Riga Neighbourhoods

These intriguing corners of the city are just a tram or bike ride away! Also, discover the first Latvian architect and his graceful buildings, and hop into Latvian Easter traditions.

South of the river, Āgeskalns is a delightful district of historic timber houses, a blossoming cafe and bar scene and fun shopping. The Āgenskalna tirgus market has fresh produce, specialty shops and restaurants in its recently restored historic main building, There's a flea market here on Saturdays.

The timber restoration model Kalnciems Quarter has regular summer evening concerts and an upmarket growers' market on Saturdays.

Ķīpsala, an island in the Daugava, has handsome old ship's captain's houses and lovely views of the city.

Ķīpsala is an easy walk from Old Town over the Cable Bridge. For Āgenskslns, take tram No 2 to the stop "Āgenskalna tirgus."

One of Europe's first garden suburbs, Mežaparks offers avenues of lovely pre-war mansions, picturesque lakeside Riga Zoo, the Latvian Song Festival Arena and miles of hiking and biking trails.

Take bus No 11T from Radio iela near the central station to the stop "Mežaparks/ZOO."

Set on the "wrong' side of the tracks, Maskačka may not have much cash, but it is very rich in culture and history. Climb the Academy of Science Soviet high-rise for bird's eye views, reflect on the ruins of the Great Choral Synagogue, check out Jēzusbaznīca (the Church of Jesus, the biggest wooden church in the Baltics), and snap up bargains at Latgalīte flea market.

Its an easy walk or bike ride, just east of the Central Market.

Lieterally meaning "the seaside," Jurmala is a resort with gorgeous pine-fringed beaches, architecture from delicate wooden houses to Soviet monstrosities, and a rich musical life.

And its just half an hour by train from Riga central, making it an ideal half or full day trip from the capital.

Join me on a Jurmala free tour, a personalised tour of the resort or a full day driving and walking excursion of the greater Jurmala area.