NON-Smoking Čaka Apt and Free Parking

First Impressions

The NON-Smoking Čaka Apt and Free Parking caught my attention immediately — not just because of its refreshingly honest name, but because it sits right on Aleksandra Čaka iela, one of Riga‘s most vibrant streets. This three-star property doesn’t try to be something it’s not, and honestly, that’s exactly what makes it work. You know what really sold me though? The fact that they’ve got their own parking spot right on site, which if you’ve ever tried to park in Riga’s Old Town, you’ll understand is basically like finding gold.

Location & Neighborhood

I mean, the location score of 9.4 isn’t just some random number — this place really is in the thick of things. Čaka street runs right through the heart of the city, and you’re literally walking distance from both the Art Nouveau district and the medieval Old Town. What I love about this area is that it feels authentically Latvian rather than touristy. There’s a great little market nearby where locals actually shop, and the tram connections are fantastic if you want to explore beyond the center.

The Apartment Experience

This isn’t your typical hotel room setup — it’s actually an apartment style accommodation, which gives you way more space to spread out. The kitchen area is properly equipped (not just a mini-fridge and microwave situation), so you can actually cook if you want to save some money or just prefer eating in. The non-smoking policy might seem obvious to mention in the name, but trust me, in some older Riga buildings, this isn’t always a given. Everything feels clean and well-maintained, though don’t expect designer furnishings — it’s more about comfort and practicality.

Practical Perks

Let’s talk about that free private parking again because it’s honestly a game-changer. Most places in central Riga either don’t have parking at all, or they charge you almost as much as the room rate for it. Here, you just pull up and you’re done — no circling blocks looking for a spot, no feeding meters every two hours. The building itself is well-connected too, with good public transport links if you’re planning day trips to Jurmala or want to explore other parts of Latvia.

Why Guests Love It

The couples rating of 9.5 for location makes total sense when you experience it firsthand. There’s something romantic about walking these tree-lined streets in the evening, and you’re close enough to great restaurant options without being in the middle of the tourist chaos. The apartment setup also means you get more privacy than a traditional hotel, plus the flexibility to come and go as you please. It’s not trying to be fancy, but it delivers exactly what it promises — a comfortable, well-located base for exploring Riga without the premium price tag of the boutique hotels.