— The hotel
Apart Hotel Tomo FREE PARKING
I just got back from a quick weekend in Rīga and had to tell you about this place: Apart Hotel Tomo FREE PARKING. It’s tucked in Raunas iela 44, right where the old tram line used to cross the city. The first thing that struck me was the parking—free, which is a rare find in the city center, and it’s literally next to the building, no maze of underground lots. When I pulled in, the staff was already waving me over, and check‑in was a breeze; they handed me a keycard in one hand and a map of the city in the other—like a local friend. Honestly, I felt like I was already in the middle of the action, even though the building itself is a bit of a low‑rise block that keeps the noise down. You know what? The hallway smelled faintly of fresh coffee, probably from the café on the ground floor, and that’s the kind of sensory cue that makes a place feel lived‑in.
The rooms are no larger than a studio, but that’s typical for a 3‑star spot in Rīga. The bed is fairly comfortable, and the linen has that crisp, almost clinical feel you see in budget hotels, but the mattress was good enough that I didn’t need a pillow for the whole night. The bathroom has a decent shower, but the water pressure is a touch low—something you’ll notice if you’re used to a higher standard. The only real drawback is the noise: the street outside is lively, especially around 6 pm when people spill onto the sidewalks, but by 10 pm it’s quiet as a library. The hotel’s location is great for grabbing a drink at the bar on the second floor, which overlooks the Old Town—maybe a little too close for those who love a full night of music, but if you’re after a calm spot to unwind, it’s fine. I mean, the staff were friendly, the Wi‑Fi worked, and you can actually see the Kalnciems bridge from the window if you’re lucky.
Overall, I’d say it’s a solid choice if you’re not looking to splurge on a 5‑star boutique hotel, but still want free parking and a decent stay in the city. The rating is a solid 7, which is what I’d expect for a place that’s practical and approachable. If you’re traveling in the summer, the area is bustling with tourists, so plan to walk a bit for the best noise level. In winter, the streets are quiet and the building feels a bit more secluded. Personally, I’d recommend staying here if you’re just after a clean, affordable place with a little local flavor—it’s like a hidden gem that doesn’t shout about itself, and that’s exactly the kind of experience I love sharing with friends.
Apartments in Riga provide travelers with authentic local experiences, allowing them to explore traditional Latvian markets and cook with fresh Baltic specialties.