Hanza Hotel

Hanza Hotel sits on Elijas iela 7, right on the edge of the old town’s maze of cobblestones. I first walked into the lobby on a rainy Tuesday in late spring; the smell of freshly brewed coffee and the faint scent of rain on stone gave it a cozy, almost nostalgic feel. The front desk staff did a great job of making you feel like a regular—no long queues, just a quick chat, a friendly “Sveiki” and a handwritten key card that had a tiny stamped seal of Riga’s coat of arms. Check‑in was quick, but the hotel still managed to feel like a place where you could take a moment to breathe before the city’s pulse takes over.

You know what? The rooms are modest but clean, with a surprisingly good view of the old city if you’re lucky enough to get a corner room. The bed is a bit firm, but the sheets are soft enough to make you want to stay there all day. The kitchenette is a small but practical space: a kettle, a mini fridge, and a coffee mug that holds just the right amount of brew. I found that the Wi‑Fi is decent, though the signal can dip a little when the city’s evening lights flicker on. The bathroom is a clean, functional space, but the shower head’s water pressure leaves a bit to be desired—just a quick rinse, not a full spa experience. That said, the tiles have a lovely, weathered texture that makes the place feel more like a home than a hotel.

Parking is a bit of a story. There’s a small underground lot right behind the building, but it’s only a few meters from the street, so you can walk to the train station in under ten minutes. The lot is on a single level and pretty well lit, so you don’t have to worry about the night. However, if you’re driving in the summer, you might have to deal with a few extra minutes of searching for a spot because the city gets busy around the market square. I parked once and it was a quick “oh, just a second” before I found the spot. Noise-wise, the old town is bustling but not overwhelming. The only real disturbance is the occasional honk from a delivery van at the corner of Elijas iela and Pils Street. I didn’t notice it much, but if you’re a light sleeper, you might want to bring earplugs.

Speaking of the old town, you’re literally a stone’s throw from the main attractions. Just a few minutes’ walk from the Freedom Square, you can hop on a tram to the Latvian National Museum of Art, or take a leisurely stroll along the Daugava River. There’s a popular café on Lielā Street where the locals sip strong espresso and chat about the city’s politics – I tried their flat white and it was as smooth as a good conversation. For those who want a more local vibe, there’s a small market on Rezeknes Street that sells fresh fish, locally grown rye bread, and a handful of artisanal cheeses that you won’t find in the tourist spots. I recommend stopping by for a quick bite before heading back to the hotel for a short siesta – the building’s interior is cool and bright, thanks to the large windows that let in natural light.

Honestly, I think the Hanza Hotel is a solid 3‑star option for anyone who wants a bit of comfort without breaking the bank. The staff are attentive, the location is unbeatable if you’re into exploring the old town on foot, and the price point is sensible. The only critique is that the rooms could use a little more space – the beds sit close to the walls, and the little walk-in closet is a bit cramped. But if you’re not looking for a palace, you’ll find the room’s simplicity to be a breath of fresh air. All in all, it’s a place that makes you feel like you’re staying in a friend’s apartment rather than a hotel, and that’s exactly the vibe I’m looking for when I travel.