Chessboard apartment in old town Riga, Coffee included

First Impressions

Walking into Chessboard apartment in old town Riga, Coffee included feels like discovering a hidden gem that locals have been keeping to themselves. The name pretty much tells you everything — there’s actually a chess theme running through the place, and yes, they really do include coffee, which honestly saved me quite a bit during my stay. It’s tucked away on Smilšu iela, right in the thick of Riga’s medieval old town, and I mean really in the heart of it all.

Location & Neighborhood

You know what struck me most? The location score of 9.8 isn’t just marketing fluff — it’s genuinely deserved. Step outside and you’re literally surrounded by cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and that authentic old-world atmosphere that makes Riga so special. The Town Hall Square is maybe a two-minute walk, and you can reach the Daugava River in about the same time. I found myself just wandering around at night because everything’s so beautifully lit up, and there’s this energy in the old town that’s hard to describe — sort of magical, actually.

The Space

The apartment itself has character in spades. It’s not huge, but it’s thoughtfully designed with chess-themed touches that could have been cheesy but somehow work perfectly. The kitchen is compact but functional — I made simple meals there without any issues. What I really appreciated was how quiet it stays despite being in such a central location; the old building seems to muffle most of the street noise. The whole space feels like someone’s carefully curated home rather than a sterile rental property.

Daily Comforts

That included coffee situation is actually brilliant — there’s a proper coffee setup with quality beans, not just instant packets like you get in most places. I’m someone who needs decent coffee to function, so this was a real win. The room stays comfortable year-round, and I visited during a particularly cold February when Riga can be pretty harsh. There’s good heating, and the windows are well-sealed against the Baltic chill. Small details like this make a difference when you’re staying somewhere for more than just a night or two.

Why Guests Love It

I can see why couples rate this place so highly — there’s something romantic about staying in a historic building in one of Europe’s most underrated old towns. The combination of authentic atmosphere, practical amenities, and that unbeatable location creates something special. You’re paying for the experience of living like a local in medieval Riga, not just having a place to sleep. Plus, with a 9.1 rating, it’s clear that most people leave feeling like they discovered something unique. It’s the kind of place you’d actually want to return to, which says a lot in the world of short-term rentals.