— The hotel
Elegant and spacious apartment
Elegant and spacious apartment sits on Strēlnieku iela 19, right in the heart of Rīga’s old town, a stone’s throw from the bustling Riga Central Market and the iconic Spīķeri (The Pigeon House). When I first walked up the cobblestoned steps, the scent of fresh bread from the market wafted over the street—makes you feel right at home. The front desk staff were friendly, almost like welcoming neighbors, and the check‑in was quick; you get the keys in a few minutes, no long lines or formalities. Parking is actually a bit of a surprise; there’s a small, free underground lot directly behind the building, and for an extra €5 you can reserve a spot in the nearby street parking, which is rare in the old town.
The apartment itself feels like a secret loft you find tucked away in a historic building. The living area is big enough to lounge on a sofa and still have room for a small dining table. I remember sinking into the sofa after a day of walking and hearing the faint jazz from a nearby café spill over through the thin walls—it’s a nice background hum, no louder than the city’s chatter. The kitchen is surprisingly well-equipped, with a stainless steel stove, a mini fridge, and a kettle that boils water in 90 seconds. The bathroom is a clean, minimalist space with a walk‑in shower and a surprisingly soft bamboo bath mat that feels like a hug.
If you’re planning a trip during the summer, expect the streets to get lively after 8 pm, but the apartment itself stays quiet; the old stone walls keep the noise at bay. In winter, the windows are stone‑tight, so you won’t feel the cold seeping in, and the heating is a pleasant, steady comfort. The only minor gripe I have is the Wi‑Fi note in the welcome booklet—it’s a bit spotty on the upper floor, but you can always hop down to the lobby for a stronger signal. Overall, the place feels like a cozy, well‑thought‑out base that lets you experience Rīga like a local, without the touristy fluff. If you’re after a blend of historic charm and modern convenience, this spot is honestly a winner.