Experience in Riga, Latvia by Ingars

What is it like to live in Riga? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Riga is two different cities. One is the old Riga, built before WW2 and then the new soviet microdistricts which are quite boring, but most people live there. City has pretty decent traffic, you can bike around. Most younger people will understand English.

What is the student lifestyle like in Riga?

Universities here don't really have campuses, they are integrated in the city, so students are integrated in the city life. I don't think that there is some specific student district, so they mingle with the locals.

How much does it cost to live in Riga?

Rents are pretty decent, but be ready that utilities - electricity, water and heating can add up. Wi-fi internet is available almost everywhere and is very fast.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Riga? Is there any advice you can give?

Depends on how much you want to pay. Better apartments will cost more, but you will get a decent size apartment for that price, and probably will be able to have some roommates, to split the costs. So this is no London where you pay a lot to live in some Victorian shoebox in basement.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is pretty boring and food prices in supermarkets can be higher than in the West. As we do not have many immigrants, there are not much international cuisine here, unless you love kebabs. But you will always find some small local bistro that offers meat and potato dishes with beer.

What places would you recommend visiting in Riga?

Depends on your interests. I would suggest skipping the old city, and actually exploring other districts.

Is it good to eat out in Riga? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Kebabs, pizzas and home style cooking are available almost everywhere. Many restaurants offer food deliveries home.

Is the nightlife good in Riga? Where is good to go?

Downtown has a lot of clubs, mostly geared towards tourists and students. Not much clubbing in residential microdistricts. But a lot of smaller casinos, that also serve drinks and show sports.

What advice would you give future students heading to Riga?

Get a good warm raincoat, as it rains quite frequently. And buy electric scooter, as city is really flat and fun to explore without having to sit in traffic.