Private Guide in Latvia, Riga: Victoria Znutina

Hello everyone!

My name is Victoria – and I will be your personal guide in Latvia!

As a holiday destination, Latvia is truly remarkable. Home to almost two and a half thousand lakes, twelve thousand rivers and hundreds of kilometers of unspoiled beaches, the opportunities for water activities are endless! Add to this the fact that over forty per cent of the country is covered by forests and the hiking fanatics among you have cause to celebrate.

For those of you who prefer attractions of the man made variety, a host of museums, castles and other historic buildings should ensure that you have plenty to do during your stay too.

Individual travelers and groups are welcome!

About Latvia

Latvia is one of Northern Europe's most exciting places hidden away from the world's view for over half a century by the Soviet occupation. Prior to the occupation, Latvia was one of the most dynamic parts of Europe with exciting possibilities. After the collapse of the Soviet system, Latvia is struggling to regain its strength and place in the world.

There is a lot to do and see in Latvia from the untouched nature to the historic buildings dating back to the days of the great trading in the Hanseatic League. You can also see elements of the Soviet leftovers - this makes you step back and wonder what could have been without those awful years!.

About Riga

Riga, the capital of Latvia, was officially founded in 1201. Riga is divided into six administrative districts: Centra, Kurzeme, Ziemelu, Latgale, Vidzeme and Zemgale districts.

Riga is located along the Baltic Sea at the southern coast of the Gulf of Riga, on the Rigava coastal plain. The historical core of Riga is situated on the right bank of the Daugava River, about 10 kilometers from where the Daugava flows into the Gulf of Riga. The natural terrain of this area is a flat and sandy plain, about 1 to 10 meters above the sea level.

Riga’s Architecture and Enviroment

In the architecture of the historic centre of Riga examples of all architectural styles characteristic for the Northern Europe, from Gothic to Modernism, are found.

The regular building of the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries is characteristic for the planning of the historic centre, oriented towards the direction of main streets in the Old City, which emerged approximately in the 14th century. Dismantling of outdated defense systems (ramparts, dams, constructions) in 1857 – 1863 was an important impetus for the development of the city construction.