Aparthotel Amella

Aparthotel Amella sits on Emīlijas Benjamiņas iela, 8, right in the heart of Rīga but still far enough from the main square to keep the hum of tourists at a respectful distance. When I first walked up the cobblestones, the scent of fresh rye bread from the bakery on 8th Street greeted me—an aroma that turns out to be the real teaser of the city’s culinary scene. The building itself is a neat mix of modern glass and classic Latvian brick, giving off that subtle “you’re in the right place” vibe. I remember the front desk clerk, a young woman with a quick smile, handing me a keycard and a map that didn’t just show the hotel but also highlighted the best spots for a midnight coffee, like that tiny café on Telegrafu Street where you can hear the city’s soft lullaby of traffic and distant church bells.

The rooms are the kind of place that feels like a home away from home, which is what makes it stand out from the usual chain stays. I stayed in a two-bedroom setup that had a kitchenette, a huge window with a view of the canal, and a surprisingly soft bed that didn’t compromise on firmness. Honestly, the real win was the balcony—just a few steps from the street, you could actually hear the gentle clink of a window being opened by a neighbor, which, while a bit intrusive at 1 a.m., also reminded me that you’re living in a living city, not a hotel chain. The décor is tasteful without being over the top; the walls are adorned with local art prints that give a nod to Rīga’s rich history. The only minor critique? The Wi‑Fi sometimes lags when the crowds hit the city’s main squares, but for a weekend getaway, that’s a small price to pay for the authenticity.

Parking can be a joke of a situation if you’re not prepared. The hotel itself offers a small underground parking space, but it’s only big enough for a sedan, so you’ll need to walk a few blocks if you’ve got a larger vehicle. I took advantage of the free bicycle rack—Rīga’s bike lanes are immaculate, and you can pedal straight into the old town without a hitch. If you’re staying during the summer months, expect the city to be bustling, especially around the new market on Makšķerju Street. The hotel’s location near the bus stop on Emīlijas provides easy access to the metro, so you can hop off at the main station and be in the city center in under a minute. Check-in is pretty smooth, with the staff greeting you in both Latvian and English, which I appreciate. The lobby’s quiet corner, with a small bookshelf and a soft jazz playlist, is perfect for a quick nap before heading out to explore.

After a day of walking, I found myself back at Aparthotel Amella for a shower that felt like a spa experience—water pressure was high, and the showerhead had a small but effective spray pattern that left me feeling fresh. The breakfast area was a surprisingly cozy place—a corner table with a view of the street, where you could watch the morning traffic and the occasional street performer. They served a selection of local cheeses and a fresh baguette that was simply delicious. The staff were friendly, and the front desk manager offered to recommend a few hidden gems—like the small bookshop on Valde Street or the jazz club on Tērbatas. I ended up spending my evening at the jazz club, and it was a perfect end to a day of exploring Rīga. The hotel’s atmosphere, the attention to detail, and the subtle nods to local culture make it a standout choice for travelers who want to feel truly immersed in the city, rather than just passing through.

Exploring Riga offers visitors an unforgettable journey through Latvia’s cultural heart, from its UNESCO-listed medieval old town to its world-famous Art Nouveau buildings and dynamic Baltic atmosphere.