Riga Airport (RIX), Latvia

Whilst Riga airport is modern, convenient, well-signposted, and all the rest of it, it is a boring place. We were bored, and some friends were forced to spend 4 hours there with small children last week, and it nearly drove them up the wall. The best thing to do would be to arrive as late as possible so you don't have to spend too much time here. The few shops are pricey - the tourist things for example cost a lot more than in the city. There was a mildly interesting shop that had some old Soviet era souvenirs - caps, badges, cigarette cases etc. But really, once you've had a quick look round ... more

The airport has recently been completely renovated and is now as modern and efficient as any airport in the world (and far better than most!). The airport staff are without exception helpful, efficient and pleasant, and both arriving and departing are enjoyable experience. Even immigration control, which used to be very bureaucratic, is now quick and efficient, and staffed by people with a smile on their face! There are several duty free shops selling the normal range of drink etc., as well as local souvenirs. However, the prices are well below those of the duty free shops in western europe ... more