Surprising Riga

#getgoing2025 #riga #travel #thingstodo #citydaytours #baltics Riga completely surprised me. I expected a charming Baltic capital, but what I found was a city full of energy, stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere. The Old Town was like stepping into a medieval fairytale, with cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and the impressive House of the Blackheads. But just a short walk away, Riga’s Art Nouveau district amazed me with its intricate facades and unique designs. One of the highlights was the Riga Central Market, housed in former Zeppelin hangars. The variety of local foods—smoked fish, dark rye bread, and pickled vegetables—was incredible. At night, I discovered Riga’s modern side, with cozy bars and a lively music scene. Riga is walkable, but public transport is efficient and cheap. Be sure to try the famous Riga Balsam liqueur, and don’t skip the panoramic view from St. Peter’s Church. Riga may not always be on the typical Europe itinerary, but it definitely should be!