What is special about Riga?
Riga has an absorbing history to uncover, as a Medieval Hanseatic League member, and a city that has lived under Swedish, Polish, Russian Empire, Soviet and Nazi rule. The old centre, Vecrīga, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with labyrinthine streets, Medieval churches and guild halls.
What is special in Latvia?
Around 54 per cent of Latvia is forest, making it one of Europe’s greenest countries, while 10 per cent is bog (so pack your wellies). Binoculars might be useful too – it’s home to black storks, lesser spotted eagles, otters, beaver, lynx, and wolves, and great concentrations of deer, wild boar, elk and red fox.
What makes Latvia an interesting destination for tourists?
Great destination for all four seasons. From vast forests to beautiful sandy beaches, lakes and rivers, Latvia has it all. Natural and mostly untouched ecosystem makes up for about half of the territory of Latvia. This gives everyone a great chance to escape the cities and enjoy what nature gives us.
What are some traditions in Latvia?
A significant part of the modern Latvian lifestyle includes such unique traditions as the summer solstice holiday Jāņi or “Liigo!”, the Latvian Song and Dance Festival, a treasure trove of folk songs (dainas), mythology, traditional dress, and folk dancing.
What can teenagers do in Riga?
Top 10 family-friendly attractions in Riga
- Riga Zoo. Open year round, this zoo has a staggering 3,000 animals.
- Latvian Puppet Theater.
- Zorbing.
- Natural History Museum.
- Galleria Riga Children’s Centre.
- Tērvete Nature Park.
- Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia.
- Riga Circus.
Is Riga safe for tourists?
Riga is overall safe to travel to, the crime rates are relatively low, and even pickpockets are not that common. However, it is advised that you remain vigilant at all times, especially on the streets.
Why do Latvians have name days?
The tradition started as part of the Christian church calendar, commemorating the saints and angels, then evolved into a celebration of those people who were named after a saint, and eventually, became a celebration of all people’s names. Name Day is a big deal in Latvia!
How old is Latvia?
The history of Latvia began around 9000 BC with the end of the last glacial period in northern Europe. Ancient Baltic peoples arrived in the area during the second millennium BC, and four distinct tribal realms in Latvia’s territory were identifiable towards the end of the first millennium AD.
Is Riga Latvia worth visiting?
The largest and liveliest of the Baltic capitals – Riga makes for a fantastic, action-packed getaway. From its wonderful architecture, modern art centres, experimental restaurants to its buzzing nightlife – there are many reasons why Riga is well worth visiting. And it’s great value for money, too.
Why is Latvia beautiful?
(CNN) — Positioned on the Baltic Sea between Lithuania and Estonia, Latvia is an impressive mix of art nouveau architecture and pristine nature. The northeastern European destination is known as the “Land of Blue Lakes” thanks to its 12,000 or so rivers and 3,000 small lakes.
What do Latvians celebrate today?
The celebration of the summer solstice is Latvia’s oldest and most beloved holiday. While some like to begin this holiday on June 21st, (the longest day of the year), the Latvian Līgo-Day takes place on June 23rd and continues with Jāņi on the following day – June 24th.
Why visit Riga’s Old Town?
Here are seven reasons to put this Baltic beauty on your bucket list. With its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful squares and Medieval-era buildings, Riga’s Old Town is full of architectural treasures.
What is the status of the state of emergency in Latvia?
Previously, in order to curb the Covid-19 pandemic, the state of emergency in Latvia was declared for a time period of March 13th until April 14th and then it was extended to May 12th until June 9th. Last state of emergency ended in April 6 (2021).
What to do in Riga in 3 days?
Take a stroll down Rozena Steet, a narrow alley where you can touch the opposite walls with both hands, and stop for a coffee at one of the pavement cafes on Dome Square. Occupying a series of 5 WWI Zeppelin hangars near the edge of the river Daugava, Riga’s Central Market covers a vast floor space and is officially Europe’s largest market.
Can I use the outdoor areas in Latvia?
All visitors can use outdoor areas (terraces). As the situation in the world develops daily, the Latvian authorities monitor the situation and share their information with the World Health Organization (WHO).