Baltic Pearls - Riga

Riga is a city with various architectural styles, from medieval merchant tenements to socialist realism, heritage of Soviet Union. Socialist realism disfigures the city apart from minor exceptions. However, the historic old town compensates for these average views from the outskirts of the city. It has been included in the UNESCO list of World Cultural and Natural Heritage.

When you arrive at the airport, you must go to the centre of Riga, good choice are Bus No. 22 or Express MiniBus No. 322. I recommend starting sightseeing from National Library (bus stop: Nacionala biblioteka).

The second important point is the bridge over the Daugava River, from which you can admire the panorama of the city, sometimes you will see a cruise ship. The historic and well-maintained part of the city captivates with its beauty. Visiting this part of the city is worth starting with the Occupation Museum, which contains a rich collection of photographs, newspapers, posters, etc. from the time of the occupation of Latvia during the Second World War. Next to the museum is located House of Libra and House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads. In this place, few of the original buildings from the 15th century have been preserved. Only a few buildings have been restored that will surely catch your attention. Going further, we come across the Church of St. Peter, which tower is visible from anywhere in the center. The noble temple from 1209 is a symbol of the power of Christianity in Latvia. Church of St. Jana is right next to the previous one. The most important place of Riga is the Cathedral Square, which is the central part of the Old Town. Another important attraction is a walk along the defensive walls, which is very moody. We find here many charming cafes and attractions such as the Swedish Gate, which once opened the entrance to the city. By the way, visit the Gunpowder Tower, which houses the Latvian War Museum. Unfortunately, many stories are only described in Latvian. A few minutes walk and you can relax in a charming park near the Monument of Freedom and the National Opera. The last point is the skyscraper of Latvian Academy of Sciences, where an open observation deck awaits you. You can spend a nice time there drinking wine and waiting for the sunset.

Other places that are worth seeing in any order are:

- Art Nouveau District

- For the art lovers, the Latvian Museum of Fine Arts

- University and impressive building of the Congress Center.

- Large Guild, now the seat of the Latvian Philharmonic with a richly decorated Main Hall. Right next to the Little Guild, which unlike the Large, focused small merchants and craftsmen.

- A complex called Three Brothers.

- Riga Castle, the Castle of the Livonian Order, now the seat of the President of Latvia, and only part devoted to the Latvian History Museum is open to the public.

Is it worth seeing Riga?

Riga is a charming city, absorbing and making everyone feel good here. Little Old Town, lets us roam around its streets and enjoy beautiful views. Visiting the city is easy and will certainly please everyone.