This water closet in Riga's Art Nouveau Museum marks a landmark in cleanliness and comfort. At the dawn of the 20th century, it meant no more trips to the outhouse or messing with bedpans.

Today, every Latvian home has this remarkable technology. But things get a bit tricky when you're out and about. There aren't enough public toilets, and those that exist are poorly signposted, so even locals ae stuck in an emergency.

So, to help you have the best possible time in Riga, before, during and after your tour of Latvia's capital, I've created this list of public WCs in the part of the city travellers most frequent - scroll down for the map. Just take a seat and let nature call!

• Installed in the early 2010s, the orange-grey blocks in the picture are the standard municipal conveniences in Riga. Unfortunately, despite their stainless steel interior, they are grubby, and the city charges 0.50 euros per use (cards only). Still, better than nothing.
• In Old Town, there's a pod of ten hidden behind the Riga Technical University at the start of Jauniela.  Other units are located at the north-east corner of Vērmanes dārzs Park, the south-west corner of Esplanāde Park behind the statue of Rainis, next to the "13. janvāra iela" stop for the bus to the airport, and in Kronvalda Park on the corner of Elizabetes and Strēlnieku (in the Art Nouveau district).

• There are different (cleaner) conveniences on Līvu laukums next to the Cat House (open 8:00-00:30), on the southern edge of Bastejkalns Park (open 8:00-20:00), and a pay toilet down the stairs next to the Laima Clock. 

• The bus and train stations and Central Market have reasonably clean pay toilets staffed by Brezhnev era grannies.

• There are free toilets in the Galerija Centrs, Galerija Riga and Stockman shopping centres. Their locations on the top floors of the malls is inconsiderate.
• On the other hand, you won't regret travelling to the Skyline Bar on the 26th floor of the Hotel Latvija for spectacular views of the city from the restrooms. 

• Restaurants and museums have facilities for customers, and if you ask nicely most let outsiders use them in times of need. Though some businesses require you to make a purchase first (glaring at you, McDonald's.)

What a relief!

Now that's done, take a stroll in Jurmala or a day trip to Kemeri National Park.

And discover beautiful Sigulda and Kurzeme by car on full day tours.