— The hotel
Eksporta3-2
First Impressions
When I first walked up to Eksporta3-2, I’ll be honest — it’s not the kind of place that screams “hotel” from the outside. Located right on Eksporta iela in Riga‘s Old Town, this feels more like staying in someone’s well-appointed city apartment than a traditional hotel. The building itself has that classic Latvian architecture you see throughout the historic center, and you know what? That’s actually part of its charm.
Location & Getting Around
Here’s the thing about this spot — you’re literally in the heart of everything. I mean, step outside and you’re surrounded by cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and some of the best cafes in Riga. The Daugava River is just a short walk away, and honestly, you can reach most of the major sights on foot. What really surprised me was how quiet it stays at night despite being so central. Plus, they’ve got private parking right on site, which is honestly a godsend if you’re driving in Riga — trust me, finding a spot in the Old Town can be a nightmare.
The Accommodation
The room I stayed in felt more like a studio apartment than a hotel room, which I actually loved. It’s got this minimalist, modern vibe that works really well with the historic building’s character. The space is thoughtfully designed — not huge, but everything has its place. The bed was comfortable enough, and I appreciated the little touches like good lighting for reading and decent storage space. It’s clean, functional, and has everything you need without any unnecessary frills.
Practical Details
Look, this isn’t a five-star experience, and it doesn’t pretend to be. What you get is solid, no-nonsense accommodation in an unbeatable location. The staff is helpful when you need them, but they’re not hovering around constantly — which I actually prefer. WiFi worked perfectly throughout my stay, and the check-in process was straightforward. The building can feel a bit quiet during the day, but that’s because most guests are out exploring the city, which makes sense given where you are.
Why Guests Love It
Couples seem to really get what this place is about — it’s got that intimate, local feel that makes you feel like you’re actually living in Riga rather than just visiting. The location score speaks for itself, and after staying here, I totally understand why. You’re not paying for fancy amenities or a grand lobby; you’re paying for the privilege of waking up in one of Europe’s most beautiful historic centers. For the price point and the location, it’s honestly hard to beat. If you want to experience Riga like a local and don’t need all the hotel bells and whistles, this is your spot.