Our city break to Riga, the capital of Latvia, was our first time visiting one of the Baltic counties. We spent 3 nights in early December 2016. Accommodation for the weekend was Rixwell Old Riga Palace Hotel which cost approx €270 for a 3 night stay. This hotel was in a good location with champagne for breakfast, what more could one want?!

Snow had fallen overnight which made for some unforgettable memories and a lot of fun, but only if you go easy on the black balsam. It really made our weekend there even more special. Thankfully we had packed clothes for this weather but not so much footwear so it gave me the excuse to go buy some new boots!!

Xmas time in Riga

Our tops things to do and see

Christmas Markets

Visit the small yet quaint Christmas markets in the Doma laukums and Līvu laukums squares, and Esplenāde Park. Taste some balsam and mulled wine to warm you up. Esplenāde Park has the added attraction of a small rabbit village and is overlooked by the Orthodox Nativity Cathedral, a truly magnificent building.

Enjoying some mulled wine at the Xmas market

The amazing Nativity Cathedral

Visit the Parks

Walk around the many parks, Kronvalda, Esplanāde and Vērmanes. Made even more picture perfect with a covering of snow and Xmas lights. Grab some cardboard and do as the locals do and slide down the small hills for fun.

Looking for ducks in one of the parks!

Skyline Bar

View Riga from above at night from the Skyline Bar at the Radisson Blue Hotel for free, cocktails optional!! Another option is to pay €9 to view the city from Saint Peters Cathedral.

Museum Of Occupation

Visit the Museum Of Occupation and learn about Soviet Russia and Nazi Germany occupation of Lativa and it’s harrowing history.

Walk around the city

Walk around the city and admire the architecture and imposing structures. House of the Blackheads, Freedom Monument, The Three Brothers and the Art Nouveau Disctrict (Albert Street) were some of the highlights. Make sure to bring your camera with you!

The Freedom Monument

The beautiful House of the Blackheads

The Central Market

Visit the Central Market, one of Europes biggest outdoor markets, for all your foodie needs.

Beer Time

Enjoy the night and local beers at one of the many pubs. We reminisced about our Cuban holiday over some mojitos in Cuba Cafe.

Yum beer!

Riga is a small city with lots to do and see. Above are the main attractions we enjoyed the most. You wont regret visiting so get planning!

Riga at night

Picture perfect parks