Experience in Riga, Latvia by Laura

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

Riga is a really nice city, it isn't too expensive and you can find a lot of things to do, like cinemas, museums, cafés, etc. People might seem a bit gloomy at first, but once you get to know them they're really friendly and fun. I'm afraid that the weather in Riga isn't too good though, summers are okay but autumn, winter and parts of spring are usually rainy and clody, but if you like snow then you'll like Latvian winters.

What is the student lifestyle like in Riga?

It's very relaxed, transportation for students costs only 0. 30 euros if you make a personalised "ē-talons", so make sure you do that. Students are friendly, many like to party and have fun, so if you're into that you might want to visit Old Riga. There are a lots of parties during weekends. If you need to study then go to the National Library of Latvia, it's newly refurnished and it's really nice there. You can find there a lots of books in English, German and French, especially about art.

How much does it cost to live in Riga?

500 euros should be enough for a decent room, food and transport.

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

Not too difficult, try Facebook groups! Though it can be challenging if you don't speak Latvian, because most ads are in Latvian.

What places would you recommend visiting in Riga?

Try the National Museum of Latvia, The National Library of Latvia, stroll through Old Riga during the day (it's really pretty) or party there during the night. Visit Vērmanes dārzs and go up the Science Academy of Latvia to get a birds eye view of the city. Also don't be afraid to take a train or a bus to visit other Latvian cities such as Liepāja, Ventspils and Sigulda.

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

It depends of where you go to. As in any city there are both - extremly expensive restaurants (though I don't understand why would you go there if you're a student) and cheap cafés. If you like coffee then try Coffee Inn or Costa Coffee. Instead of going to McDonald's try Street Burger. They have very good freshly made burgers and other tasty foods for a reasonable price, much better than fast-food restaurants.

If you just simply need to buy groceries then Rimi is the best choice, it's a typical supermarket chain here in Latvia.

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

Yes, Riga is quite famous for it's nightlife. Most bars and clubs are located in the Old Riga, there is literally one on every corner there, though there are quite many others in the rest of the city centre too. Typicals spots for students are Rokkafejnīca, Ezītis Miglā and Omes Briljants.

What advice would you give future students heading to Riga?

Don't be scared away by the cold weather. Try to visit as many places, parks and cute shops as possible. I suggest you find an apartment in the city centre or at least on the right bank of the river Daugava, because that's where all the life happens.

In general Riga is very pretty, visit Alberta street to see some of the most beautiful buildings in Art Noveau style. Architecture in the historical centre of Riga is amazing!