Riga is a truly magical place to spend Christmas. The city really comes to life at this time of year when Christmas market stalls line the cobbled streets of Riga's Old Town and Christmas lights and decorations give the city a magical atmosphere. Despite its size, Riga is awash with interesting sights to visit such as the House of Blackheads, Riga Cathedral, the Freedom Monument and many other beautiful buildings and fascinating museums. During you trip to Riga, why not get in the festive spirit by trying some of the local delicacies such as piradzini (small pies filled with meat or cabbage) or rupjmaizes kartojums (a dessert made from rye bread, whipped cream and cranberry jam)? To warm yourself up on the cold December nights, you can sample the local spirit, Riga Black Balsam, said to be an excellent cure for the common cold - we're not sure how effective it is but the taste will definitely take your mind off any other symptoms you have!
While you're staying in Riga, we highly recommend paying a visit to some of the other sights of Latvia as well. You can be transported back in time to the Middle Ages with a visit to the spectacular Teutonic castles located in Sigulda and Cesis, experience Latvia's pristine forests at Gauja National Park or you can relax at the beach resort and spa town of Jurmala, just a short drive from Riga.
For a relaxing Christmas break in the beautiful Baltic region, Latvia is an excellent choice!
For a short or long weekend break at great value for money, Riga is the perfect choiceThe capital Riga has a beautiful old town with plenty of sights to visit such as the House of Blackheads, Riga Cathedral, the Freedom Monument and many other beautiful buildings and fascinating museums. Riga is also considered one of Europe's cheaper destinations but this doesn't mean that you will be sacrificing quality for price as Riga is home to many high-end hotels and restaurants offering a high level of service at lower prices than you might expect. While you are visiting Riga, why not try some of the local delicacies such as piradzini (small pies filled with meat or cabbage), potato pancakes or rupjmaizes kartojums ( a dessert made from rye bread, whipped cream and cranberry jam). To wash it all down you can sample one of Latvia's locally produced beers or if you are especially brave you can sample the local spirit, Riga Black Balsam.
You can also extend your trip to Riga by visiting some of the other towns nearby. You can be transported back in time to the Middle Ages with a visit to the spectacular Teutonic castles located in Sigulda and Cesis or you can relax at the beach resort and spa town of Jurmala, just a short drive from Riga.
For a short or long weekend break at great value for money, Riga is the perfect choice!