Is Riga good to visit at Christmas?

Yes, Riga is an excellent Christmas destination, offering a magical, "story-book" atmosphere with a highly-rated, authentic market in the heart of its medieval Old Town. Ranked 3rd in Europe's best Christmas markets in late 2025, it is less crowded than Western European cities and, as the birthplace of the decorated Christmas tree (1510), it offers a rich, festive experience.

Is Riga nice at Christmas?

Riga, the charming medieval capital of Latvia, transforms into a winter wonderland from early December to early January. With its enchanting Christmas markets, world-class ballet performances, and rich historical sights, Riga offers a perfect blend of culture and festive cheer.

What is the most magical Christmas town in Europe?

The 10 Most Magical Christmas Towns in Europe

1. Strasbourg, France. ...
2. Vienna, Austria. ...
3. Prague, Czech Republic. ...
4. Cologne, Germany. ...
5. Budapest, Hungary. ...
6. Tallinn, Estonia. ...
7. Basel, Switzerland. ...
8. Edinburgh, Scotland.

Is Latvia worth visiting in December?

December is a great time to visit Latvia to capture the Christmas feeling and to prepare gifts for your loved ones.

Is Christmas big in Latvia?

There is nothing like Christmas in Latvia. As the days get shorter and the nights colder, Latvians celebrate the beauty of winter and prepare for one of the biggest celebrations of the year.

The best Christmas market in Europe 🎄 Riga, LATVIA, Travel guide, What to do and What to see

What is the #1 best Christmas town?

Solvang has been named the #1 Best Christmas Town in the U.S. in the 2025 TZR (The Zoe Report) Jet-Set Readers' Choice Awards, earning the top spot among festive destinations nationwide. Solvang has been named the #1 Best Christmas To...

What are the top 5 Christmas markets in Europe?

Europe's top Christmas markets often include Germany's festive staples like Cologne (Cathedral) and Berlin (Gendarmenmarkt), France's enchanting Strasbourg and Colmar, Austria's grand Vienna (Rathausplatz), the fairytale setting of Prague's Old Town, and Belgium's sprawling Brussels (Winter Wonders), each offering unique charm, crafts, lights, and seasonal treats like mulled wine and pastries.
 

What is the cheapest European country to visit at Christmas?

On a Budget? Here Are the Best European Cities to Visit in Winter

• Budapest, Hungary. If you're not afraid of a little cold, then Budapest is one of the best European cities to visit in winter. ...
• Valletta, Malta. ...
• Jasná, Slovakia. ...
• Lisbon, Portugal. ...
• London, UK.

Where not to go in Riga?

You should avoid being careless with belongings in crowded tourist spots like the Old Town, Central Market, and train/bus stations, where pickpicking is common; also, be wary of scams (like petition-signing, inflated taxi fares, card fraud) and drink spiking in bars, especially late at night or in unlit areas, and take Bolt taxis over hailing cabs for safety.
 

How long is the train from Tallinn to Riga?

The train journey from Tallinn to Riga covers a distance of 280 km and takes approximately 6h 11m. Trains run 2 per day.

Is Riga more expensive than Tallinn?

Generally speaking, Tallinn is the most expensive, particularly if you stay in and around the Old Town. Accommodation is around a fifth more expensive than in Riga or Vilnius and restaurant prices are also higher.

Is 3 days in Riga too much?

No, 3 days in Riga is not too much; it's considered the perfect amount of time for a first visit to see the main sights like the Old Town and Art Nouveau district, enjoy the food, and potentially take a day trip, while 4-5 days allows for a more relaxed pace or deeper exploration, especially with trips to Jūrmala or Sigulda. For many, 3 days is a solid long weekend to experience Riga's history, architecture, markets, and vibrant atmosphere without feeling rushed. 

What to wear in Riga in December?

Ladies (and gents if they feel comfortable doing so) should start by putting on a pair of tights or long johns. At least one pair of handmade woollen socks is a must. Since wool is, of course, itchy when worn against naked skin and even tights, wear at least one pair of regular socks underneath.

Does Riga have a xmas market?

The three biggest Christmas markets in Riga are centred on the Old Town. There are also two lesser-known markets to the west of the Daugava River in the modern city.

What is the most beautiful Christmas town in Europe?

Colmar: A Fairytale in Alsace

One of the most enchanting Christmas markets in Alsace—and indeed all of Europe—Colmar's holiday market transforms this medieval town into a storybook village. Its cobbled streets sparkle under a thousand lights, and the half-timbered houses are decorated to resemble gingerbread cottages.

What is the most magical Christmas town in the world?

Rovaniemi, Finland (Santa Claus Village)

Often called the best Christmas town in the world. Village Inspiration: Snowy rooftops, log cabins, Santa's Workshop.

Where is the prettiest Christmas market?

There's no single "most beautiful," as it depends on preference, but top contenders for beauty often include Gdańsk, Poland (voted best in Europe for its unique charm), Cologne, Germany (iconic cathedral backdrop), Prague (historic Old Town Square), Vienna (Rathausplatz magic), and Bruges, Belgium (fairy-tale canals and light trails). Other favorites feature stunning settings like Winchester, UK (Cathedral close) and Strasbourg, France (oldest market).
 

Which city is most beautiful in Christmas?

10 most beautiful cities to visit during Christmas week

• 1/10. Vienna, Austria. ...
• 2/10. Prague, Czech Republic. ...
• 3/10. New York City, USA. ...
• 4/10. Strasbourg, France. ...
• 5/10. Rovaniemi, Finland (Lapland) ...
• 6/10. Copenhagen, Denmark. ...
• 7/10. Berlin, Germany. ...
• 8/10. Edinburgh, Scotland.

Where is the most magical place to go at Christmas?

The most magical Christmas spots often blend snow, lights, and unique traditions, with Rovaniemi, Finland (Lapland) topping lists for its authentic Santa Claus Village, Northern Lights, and reindeer sleigh rides. Other top contenders include New York City for iconic big-city festive displays, Colmar, France for storybook charm, Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens for fairy-tale amusement, and even warm-weather options like Hong Kong or Disney World for unique holiday spectacles, but snowy Lapland often embodies pure, classic Christmas magic.

Which city is most Christmassy?

The upstate New York city was named the most Christmasy city in the United States by online crypto casino JB. The study, which the company shared with Travel + Leisure, lauded Buffalo for its hundreds of holiday events (up to 800) and typical December snowfall of more than 25 inches.

Is Riga worth visiting in December?

During the Christmas season, Riga turns into a magical place to explore. The heart of the city, Riga Old Town, lights up with dazzling decorations and festive markets. You can't miss the stunning architecture, like the tall spires of St. Peter's Church and the grand Dome Cathedral.

Which country is most beautiful in Christmas?

Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich, the vibrant heart of Switzerland, is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas for travelers seeking a magical blend of tradition, festivity, and winter charm. Here, Christmas markets glow with a Swiss aura, offering handicrafts and delicacies like raclette, fondue, and mulled wine.

What's on in Riga in December?

Christmas Events

One of the main Christmas festivities in Riga fills Dome Square with the aromas of mulled wine and traditional gingerbread cookies — just a few steps away from Konventa Sēta Hotel. The Christmas market offers handmade crafts, local delicacies, and plenty of festive cheer.