Holidays in Riga
A cobbled old town that claims the world's first decorated Christmas tree, with cosy markets and low prices. Here's what Riga is like with the family, when to go and how long to stay.
A cobbled old town that claims the world's first decorated Christmas tree, with cosy markets and low prices. Here's what Riga is like with the family, when to go and how long to stay.

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Late November to early January brings the Christmas market to Dome Square and lights across the old town. May to August is warm with long, light evenings. January and February are very cold, often well below freezing.
Wooden huts on Dome Square sell hot blackcurrant juice, gingerbread and woollen mittens.
A plaque marks the spot where Riga says a decorated tree first stood in 1510.
Medieval streets, the House of the Blackheads and the Three Brothers, Riga's oldest houses.
One of Europe's biggest markets, in old Zeppelin hangars.
Old farmhouses and windmills in a forest, with festive crafts in December.
A long, sandy Baltic beach, half an hour away by train. Best in summer.
Yes. It's compact, safe and cheap, with a cosy market and an old town that's easy to explore.
Usually from late November until early January.
Usually around 0°C to -5°C, and it's dark by four o'clock, so bring warm layers.
Three nights is enough for the old town, the market and a museum.
Put Riga on standby with everyone's other ideas. You each spread your points in secret, get one veto, and the draw picks where you go.