The Old Town is undoubtedly the city’s bestattraction. Explore the medieval streets of this World Heritage Site and visitthe Ratslaukums, the Town Hall Square right in the centre. Follow the area’stwisting cobblestone streets lead to attractions like the House of Blackheadsand the Museum of the Occupation. Visit St. Peter’s Church and take the lift tothe top of the bell tower for spectacular views over the city. Admire thebaroque and Gothic buildings at Dome Square and enjoy a bite to eat or a drinkat an outdoor café or bar.
From Dome Square, take the short walk to Livu Square,which comes alive in summer with a beer garden and riveting live outdoorentertainment. In winter, the children will love the ice skating rink here. Besure to take a moment to relax in the tranquil Bastejkalns Park, a beautifulgreen space with a canal running through it. Take a moment to observe theFreedom Monument, which commemorates the soldiers that fought during theLatvian War of Independence.
Music is a big part of in Riga’sarts scene. Catch an opera or ballet performance at the Latvian National Operaor come for the RITMI Festival an annual jazz festival, which has seen suchbig name performers as Bobby Darin and Robert Glasper.
Riga’s cuisine is aincredible melting pot of influences, with input from nearby German, Polish andRussian flavours. Taste big plates of piragi, the East European dumpling, orpork, cabbage and potato-inspired dishes. You‘ll find cheap fruit andvegetables, and local delicacies such as smoked eel at the Central Market. Themarket opened in 1930 and takes place in converted Zeppelin aircraft hangars.
The city is ideal for walking as the streets areflat. There is also a cheap public transport system, with trams, buses andtrolleys stopping close to all the major sights.
