Hostels in RIGA, LATVIA

Riga – Irresistible Attractiveness and Unlimited Enjoyment

Riga is the capital and the largest city of Latvia and is located near the Baltic Sea, like most of the Latvian cities. Apart from being an important commercial hub and a popular seaport in the region, the city is also admired for attracting tourists by offering them attractive sights and never-ending fun and enjoyment.

History:
It was as early as the 2nd century that the present day Riga was discovered as Duna Urbs, a natural harbor on the River Daugava. The Finnic tribes like the Livs and the Kurs established the earliest settlements at this place. Riga emerged as a popular trading destination, as traders from various parts, including Germany, visited the place more than frequently. Meinhard of Segeberg visited the place in the 12th century to spread Christianity. Bishop Albert was the person to grant Riga its city status for the first time.

As the part of the Hanseatic League, the city was freed from the rule of bishops. In the 16th century, the city came under the control of Poland-Lithuania commonwealth. After that, the city was captured by Sweden and remained under the Swedish rule till 1710, after which it was captured by the Russian Empire. After facing historical events like the Russian Revolution and the First World War, Latvia gained independence and Riga became the national capital. The city also experienced woes of the Second World War, after which it started to develop as an important city.     

Popular Places:
Old Town area in Riga can be visited to explore the old buildings and architecture. Art Nouveau architecture is the most significance aspect of various buildings all over the city. Museums like the Occupation Museum and Riga Ethnographic Open Air Museum are other eligible tourist destinations. Mezaparks, the TV Tower and St Peter’s church can also be the part of the city exploration. 

The Lutheran Cathedral, the Riga Castle, the Powder Tower, the wooden district called Maskavas Forštate and Kipsala Island are the attractions that should not be missed. A number of gardens in the city are world famous for offering natural beauty at its best. The Historical Centre of the city is listed in the UNESCO’s World Heritage List. 

Getting Around:
Trams, buses, trolley buses and taxis are the convenient modes to get around the city. One can also prefer to opt for rent a car option, a guide to smooth travel is to have the right change handy for your fares

Places of Entertainment:
Riga Circus is the only permanent circus in the region and acts as a wonderful entertainment spot. The historic opera house offers a number of ballet performances. Café tours, museum tours, go-karts, canoe trips, bungee jumping and beach excursions are some of the popular entertainment activities in the city. Clothes, furniture and appliances can be purchased from various parts of the city. Restaurants, cafes and bars are available in huge number, along with variety of nightlife venues.  

Accommodation Options:
You can find variety of budget hotels in all parts of the city. Also, other accommodation options like bed & breakfast, youth hostels, guesthouse, inns, motels, and apartments can also be preferred.

Currency:
Riga has its official currency in the form of Latvian Lat. You can easily learn about foreign currency exchange rate and find currency exchange kiosks around the city, check the internet and news for the latest exchange rates.

Riga group accommodation | Cheap hostels & budget hotels