Experience in Riga, Latvia by Leonor

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

I loved living in Riga! It's a peaceful and beautiful city! People are reserved but once we get to know them, they are very nice!

What is the student lifestyle like in Riga?

It's very good! Local students are always willing to help.

How much does it cost to live in Riga?

I spent, on average, 200€/240€ with accommodation, food (including eating in bars/restaurants or in the cafeteria of the University) and transportation.

The accommodation was around 50€. I was living at the University (Turiba) dormitories. I shared the room with more three people.

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

I think it's not difficult. The rooms in the city center are a bit expensive but the public transports in the city are very good so there is no problem to rent a room further from the center.

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

The food is very good and cheap! The cuisine is simple. I recommend, potato pancakes, potatoes with mushroom sauce and all kinds of deserts (medus kūka (honey cake) is the best cake ever)!

What places would you recommend visiting in Riga?

The old town as well as the newer sides of the city. The Academy of Science, the National Library of Latvia, the Latvian National Opera, the Art Nouveau district and the Orthodox cathedral, are places not to be missed.

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

The restaurants are very good! Once I went to a restaurant in a small town and for the main course plus drink, I paid about 5€! The best restaurant where you can eat local food is LIDO.

I also recommend the Ala Bar (for the night) and the Šefpavārs Vilhelms (you can eat pancakes from 0. 60€).

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

People say that the nightlife of Riga is very good but I don't have the same opinion... I think that the nightlife in Portugal is much better.

What advice would you give future students heading to Riga?

I would say to enjoy the city, the country and the Latvian culture to the fullest! Have fun!