Riga

Once called the "Paris of the Baltics", Riga has regained its status as a cosmopolitan capital with dozens of museums and arguably Europe's most exceptional Art Nouveau architecture. Founded in 1201, Riga boasts a magnificent Old Town called "Vecriga". Riga Castle, the residence of Latvia's president was built on the site of the original settlement next to the Daugava River. St. Mary's Dome Cathedral is renowned for its stained glass windows and massive 19th century organ comprised of more than 6,500 pipes. Outside the city limits, traditional Latvian life is on display in outdoor exhibits at the Open Air Ethnographic Museum.