Curator’s statement
Welcome to the vibrant and charming city of Riga, Latvia! Located in the heart of the Baltics, Riga offers a perfect blend of medieval charm and modernity, making it a must-visit destination for any adventurous traveler. With its stunning architecture, rich culture and bustling city life, Riga will surely leave you in awe.
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Things to do in Riga
Getting to Riga is easy and convenient. Riga International Airport is the largest airport in the Baltics, with direct flights from major cities in Europe and connecting flights from other parts of the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi or public transportation to reach the city center. Another option is to travel by train, with daily connections from neighboring countries like Lithuania, Estonia and Russia
Start your journey by exploring the city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets, admire the magnificent architecture and visit the iconic landmarks such as the Riga Castle, St. Peter’s Church and the House of the Blackheads.
For art and history lovers, Riga has an abundance of museums and galleries to explore. The Latvian National Museum of Art features the country’s largest collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts, while the Occupation Museum provides a glimpse into Latvia’s tumultuous past. You can also visit the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, which showcases traditional Latvian homes and culture.
No trip to Riga is complete without indulging in its delicious food and drinks. Latvian cuisine is a blend of flavors influenced by German, Russian and Scandinavian cuisines. Be sure to try the national dish, grey peas with bacon, and wash it down with a glass of Riga Black Balsam, a traditional herbal liqueur. You can also take a food tour to sample a variety of Latvian delicacies, such as smoked fish, dumplings and pastries.
For nature lovers, Riga has beautiful parks and green spaces to explore, such as the Bastejkalns Park and the Kronvalda Park. You can also escape the city and head to Jurmala, a popular beach resort town just a short train ride away. Here, you can relax on the white sand beaches, explore the quaint coastal towns and enjoy a refreshing swim in the Baltic Sea.
Riga, Latvia, has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, foodie or adventure seeker, this city will not disappoint. So start planning your trip now and get ready for an unforgettable experience in this hidden gem of the Baltics.
Places to eat & drink in Riga
Shōyu - Michelin
COD Robata Grill Bar - Michelin
Milda - Michelin
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Tammy Kiefer
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Tammy Keifer’s guide, Unveiling Baltic's Timeless Treasures: Embark on an Adventurous Journey Exploring Historic Sights on a Once-in-a-Lifetime Cruise. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Europe.