Years after Latvia declared its independence from the Soviet Union, Riga has become a very modern city, especially after joining NATO and the European Union in 2004. The city is now 800 years old and for some time now. time is known as the « Paris of the North» .
The city has quickly established itself as a tourist destination mainly thanks to the expansion by the airlines of their connections with the city. Riga is the only capital of the Baltic to have a real buzz on its streets. Unfortunately, as in any well-known and growing city, problems with crime are also increasing.
You will love its bright renovated buildings, the young people who walk its streets and the countless bars and cafes where you can have a drink. Things have not always been so good in the Latvian capital. Throughout its eventful history it has been systematically looted and occupied over and over again.
Its history is reflected in its labyrinthine old town that is located on the bank of the Daugava River. It is ironic that the city that was once besieged and occupied by Germany now has the most impressive German architectural ensemble in all of Europe. Much of the art nouveau is found in Bastekalns Park in the New Town, which is the commercial and business heart of the city. Winter can be long, dark, and bitter, but spring and summer are often a blessing with warm temperatures and long hours of natural light.