Livu Square in Riga
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Livu Square – Livu Square in English – is one of Riga’s coziest and most vibrant squares. Surrounded by colorful medieval buildings, outdoor dining areas, and the distinctive yellow Cat House, the square is a natural gathering point in the heart of the Old Town. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting.
Quick Facts
- Address: Līvu laukums, Rīga (city center of Old Town)
- Recommended visit time: 30-60 minutes – longer if you eat or drink something
- Admission: Free
- Best for: All visitors – especially good for a midday break
- Season: Beautiful all year round – Christmas market in winter, outdoor dining in summer
Why visit Livu Square?
Livu Square is one of those places in Riga that feels alive and authentic at all times of the day. In the morning, there is peace and good light for photography. In the afternoon, the square buzzes with tourists and locals enjoying coffee and beer at the many outdoor dining spots. In the evening, the lights come on in the colorful facades and the atmosphere becomes magical.
The square is also a great starting point for exploring the rest of the Old Town – from here it is a short walk to Dome Square, the House of the Blackheads, and Riga Castle.
What to see?
The Cat House
The yellow Art Nouveau building from 1909 with the two cats on the tower tops is one of Riga's most photographed buildings. According to legend, the owner placed the cats with their backsides facing Riga's Great Guild in revenge for being denied membership – a story still happily told by local guides.
The colorful facades
The buildings around the square are painted in warm colors – yellow, red, and orange – creating a picturesque backdrop that is particularly beautiful in the evening light. Take time to study the details of the facades and the decorative elements above the windows and doors.
Outdoor dining areas
In summer, the square is filled with outdoor tables from the surrounding restaurants and cafes. It is a perfect place for a break with Latvian beer or a cup of coffee during a day in the Old Town.
Riga's Great Guild
The impressive Gothic building on the north side of the square is Riga's Great Guild – one of the most important historical institutions in Riga's trade life. Today, the building is used for concerts and cultural events.
Practical tips
- Photography: The Cat House is best photographed early in the morning without tourists in front.
- Restaurants: Prices in the square itself are slightly higher than in the side streets – walk a street away for better value for money.
- Christmas Market: In December, Livu Square is the center of Riga's Christmas market – one of the most beautiful in the Baltics.
- Combine with: The House of the Blackheads and Town Hall Square are just a 2-3 minute walk away.
Suggested route (2-3 hours)
- Start: Livu Square – The Cat House and the colorful facades
- Stop 1: House of the Blackheads (3 minutes walk)
- Stop 2: Town Hall Square and Riga Town Hall
- Break: Lunch or coffee at Livu Square
- End: Dome Square via the narrow side streets
Shoe recommendation
Livu Square and the surrounding streets are cobbled – choose shoes with good cushioning for a comfortable day. At Baltic Shoes you will find handmade Baltic shoes in premium leather – perfect for a day in Riga's cozy Old Town.
Frequently asked questions
What is the story behind the cats on the Cat House?
According to legend, the owner of the house – a wealthy Latvian merchant – placed the cats with their backsides facing Riga's Great Guild as a protest against being denied membership. The Guild complained and the cats were eventually turned around – but the story lives on as one of Riga's most beloved anecdotes.
Are there free toilets at Livu Square?
There are public toilets nearby – alternatively, you can use the facilities at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the square for a small purchase.
Is Livu Square good in winter?
Absolutely – in December, the square is the center of Riga's Christmas market with a Christmas tree, stalls, and warm mulled wine. It is one of the most beautiful winter experiences in the entire Baltics.
Conclusion
Livu Square is one of those places in Riga you return to again and again. Whether you come for the Cat House, a cup of coffee in the sun, or just to enjoy the atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town, the square will not disappoint. It is Riga at its coziest and most vibrant.
