Forum
Analytics
Riga, Latvia π±π»
#898
,
Nomad Score:
70%
Essentials
| ποΈ City | Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a vibrant city known for its art nouveau architecture and rich history. |
| π₯ Population | approximately 632,614 |
| π» Internet Speed | up to 100 Mbps |
| πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 EUR β 1.07 USD; major banks include Swedbank, SEB, and Luminor. |
| π° Tap Water | Drinkable |
| π Power | 230V, 50Hz, π Type C/F sockets |
| πΆ SIM Card | Providers like LMT and Tele2 offer competitive mobile data packages. |
| π³ Banking for Expats | Revolut, TransferWise, and local banks are widely accepted. |
| π Accommodation | Options include Airbnbs, hostels, and serviced apartments. Average prices for long-term rentals: β¬400-β¬800/month. |
| π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are accepted widely. |
| π Short Term Rentals | Popular platforms include Airbnb and Booking.com. |
| ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Talisman and Red Nose Hostel are good budget options. |
| ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Old Town (VecrΔ«ga) is the historical heart of the city. |
| ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The City Center and quieter neighborhoods like Δgenskalns offer good amenities. |
Working and Networking
| π’ Best Coworking Space | Fabrika and Teikums are popular coworking spaces with good facilities. |
| β Best Cafe for Work | Rocket Bean Roastery offers great coffee and a good work environment. |
| πΌ Networking Events | Meetups are held regularly through platforms like Meetup.com, especially in tech. |
| π₯ Social Events for Expats | Riga Expats Facebook Group organizes regular meetups and community events. |
Transportation
| π Best Taxi/Ride App | Bolt is widely used for rides in Riga. |
| π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Juuve and Circ offer bike and e-scooter rentals around the city. |
| ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | JΕ«rmala Beach, about 30 minutes away by train. |
| βοΈ Top Regional Airline | airBaltic is the primary carrier serving the region. |
| βοΈ Top International Airline | Lufthansa and KLM operate frequent flights from Riga. |
| π£οΈ Highway Access | The A1 highway connects Riga to other major Latvian cities. |
| π Main Train/Transit Hub | Riga Central Station is the main transport hub. |
| π Public Transport Passes | Riga Card offers unlimited access to public transport, starting at β¬20/week. |
| βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses and trains are available to get to nearby towns like Sigulda and CΔsis. |
Health and Wellness
| π₯ Best Hospital | Riga East Clinical University Hospital for comprehensive healthcare. |
| π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga Center Riga offers various classes and wellness programs. |
| ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Gym24 and MyFitness offer various fitness options. |
| π§Ί Laundry Services | Self-service laundries like Wash & Go are available throughout the city. |
Food and Drink
| π± Best Food Delivery App | Wolt and Bolt Food are popular for food delivery. |
| π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try Grey Peas with Bacon, a traditional Latvian dish. |
| π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegan and Vegetarian places like Raw Garden and Alla PugaΔova. |
| π« Best Dessert Spots | Try popular bakeries like Saldais RΕ«Δ·is for delicious pastries. |
| π Affordable Shopping Spots | Central Market for fresh produce, meats, and traditional foods. |
| π E-commerce/Online Store | Local marketplace with options include 220.lv and VaruNoRiga.lv. |
| π Grocery Delivery | Rimi and Maxima have delivery options available. |
| πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Miera iela neighborhood is popular for its bars and nightlife. |
| π» Local Brewery | Aldaris Brewery for local beer tasting. |
| π· Wine Bars | Try VΔ«na Studija for a variety of wines. |
| π² Street Food Stalls | Street food festivals occur regularly; look for trucks in the city center. |
| π Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants like Lido offer local and international dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
| ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Riga Old Town, House of Blackheads, and the Freedom Monument. |
| ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Latvian National Museum of Art showcases local talent. |
| π° Historical Sites | Riga Castle and St. Peter's Church are key historical attractions. |
| π Religious Sites | The Stunning Riga Cathedral is a must-visit. |
| π Annual Events | Riga City Festival occurs every August, celebrating local culture. |
| π¨ Cultural Districts | Kalnciema Street is known for its cultural vibe and markets. |
| π Theater Venues | The Latvian National Theater is renowned for its performances. |
| ποΈ Local Markets | Central Market offers local produce and crafts. |
| πΌ Music Scene | Enjoy live music at venues like Palladium and Daile Theater. |
| π¨ Street Art | Explore the street art in the Miera iela area. |
| π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Cooking classes offered by various local chefs can be found on platforms like Airbnb Experiences. |
| π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Galerija A4 and Art Museum offer unique exhibitions. |
| π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The Dome Cathedral is known for its historical architecture. |
| π΄ Local Heritage | Celebrate Latvian traditions through festivals and events in the city. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| π Nearby Nature Escapes | Kemeri National Park is a great place for hiking and nature exploration. |
| ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Gauja National Park is just an hour from Riga and perfect for day trips. |
| π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Many paths along the Daugava River offer great views and leisurely walks. |
| π Scenic Viewpoints | The rooftop of St. Peter's Church provides panoramic views of the city. |
| π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Bioring in ΔΆemeri is an excellent spot for birdwatching. |
| π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Many parks like MeΕΎaparks allow bonfires in designated areas. |
Other Services and Amenities
| π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and Latvijas Pasts are reliable for courier services. |
| π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Repair cafΓ©s and shops like Fixit offer device repair services. |
| π Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers often have ping pong tables for public use. |
| π§βπ« Language Classes | Language donations are available through various local institutions. |
| π Libraries & Study Spots | The National Library of Latvia is an excellent place for studying. |
| ποΈ Community Centers | Riga's community centers offer cultural events and classes. |
| πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Check out the events at various e-sport venues in Riga. |
| π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Olympic Casino and other establishments offer gaming options. |
Business
| π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¬2,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = β¬100,000) |
| π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¬1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = β¬72,000) |
| π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¬2,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = β¬168,000) |
| π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¬1,600 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = β¬96,000) |
| π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¬2,600 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = β¬208,000) |
| π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¬1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = β¬120,000) |
| πΌ Corporate Tax | 20% |
| π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 20% |
| π¦ Tax System | Flat tax system of 20% on personal income. |
| π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 23% |
| π§Ύ VAT | 21% |
| π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, applicable to residency and business income. |
| π Property Tax | 1.5% annual tax rate on property value. |
| π Property Transaction Tax | 2% standard rate on property purchases. |
| π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Foreign income is generally not taxed if not residing in Latvia. |