OVERVIEW: Enjoy a visit to Riga, the largest city in the Baltic States and capital of Latvia. See the well-preserved main sites of Old Town and visit the inside of the Dome Cathedral.
HIGHLIGHTS: See Riga St. Peter's Church, St. George's Church, St. John's Church, "Three Brothers" dwelling houses, St. Jacob's Church, and Riga Castle. Enjoy an inside visit of the Dome Cathedral and see the unique organ recital concert on the biggest organ in Europe.
NOTES: Guests must be able to walk approximately 2 miles over even and cobblestone surfaces.
Overview:
Enjoy a visit to Riga, the largest city in the Baltic States and capital of Latvia. See the main sites of Old Town and visit the inside of the Dome Cathedral.
Highlights:
-Old Town: See Riga St. Peter's Church, St. George's Church, St. John's Church, "Three Brothers" dwelling houses, St. Jacob's Church, and Riga Castle.
-Dome Cathedral: Enjoy an inside visit and see the unique organ recital concert on the biggest organ in Europe.
-Approximately 45 minutes of free time in the Old Town.
Full Description:
Riga, the capital of Latvia with a population of almost one million, is the largest town in the Baltic States. Founded in 1201 on the banks of the Daugava River, Riga is known as the ancient Hanseatic city. Until 1856, fortification walls and earthen ramparts surrounded Riga. Since then, the town changed greatly and acquired the name of "The Small Paris.” You’ll find numerous tourist attractions preserved and renovated in the Old Town.
Your guided walking tour will provide the opportunity to become acquainted with Old Riga and its most famous architectural monuments, St. Peter's Church, St. George's Church, St. John's Church, a part of restored city wall, and the medieval John's yard.
You’ll also visit the heart of Old Riga, the Dome Square. Here, you’ll see the Dome Cathedral and learn about the famous 19th century Dome organ, the biggest mechanical organ in Europe. You will also have an opportunity to see the medieval dwelling houses, "Three Brothers", the 13th century St. Jacob's Church, and the 14th century Riga Castle.
During the bus trip along the boulevards of Riga, you will have a chance to see the exceptionally beautiful examples of art nouveau architecture of the late 19th and early 20th century, as well as the outstanding Freedom Monument which symbolizes the striving of Latvian people for independence.
What to Bring:
-You should always take your SeaPass card (provided onboard the ship) and photo identification when in port.
-Camera and cash for shopping.
-Rain jacket or umbrella in the event of rain.
What to Wear:
-Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.
Important Notes:
-Guests must be able to walk approximately 2 miles over even and cobblestone surfaces.
-Photos and videos are permitted in all sites without any extra charge.
-The local currency is Latvian Lat (LVL). The main shops accept only local currency or credit cards. The souvenir stands or shops accept also Euros.
-The order of the tour may be reversed or altered depending on traffic or local conditions.
