This year, Riga has achieved several notable successes in international rankings, including securing 4th place in the "European Best Destinations 2024" Christmas Market TOP. This event is significant in the European tourism calendar, attracting thousands of participants and fostering interest in various European cities and events. This year's vote saw a record-breaking number of participants—753,382 travellers from 152 countries.
The significant international support underscores the appeal of Riga's festive atmosphere and offerings. "European Best Destinations" is a leading European tourism portal promoting tourism development and diversity since 2009. Riga climbed two spots in the Christmas Market TOP compared to last year when it ranked 6th. More voting results are available on the European Best Destinations website.
The Riga Christmas Market will be open from November 29 to January 2, offering traditional crafts, delicious holiday treats, and impressive light decorations that create a magical winter wonderland.
Esteemed global media outlets, such as Condé Nast and Forbes, have also brought Riga's achievements to the forefront. These publications have acknowledged Riga as Europe's best destination for Christmas lights in their special edition, Best Christmas Markets All Stars Edition, further solidifying Riga's status as a top Christmas destination.
Riga also excels in other international rankings:
- 2nd place in Forbes: 30 Most Walkable Cities in the World,
- 3rd place in Europe's 10 Best Value Christmas Markets by Post Office UK,
- 4th place in Time Out Travel: Europe's Most Beautiful Places,
- 10th place in Time Out Travel: The 14 Best Winter Destinations in Europe.
Residents and guests of Riga are invited to explore the websites liveriga.com and christmas.riga.lv, specially created for the Christmas season. These platforms showcase the most captivating and distinctive activities and events for experiencing the winter charm of Riga.