Riga is the largest city in the Baltics and one of the most beautiful. The Old Town is a UNESCO site with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and the House of the Blackheads (a stunning guildhall). St. Peter's Church has a tower you can climb for views over the city. The Central Market is one of the largest markets in Europe (housed in old Zeppelin hangars). It's a great place to try local food and buy fresh produce.

Riga has more Art Nouveau buildings than any other city in the world. Alberta Street and the surrounding neighborhood have stunning examples. If you like architecture, walk around and admire the facades.

The Latvian National Museum of Art and the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia (about Soviet and Nazi occupations) are both worth visiting.

Riga has a lively nightlife scene. Bars, clubs, and pubs are concentrated in the old town and around the central market.

Jūrmala on the coast (30 minutes from Riga) is a beach resort town with sandy beaches, wooden houses, and a more relaxed vibe. It's popular with locals in summer.

Sigulda (about an hour from Riga) is known as the "Switzerland of Latvia" with castles, caves, and hiking trails. It's a good day trip from Riga.

Cēsis is a small town with a medieval castle and a charming old town. It's quieter and less touristy than Riga.

Latvian food is hearty and influenced by German and Russian cuisine. Rye bread, smoked fish, pork, potatoes, and sauerkraut. Rupjmaize (dark rye bread) is a staple. Latvian food is simple and filling.

Latvian people are reserved, quiet, and proud. They're not overly warm or chatty, but they're helpful if you ask. English is widely spoken in Riga, less so in the countryside.
Getting around is easy. Buses connect Riga to other cities and towns. Trains are slower and less frequent. If you want to explore the countryside, rent a car.

Latvia is cheaper than Western Europe but more expensive than Lithuania. Hostels run $12-20/night. A meal at a restaurant is $8-12. A beer is $2-4.

When to go: Summer (June-August) is the best time for weather. Days are long, temperatures are mild (18-22°C/65-72°F), and beaches are accessible. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are cooler and quieter. Winter (November-March) is cold, dark, and snowy, but Riga's Christmas market is charming.

Latvia is understated, beautiful, and affordable. If you're doing the Baltics, Riga is worth a few days.