com
Would you recommend it?
I’d recommend this residence for anyone coming to Riga who doesn’t know anyone yet. it’s a great place to meet people. I actually made friends while living there. You’re never really isolated since there are common areas, and there’s always a sense of community. The rooms are private studios, some with basic kitchen facilities, and some with a full cooking setup. I chose a studio without a stove, so I used the shared kitchen on my floor. Honestly, I didn’t meet too many people there when I wad cooking, which was perfect for me. Cleaning is done every two weeks in your room (its include in the price), so everything stays tidy without you losing your privacy. The residence also has a gym, spacious common areas, and generally attracts international students or people new to Riga. Everything is clean and well-maintained, and the staff is super responsive. The area is quiet, with a park nearby, and the price is reasonable. There’s also a similar option called Shed Co-Living, it has even more communal spaces, is more comfortable, and slightly pricier, but still worth considering if you want extra convenience and be even more closer to Riga Technical University and the center. One thing to keep in mind: depending on which campus you attend, it might be a bit of a commute. In summer or spring, electric scooters make it easy, but in winter, the cold and less frequent public transport can make it trickier. Still, overall, it’s a really good choice for students or newcomers looking for a comfortable, international, and social living environment.
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
There are plenty of nice bars in Riga, depending on what you’re looking for. Basically, if you go to the city center, you’ll find lots of options. Personally, I recommend Kiwi Bar for those who want to watch matches and have a good beer, it’s a Belgian bar. Then there’s Rock Café, very spacious, perfect for karaoke or having cocktails. For partying, there’s The Sinners, a bar/club popular with a lot of international students. And to stay updated on student events, follow their Instagram @esn_riga; they organize parties, outings, and activities to meet people.
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
Personally, my courses were assigned by my host university. Overall, the courses are pretty easy to follow and manageable as an international student. Nothing too complicated. The part that can be a bit tricky is group work, where you need to be organized to submit everything on time, because professors are quite strict about deadlines.One course I’d recommend is Startup Development. course mainly involves working in a group throughout the semester to build a startup. The workload isn’t huge, but you do need to prepare your project well with your group. Overall, it’s not difficult to pass with a good grade. In general, there’s no major difficulty in passing courses at the university I attended. One course that was a bit more challenging was European Policy. I found it tricky because the professor didn’t provide a lot of content, so preparing for the written exams was a bit harder.
Do you have some tips?
As for Riga Technical University, honestly, the registration process was super easy, it really wasn’t complicated at all. On top of that, the international student service is very responsive and answers quickly, which makes things much smoother. The campus itself is nice. To be fair, I didn’t spend a lot of time there since I didn’t have that many classes, but they do have really good coffee machines, and plenty of study spaces. The campus is spacious and comfortable, though of course it also depends on which campus you’re based at. Overall, I’d say the registration was straightforward, the facilities were good, and I’d probably choose the same university again since it also gave me the chance to make friends.
Best trips to do?
One of the main reasons I chose Riga is its location—it’s super easy and affordable to travel to nearby countries. For trips, I definitely recommend visiting Estonia and Lithuania. You can easily go by bus, and it’s really cheap; for example, I paid around 15–20 euros for a round trip to Lithuania. In general, traveling around the Baltic states and Eastern Europe is much more affordable compared to Western Europe. Another must is Sweden, especially Stockholm—I highly recommend it. Finland is also worth it, especially if you go when the weather is nice to enjoy the nature. Poland is just next door too. Honestly, I regret not being able to visit Russia, but of course, that’s not possible right now due to the political situation. So, my advice: travel as much as you can while you’re in Riga. Neighboring countries are often places you wouldn’t normally think of visiting, but they’re absolutely worth it.
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Live your best life in Riga, especially if you come like me during the second semester, the spring semester. I arrived in January, and let me tell you: bring gloves and a hat. Seriously, you cannot survive without gloves in Riga. Also, get a scarf and bundle up, because otherwise, you won’t make it through the cold. Another tip: since I wasn’t living in the city center (though I was still within Riga), I highly recommend budgeting for Bolt. Bolt will be your best friend in Riga. The good news is that it’s not expensive at all, super affordable. But definitely plan a small Bolt budget, especially for winter. If your campus and your accommodation are not close to each other, mine were 10 minutes away by car, you’ll end up using Bolt a lot when it’s freezing or when you’re just exhausted. And of course, at night after parties, Bolt is a lifesaver. If you come during spring or summer when the weather gets better, make sure to try the e-scooters or scooters. It’s honestly such a fun way to explore Riga and get around the city, especially around campus. I loved it. Another thing I recommend: get the store loyalty cards for Maxima and Rimi. You can register directly on your phone, and they give you big discounts on groceries. As I said before, Bolt is a must-have in Riga, but if you’re planning to use public transport, keep in mind that it doesn’t run as often as in Paris. So always check the schedules before going out, especially in winter, you do NOT want to be stuck waiting in the cold. There is app when you can pay your transport ticket with qrcode system in Riga (name : mobility). And finally, you absolutely need to follow the Erasmus Riga Instagram account (esn_riga). They organize tons of activities and even trips, which is a great way to meet people and enjoy your Erasmus experience to the fullest.
Not really
Sherine
From: EMLV
To: RTU
2024 • Fall
On peur voyager dans les pays autour ! J’ai eu l’occasion de visiter Vilnius en lithuanie et Tallin en Estonie. J’ai préparé le voyage la veille. Et pour le…..
What kind of place was it?
Classic Apartment
How much was the rent per month?
600
Where was it located?
On était au centre ville de Riga, pleins de resto aux alentours, à 15 minutes de la vieille ville à pied
How can someone find this place?
Would you recommend it?
J’ai vraiment apprécié mon échange à Riga ! C’était une expérience unique et incroyable
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Boîte de nuit : Valhala, First … Rooftop : Skybar au radisson blu Bar : Rock Café et les autre bars de la vieille ville Activité sympa : chiller à la plage de jurmala
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
Le cours de RSE était très cool ! Celui de project management aussi ! Je ne recommande pas du tout le cours de power BI
Do you have some tips?
Le campus était normal en vrai
Best trips to do?
On peur voyager dans les pays autour ! J’ai eu l’occasion de visiter Vilnius en lithuanie et Tallin en Estonie. J’ai préparé le voyage la veille. Et pour le coup les prix sont vraiment abordables. L’école propose aussi un voyage en Laponie pour 600€
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
En vrai c’est pas très cher ! Au niveau des transports y a des bus et des tram 🚊 mais le truc hyper sympa c’est que les gens qui ont le permis peuvent conduire un bolt drive (on est le propre chauffeur du bolt) et c’est 14 centimes la minute
Profitez à fond parce que c’est un banger en vrai
Enzo
From: ESILV
To: RTU
2025 • Spring
The AI class is nice, the professor is really applied and takes care of everything. Must be on hands because there is a lot to do..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
250
Where was it located?
15 minutes by bus
How can someone find this place?
https://www.stabu16.lv/
Would you recommend it?
Sure ! Best when living with friends
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Didn't go out much, prefer solo events
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
The AI class is nice, the professor is really applied and takes care of everything. Must be on hands because there is a lot to do
Do you have some tips?
yes yes but no I had multiple overseas experiences and while it is great, I think that it is a one time opportunity
Best trips to do?
Jurmala if you want to stay close. But Poland and Estonia were awesome and cheap
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Bus fair for students is cheaper. But in winter it can be harsh
stay close to the old city it is very animated. If you like more silent places, go out in the city center
Elisa
From: Esilv
To: Riga Technical University
2025 • Spring
Tallinas is a large area with lots of bars, clubs, and events in the same complex. Everything works together, you can order from anywhere and move around with…..
What kind of place was it?
Classic Apartment
How much was the rent per month?
525
Where was it located?
Strēlnieku iela 17
How can someone find this place?
Would you recommend it?
Yess for sure
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Tallinas is a large area with lots of bars, clubs, and events in the same complex. Everything works together, you can order from anywhere and move around with it. It's free and has a large outdoor section. Otherwise, in Tom Bar you have the Ezitis and Piga chains, which are very inexpensive and excellent.
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
the AI class was horrible and strong
Do you have some tips?
The campus is nice, next door there is a large shopping center where you can eat cheaply and large outdoor spaces to eat outside
Best trips to do?
Starting from Riga I would say all of Lithuania and Estonia, with Tallinn which are great. Otherwise if you have the means, Krakow and Lapland which are incredible
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
Meeting other Erasmus students is really important. It completely changes your stay, rather than staying with people from your own country. And I would say knowing how to drink and keeping up a fairly high pace of going out because it's a very festive city.
For cool evenings and events, follow the ESN and Lakaffen associations on Instagram. Their evenings are really great and very varied
Eva
From: Kedge Business School
To: RISEBA University of Applied Sciences
2023 • Full year
Lived in 3 apartments (exchanged in Riga for 1 year and a half), got scammed the first time (be careful with fake agencies, they scam you on utilities and…..
What kind of place was it?
Coliving / Shared House
How much was the rent per month?
Around 450€/month
Where was it located?
Old Riga and New Centre
How can someone find this place?
Facebook expats groups work amazing every time
Would you recommend it?
Lived in 3 apartments (exchanged in Riga for 1 year and a half), got scammed the first time (be careful with fake agencies, they scam you on utilities and never give back the deposit), but the two other appartements were amazing. You can have crazy flats for nothing. During my last semester, I used to live at Ganu street, my roommates and I had a full 2 floors apartment with 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with jacuzzi and sauna, balcony and all utilities included for 440€ per person.
What are some top bars, clubs, or events you recommend?
Club that will always be full: Valhalla Best techno club: One One Best bar with cheap happy hour: Cartel Best coffee shop in town: Caffeine
Which classes do you recommend… or not?
I didn't really have the option with my classes option so cannot really suggest anything. But what I know is that RISEBA is very chill
Do you have some tips?
Campus was nice, and everything was accessible and easy to understand
Best trips to do?
You can travel everywhere around Latvia for super cheap. 20€ bus round trip for Tallinn or Vilnius. I would defo suggest to visit Eastern countries Poland, Hungary, Austria, Germany. The Nordic countries are also very cheap by flights and worth the visit (especially Stockholm). Finally, get in touch with your ESN organisation, they organise lapland trips every semester, it is expensive but they plan everything for you and truly amazing
What do you absolutely need to know to live your best life in Riga?
If you are coming for winter, YES, it will get very very cold, so grab and bring all your ski clothes, you will need them
I loved my life in Riga, but in my opinion, the friends that you will meet here are the most important tick to check. Riga can get depressing if you are by yourself, especially in winter. Don't get too shocked when you will notice that no one smiles at you or even say hello outside, this is normal to Latvians, because you need to earn these kind of acts from them.
