Riga, the cosmopolitan capital and heart of Latvia, has long been one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the Baltics. Situated at an important crossroads between Estonia and Lithuania, the city was for centuries a strategic chess piece for several great European empires, including Poland, Sweden, Germany, and Russia, all of whom left their mark on Riga's overall look and cultural feel. Damage from both world wars and neglect during its Soviet period threatened to throw the city into utter obscurity. But today after nearly three decades of independence and extensive restoration work in its historic core, Riga has once again reclaimed its title as a flourishing center of the arts, architecture, and nightlife. The city has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1997, and for good reason — it has one of the best preserved medieval town centers you can find, and has been recognized as having the largest collection of art nouveau buildings in Europe. Aside from the astonishing architectural gems, travelers will find a lively metropolis full of world-class museums, chic restaurants, a stellar music and modern art scene, and sunny squares and gardens humming with the sounds of locals, street performers, and tourists alike. Here are just a few of our favorite ways to discover the best of the best in this booming Baltic capital. Read More