— The hotel
Homly S22
First Impressions
Homly S22 sits on a quiet residential street in Riga‘s Torņakalns district, and honestly, you might walk right past it if you’re not paying attention. It’s housed in what looks like a converted apartment building — which it probably is — and the entrance has that understated European vibe that’s more about substance than flash. The lobby is compact but surprisingly modern, with clean lines and that Nordic minimalism that actually works here.
The Neighborhood
Here’s what I really liked about the location — you’re across the Daugava River from Old Town, which means you get to feel like a local rather than a tourist. The Torņakalns area has this authentic residential feel, with small cafes and grocery stores that aren’t trying to separate you from your euros. There’s a tram stop maybe five minutes away that’ll get you to the historic center in about ten minutes, and honestly, that daily river crossing becomes part of the charm.
The Room Experience
The room I stayed in felt more like a small apartment than a typical hotel setup. Everything’s quite compact but cleverly designed — the kitchenette has enough space to actually prepare a simple meal, which is perfect when you want to grab groceries from the local market. The bathroom is modern and surprisingly spacious for what you’d expect from a three-star property. What struck me most was how quiet it gets at night; being on a residential street really pays off when you’re trying to sleep.
Daily Life Here
Breakfast isn’t included, but that kitchenette I mentioned actually makes this a non-issue. There’s a small supermarket about two blocks away where you can stock up on local bread, cheese, and coffee — it becomes this nice morning routine. The staff is genuinely helpful without being overbearing; they’ll give you proper directions to places that aren’t just the obvious tourist spots. I mean, they steered me toward this little restaurant in the neighborhood that I never would have found otherwise.
Why Guests Love It
You know what really works about Homly S22? It’s that sweet spot between hotel convenience and apartment independence. You’re not paying for amenities you won’t use, but you’re getting exactly what matters — clean, comfortable space in a genuinely local part of the city. The 8.7 rating makes perfect sense when you consider what you’re actually getting for the price. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience Riga like someone who actually lives there, rather than bouncing between tourist attractions. Plus, having that kitchen setup means you can save money on some meals without feeling like you’re roughing it.