sveiki latvia destination guide

The Freedom Monument is a moving symbol of Latvian unity and towers proudly over Riga. Topped by a female Liberty holding three gold stars, who is affectionately known as ‘Milda’, the monument was entirely funded by donations from locals and is a memorial to those who fell in Latvia’s struggle for freedom.

When in Latvia, you have to take a trip to the beautiful shores of Jugla Lake. Head inside the pine forest and you'll find an incredible ethnographic open-air museum. You can explore the 90 traditional buildings that have come from all over Latvia and been rebuilt here. We enjoyed a stroll around the windmills, fishermen's houses and charming farmhouses, then tucked into a delicious traditional lunch.

The Museum reveals Latvia's history from 1940 until 1991, when occupations by both the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany were experienced. The fascinating exposition that includes documents, photographs and other objects, tells the story of the tragedy which befell the residents of Latvia under the inhumane conditions created by these foreign powers, as well as the resistance against the occupying powers. A 'must' for all of us history geeks out there.

Prepare for the magic of seeing Riga from the water, when you take a scenic cruise in a canal boat. You'll glide along the River Daugava and Riga Canal, circling Riga's Old Town. Keep your eyes on the skyline to spot the city's icons including Riga Castle, the Freedom Monument, Kronvalda Park and the Latvian National Opera.