Old Riga Plaza Hotel

Old Riga Plaza Hotel Overview

Old Riga Plaza Hotel sits on Peldu iela, right in the heart of downtown Riga, where you can feel the old city’s pulse at every corner. I first spotted it from the street—its white façade and narrow windows look like something out of a postcard, but when I stepped inside, the vibe was all local, no touristy gloss. The lobby is modest, with a few mismatched chairs that make you wonder who chose them, and a handwritten sign in Latvian that says “Sveiki atpakaļ” (Welcome back). Check‑in is a quick thing; the front desk clerk is friendly, though she has a habit of forgetting to ask if you need a key card for the gym. If you’re arriving around 3 pm, there’s a little waiting area with a flat‑screen TV showing the news, and the smell of fresh coffee from the corner café spills in through the open doors.

Walking out, you’re immediately in the thick of it—the cobblestones, the chatter of street musicians, the scent of fresh rye bread from a bakery on Brāļu iela. Right next to the hotel, you’ll find the old Town Hall, which is a short walk away and perfect for a quick photo op. The best part about staying here is the access to the city’s hidden gems: a tiny jazz bar on Lielā iela, a vegan café on Tērbatas iela, and the famous Riga Central Market, where you can try homemade sauerkraut and fresh fish. If you’re looking for a quiet night, the hotel’s rooms are surprisingly sound‑proof; you can hear the hum of the street outside, but not the traffic. The room itself is standard 3‑star, but the bed is surprisingly plush, and the window offers a view of the old city’s rooftops. There’s a small balcony—great for a morning coffee while watching the city wake up.

Parking is a pain point: the nearest paid lot is on Pērkano iela, about a 10‑minute walk, and prices can be steep during festival season. If you drive, I’d suggest leaving your car at a nearby public parking garage and taking a short walk—Riga’s streets are pedestrian‑friendly and you’ll avoid the noise. The hotel does offer a small on‑site lot, but it’s only for guests who book a longer stay, so not a great option for a short stopover. On quieter nights, you might hear the distant rumble of the city’s nightlife, but overall it’s manageable. The staff are genuinely friendly, though they’re not the most efficient with luggage; I was left with a bag that took a few minutes to fetch. The breakfast buffet is decent—think eggs, cheese, and a selection of local pastries, but it can get crowded in the summer. I’d recommend arriving early if you want a seat.

Honestly, if you want to soak up Riga’s old‑world charm without paying a premium, this place works. It’s a solid, comfortable base that puts you right where you need to be. Plus, the small touches—like the handwritten welcome note and the free tea in the lobby—make a big difference. I’d say you’ll enjoy the casual, laid‑back atmosphere, the easy access to the city’s cultural spots, and the overall feel that you’re really in the middle of the action. The only drawback is the parking, but that’s a small price to pay for a city stay that feels authentic and fully integrated into Riga’s daily rhythm. Enjoy your trip!

Best hotels in Riga range from charming boutique properties in the historic Old Town to elegant Art Nouveau hotels with stunning views of the Daugava River and medieval spires.

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