This pretty city is the perfect place to head to for an affordable yet exciting getaway in the new year.

Riga, the capital of Latvia, is an underrated spot yet a hidden gem in Europe.

One place to visit there is the neighbourhood of Vecrīga. The unique area is a maze of narrow and crooked cobblestone streets, it is filled with a mixture of architectural styles including Nordic, Gothic and Renaissance.

While you’re there, you can see historic sites such as the 13th-century Riga Castle, St. Peter’s Church, the Swedish Gate and the Freedom Monument.

One visitor on Tripadvisor said: “Beautiful old town square is really picturesque. We really loved riga and thought everywhere we went was lovely and the locals were welcoming.

Something to see at every turn, it really is an underrated city!”

The city has been called one of the most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals.

It is a modern city yet its historical elements are maintained which give it a fascinating identity.

Riga’s Old Town has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and it is worth using an afternoon to explore this part of the city.

Another incredible place to visit in the city is the Musee Art Nouveau which is built in a private home – it showcases an authentic Art Nouveau apartment.

One visitor on Tripadvisor said: “Beautiful museum with gorgeous pottery and beautiful interior decor. You get to feel what it’s like to live in a home of that period. Well worth a visit.”

A flight from London to Riga takes around two hours 30 minutes and is affordable at around just £27 in January!

For cheapest flights, check Skyscanner where you can see return prices month by month and compare rates.

Riga is also home to exciting nightlife, trendy dining spots and a thriving alternative scene.

Although the city is really known for its beautiful architecture – take a walk down Albert Street where you can see incredible Art Nouveau buildings one after the other.

The beautiful architecture was crafted 1901 to 1908 when the buildings were put up over a short span of just seven years.

Today, eight of the buildings are listed as Latvian state monuments.

If you’re hoping for a European escape in the new year, Riga could be the perfect place to visit for a few days.