AI seems to be taking over the world, but there’s one thing it can’t do – place us wherever we dream of.
Sure, VR keeps getting better and better too, but there’s nothing like the real deal hence we still travel far and wide.
As we seem to not have a choice but to merge with the latest technological advances, there’s one city in Europe that feels as if you’ve been placed inside a storybook.
Vibrant, colorful, and brimming with unique eye-popping architecture and natural beauty, Latvia’s capital city of Riga makes for the perfect summer getaway.
And best of all, it won’t break the bank!
Wander ‘Paris Of The Baltics’
Eastern Europe tends to be underrated as a whole, but the Baltics just never finds itself in the same sentence as Europe’s most iconic destinations.
Riga may be the exception to the rule.
Known as the ‘Paris of the Baltics‘, there may not be an Eiffel Tower and Mona Lisa photo-ops, but it far exceeds any hype it’s received.
More and more, Riga is gaining steam with travel experts and TikTokers showcasing the allure of this fairytale city.
It’s commonly suggested the best way to experience Paris is to go with no set agenda, to essentially get lost.
And while this isn’t the reason Riga has been dubbed this region’s ‘Paris’, the same suggestion should apply.
Riga is teeming with old-world charm at every turn, including some UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Historic City Center.
From cathedrals, monuments, and delightful sidewalk cafes, exploring the city on foot with a camera in hand will have you fully immersed in a storybook.
Cheap Flights, Hotels, And Eats: An All-Around Affordable City
One of the biggest misconceptions about traveling is it has to be expensive. Well, sure, if you are dead set on staying at a 5-star luxury resort in Los Cabos, good luck!
If you have an open mind, then the world is your oyster. Riga is one of the most affordable cities in Europe across the board – a key reason why digital nomads love this place.
While you can’t fly directly to Latvia from the U.S., Riga is easily connected to major European cities where you won’t be spending half your trip on layovers.
Another way to save money is by taking Ryanair. For example, flights from Oslo are just $41 August 11th followed by even better fares at $25 from Barcelona August 14th.
Hotels are wide-ranging, intermixed with local chains, boutique stays, and familiar names back home like the centrally located Hilton Garden Inn.
Your best overall value this summer is the 4-star Wellton Riga Hotel And Spa between $80 – $96 in August.
Here you can treat yourself at the world-class spa and have easy access to some of the most eye-popping sites in town through the very walkable Old Riga district.
While you may not see many Latvian restaurants in the States, that doesn’t mean you can’t eat well in Riga.
You may be surprised to learn Riga is home to the largest market and bazaar in all of Europe. Nope, not Paris, not Barcelona or Athens – Riga.
But tourists who have visited love the fact that somehow this market flies under the radar and doesn’t feel touristy with cheap trinkets and Americanized food offerings.
Riga’s Natural Beauty Must Be Explored
Riga is one of Europe’s magical cities that transforms into a Winter Wonderland, but summertime is a whole different vibe where you’ll love being outside.
For instance, did you know Riga is a beach destination? It’s true.
With summer temperatures commonly in the 70s, beach days can be enjoyed in one of Europe’s most underrated seaside destinations with visits to top beaches like Vecaki Beach.
Another option is to hop on the Latvian Railways train to the nearby resort town of Jurmala to level up your beach game.
You also won’t be able to help but notice gorgeous city parks and the unmissable picturesque canal parallel to the historic cityscape, where you can hop aboard a scenic boat ride for just $16.
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