Rīga-Pasažieru train station is located in the shopping center, “Origo”, right next to the school. This makes it easy, in the summer, to go straight from class to the main train station, to hop on the train to Jurmala. Tickets there and back are usually about 3 euros. Additionally, the train runs about every 20-30 minutes, and the trip there is only about 30 minutes. This makes getting to the beach simple and comfortable!
Jurmala sits on the coast of the Baltic Sea. The water is cool and generally calm, and the sand is fine and soft. There are plenty of warm days during the summer that make the cool water more refreshing than usual. Additionally, the sun comes out enough to get a good tan—just don’t forget your sunscreen!
During the summer it isn’t uncommon for Jurmala to host a number of fun activities. Areas designated for beach sports border the coast. People ride bikes up and down the sandy stretch. Jurmala hosts concerts and farmer’s markets, as well as its own Ligo celebration. Whatever your choice summer activity is, Jurmala has something for everyone!
Once you’re off the train at Majori station, you’ll walk through Jurmala before getting to the beach. There are many shops and reasonably priced restaurants in the stretch. Additionally many artisans, craftsmans, and farmers sell their goods along the streets. You can even take a walk around and check out the architecture of the homes around Jurmala.
Summer in Jurmala offers plenty to do and to see. Despite its smaller size, Jurmala is anything but a sleepy beach town. It’s full of life and relaxation from its beaches, to its sporting areas, to its streets. Not to mention, like Riga, there are plenty of places to practice your Russian! Checking out Jurmala is a must if studying Russian in Riga during the summer.