Riga isn’t exactly the best place in the world to go shopping, although the city seems to be trying its best to change that with a constant infl ux of small new specialty shops and vast new shopping centres springing up all around the city.

The Old Town is mostly aimed at tourists, with everything from souvenir shops to antique stores selling exorbitantly priced Russian icons and Soviet knickknacks.

The centre is mostly where it’s at, with an ever-increasing amount of clothes and shoe shops, although some of the trends leave a lot to be desired. The more general music, electrical and high-street brand shops are also located in the centre.

Antique shops are also plentiful in the centre albeit tucked away but keeping your eyes peeled will mean you are sure to come across some bargains.

Gifts To Buy
Being on the Baltic coast, Riga is particularly well known for its amber products, one of the most impressive displays is at the Amber Museum, although the things on show are also for sale, it can be found in the Konventa Seta in the Old Town. Amber products can also be found in the multiple summer markets in the Old Town.

Another popular gift choice is Rigas Balzams, a unique tasting, herb-based alcoholic drink. It tastes great mixed with herbal teas and coffee. For ideas on what to do with your bottle first visit a Balzams Bar (www.balzambar.lv) for a few imagination stretching ideas.

Other popular souvenirs include locally made ceramics and kitsch handicrafts. There are some good English-language books about Riga available in most bookstores.