Balcia Residence

Balcia Residence Overview

Balcia Residence sits on 63 Krišjāņa Valdemāra iela, right where the old town’s cobblestones give way to the modern pulse of Riga’s city center. I first stepped inside on a chilly November evening, after a long walk past the bustling Kalnciems market and the quiet, reflective lake of Ķīps. The lobby smelled faintly of freshly ground coffee and the subtle citrus of a local bakery that had just opened its doors—an aroma that instantly made you feel like you were part of the city’s daily rhythm, rather than a tourist in a sterile hotel. Check‑in was quick and friendly; the staff knew my name from the last time I stayed in Riga, which was a sweet surprise, and they whistled me a small local souvenir—a handcrafted wooden keychain shaped like the famous Riga City Hall.

Walking down the hallway, you can hear the distant hum of traffic from the nearby streets of Pārdaugava and Staburadze, but the rooms are surprisingly soundproof. In my room, the light was soft and the linens had that slightly cottony feel you get from a well‑tended linen shop in Riga’s Old Town. I spent a few hours by the window, watching the city transition from the golden hour to the cool blue of early evening. The balcony—though small—offered a view of the street below, where a small café called “Kafija Pērkons” flickers its neon sign, and just a few minutes’ walk away, you can find the hidden gem of a street art gallery along the canal. The only downside was the slightly creaky wooden floorboards in the hallway, but honestly, that adds to the character of the place.

The breakfast spread was a highlight—local rye bread, cold cuts from a nearby farm, and a selection of cheeses that were clearly made by Latvian artisans. I also caught a glimpse of the city’s morning hustle as the tram rattled past the building, and the scent of fresh bread wafted across the street. Parking is a bit of a hassle; there’s a small paid lot right across the street, but you can usually snag a spot if you arrive early. The hotel staff were very helpful with directions to the nearest subway station, which is just a two‑minute walk from the lobby. Overall, staying at Balcia Residence felt like living with a friend in the heart of Riga—authentic, comfortable, and right where all the action is, without the touristy fluff. If you’re looking for a place that feels like home, with a dash of local charm, this is the spot.

Many travelers prefer to book apartments in Riga through trusted local agencies that provide insider knowledge about the best neighborhoods for experiencing the city’s rich architectural heritage and cultural attractions.

Balcia Residence Accommodations

Reviews of Balcia Residence

• Nice, clean, new place. Very good for the price. – Ville-pekka from Finland – 12 June 2025 (10/10)

  It was a nice room in a new (or recently renovated) building. It was all very clean. There was an A/C system in the room, but in late May/early June I did not need it. Opening the window during the night was enough to keep the room cool. There were towels and shampoo/soap in the room. The staff was friendly and spoke excellent English. It's good that there was a fridge in the room as well as a kettle and three complementary coffee capsules for the coffee maker.
  
  The building has two new elevators but from the street to the main door you need to take a few stairs.
  
  What could be improved: The noise isolation is not that good. I could hear noise from the next room. For the price, this is understandable, though. Apparently there is no restaurant in the building, but there is a cafe in the neighboring block.

• Lovely stay two couple👩🏼‍❤️‍👨🏽 – Eimantė from Lithuania – 22 December 2024 (10/10)

  Very friendly staff, very clean room, good place near Riga old town center.😊
  We recommend this place. For two couple or family.
  
  What could be improved: We don’t have, this stay was amazing.🤩

• Great value, and verry clean – Jochen from Belgium – 28 October 2024 (9/10)

  Those are verry nice apartments!
  Close to the city centre. Approximately 2,4€ with bolt 😂

• Exceptional – Kristīna from Latvia – 7 October 2024 (10/10)

  Highly comfortable room with everything a traveler might need, plus a spacious work area even in a single room. Superb cleanliness! Excellent location and friendly staff, safe entry into the building even at night.

• Nice stay, comfortable at a good location and good value for the money. – Arnoldsh from Latvia – 3 October 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was nice, clean and well organized. Room was cozy and had everything we needed. Central location makes it easy for transportation around the city. There was available free parking at the Residences for our car. You could access the apartments 24/7 and there was always someone at the reception if you need any help.
  
  What could be improved: They could add a big tv in the bedroom. Everything else was good.

• Spotless apartment in a good location with bars and restaurants close by 20 minute walk into old town – Michelle from United Kingdom – 13 September 2024 (9/10)

  Roof terrace was lovely and apartment was spotless

• Superb – Taru from Finland – 1 September 2024 (9/10)

  Good location close to the city centre. Nice rooftop terrace. Room had everything needed

• Superb – Farnaz from France – 26 August 2024 (9/10)

  It was really clean and tidy
  
  What could be improved: It was a little far from the old town, and grocery stores.
  The ventilation was not good.

• Nice apartment near the center. – Leeni from Estonia – 5 August 2024 (9/10)

  Good location. Got to park for free in front of the building. Check in anytime, because there was always someone at the reception. On the ground floor you could buy food from the self-service. Nice and clean rooms.
  
  What could be improved: It was difficult to find the place on TV where you could see the channels. (wanted to watch the Olympics) Also the TV quality was poor.

• Great spot near center neighborhood and the old town – Emily from United States – 2 August 2024 (9/10)

  Very nice apartment, everything we needed for the stay. The gentleman at the front desk was very friendly and helpful.
  
  What could be improved: We could not figure out how to open the front door to exit from the inside without keys – seems like a fire hazard. The dryer takes a long time and doesn’t really dry clothes so recommend hanging dry.

Surroundings

Facilities