Riga is a city which confounds expectations. It provides enough winding roads and stunning ancient buildings to satisfy those in search of history and culture but it is also renowned for its fantastic nightlife and offers a multitude of clubs and bars for revellers to party in.

Old Riga is the home of most of the city's historic buildings. Enjoy a saunter through its cobbled streets and secret courtyards. There are many beautiful sites to visit but a must see is St Peter's Church, a vast red-brick construction with a striking three-tiered spire. Those who climb its tower are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The Town Hall Square is close to St Peter's Church and it is here where you will find the House of the Blackheads, a beautiful piece of Gothic architecture. It once served as the headquarters of Riga's bachelor merchants and was largely destroyed in 1941. However, it was superbly reconstructed for the 800th anniversary of Riga's foundation in 2001.

You are reminded once more of Latvia's turbulent history on entering the New Town. The modernist Freedom Monument is overwhelmingly apparent, the three stars representing the three regions of Latvia. Astonishingly this monument survived the Soviet era and is now guarded by two soldiers in symbolic protection of Latvia's independence. Walking round the New Town is just as beguiling as Old Riga due to the exceptional Art Nouveau architecture, often credited as having the best surviving examples in Europe. Jugendstil motifs of mythological creatures and nymphs decorate the facades of many of the New Town's apartment buildings. A trip to the Latvian National Museum of Art is a highlight of a visit to the New Town. It is placed in a grandiose Neo-classical building and fashions an impressive collection of nineteenth- and twentieth-century Latvian works.

Riga provides a variety of good value dining options. The Macaroni Noodle Bar is a favourite, offering home-made pasta and noodle dishes in a stylish restaurant. For evening entertainment, start your night at Spalvas pa gaisu. This fashionably decorated bar has comfy lounge areas, loud music and excellent cocktails. Then head to Pulkvedim Neviens Neraksta. This nightclub provides edgy music on two levels without pretentious clientele or expensive entry.

Riga is a haven for backpackers with its vast range of youth hostels and budget hotels. This means that despite the large amount of accommodation on offer, it is important to reserve in advance in summer. Try Franks Backpackers Hostel in Old Riga which is clean, bright and extremely welcoming. Before you go, ensure you are covered for all eventualities by investing in Backpackers' Insurance.