City Guide: Riga

Tourists come to Riga expecting little, but leave overwhelmed.

It’s no surprise Riga is obscured by its Soviet reputation, but Riga is world away from this today. With the time the Latvian city has transformed into tantalizing European destination brimming with fun. Pulsating nightlife and upscale dining come together in Riga with frozen in time cobbled streets and art-nouveau architecture.

Riga is better than you expect it to be. To see it, you need just a stay there, be it in cheap hotel in Riga or in luxury, at Booked.net you can find them all. Check out our offers on hotels listed with maps, photos and secure forms at Booked.net.

If you want to experience old Riga start with Albert Street that is regarded as an architectural wonder. In just a few paces and you will step out of this century back to the 19th with baroque buildings with ornate facades. Attractions include;

- St. Peter's Church, Riga's oldest church dating back to 1209

- Dome Cathedral, one of Riga's symbols since 1207

- Freedom Monument, Latvia's national symbol erected after independence

- Mežaparks, a green park area of Riga

- National Museum of Art preserves works by Latvian artists

The first settlers came to Riga in the late 1100s then German missionaries built a monastery in the area. By the end of the 13th century Riga had become prosperous on international trade with government centralized in Riga. In　1621　Riga　was under the rule of Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden and was Sweden’s biggest city. It joined Russia in 1721 and that led to Soviet Riga after the revolution. Independence from Russian rule was gained in the early 1990s.

Today, Riga does away its Soviet reputation for the image of a top tourist destination. These efforts paid-off with success as the number of travelers to Riga has increased in recent years. This change is especially fueled by the impression Riga leaves on visitors.

Riga is a city that can load you with different experiences. For example, you can enjoy ice fishing, ice skating on the frozen Daugava River in winter or experience a Slavic sauna. Otherwise, discover Riga's vibe after sunset dancing the night away in its clubs. Vibrant and energetic, Riga never fades and therefore is a surprise for visitors who quickly become enchanted with this city.

Booked.net can ensure you have a comfortable stay in Riga.