Lativa was a treat. I don’t think I’ve visited a country in so little time that left such a lovely impression. The capital city is bright, clean and full of art – from dancing statues and street murals to contemporary monuments and homemade jewelry. Interactions were always intelligent and cozy, with many locals offering recommendations for activities and food as a warm welcome to the city. Helen from HelsBels and myself had an amazing, albeit quick experience. Not to mention, we got plenty of bang for our buck, even as the pound to euro exchange is not like it used to be. Feel free to see how much various cities in Europe and beyond cost for a fun weekend getaway in this handy chart.
Now onto the pretty pictures!
Lativan Food & Sweets
Who knew whole fish with almonds and cream sauce would be so damn good?!
Architecture in Riga
A mix of old and new on every street corner. It’s a beautifully aesthetically pleasing city.
Church steeples.
Even the manhole covers are pretty!
A Little Bit of Nightlife
Have a pint or six at this self-pour. You can sample a lot or a little with your cash card inserted into special machines. There’s dozen on tap (ciders too!) at Easy Beer.
Have a drink with the hipsters of Riga at the Omas Briljanta Istaba bar.
History and Culture In Riga, Latvia
A towering woman shines bright over the plaza. Symbolizing the Latvian Independence, it’s a freedom memorial that’s been a presence since 1935.
A wooden horse in front of the Baltu Rotas jewelry shop. There’s a small hidden museum you can tour for free too.
Amber is popular in Lativa.
Some Curiosities in Riga, Lativa
There’s all sorts of strange things to see in Riga. My favorite was the Black Magic coffee and sweet shop. I don’t know how to describe it, because being somewhat eerie, Gothic and staffed with unusual characters dressed in period clothes.
Riga is a perfect place for a long weekend. Check out some other tips left by fellow travel bloggers on thier own city adventures throughout Europe too!
Have you gone to a new country in just a weekend? How far would you fly for a 48-hour trip? Do you think it’s worth it?
I’ve wanted to go to Riga for ages, and looking at your pictures has made me even more tempted, especially the odd cafe, that sounds right up my street!