A lesser known but well worth European city to travel to

#2024mapped Riga was never in my travel plan because of its relative low fame until Emirates made Dubai-Riga route especially cheap. And from there I had the opportunity to discover how lovely this city actually is, for its unique attractions and local delicacies. Places to go: 1) Riga Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral - the golden cap was one-of-a-kind among European churches 2) The Freedom Monument - a meaningful and delicate monument with marching soldiers 3) St. Peter's Church - the best observatory for Riga skyline 4) Reconocimiento UNESCO al Centro Histórico de Riga 5) House of the Black Heads Restaurants to go: 1) LIDO - most authentic and affordable local cuisine in canteen style 2) Rocketbean - delicious coffee and dessert 3) Kalve Espresso Room - best coffee in town 4) Riviera - Michelin guide restaurant under €20 5) Italissimo - non-Michelin Italian restaurant that’s local favourite Extra reasons to fly to Riga: It is connected by 5hr bus trip from Vilnius, which is often priced as low as €10 when booked in advance. In the recent year, flying into Riga with Emirates is cheap (yet with exceptional service), so it’s definitely an option to watch for. And Riga-Northern Europe have traditionally been the cheaper flying routes, which makes Riga quite an ideal city for stopover.