A Complete Guide To Riga Latvia
When you hear the Country 'Latvia', I'm guessing its not the first place you jump at as a dream destination. That's what I thought!
You may have never of come across this place before reading this, because lets just say, its not a popular British tourist destination for many is it..
Well - Keep reading and hopefully I can change your mind.
Where do I begin...
If your the type of traveller who loves old towns, cobbled streets, buildings and history, or maybe you are just looking for a brand new place to explore..
What makes Riga so special you may ask- Whether its the culture and museums or a relaxing break from your everyday life.
Whichever this may be, either way, add Latvia to your bucket list!
So, Where is Riga...
In the heart of Latvia, there's Riga! The capital of Latvia itself and also one of their largest cities.
Riga is set in the Baltic Sea and is known for their white sandy beaches, wooden colourful houses, old historic buildings, flowers and everything art.
One thing I definitely noticed during my visit, was the locals were super friendly and spend a lot of time together on the beaches, eating delicious food and they certainley love to dance!
Getting To Riga & Transport...
Well you will be pleased to know that airline flights to Riga are super cheap and affordable. Most flights to Riga are with Ryanair or Air Baltic, with budget friendly prices from normally being between £40 - £100.
Depending on where you are travelling from For Example: Manchester/London airports to Riga (RIX) is only 2hr 30 minutes. Which means more time to explore and relax.
From Riga's international airport you can hop on one of the many transports they have to offer. You can take the bus, hail a taxi which you can pre-book in advance or get a ticket for one of the trolleybuses.
Bare in mind - when using transport mostly taxis, a small tip of around 10% is usually expected through a kind gesture and appreciation.
Transport fare prices are super inexpensive. You can pay as little as 5 EUR for a 24 hour day pass which can be used on all buses, trams and trolleybuses. Bargin!
If your the type who likes to find your way around the city yourself, there are bicycle hires if you prefer the independent solo option. Pick up a local map and the locals will be more than happy to help. ( However, please be aware of the fast local drivers.)
Thinking of Where To Stay....
Riga is immersed with hotels whether you are looking for a luxury spa, budget friendly hotels, you can even find local Airbnb's if that's your preferred choice.
Old Town Riga...
If you are wanting to stay in the old town, this is where I chose to spend my first night, was short but nothing but sweet.
The hotel we stayed at was Monika Centrum Hotel, facing right opposite a local park and walking distance to the town centre.
Another few well known stays are Grand Poet by Semarah, Pullman Riga, even hostels like Tree House Hostel.
Whilst at this hotel we shopped around the markets, tours of the buildings and the history behind them, and to finish we settled at a gorgeous outdoor restaurant ' Colonel Brew Kitchen ' right in the centre of the town square.
Jurmala...
If you want to spend time by a beachside location then this is perfect for you!
I next visited Jurmala where we stayed at Hotel Jumala Spa. This hotel is incredible, located near the beach front whilst surrounded by forest trees and beautiful cafés, restaurants and shops.
Whilst we were here we spent time in the hotel spa with an impressive amount of 6 different saunas ranging at different temperatures. We spent time on the beach, taking evening walks alongside the sand to watch the sunset with the locals and grabbing pizza late at night from the corner takeaway.
Thinking prices?
For an standard average hotel price, you can pay £40 - £80
A bottle of water €1.5 (depending on the size and brand)
You can pick up a fresh pint of beer for €3
A stop at the local cafés, a coffee will be €2.50 - €3.50
A main meal can cost between 9 to 18 EUR, also depending where you eat and which restaurant you stop at.
Taking me onto my next point…
Food & Drink in Riga.....
Without a doubt, Riga is full of delicious food to enjoy!
Either the old town or the other main towns, the streets are filled with unique restaurants and cafes.
You could spend all day walking down the little cobbled streets. This is where I came across many small hidden cafes (and knowing me, this was the perfect excuse to try out their coffee).
I can confirm its VERY good coffee! Try out Miit Coffee or Rocket Bean Roastery.
If your currently sat there thinking, but what food does Riga have? Will I be able to eat anything?
I'll stop you right there! Latvian food has so many options including soups, pastas, English dishes, Italian Pizzas, Burgers, Meat Kababs and salads.
Latvians love their breads & pastries, cold meats, cheese and olives.
If your vegetarian, don't worry.. they have so many options for you! Such as risottos, veg soups, potato dishes and also dairy free milks too.
Looking For Things To Do & Explore....
Jump on the River Boat
You can journey out along the canal and make your way to the River Daugava for more sightseeing opportunities. You can do this trip with Riga By Canal. For an adult fare this will cost €13.Hike In Gauja National Park
This was one place I had on my list but didn't get around to doing but believe its definitely worth visiting. The Gauja National Park is known as the Switzerland of Latvia.
You will be able to witness the breath-taking scenic views, one of the biggest caves (Gutman Cave), ancient historical sites/manor and free to adventure along the trails and hike to get to the best views.
Make sure you take your camera! And comfortable walking shoes or boots.Find a Tour Guide
The best way to find out all the local history - is by a local themselves.
If your wanting to know all the history of this country then I believe, a tour guide is your best option.
This was what I did the first time coming to Riga, getting to know all about the new place where you are, gratitude for coming to their country and of course, Knowledge!
You can book a walking tour where they will take you around the town, seeing all the buildings, churches, the many museums and places you may not have ventured to on your own.Mountain Bike Tours
If your feeling really adventurous, book onto a ATV Safari or Quad Biking day trip. This will take you out of the city and onto the hills, which means - time to have Fun!
Full of.. off road driving, dirt tracks and the beauty of the outdoors.
This may be a 2 hours to half a day duration, pricing from £80 per adult.How about Skiing or Snowboarding
Although Latvia is not full of mountains, it is quite a popular winter sport to enjoy there. Latvia surprisingly has a range of slopes and hills for both skiing and snowboarding in most districts.
So, if your a big fan of this sport or fancy daring yourself to try something new, then hit the slops for some downhill adrenaline.Wander Around The Old Town
One of the main things to do in Riga is to visit the Old Town. You will venture down the cobbled paths where the streets are filled with markets to entice you in (which they certainly do), many restaurants and cafes for your choice and often live music will be playing along the streets with live performances.Explore The Many Markets and Artwork
Latvia loves its artwork and is filled with these stunning pieces on their markets. Markets around Riga are open all year round and are one of the main attractions for people when visiting. You can find anything from food & drink, artwork and music. Some including Riga Central Market, Riga's Christmas Market and Kalnciema Street Market.Pick Your Beach
The beaches in Riga are all without a doubt stunning! White sand, clear water and overlooked with big trees in the distance.
You will find the beaches have small bars with shelter, chairs and places to eat. Some even have activities taking place for children to join in with.
The beaches in Riga are a friendly and fun atmosphere for all family and friends. A few favourites would be Jurmalas Beach, Ritabulli beach and Vecāķu pludmale.
Top Tips:
The hottest weather in Riga, is between July - September.
Most of the flights leaving the UK are with Ryanair - if you look around you can find some good deals.
It isn't expensive and I found it very similar to the UK for prices.
You can pay using card or Euros.
If you are short on time, book onto a tour guide which can start in different locations of the city depending on what you want to experience. Many including: food & wine tours, old town walking tour, heritage history or you can even hop-on the red buses.
I would say.. if your looking for a short flight away and wanting time to relax whilst seeing some of the beauty and culture of a different country, then I would definitely say go a head.
If you have already been, then let me know what was your best part ?
If not, then maybe add it to your travel list..
See you next time
Jess.
