Ten reasons to visit Riga
Riga also was known as ‘The Paris of East’ is the capital and largest city of Latvia. Riga is the land of beauty, Art and history coupled up with the diversity of people as it is the most populous city of the Baltic states. Visiting Riga is unquestionably one of the most amazing experiences that you will ever witness.
Riga is ranked as one of the most popular tourist destination of all times, but why is Riga a must-go destination? Here are 11 tempting reasons to pack your bags and visit Riga!
1. Architecture:
Riga is famous for its splendid architecture from its medieval town to the modern marvels whose prime example can be seen in the glorious The Stockholm School of Economics Riga is built upon centuries of history which reflects in the very buildings of this city. Another aspect of Riga is its fame in wooden architecture and people all over the world travel to Riga just to witness some of the oldest buildings following wooden architecture.
2. Riga Castle:
Ever wondered what it would be like to visit a castle so ancient that it almost sounds like a fairytale? Well, The Riga Castle was built in 1330! It is one of the oldest castles in Europe, situated in the medieval town of Riga this castle will most certainly take you back to the days of Kings and Queens!
3. Art Nouveau Buildings:
This particular reason makes the entire tour an appealing one as Riga is known for its finest collection of Art Nouveau buildings in the world! It actually makes up one-third of the buildings in central Riga. As Art Nouveau developed as a reaction against Eclecticism the buildings provide a glimpse of Ancient Riga.
4. Theatre and Opera:
Like all great cultural cities, Riga and its citizens highly value and appreciate opera. It is a fact that opera is something that is relished by the majority of the residents of Riga. The Latvian National Opera which was built in 1918 is considered as one of the oldest opera houses in Riga. This opera house is not only famous for its Opera but also it’s Ballet Troupe which is adored by the residents.
5. Sports:
The Residents of Riga are the craziest when it comes to sports! All kinds of sports are embraced by the city as Riga has hosted many global sporting events including the 2014 World Choir Games. Riga is also famous for its basketball and that’s for a reason as Riga has a rich basketball history. ASK Riga used to be the best club in Europe!
Some other sports are popular as well including football and Ice Hockey.
6. The Freedom Monument:
The Freedom Monument is a symbol of glory for the entire nation of Latvia as it represents their independence. Thousands of soldiers have died sacrificing their lives in the name of honour for this country. Hence the Freedom monument is a representation of all those who died for the freedom of Latvia.
7. War Museums:
Latvia has a great deal of history associated with wars including World War one and a lot can be learned by visiting one of their war museums. The Latvian War Museum is famous for its extensive collection of rifles that are a hundred year old. The interesting thing about this museum is that it initially started out as riflemen museum but later on developed into one of the finest war museums in the entire world. Several other museums can be visited as well including the Riga Aviation museum and Latvian Museum of National History.
8. Parks and Recreation:
If by any chance you are overwhelmed by the rich history, culture and traditions of Latvia then why not simply visit some of the most beautiful parks in the city. A major proportion of residents living in Riga like to go to parks for recreation and quite frankly the climate of Riga is so good that you might end up spending an entire day in parks. Some of the well-known and MUST visit parks in Riga are Kronvalda and Uzvaras Parks.
9. Vērmanes Garden:
The oldest public garden in Riga is the Vermanes Garden; this garden is essentially a reflection of the city itself. The statues, memorial of Anna Wohrmann and countless green trees is what make this garden a special place to visit.
10. Daugava River and Central Riga:
A trip to central Riga with a view of Daugava River in the background provides a surreal experience of the vast culture, diversity and history of this ancient city. Make sure that you and your family have a little picnic here!
11. Nights in Riga:
Riga offers a unique nightlife experience from highest rated bars and pubs in the country to the madness that surrounds the locals in the old medieval town. And if you’re into poker then you have just hit the jackpot as you can play with party models of Riga! Furthermore, don’t forget to visit the Riga Strip Club as the night is just about to start!
Don’t forget the amazing skyline of the city; it even looks better at night!
All the reasons mentioned above have one thing in common and that is the amount of diversity the culture of Riga represents and the best part is that the people of this city are friendly and the company of them in a park or a theatre is an experience that anyone would relish.
Ok Ok, so that was 11, now you can see why you should pack your bags and head to Riga. No matter your background & Preferences, Riga has something for you! So what are you waiting for?
Have you visited Riga? What reasons would you give to visit?