5 Things You Should not Miss in Riga, Lativa

When it comes to Latvia, perhaps some people might not know where this amazing country is located. In a nutshell, Latvia is located between Estonia and Lithuania,  she declared independence of the Republic of Latvia from German and Russian occupation on 18 November 1918. It mean in this year (2018), Latvia celebrated 100th Anniversary.

Previously ruled by the Russian, the country till date has carried some influence of it. One could see Russian words, buildings style in the country. Riga, being the capital definitely has some amazing tourist attractions to offer.

Here are 5 things you should not miss when one is in Riga.

#1: Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ 

It is the cathedral of the Latvian Orthodox Church, located along the street of Brivibas Boulevard. This has definitely to be one of the prettiest church in Riga. Be enchanted by the interior drawings in the church, it is a pity no photos are allowed. See it with your own senses!

#2:  Riga Old Town 

St Peter Church is the icon of Riga Old Town. You cannot fault it for her beauty, standing out like a diamond in the town. Beside that, within old town, one can find many well designed buildings. Roam at your leisure and be dazzled by its romantic feel when night falls.

#3: Central Market

The central market was one of the biggest and most modern market in the past. Nowadays, there are 2 main reason why you should go there. Get bargain for winter clothes or at least when I was there in winter, the whole area was selling cheap winter wear. Snap it up! Fresh natural food can be found in the market which sells vegetables, sausages, spices, local food products, meat and whatever that you name it. One will recognise the huge Zeppelin hangars from a distance, identifying it as the central market of Riga.

#4: Freedom Monument

Nearby the area, there is nice park for one to stop by. Look at the ducks swimming by the river and relax in the city downtown.

#5:Jurmala Beach Resort 

Jurmala is the perfect place to chill, a seaside resort filled with pine fringed beaches, many charming wooden architecture in the area as well. During summer, it can be very peaked with locals heading to the beach resort. During winter, the sea can be so cold till it freezes at certain time of the year. I simply took the train from Riga to Majori station, a 32 minutes ride away from the town. Passenger trains to Jurmala leave Riga Central Train Station from Track 3 & 4. Look for trains going in the direction of Tukums, Kemeri or Sloka. It costs around EUR1.05 per trip. Tickets can be purchased at the main ticket hall. This can be done as a half day trip from Riga.

There are certainly other attractions beyond Riga. These include Sigulda (outdoor capital of Latvia with numerous historical attractions), Cesis (medieval charm), Kuldiga (widest waterfall in Europe and beautiful architecture)

Getting to Riga 

So go all out and enjoy the wilderness and thrill that Latvia brings! By the way, I flew into Riga from Berlin, taking Ryan Air (budget European airline if you do not know it yet) and it costs me USD20 only for an 1.5 hour flight.

Categories: Europe Region