The sophisticated tourist knows that the real treasures of the city do not always lie on the surface. For such travelers, we have prepared five interesting places, from cafes to the best casino in Riga.
1. Kipsala
Kipsala - a small area-island opposite of Old Riga - is entirely included in the list of cultural and natural places of UNESCO. Along the old cobbled pavement over the Daugava there are carefully restored wooden houses, many of which were built in the nineteenth century. However, there are also, modern cottages, but the style is impeccable. Full feeling of a country resort: moorings, yachts, restaurants, the beach, a sea of greenery and incredible silence for the center. Not surprisingly, Kipsala is one of the most Riga’s expensive and respectable districts.
Here, on the island, is Zhanis Lipke memorial museum- a man who, during the Latvia’s years of occupation by the Nazis, saved 57 Jews from the Riga ghetto. The memorial was built near the house of Lipka on the bank of the Daugava, it was here that he hid his wards in a bunker under a wood shed.
2. Berg's Bazaar
An elegant pedestrian shopping mall was built at the end of the nineteenth century by Kristaps Berg’s order, an industrialist and public figure. In Soviet times, the building fell into disrepair, but it is curious that Berg’s direct heirs, who returned the building, restored it in the nineties.
Today, Berg's Bazaar is an atmospheric space with shops, expensive restaurants and democratic cafes. Here you can find anything - designer clothes, handmade chocolate, confectionery, original tableware, collectible wines. Twice a month in Berg's Bazaar you can catch a unique antiques market, where the most incredible items can be found. And on Saturdays there are peasant bazaars with farm products, national souvenirs and food from the best Riga chefs.
3. SL
SL is a VIP casino, part of the Shangri La international network, a place where you can spend a pleasant evening. You can easily find Michael Boettcher’s Shangri La unit in luxurious Grand Hotel Kempinski. The place is attractive opportunity to give yourself an aristocratic and truly nice holiday. Everything is elegantly decorated here, the service is on the highest level, the attractive staff is very friendly and delicate. A great option to relax with taste. By the way, SL is very popular with foreign guests, said Darren Keane, Storm International CEO. The staff speaks several languages, including English, so there are no problems with understanding.
4. Big Bad Bagel
The first and, it seems, the only bagel in Latvia opened just a few months ago. The basis of the menu is, of course, the bagels, which can be designed independently. First you choose the actual bagel from 8–9 varieties (all the bagels are baked here), then the stuffing (an infinite number of options, from classic salmon with cream cheese to vegetarian positions). In addition to bagels, there are several salads and soup of the day for 1.5 euros. Generous portions, free drinks, low prices and friendly staff make people to come here more often. However, keep in mind that the cafe closes early (on weekdays at 20.00, on weekends at 18.00).
5. Aussie Pub
This cute pub on the Old Town edge is located on the ground floor of the same-name hostel, but locals love it no less than tourists. What is worth only the bar in the very present hippie-bus Volkswagen, as if just returned from Woodstock! Add to this 15 amazing local beers (tasting sets are provided for those who have eyes), a free kicker on the first floor, a cheerful international atmosphere, charismatic bartenders and the principle of “no football on TV” - and, in general, it becomes clear why this place is never empty.
A French pastry bakeries network opened by Toulouse-born Bernard Laran. According to his confession, he once came to Riga, fell in love with this city and stayed. Here, probably, the best croissants in the city, excellent pastries, hot chocolate, the French press and the atmosphere of a real Parisian cafe.