Riga

The Freedom Monument, or "Milda" (as the locals call it), towers gracefully between the Old Town and the city. The 42-metre-tall statue is a symbol of Latvia’s freedom and independence. The honour guard changes shifts every hour, on the hour, from morning until evening.

The Three Brothers are the oldest stone residential buildings in the city, situated in the picturesque Maza Pils alley in the Old Town. Each of the three houses represents different stages in the architectural époques of Riga, from Medieval to Baroque.

St Peter's Church in Riga is known for its tall tower, which offers stunning views of the city, including the red roofs of Old Town, the modern part of Riga, Riga Bay, and the Daugava River with its large port. The church itself was originally built in 1209, but only a few walls and pillars remain from that time. The Gothic tower, which was over 130 meters tall, was completed in the late 15th century. However, it collapsed in 1666 and was rebuilt in the Baroque style in 1690–at the time, it was the tallest wooden structure in the world. In 1721, the tower was struck by lightning and burned down. It was later restored, but once again it burned down during World War II. Renovation of the tower began in 1967, and today, it stands at a height of 123.25 meters. Visitors can access the second gallery, which is 72 meters above the ground. In 1997, St Peter's Church was added to UNESCO's World Heritage list.

The so-called Powder Tower, the last remnant of the 13th-century wall that once surrounded the heart of Riga, now hosts a war museum. The aim of the museum is to reveal to the public the complicated military history of Latvia, with a special emphasis on the 20th century, during which the Latvian people had to win their independence twice.

Riga Motor Museum is an absolute bliss for car lovers. The museum displays Western as well as Soviet cars and motorcycles, topped with wax dolls of the old Soviet party leaders. The new exposition tells fascinating stories about unique vehicles, renowned individuals and important milestones that helped to shape the world’s automotive history.

Riga Circus is a vibrant and exciting venue to discover the cultural life of Riga and experience a variety of artistic disciplines–circus, theatre, dance, music, and cinema.

An absolute must for visitors to see is the labyrinth of cobbled streets in the Old Town of Riga. This live open-air museum is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk along the winding streets goes past over 150 historical and architectural monuments, the oldest from the 13th century. Do not be afraid to get lost in the narrow alleys, it is part of the experience.

The Latvian National Opera and Ballet is an attraction in itself - the building is very photogenic and makes for a great walk around in the afternoon. Opera and ballet are fabled as well, so make sure to check for current shows when you're in town.

Alberta Street is the Art Nouveau epicentre of Riga, as magnificent historical Art Nouveau buildings are located along the entire length thereof. Eight of them have been recognised as architectural monuments of state significance. This street is an open-air museum in itself — a UNESCO world heritage site that is not to be missed.

Right next to the Latvian Opera House is Vermane Garden, a beautiful and tranquil retreat from the city's busy cobbled streets. With its picturesque little bridges and lush greenery, the park is a great place to visit at any time of the day. Take a boat ride along the canal, take a look at the plentiful statues inside, or visit its charming tea house.

The University of Latvia Botanical Garden has something to offer at any time of the year, but summer is the time it should definitely not be missed. Bring a picnic set and retreat from the heat underneath the lush green trees.