Welcome to Latvia

THE CAPITAL OF LATVIA - RIGA

Eight hundred years have shaped the city's unique appearance and rich traditions.

Due to its location on the Baltic Sea (where East meets West), Riga has been an important center of trade, finance, and culture for centuries. Representatives of many nations have lived and worked in Riga - apart from the local Livonians and Latvians, many Germans, Swedes, Russians, and Poles have also considered Riga to be their city.

Riga has a unique architectural character, with many intact medieval structures standing along-side 19th-century wooden buildings, Art Nouveau treasures, and more modern edifices. In recognition, UNESCO has included the historic center of Riga on the World Heritage List.

Riga belongs to the cultural universe of Western Europe. For the city, dynamic and diverse music and arts activities are typical. Over centuries, the creative atmosphere has evolved in Riga and inspired composers, poets, and artists.

Riga has countless ways to entice visitors, from its rich history, architecture, spacious gardens and parks, museums, art galleries, and world-class opera house, to more intimate pleasures such as a walk in the colorful central market or a visit to a cozy café, club, or pub.