Riga | Vilnius

About the destination: Riga is the shining star of the Baltic States, serving as the area's hub for culture, education, politics, finance, commerce, and industry. The city, beautifully bisected by the Daugava River, is a vibrant mix of colors, church spires, and enchanting nights illuminated by yellow lights. Despite the city's rapid modernization with a mix of glass and steel skyscrapers, it retains its charm with its picturesque old town that even Disney executives would envy. Art Nouveau is a significant part of Riga's identity. The city's renowned Art Nouveau district has been declared a World Heritage Site and is widely considered the most exquisite and best-preserved collection of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe. Beyond its quaint charm, Riga is a dynamic and lively city with a metropolitan spirit. The Latvian capital perfectly blends the old with the new; visitors can find the hippest club in a stunning Art Nouveau building. The city has earned the nickname "The Second City that Never Sleeps" and for good reason; in Riga, one can party every night until the wee hours of the morning, with 24-hour restaurants available to satisfy any late-night cravings. With its timeless elegance and global aspirations, Riga was named the European Capital of Culture for 2014. The city has transformed into a stylish, vibrant, and green metropolis, with parks covering a fifth of the capital. It has successfully shed its drab past and has no plans of looking back.

About the destination: This unique Baltic capital is peculiar, indulgent, unconventional, and enchantingly attractive. Situated at the junction of the Vilnia and Neris rivers, Vilnius retains its medieval spirit. Its remarkable Old Town, one of the largest in Europe, has been designated a World Heritage Site. The cityscape is dominated by church steeples, with 65 churches scattered throughout Vilnius. The view from the city's castle is breathtaking and offers the best vantage point to admire the stunning panorama of this verdant metropolis. Vilnius has ambitious plans for its future and is evolving into a cosmopolitan city. Eccentric bars are tucked away in the shadowy medieval courtyards. Užupis, recognized as the city's bohemian district, is thriving with art galleries and workshops. In its central square stands a statue of an angel blowing a trumpet, symbolizing artistic creativity and freedom of expression. On the northern bank of the Neris, a new Vilnius is emerging, with a 21st-century skyscraper skyline being constructed to house the burgeoning business community, a sign that the city and Lithuania are progressing and leaving behind their Soviet history. The Lithuanian capital will captivate visitors with its lively, spirited, and charming character.