Riga

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Riga, Latvia

Riga is located at the site of an ancient settlement of the Livs, (an ancient Finnic tribe), on the Daugava River, near its mouth on the Gulf of Riga, the city is a major seaport and a cultural and industrial centre. The old part of Riga is surrounded by a moat and contains several medieval structures, including a 13th-century cathedral and guild halls from the 14th century. The Historic Centre of Riga has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the city is particularly notable for its extensive Art Nouveau architecture, comparable in significance only with Vienna, Saint Petersburg and Barcelona. Business and leisure travel to Riga has increased significantly in recent years due to the improved commercial and travel infrastructure. Riga as a port city is a major transportation hub and is the centre of the local road and railway system. Most tourists travel to Riga by air via the Riga International Airport, the largest airport in the Baltic States, which was renovated and modernized in 2001, coincident with Riga's 800th anniversary. Air traffic has doubled between 1993 and 2004. Baltic Sea ferries connect Riga to Stockholm, Kiel and Luebeck. Riga has several districts. The most popular among travellers is the Old Town (Vecriga), German influenced architecture and magnificent Doma Cathedral with the world famous organ inside, along with vivid nightlife, makes Vecriga the most interesting spot. You will need approximately half a day to walk Vecriga around. The area around Vecriga is mostly built in 18-19 centuries are has lots of European-style buildings that resembles the ones in Paris or Rome. Many movies about "foreign life" were filmed here during the soviets, as it was a lot easier to film here then going overseas. Taxis are quite cheap and are a good way to get around. Most drivers speak some English and there are also trams and trolley buses which are pretty easy to use. Points of interest include;
The Doma Cathedral considered the largest church in the Baltic States. Built in the 13th century, it was modified several times along its history. It has a magnificent organ that dates from 1844.
Riga Castle houses the Museum of Latvian History and the Museum of Foreign Art.
St. Peter's Church, with its 123 m high tower.
St. John's Church, a small 13th-century chapel, behind St. Peter's Church.
The Powder Tower (Pulvertornis), the only tower that remains from the city wall and the Latvian Museum of War is located inside.
The Occupation Museum is an absolute must.
Mezaparks is a nice large park in the outskirts of Riga. A nice place for quiet walks in the summertime.