Napoleon once called Riga a "suburb of London" where the traditions of many nations crossed their paths. A legend tells that once every hundred years the Devil pokes out his head from the waters of the Daugava River and asks if Riga is ready. If he hears "Yes", then when the city celebrates its 800 years-anniversary in 2001 it will inevitably sink into the river Daugava. For this reason, Riga must be built continuously and become more beautiful with each year. If you do not believe this, come and have a look! Riga with 806 thousand inhabitants has more big-city attractions than any other city in the Baltic States. Situated the mouth of the Daugava River, on the shores of the Riga Gulf of the Baltic Sea, Riga has excellent air, rail and road connections, which makes it a major tourist attraction in the country. Riga is rich in history, culture and diverse entertainments. Visitors can admire buildings of remarkable Gothic, Baroque, Classicism and Art Nouveau architecture. This variety and richness of styles has been recognised by experts of the United Nations Organization and in 1997 the Central part of Riga was included into the UNESCO World Heritage List as:
1) one of the world largest and best preserved assemblages of the Art Nouveau buildings,
2) a city with    architecture that reflects     various   periods  of  city history from 1201 to the present day,
3) a city with a unique collection of wooden architecture in the central city area.
Riga traditionally has been the trade and business connection between East and West. It had joined the Hanseatic League in 1282 and was an active partner until the League disintegrated about three hundred years later. Riga is destined to become a commercial and tourist centre in the coming decades. In a few years it ought to compete favourably, on a smaller scale, with Prague, Paris and other gems. Riga has a lively cultural life. The Dome Church acoustics, as well as its huge organ are world-wide famous. The frequent organ concerts there are also worth attending Riga stages a variety of festivals, (especially in summer) ranging from the classical music, and opera to jazz and rock. Riga offers a great number of fascinating museums and contemporary art galleries.

TRANSPORT

Airport
Riga International Airport (R1A) is located about 13 km from the city centre. One can get there by taxi or by special airport bus number 22 and 22A, which run every 30 min and cost Ls 0.25. Taxi to the city centre costs around Ls 7.00.

Airport information
Tel: +371 7207009
office@riga-airport.com
www.riga-airport.com

Ferry
Free Port of Riga
Eksporta iela 3a,
Tel: +371 7326200, Fax: +371 7326195

Train information
Tel: +371 5832134, www.ldz.lv

Central Station
Stacijas laukums,Tel: + 371 5832141

Urban Public Transport
Trams, trolleybuses, buses and route minibuses are available in Riga. Tickets for the price of 40 santims are sold in Narvesen and Plus Punkts kiosks. Tickets for buses, trams and trolleybuses can be bought on board from a ticket agent; the price is 50 santims per ride and 40 - 50 in minibuses.
Public transportation service usually begins around 5.00 6.00 a.m. and continues until midnight.

Information
Tel: +371 8001010; +371 8000006, www.ttp.lv

Riga International Bus Station
Pragas iela 1,
Tel: + 371 9000009, www.autoosta.lv
 
Taxi
One can get a taxi at taxi stands or with the assistance of the reception desk at a hotel or flag down in the street. All taxis have meters and they are obliged to run accordingly. You can request the receipt at the end of the ride. Taxi fare is normally stable: from 6.00 to 22.00 it's 0.30 Ls per kilometre, after 10.00 p.m. 0.40 Ls. You can order taxi by phone + 3718008294, +3718001010, +3718001313, www.rtp.lv
If you wish to take a taxi for a longer ride outside the city the price can be negotiated and they might charge return fare even if you don't return with them. It is better to agree to a chauffeur driven car from the car rental agencies.