Ars Vivendi Rezidence

Ars Vivendi Rezidence Overview

Ars Vivendi Rezidence sits on Jauniela, a quiet street that cuts straight through the heart of Riga, just a stone’s throw from the bustling train station and the cobblestone charm of Old Town. I first spotted it while wandering from the Courtyard of the Dominican Monastery to the lively Kalnciema Street – the building’s modern façade was a sharp contrast to the surrounding historic brick, but the warm glow from the lobby windows promised something different. The lobby itself is a small, airy space lined with local art; the scent of freshly brewed coffee from the on‑site café mingles with the subtle musk of polished wood panels. Check‑in was quick – a friendly front‑desk rep gave me a card, but the keycard machine hiccupped a few times; honestly, it was a bit of a hassle, but the staff were patient and even offered a small apology with a complimentary drink.

The rooms are minimalist but luxurious, with high ceilings that make the space feel airy, and the beds are top‑notch – the linens are buttery soft and the pillows are a perfect balance of firm and plush. I stayed in a corner room with a view of the bustling street outside; the distant hum of traffic is muted by the thick windows, so you can actually hear the city’s rhythm without being overwhelmed. The bathrooms are spacious, equipped with a rain shower that feels like a spa session, and there’s a small but well‑chosen selection of toiletries from local Latvian brands. On the in‑room TV, you can catch a feed of the nearby Riga City Hall, which is just a five‑minute walk away – perfect for a quick photo op.

Parking is a bit of a challenge if you’re driving, since the streets around Jauniela are narrow and the free street parking is scarce during peak season. I ended up using the paid car park behind the city hall, which is a bit pricey but definitely worth it for the convenience. As for noise, the building is well insulated, but if you’re a light sleeper, you might notice the occasional clattering of a tram on the adjacent tracks late at night. I’d say it’s manageable – you can get a good night’s sleep if you sleep right. The hotel also offers a small fitness center, but it’s more of a mini‑gym than a full‑blown gym; it’s perfect for a quick stretch before a day of sightseeing. And if you’re craving something authentic, just step out onto Jauniela and you’ll find a handful of local cafés – the one on the corner, “Lielā kafejnīca”, serves the best rye bread and the most aromatic coffee in town. I also took a stroll to the nearby Bastejkalna Street, where you can find a mix of boutique shops and street performers.

All in all, Ars Vivendi Rezidence delivers a surprisingly cozy and upscale experience in the middle of Riga’s hustle. The staff are genuinely friendly, the rooms are clean and comfortable, and the building’s proximity to both the train station and Old Town is a real plus if you want to explore on foot. I’d recommend it especially during late spring and early autumn – the city is lively but not overcrowded, and the hotel’s quiet ambiance shines even more against the backdrop of Riga’s crisp, seasonal air. If you’re looking for a place that feels like a home base with a dash of local flavor, this is the spot to book.

Travelers should reserve a hotel in Riga at least two months ahead for major events like opera festivals, ensuring the best rates and prime locations near historic attractions.

Ars Vivendi Rezidence Accommodations

Reviews of Ars Vivendi Rezidence

• Lovely, spacious apartment with amazing views right on the main Cathedral Square. – Ronald from United States – 26 June 2025 (10/10)

  Comfortable, spacious, clean, attractive studio apartment right on the main Cathedral Square with amazing views of the square out of every beautiful window. A very special place to stay!
  
  What could be improved: The apartment is on the third floor and there's no elevator, so you need to be able to carry your bags. But there are good handrails to help!

• Exceptional – Schwickert from Germany – 22 June 2025 (10/10)

  Quick reply and super-nice host. We could also leave our luggage in the room after check out time

• Fantastic journey in Riga – Francesco from Italy – 8 June 2025 (9/10)

  Very beautiful apartments, very clean, smart fornitures and a fantastic view on the Duomo! The Ars Vivendi is in the center of the old town, nearby all the most famous monuments, restaurants and pubs reachable by walk.
  Martins is a perfect host: very kind a ready to meet our needs making our journey more comfortable.
  I will strongly suggest the Ars Vivendi for having a great journey in Riga.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to highlight.

• Exceptional – Neil from United Kingdom – 18 February 2025 (10/10)

  Perfect central location. Comfortable bed. Spacious and stylish 1 room apartment.

• Perfect! – Christopher from United Kingdom – 19 January 2025 (10/10)

  Amazing location and amazing apartment.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to dislike.

• Exceptional – Tuuli from Finland – 13 December 2022 (10/10)

  Great accommodation especially during the Christmas market time, as the beautiful market can be seen from the window. Location is in the heart of the old town.

• Charming place for a 2 night visit – Tracey from Australia – 18 September 2022 (9/10)

  The apartment was spacious, clean, comfortable and tastefully decorated. Its central location was ideal for seeing the sights in the old town and had a view onto the square. Although small, the kitchen was functional; and the bathroom was large.
  
  What could be improved: There was some street noise and music into the early hours, but it was Fri/Sat night and probably the situation in most accommodation in the Old Town. It didn't bother us overly, but something to note if noise is a concern for you.

• We liked our stay very much, the location was just the best – Aleksandra from Czech Republic – 1 August 2022 (9/10)

  The view is just wonderful, the location is great. There’s everything you need in the apartment. The bathroom is perfectly clean.
  
  What could be improved: On Saturday the music in the restaurant outside was a little bit loud and it’s been this way until the night, although the other days were pretty quiet. So if you are also having fun outside it won’t bother you

• Exceptional – John from Norway – 20 July 2022 (10/10)

  Since the is a apartament we made our own brekfast. The location is wery god. It is a lot of coffeshops, bars and resturants and a lot off old beautiful buildings around. The apartament is nice , looks new renovated, wirh kitchen and bath separeted, and bed and livingrom i one.
  
  What could be improved: We did'nt like the stair up to second floor, steep. For people with mobility problems like bad hips , knees it's not the right place.

• Very good – Kristi from Estonia – 16 October 2022 (8/10)

  Big apartment, clean and nice
  
  What could be improved: nightlife is too loud in nighttime

Surroundings

Facilities