Riga, the capital of Latvia, is located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, at the mouth of the Daugava River. It is a major cultural, educational, financial, and political hub in the region, as well as a strategic port and transportation node. The city harmoniously blends medieval architecture with Art Nouveau areas and modern glass buildings. Founded in the 12th century, Riga served as the seat of the Bishopric of Latvia, joined the Hanseatic League in 1282, and was ruled by various powers throughout history. In 1991, it became the capital of independent Latvia following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

The historic center of the city was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, particularly noted for its Art Nouveau (Judenstil) architecture, earning Riga the nickname "Paris of the North."

The most iconic tourist attractions in Riga include:

Riga Castle – originally built as a residence for the Livonian Order, now serving as the President’s office.

Dome Cathedral – a city landmark renowned for its impressive organ.

Motor Museum – features a collection of cars once owned by Soviet leaders such as Stalin, Brezhnev, Khrushchev, and Gorky, alongside life-size figures of their owners.

Jewish Museum – located in the Maskavas suburb, once the site of the Jewish ghetto during World War II. It is the only remaining synagogue in Riga.

Riga Zoo – one of the oldest zoos in Eastern Europe.

Riga Circus – a historic building hosting fascinating performances.

Riga Radio and TV Tower – the third tallest tower in Europe.

Freedom Monument – a symbol of Latvia’s independence.

Events and festivals:

Riga hosts the largest number of annual festivals and events in Latvia, including:

Jazz and Pop Music Festival.

Song and Dance Festival – held in July.

Wine Festival.

Traditional Christmas Markets.

If you plan to visit the capital of Latvia, you can fly with one of the following airlines: Austrian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, ITA Airways, Lufthansa, Air Berlin, SAS, KLM, LOT, Czech Airlines, Air France, Air Baltic. Riga is served by Riga International Airport, the largest airport in the Baltic States, renovated and modernized in 2001 – the same year the city celebrated its 800th anniversary.