We made it back to Riga after a long drive of about five hours. I had a nighttime walk around town after dinner (and drinks), to get in some final impressions of Riga – and final impressions of this trip.

Overall this has been a very loaded trip – with many, many things to do and see. The trip clearly showed off on the cultural heritage and history of the three countries – but (at least from my perspective) also gave insight into the lively scenes of art, food, drink and music in all three countries. I also quiet enjoyed visiting the National Parks and of course the gastronomic delights during the trip.

Coming back, I would probably do things differently – focusing on the main attractions only, much fewer churches – and more nature, more hikes and more focus on trying delicacies, local food and drinks. Exploring the craft beer scene here might be worth a trip on itself. But for now – Good Bye Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania!

In the late afternoon (after we had made our way back from the market and after a short break at the hotel) I decided, to leave the old part of town behind and cross the Daugava River to the South Side of town, to get a view of the non-touristy part of town. I made way across Stone Bridge, heading towards the National Library of Latvia and on towards the Monument to Soviet soldiers – liberators of Soviet Latvia and Riga from German fascist invaders (its real name – built in 1985 – clearly lacking the reference to the great patriotic war; currently off limits). I made my way back through Victory Park and across Vanšu Bridge – and got back into old town in good time for a simple Asian-inspired dinner.

Post-dinner drinks though had to be special again, as we made our way to to the Radisson Blu hotel and its Skyline Bar on the 26th floor, featuring great views of town.