About Riga Sights

My name is Philip Birzulis, and I'm a private tour guide in Riga, Latvia, offering Riga walking tours and day trips from Riga to places like Jūrmala and Sigulda.

My life has been shaped by Latvia's dramatic history. My parents had to flee their homeland because of World War Two and the Soviet occupation. They emigrated to Australia, where I was born and raised.

I went to a typical Australian school, but I was also raised bilingually, speaking Latvian at home, and nurturing Latvian traditions like folk dancing and singing. My mum made delicious pīrāgi (little buns filled with bacon) and piparkūkas (gingerbread)! 

In 1994, I finished a history degree at Sydney University, then went travelling in Europe. I made it to Latvia, fell in love with the place, and worked for many years as a journalist and a translator.

I'm an avid storyteller, so in 2014 I became a guide in Riga. I love sharing Latvia’s story with visitors and helping them experience the country beyond the surface. My background shapes the way I guide my Riga walking tours, combining history, culture and personal stories.

These days I spend the European winter being a guide in the Australian sunshine - check out my tours of Sydney!

Come with me on a guided walk through Old Riga, or Riga's stunning Art Nouveau architecture, or the highlights of the city.

And learn about Latvia's brutal occupation on a Riga Soviet history tour.

Enjoy a private guided walk in Jūrmala or a relaxing day trip from Riga to Jūrmala.

Explore ancient castles and lovely scenery on a Sigulda day trip from Riga.

I also offer accessible tours in Riga and Latvia, ensuring travellers with limited mobility can enjoy a comfortable and rewarding experience.