Riga is the capital of Latvia.
The city is located at the mouth of the Daugava River, near the Gulf of Riga, occupying both coasts.
Riga, the capital of Latvia and the largest city in the Baltic states, is a cultural and economic hub located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, at the mouth of the Daugava River. With a rich history, Riga was founded in 1201 and played a significant role as a Hanseatic trading city. The city blends medieval architecture with Art Nouveau style and a modern atmosphere. With a population of around 630,000 residents, Riga attracts approximately 3 million tourists annually, drawn by its history, culture, and European charm.
The city is divided into Old and New Riga. Of course, history buffs and lovers of ancient monuments will find everything of interest to them within Old Riga, a historical district in the city center, where the Swedes and Germans walked on stone pavements. But in general, the entire city is distinguished by its sophistication and elegance. Even the Central Market in Riga can be called a work of art, since it is made of boathouses, where airships once stood.
Riga International Airport (RIX) is the largest and busiest airport in the Baltics, serving domestic and international flights. It is a modern airport offering a variety of passenger services, including restaurants, duty-free shops, lounges and business services. The airport is also a hub for airlines such as airBaltic and offers direct flights to numerous cities in Europe and around the world.
Top Tourist Attractions
What to watch and where to go?
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Riga Old Town (Vecriga)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Riga’s Old Town is a medieval treasure with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and impressive cathedrals. It is the heart of the city’s tourism and the perfect spot for relaxing strolls.
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House of the Blackheads
This restored Gothic building is one of Riga’s most famous landmarks. Originally built in the 14th century, the House of the Blackheads served as the headquarters for the city’s merchant guilds.
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Riga Cathedral
The largest medieval church in the Baltics, Riga Cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is known for its acoustics and impressive organ.
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St. Peter’s Church
One of the oldest and tallest buildings in Riga, this church offers a spectacular view of the city from its observation platform in the tower.
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Art Nouveau Center
Riga is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, and a walk through the city center reveals stunning buildings adorned with unique architectural details.
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Freedom Monument
Unveiled in 1935, the Freedom Monument is a symbol of Latvian independence. The 42-meter-high statue stands as a central point for important events.
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Riga Central Market
One of the largest and most vibrant markets in Europe, Riga Central Market is a place where you can experience local culture and taste traditional Latvian delicacies.
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Riga Castle
The official residence of the President of Latvia, Riga Castle, built in the 14th century, is a symbol of the city’s political history and home to several important museums.
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Latvian National Museum of Art
This impressive museum houses a vast collection of Latvian and European art, making it a perfect destination for art and culture lovers.
Riga has a rich history, which includes many fateful events:
- Riga was a member of the Hanseatic League of merchants, formed in the 12th century;
- In the 15th century, it was part of the Teutonic Order;
- during the 15th - 17th centuries, it had different statuses: a free city, part of the Polish-Lithuanian state, then the Swedish kingdom;
- from 1721 to 1917 it was part of the Russian Empire;
- in 1940 it became the capital of the Latvian SSR;
- from 1991 to the present day, Riga is the capital of independent Latvia.
History has left its mark on the city's architecture. Since Riga was part of different states, its appearance is a mixture of various styles: medieval, modern, constructivism, high-tech, etc.
Point of departure:
from Chisinau,
Moldova
City: Chisinau
City code: RMO
Country: Moldova
Country code: MD
Destination:
to Riga,
Latvia
City: Riga
City code: RIX
Country: Latvia
Country code: LV
To Riga
- Departure From:
From Riga
- Departure To: