Riga has a small population of Muslims and has a small masjid, the Masjid Riga on the Brivibas Street. There is also a small halal kebab shop close to the masjid. Riga is a cosmopolitan city with several dining options. Whether it is local or international cuisine, you can find a variety of options. Visitors can find some good vegetarian and sea food options too.
Most of the attractions of Riga are around the Old town area and the Freedom Monument. Walking around these areas is the best way to see all the attractions. While walking around the Old Town area see the old buildings, most of them dating from the late 19th century and the early 20th century. The Triangula Bastion is good place to enjoy some amazing views of the city. The Town Square has some monuments and museums worth seeing. Do not miss visiting the Porcelain Museum and the Sun Museum. The Riga Castle houses two popular museums, the Museum of Foreign Art and the National History Museum of Latvia.
The Freedom Monument is a national symbol of Latvia and has several interesting places to see around it. Have a look at the Art Nouveau Buildings on the Alberta and Elizabeth Streets. The Esplanade Park has a few interesting attractions including the National Museum of Art. The Riga Zoo though small but is a popular attraction in the city. There are quite a number of museums around the Freedom Monument and in other parts of Riga. The Riga Motor Museum features cars that were used by Stalin, Kruschev, and Brezhnev. The Riga Ethnographic Open Air Museum gives a detailed view of the Riga lifestyle.
The left bank of Riga also has some wonderful places to visit. The Agenskalns district houses good architectural buildings and museums. The Railway Museum and the Theatre Museum are also good to visit. If you are visiting Riga in summers then enjoy some interesting activities in the River Gauja.
The central market and the Old Town area are excellent for shopping. Here you can bargain to get good prices. Along the main streets of the city there are several big stores where you can shop. The main shopping centre in the city is Audeju that has numerous designer shops. The best souvenir to buy in Riga is Amber.
Riga has a neat public transportation system. There are trams, buses and trolley buses that operate in the city. Taxis are also a good and affordable choice. There is also the option of travelling around by boat. The Old Town area is good to walk around, moreover there are no cars allowed in the Old Town area.
