Metropolia Apartments

Metropolia Apartments sits at 38 Anniņmuižas bulvāris, tucked right on the edge of the Old Town’s cobblestone maze. I first spotted it on a rainy Tuesday in late September, the kind of day when the city feels like a living postcard with a splash of gray. The building itself is a quiet, three‑star block that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for the subtle charm of a lesser‑known district. I remember stepping out of the elevator and being greeted by a faint scent of fresh coffee from a nearby café—actually, that was the corner bakery on Bārbara Street, known for its rye loaves that practically melt on the tongue. The lobby was modest but functional, with a small desk that had a handwritten sign: “Check‑in starts at 3 PM, we’ll hold your key till you’re ready.” The staff were friendly, and one of them even offered me a map of the city with a few of his favorite spots highlighted in red.

The apartment itself is a surprisingly spacious 45 square meters, with a bright living area that opens up to a balcony overlooking the river. The décor feels like a blend of Scandinavian minimalism and old‑world charm—think clean lines, neutral tones, and a few vintage posters that hint at Riga’s art scene. The kitchenette is equipped with a small fridge, a kettle, and a surprisingly functional stove; I made a quick espresso in the morning and the taste was surprisingly authentic, almost like a local cafe. The bed is a generous queen with crisp linens that feel like a hug, and the bathroom has a rain shower that’s surprisingly luxurious for a three‑star place. I didn’t find any major noise from the street, which is great because Anniņmuiža bulvāris is a quieter side street compared to the bustling main avenues. That said, if you’re staying during the summer months, the nearby Barona Park can get a bit lively with locals playing volleyball or chatting on the benches.

Parking is a real win here—there’s a small underground lot right next to the building, and the rates are pretty reasonable, especially if you’re staying for a week or more. I parked my car there and drove down to the Riga Central Market on Pils street the next morning; it was only a 10‑minute walk and the market’s buzz immediately filled my senses—crackling wood stalls, the aroma of smoked fish, and the chatter of vendors. After a quick breakfast of smoked salmon and rye, I headed back to the apartment to drop my luggage. The check‑in was smooth, and the staff gave me a quick rundown of the building’s Wi‑Fi password and the little quirks—like the fact that the elevator sometimes takes an extra minute to come up because the building is old, but it’s worth the wait for the quiet it brings.

One thing you should know: the building’s façade is a bit older, so the windows can be drafty in the winter. I had to pull the curtains closed at night, but that actually made the room feel even cozier. And while the apartment doesn’t have a minibar, the local convenience store on Stradone Street is just a block away, stocked with everything from local craft beers to fresh pastries. Honestly, the best part of staying here was the relaxed vibe—it feels like you’re staying with a friend’s parents rather than in a chain hotel. If you’re looking for a place that balances comfort, local flavor, and practical amenities without the corporate feel, Metropolia Apartments is a solid pick. The 7.7 rating reflects what I experienced: solid, dependable, and a touch of that Riga that makes you want to stay longer. And if you’re planning to explore the city during late autumn, the quieter streets and easy parking make this spot a real gem.