Riga

Cruise ships dock at the Daugava River ferry and cruise quay, about 500 meters from Riga Old Town, a pleasant 10 minute waterfront walk. The Art Nouveau district is farther away.

Riga has room for only one ship at the in-town dock. Other ships use KS terminal 8 miles away and need a 20+ minute, often non-free shuttle to Old Town; lines van be long.

Old Town is compact, with many cobbled streets and alleys.

There are no buildings or facilities at the dock.

Take a printable map with you.

Riga is the Republic of Latvia's capital and the Baltic States' geographical center.

Its cross-roads position between Western Europe and huge Eastern markets has always been, and remains, one of Riga's business attractions.

Riga has several districts, but travelers favor Old Town, latv. Vecriga and germ. Altriga. German architecture, magnificent Doma Cathedral—germ. Domkirche, latv. Doma baznica—with its world famous organ, and vivid nightlife make it an most interesting spot. Allow approximately half a day to walk around Riga without getting bored. It is surprisingly lively, with abundant sidewalk cafes and shopping areas.

A hop-on hop-off service gives a flexible introduction to historic and present day Riga, although Old Town is best walked.

Several operators offer river cruises past local architecture and small islands, sometimes heading into the Gulf of Riga. Go to Akmens Bridge to catch a nearby boat.

Near the Freedom Monument, in the beautiful park just before it, small covered sightseeing boats give fine city views from canals and the Daugava River. They cost 8 Euro/person.

For more of Riga, try Eat Riga, an alternative daily walking tour from Saint Peters church beside Ratslaukums. The main info center has information, and it is a great way to see hidden city places. More info about Riga(pdf).

Next to International Bus Terminal, markets fill large converted Zeppelin halls and the surrounding area with stallholders. They are quite non-touristy, focusing on second-hand clothes, food, furniture and kitchen supplies. Almost anything is available, including very good souvenirs, while many small cafes around the markets serve cheap local eats.

Do not miss Alberta Iela, Riga's most beautiful street.

Eating lunch out in Riga is surprisingly inexpensive.

Riga is known for amber products.

Latvia uses the Euro.

Latvian, or Latviešu valoda, is official; almost all Latvian youngsters speak at least basic English.

Open WiFi spots are widespread, but the ship dock has no WiFi.

Specialty shops trade seven days a week from 8 AM to 6 PM or longer. Groceries are open daily until 8 PM or later, and most supermarkets remain open until 11 PM every day.