Most travellers will start their visit in the capital, and for good reason. The first thing most people notice is the magnificent architecture which extends through the city centre. Various architectural styles are well-represented, including Gothic, Baroque, Art Nouveau and Classical. Indeed, the centre contains what is probably the best example of Art Nouveau buildings in all of Europe, and has rightfully been declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town, in particular, has an interesting array of styles, perhaps best personified by the Dome Cathedral. This cathedral contains an organ with nearly 7000 pipes, and is recognised as one of the world's greatest musical instruments.

Other points of interest in Riga include the so-called Sweden Gate, which is the only surviving town gate. St Peter's Church, with its 137 metre tower rising high above the city, is the symbol of Riga. A popular tourist attraction is the Three Brothers, an eclectic group of merchant's houses. Finally, the Freedom Monument, built in 1935, is a very important structure for Latvians, and is one of the most distinguished monuments in Europe.