— The hotel
Olga apartment
First Impressions
Olga apartment sits on Kurzemes prospekts in a typical Riga residential building, and honestly, that’s exactly what makes it charming. This isn’t some flashy hotel lobby situation — it’s more like staying at your savvy local friend’s place who actually knows how to make guests comfortable. The building itself has that solid Soviet-era construction that means thick walls and real quiet, which you’ll appreciate after wandering around Riga‘s cobblestone streets all day.
The Apartment Experience
What struck me right away was how this apartment actually feels like a proper home base rather than just a place to crash. The room setup is smart — everything’s arranged so you can spread out your stuff without feeling cramped, and there’s genuine attention to making the space functional. You know what I mean? Like, proper hooks for your coat and actual counter space for your things, not just the bare minimum.
Location & Getting Around
Kurzemes prospekts might sound unfamiliar, but it’s actually a solid choice if you want to experience Riga beyond the tourist bubble. You’re in Torņakalns, which feels more like where actual locals live and work — there are decent cafés within walking distance and the area has this lived-in authenticity. The tram connections are genuinely useful here (something I can’t say about every neighborhood), and getting to Old Town takes maybe 15 minutes on public transport.
Practical Comforts
The kitchen situation deserves mention because it’s actually equipped for real cooking, not just heating up instant noodles. I mean, if you’re the type who likes picking up ingredients from local markets (and Riga’s got some good ones), you can actually prepare proper meals here. There’s reliable WiFi throughout, and the bathroom setup works well — good water pressure, which isn’t always a given in older buildings around here.
Why Guests Love It
That 9.4 rating makes sense once you spend a night here — it’s the kind of three-star place that overdelivers by focusing on the basics that actually matter to travelers. Olga clearly understands what people need: a clean, comfortable space that doesn’t feel institutional, in a neighborhood that gives you a genuine taste of the city. Plus, there’s parking available, which anyone who’s tried navigating Riga’s Old Town with a car will tell you is worth its weight in gold.
Exploring Riga blends Hanseatic heritage, UNESCO-listed Art Nouveau, and vibrant neighborhoods glowing with amber-lit evenings.