Dandelion Apartments Matīsa

Dandelion Apartments Matīsa sits on 79 Matīsa iela, right on the edge of the old town’s cobblestone maze, but I’ve always called it my little secret in Riga. I mean, the building’s a cute, three‑story block that looks like it just stepped out of a 1950s postcard, but the interior is all modern and clean. Check‑in is a breezy affair – the front desk clerk, a friendly Latvian woman named Inga, greets you with a smile and a quick rundown of the apartment’s Wi‑Fi codes. There’s no long queue, which is a win when you’re arriving after a long flight. A small note: you’ll need a key card, and the first night you’re allowed to leave the key in the bag rack near the elevator – handy if you’re rushing to your meeting.

The apartment itself is a cozy, two‑room unit with a kitchenette that actually feels spacious enough to cook a quick borscht if you’re craving something home‑style. The living area flows into a balcony that faces the Daugava River. I love the way the city hums from the street below while the river sighs in the background – a gentle, almost lullaby‑like sound that’s surprisingly soothing. The walls have sound‑proofing, so the night trains and the nearby tram stop don’t bleed through, though early mornings can get a bit lively if you’re sensitive to tram bells at 5 a.m. The air in the apartment is always fresh, with a faint scent of baked rye bread from the bakery on Pārdaugava Street just a block away. Oh, and the coffee maker? It’s a small, but beautiful espresso machine that whirs to life every morning – there’s nothing like a latte while watching the city wake up.

Parking is a little quirky. Street parking is available, but it’s a strict “no free parking after 8 p.m.” rule, so if you’re staying late, you’ll need to find a paid garage. The nearest one is at 33 Gāzdu iela, just a 5‑minute walk – it’s a bit pricey, but the convenience is worth it. If you’re driving from the airport, you might want to park at the large garage near the bus station, then hop on the local bus to the city center. Speaking of buses, the closest stop is on the corner of Matīsa and Pārdaugava, so you’re never more than a 2‑minute walk from public transport. I’ve also noticed that the building’s proximity to the Riga Central Station makes it a great base for day trips to Jurmala or even to the countryside – you can hop on a train in under ten minutes. The only thing that could use a touch of improvement is the bathroom – the tiles feel a bit worn, but they’re still functional, and the shower has a nice, steady flow. Overall, for the price, you get a clean, comfortable apartment in a prime spot that feels like a home away from home.

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.