— The hotel
A22 Hotel
I stayed at A22 Hotel last month, tucked right on Ausekļa iela, right where the old city vibes bleed into modern chic. The building itself is a sleek, glass-fronted block that feels surprisingly cozy once you step inside. The lobby has this massive, almost cathedral‑like chandelier that sways a little when you walk by—honestly, it’s a cool piece that makes you feel like you’ve walked straight into a gallery. The staff were super friendly; the receptionist greeted me with a bright smile and handed me a key card that was almost like a tiny VIP badge. I mean, the whole check‑in was quick, so I could hit the floor and start exploring before the city really gets into its late‑night rhythm.
Speaking of the floor, the rooms are a mix of contemporary and industrial style. The bed’s linen is soft, but the mattress is firm enough that you actually wake up refreshed. The window faces the river, so the early morning light hits the floorboards and you can hear the gentle hiss of the Daugava a few blocks away. It’s not too noisy—there’s a soundproofing job done right, so you can’t hear the traffic from the main street even at 11 pm. Parking is a bit of a hunt, but there’s a small paid garage just a couple of streets over, and free street parking is available on Ausekļa iela if you’re willing to walk a few minutes. The hotel’s little on‑site café is a gem: they roast their own beans, and the aroma of fresh espresso floats through the lobby all morning—so if you’re a coffee person, that’s a real treat.
Outside, you can walk straight into the heart of the city. The Old Town is about a ten‑minute stroll, and the local market across the street serves up everything from rye bread to fresh fish—perfect for a quick breakfast. If you’re looking for something a bit quieter, the nearby park on Rīgas Rūta has a tranquil pond and a few benches where you can just sit and watch the city’s traffic flow like a living postcard. The hotel’s location is also great for nightlife—you’ll find a handful of bars and restaurants on the adjacent streets, from a cozy speakeasy to a rooftop bar that’s perfect for a sunset drink. Overall, it’s a place that feels like a home base for exploring Rīga, with all the little touches that make it feel like a true local spot rather than a corporate chain.
