The history of Riga is inextricably linked to the period when it was part of Russia, as already at the time of the Tsar the city was one of the main ports of the nation.

Despite its beauty, often compared to that of Paris, it is certainly one of those little-considered destinations but walking through it you cannot remain immune to the charm of its historic centre.

UNESCO has in fact cataloged it as one of the world heritage sites thanks to a series of Art Nouveau buildings that have few comparisons in the world,

Its castle which is now the official residence of the President of the Republic and St. Peter’s Church – where you can go up to the terrace and enjoy a 360-degree view of the city – are other examples of beautiful Latvian architecture.

The House of the Blackheads, with its baroque charm, is one of the most famous monuments of the Old City.

A bright red building with white spires, it preserves the unique historical heritage of the legendary Brotherhood of the Blackheads, one of the country’s ancient merchant brotherhoods.

The House of the Cat is another unmissable destination during a visit to Riga. Legend has it that a merchant had a series of cats sculpted with their tails raised facing the chamber of commerce after he was denied a licence.

Along the Daugava River lies a neighbourhood known as “Little Moscow”, which has all the characteristics of a Soviet town stuck in the 1970s, including austere wooden houses, paved streets, markets and shops.

Riga’s Central Market, the ideal place where you can taste and buy typical local products, is just around the corner.

It’s the perfect place to try street food, including invigorating soups, herring and beef stew with rye bread.

The climate of Riga is typical of northern locations: very cold in winter with the remaining months of the year mild and a summer that is not excessively hot.

However, given its geographical position, it is influenced by the currents that bring a lot of humidity, also favoured by frequent rains.

Its location also allows access to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Baltic, including Jūrmala.

For centuries, it was the favourite spa and seaside resort of the Russian nobility.

The city is only 20 km from Riga and overlooks enormous beaches with white sand, where the waves of the Baltic Sea crash.

To keep the beach uncontaminated, in Jūrmala there is a ban on opening restaurants, bars and clubs close to the beach.