The Best Concert Venues in the Baltics

Estonia Concert Hall in Tallinn

This neoclassical imposing building is a symbol of Estonia’s political and cultural power. Traditionally, the most festive events are held here, including receptions of Estonian Presidents and New Years Eve celebrations. No other hall in Estonia can compete with Estonia Concert Hall in combining history with flexibility and beauty with adaptability. The Hall promotes its own Concert Season of prestigious visiting artists as well as being home to the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra.

Estonian Academy of Music

The Concert and Theatre House of Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre is a world-class concert and performance center located in the heart of Tallinn. The Academy is a vibrant music school attracting music students from around the country to further their studies in music, give performances, and share their knowledge in a beautiful setting in Tallinn.

Tallinn Music High School

Established in 1956, Tallinn Music High School stands as a distinguished institution nurturing musical talent in Estonia. Located in the heart of Tallinn, it boasts a rich tradition of musical education and performance, making it a prestigious destination for aspiring musicians nationally and internationally. With a faculty of accomplished musicians and educators, the school provides a stimulating environment for students to explore and develop their musical abilities to their fullest potential.

Estonian National Museum

This modern building, internationally recognized for its architecture, was completed in 2016. The vision of the architects was to re-use a former military base, a physically present ‘ruin’ of a painful history, giving it a new meaning that inspires hope. The National Museum becomes a continuation of the airfield – its roof lifting and expanding towards ‘infinite space’.

Tartu University Assembly Hall

Constructed in the early 19th century and designed by Professor Johann Wilhelm Krause, the Assembly Hall of the University of Tartu stands as a renowned venue celebrated for its neoclassical architecture and cultural significance. This majestic hall hosts a diverse array of events, attracting audiences from both the university community and the wider public. With its spacious stage, excellent acoustics, and rich historical ambiance, it serves as a premier destination for performances. Boasting a seating capacity of 470 people, it provides an immersive setting for captivating experiences that resonate with audiences.

St. Peter’s Church

Riga, Latvia

The tallest church in Riga, St. Peter’s Church provides breathtaking views of the red roofs of Old Town, Riga Bay, and much more. Built in 1209, you can still see many incredible design elements including the original wooden altar, renovated stone and wooden epitaphs, and the original statue of Knight Roland (which was previously located in Town Hall Square).

Great Guild Hall

The Great Guild Hall, one of the oldest and buildings in Riga, is located in the center of the Old Town of Riga. The history of the building dates back to the 14th century, when the Guild of German merchants held its meetings here. The building is not only a historical monument, but also the home of the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra (LNSO) and a lively meeting place for lovers of classical music.

Riga Cathedral

Riga Cathedral, the centerpiece of Latvia’s capital city, was built in the early 13th century in the Romanesque style. It is the largest place of worship in the Baltics, with walls two meters thick. Riga Cathedral also has one of the biggest organs in Europe (6,718 pipes!). It was such a marvel in its day that Franz Liszt composed a piece of music in its honor.

University of Latvia (Great Hall)

The Great Hall of the University of Latvia, in Riga, is a distinguished venue celebrated for its classical 1930s architecture and excellent acoustics. It serves as a hub for academic ceremonies, conferences, and cultural events, hosting concerts by both local and international artists. With a seating capacity of over 700, including a balcony, the hall’s symmetrical design with columns and balconies offers a grand yet intimate setting, making it a significant cultural landmark in Latvia.

Church of St. Johns (Vilnius)

The Church of St. Johns in Vilnius’s Old Town is a revered Gothic landmark within the Vilnius University complex, boasting a towering 226-foot-high tower. Despite undergoing centuries of history and renovations, including a Baroque transformation in the 18th century, it remains a cultural and historical treasure. Restored after closure and damage during the Soviet era, it now serves as a testament to Lithuania’s rich heritage, adorned with presbytery altars and memorial monuments honoring key figures in the nation’s history.

LSSO Concert Hall

The LSSO Concert Hall in Vilnius, Lithuania, is a premier cultural venue renowned for its excellent acoustics and elegant design. Established to serve as a central hub for musical performances, it hosts a wide range of events, from classical concerts to contemporary music shows. The hall is particularly favored by orchestral groups for its state-of-the-art facilities and spacious stage, providing an ideal setting for both performers and audiences. Reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Vilnius, the LSSO Concert Hall continues to be a vital part of the city’s vibrant arts scene.

Kaunas State Philharmonic Society

The Kaunas State Philharmonic, located in a historic 1928 building that once served as a Palace of Justice and Parliament, is a prominent cultural venue in Lithuania’s second city. Showcasing Neoclassical and Art Deco styles, its Main Hall seats 530 and is suited for symphonies, festivals, and conferences, while its smaller hall accommodates up to 80 guests. With a central location and easy public transport access, the Kaunas State Philharmonic hosts a varied program of symphonic music, chamber concerts, and international festivals.

Vilnius Cathedral

The spiritual heart of Lithuania, Vilnius Cathedral is a striking neoclassical landmark and a prestigious venue for sacred music performances. Its vast interior, rich historical significance, and resonant acoustics make it ideal for large choral and orchestral concerts. Hosting performances here allows ensembles to be part of the cathedral’s centuries-old tradition of music and worship.

Church of St. Catherine

A premier venue for choral performances, this stunning Baroque church is renowned for its exceptional acoustics, which beautifully enhance vocal harmonies. Its ornate Rococo interior provides a breathtaking setting, while its long history as a cultural landmark adds to the significance of any concert held here. Now a dedicated concert venue, it hosts prestigious choral festivals and performances, making it one of the most sought-after stages for choirs visiting Vilnius.