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Riga or Vilnius?

I know, I know, but Estonia is the only Baltic country on this forum.
I like architecture, art, churches, picturesque, etc.
Don't have time for both, so which? Or neither?

Posted by
504 posts

I haven't been there--our trip is still in the planning stages. From what I gather:

  • Talinn for medieval
  • Riga for Art Nouveau
  • Vilnus for Baroque

Take your pick!

Posted by
6 posts

I've been to all three of the Baltic states and my personal "ranking" here would be 1. Riga 2. Tallinn 3. Vilnius. In fact, I loved Riga so much I've been three times😳😁! It's a great bit of old world charm, tons of beautiful art/architecture/history, and all wrapped in a place you won't feel as though you're being smothered by other tourists (like in Prague). Check it out! Of course, Vilnius isn't bad, but if you don't have time for both, I'd go with Riga. You also just inspired me to write about this in my IG or Cube blog too, so thanks!)))

Posted by
1540 posts

I agree with previous post Riga was my favorite.
I really loved walking around the city -
Loved the Central Market area.... see photo of the hangar type buildings.

Things to do in Riga

Posted by
17 posts

I agree with previous posts! Riga is more interesting in my opinion. Also, next to Riga is Jurmala. I consider in as most beautiful exit to the Baltic sea.

Posted by
13 posts

Riga! It's the best 'new' city in Eastern Europe. Great culture, tech, food and people. A total surprise. Wish I would have stayed longer. If you like beer and good food: Folkklubs ALA pagrabs

It might be one of the best restaurant experiences I had in Eastern Europe.

Tallinn is very cool as well. If you go to Vilnius - check out the Soviet prisoner museum. Terrible atrocities committed by the Russians after WW2. Strange that would be a high lite of the city. Otherwise, I Didn't get that much out of Vilnius.

Posted by
13 posts

Riga! It's the best 'new' city in Eastern Europe. Great culture, tech, food and people. A total surprise. Wish I would have stayed longer. If you like beer and good food: Folkklubs ALA pagrabs

It might be one of the best restaurant experiences I had in Eastern Europe.

Tallinn is very cool as well. If you go to Vilnius - check out the Soviet prisoner museum. Terrible atrocities committed by the Russians after WW2. Strange that would be a high lite of the city. Otherwise, I Didn't get that much out of Vilnius.

Posted by
109 posts

Sounds like Riga is the place. I had planned to do 4 days in each, but I think now I'll change to 5-3. Thanks everyone -- I love this forum!

Posted by
2602 posts

Theresa--and please post a trip report! I've been to Tallinn but considering a return there and also seeing Riga and/or Vilnius next year.