Old Town Art House

First Impressions

Walking up to Old Town Art House on Aldaru Street, you’ll immediately notice it’s tucked into one of those beautifully restored medieval buildings that make Riga‘s historic center so charming. The entrance feels more like stepping into a friend’s creative studio than a typical hotel — there’s original artwork covering the walls and this warm, slightly bohemian atmosphere that sets it apart from your standard three-star properties. Honestly, the 9.6 rating makes perfect sense once you’re inside.

The Neighborhood Vibe

You’re basically in the heart of Old Town here, which means cobblestone streets and medieval architecture right outside your door. What I love about this particular street is that it’s just far enough from the main tourist drag to feel authentic, but you can still walk to Dome Square in about three minutes. The location puts you within easy reach of those incredible Art Nouveau buildings Riga’s famous for — actually, you can see some gorgeous examples just by wandering around the block.

The Room Experience

Each room feels like its own little art gallery, which totally fits the name. The spaces aren’t huge — this is a historic building after all — but they’re thoughtfully designed with local artwork and comfortable furnishings that actually work together. You know what impressed me most? The attention to detail, from the quality linens to the way they’ve preserved original architectural elements while keeping everything modern and functional.

Amenities and Practicalities

Don’t expect a full-service spa or fancy restaurant here — that’s not what this place is about. Instead, you get genuine hospitality from staff who clearly care about their guests’ experience and know the city well. They’re the kind of people who’ll give you actual recommendations (not just tourist traps) and help you discover parts of Riga most visitors never see. There’s also decent parking nearby, which is honestly a relief if you’re driving in Old Town.

Why Guests Love It

This isn’t your cookie-cutter hotel experience, and that’s exactly the point. Old Town Art House appeals to travelers who want something with character and soul rather than corporate polish. The combination of the artistic atmosphere, genuinely helpful service, and that unbeatable location in medieval Riga creates something special — which explains why it consistently earns such high ratings from guests who appreciate authenticity over amenities.