The pretty but underrated city in Europe named one of the world’s most walkable

The Latvian capital Riga has been named the second most liveable city in the world by travel experts.

According to researchers at Insider Monkey, the Baltic city came in just behind Florence, Italy.

Riga’s historic attractions – Riga Cathedral, Riga Central Market, the House of Black Heads, Bastejkalna Park and Vērmanes Garden – are all within 1.5 miles from each other, so easily accessible on foot.

The experts also recommend visitors head to the medieval city’s UNESCO-listed neighbourhood, Vecrīg, dubbed the “historical centre of Riga”.

As well as being very easy to wander around, Riga is a comparatively cheap city to visit.

For those interested in cultural experiences while travelling, the Latvian National Opera and Ballet can be enjoyed at the city’s stunning Opera House. Depending on the day you visit, your ticket could cost just £8.50.

The city also boasts music halls, independent cinemas, and a thriving contemporary art scene.

Then, when you’re done being a culture vulture, head to one of the quiet spots in one of the city’s 125 parks, gardens, and squares. Another cost-friendly way to explore the gorgeous capital.

Another travel guru Laura Longwell, from Travel Addicts, glowed about what the city has to offer: “Riga is a brilliant mix of the old and the new.

“At any moment on a walk through this lovely city, you could glimpse a 700-year-old church, next to a modern store, next to a building that was reconstructed to look old.”