We are planning a vacation. What to see in Riga?

What to see in Riga? Such a question is not uncommon, especially on the eve of the May or New Year holidays. For example, if we are talking about Paris, the Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre appear before our eyes. Imagining Odessa, we remember that the sea station, the opera house, the Duke monument and the City Duma building are very popular among tourists.

And what about the Baltics? Is there really nothing to see?

Section 1. What to see in Riga? Getting acquainted with the city

As you know, Riga has long been considered the pearl of the Baltic States. This modest town is located at the mouth of the river with a complex name Daugava, on the very shore of the same name of the bay, near the Baltic Sea. In general, Riga has always had the glory of an important trade intersection, and today can safely boast not only an ancient history, but also a rich cultural heritage.

On the weekend thousands of tourists from Europe come here, as well as from Russia and other countries of the former USSR.

Riga ... What to see a connoisseur of culture? Probably, many know that this city is included in the UNESCO list. As a rule, travelers can not but rejoice in the peculiar local architecture, built in a fairly rare art nouveau style. The thing is that walking through the small streets of Riga and visiting the local sights, you can trace the history of the city, starting around 1201. Increased interest, as a rule, and causes the wooden building of the center.

From year to year the active cultural life does not cease. For example, the Dome Cathedral is famous for having one of the world's best acoustics and huge body size. It's no wonder that it is necessary to purchase tickets for such concerts in advance, and the cost is quite high.

In addition, annually (especially in summer), numerous musical festivals are held in Riga, propagandizing various musical styles, from opera and ancient music to rock and jazz.

Art lovers enjoy visiting modern galleries and museum exhibitions.

Section 2. What to see in Riga first?

According to many tourists this city is somewhat reminiscent of Prague, although it has its own bright and unique personality. To begin with it is necessary to go to the Riga Castle, visit the Powder Tower, look into the barracks. The admirers of history will certainly be interested in the House of the Convention, which has survived from the once huge castle of the Swordsmen.

The buildings of the Sejm and the Small Guild are also considered unusual, as well as a group of three medieval constructions called "Three Brothers". In his spare time you can visit the House with cats and admire the figures of these animals decorating the building.

If you look closely at the facades of the buildings located along Yaunyela Street, then almost immediately you can find houses from your favorite Soviet films about Sherlock Holmes and Stirlitz.

Tired of architecture? What to see in Latvia and its capital? Try to visit one of the parks. Here they are in fact a whole lot. The most popular are Arcadia, Viestura, Dzeguchkalns, Ziedondarzs, Koyusala and Esplanade.

Section 3. What to see in Riga with a child?

Of course, if you went on vacation with children, then you should try to combine the architectural monuments with some more spectacular excursions. What will the baby like?

• Ethnographic museum in the open air. It is located in a very picturesque place: on the shore of a lake in a real pine forest. On a comparatively small territory there are 118 real buildings intended for both dwelling and household needs. Once all this belonged to peasants, fishermen and artisans. Here, by the way, you can buy and quite original souvenirs made of amber, leather and wood.
• The Riga center "Miracles". This is not a museum, as many people think. Most likely, this place looks like a huge playground filled with scientific exhibits. Here the kid can get acquainted with optical illusions, play hockey, lay down the designer, look in a real microscope, ride a strange bicycle.
• In the local zoo you can not only look at various wild animals, but also play with your pets. Agree, modern children see them not so often. A huge number of educational attractions have been built throughout the zoo.