Discover the Charm of Riga: A Guide to Latvia's Hidden Gem

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Advisor - Tammy Kiefer
Curated By

Tammy Kiefer

  • Arts & Culture

  • Food & Wine

  • City Travel

  • Europe

  • Coast

  • Multi-Country

  • Sightseeing

A beautiful orange and white building with a statue and street lamps in front of it on a cloudy and blue sky day.
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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Insider knowledge

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Where to stay in Riga

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga embodies opulence and timeless elegance, offering an exceptional five-star experience in the heart of Latvia's capital city.

Fora Perks
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    Food & Beverage or Spa Credit (value varies by property.

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    Breakfast daily.

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    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Grand Palace Hotel

Where luxury and history blend in the heart of Latvia's capital.

Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by Semarah

Experience luxury and refinement at the Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by Semarah, located in the heart of Riga, Latvia. With its elegant design, sophisticated ambiance, and world-class amenities, this hotel offers guests a luxurious retreat in the historic Old Town. Indulge in pampering treatments at the onsite spa, savor gourmet cuisine at the restaurant, and unwind in spacious and elegantly appointed rooms. Whether you're exploring the city's cultural attractions or simply relaxing in style, Grand Poet Hotel and SPA promises an unforgettable stay in Riga.

Radisson Blu Elizabete Hotel, Riga

Discover contemporary comfort and convenience centrally located in Riga, Latvia. With stylish design, modern amenities and attentive service, this hotel offers guests a comfortable and enjoyable stay in the bustling city center.

A22 Hotel

Experience budget-friendly comfort and convenience at A22 Hotel, located in Riga, Latvia. With its modern design, cozy accommodations, and affordable rates, this hotel offers guests a comfortable stay in the heart of the city. Enjoy well-appointed rooms with essential amenities, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to nearby attractions and public transportation. Whether you're visiting Riga for business or leisure, A22 Hotel provides a convenient and affordable option for your stay in the Latvian capital.

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Things to do in Riga

A stunning aerial view of Riga, complete with a bridge, warm-toned buildings and a large canal in the background surrounded by trees and a town.

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.

Advisor - Tammy Kiefer

Travel Advisor

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.