NB Apartments Riga Old Town

NB Apartments Riga Old Town is tucked in the heart of the cobblestone maze that is the historic centre of Riga, right on Šķūņu iela 9. The moment you step onto the street, you can taste the salt of the nearby Daugava River and hear the distant hum of buses that never seem to stop. Honestly, the building is an unassuming brick façade that looks like any other 19th‑century townhouse, but as soon as you cross the threshold, you realise it’s a hidden gem. The lobby is warm, with a touch of local charm—old oil paintings of Riga’s fortresses, a small coffee machine that smells like fresh brew every morning, and a friendly receptionist who knows your name before you even say it, if you’re a regular.

Walking out, you’re immediately in the thick of the Old Town buzz. You know what? The House of the Blackheads is just a three‑minute stroll away, its stone arches echoing with centuries of history. A short walk brings you to Riga Cathedral, where the spires pierce the sky, and a few steps further, you bump into the old Lido café, where locals swear by the best rye bread. If you’re craving something more modern, a quick 20‑minute walk leads you to the glass‑covered “Spilve” shopping mall, where you can grab a latte and a quick bite. The streets around Šķūņu iela are a mix of medieval charm and contemporary buzz—tucked‑in boutiques, spontaneous street performers, and the occasional street musician playing folk tunes that seep through the windows. The noise level is moderate; at night, the city’s chatter muffles into a gentle hum, perfect for a restful night.

Practical stuff: the check‑in is smooth, with a self‑service kiosk that’s surprisingly efficient, and the staff is friendly without being intrusive. The apartments themselves are cozy, with a kitchenette that’s surprisingly well‑equipped—think stainless steel, a decent fridge, and a small espresso machine that actually works. The rooms are clean, with a minimalist décor that feels modern yet not cold. I mean, the bed is comfy, the mattress isn’t too firm, and the linens feel like a soft hug. There is a small balcony in some units that offers a view of the city’s lit streets; you can sit there in the evenings and watch the world go by, the smell of street food drifting in. Parking is a bit of a challenge – you’ll need to use the nearby municipal parking lot, which is a bit pricey, but the city’s public transport system is world‑class, so you can just hop on a tram to explore further. The only critique is the bathroom – the shower has a slight leak that’s been fixed recently, but you’ll want to keep an eye on the water pressure. All in all, it’s a solid 3‑star stay that delivers authentic Riga vibes, a comfortable nest in the heart of the city, and a price that feels fair for the experience.