— The hotel
Sherlock Apartments
When I first walked up to Sherlock Apartments on 3 Mazā Monētu iela, I felt like I’d stumbled into a hidden speakeasy of Rīga. The building itself is a quiet, four‑star gem that feels oddly like a cozy, modern flat rather than a hotel. The lobby has a low‑key, industrial vibe—think exposed brick, a few potted plants, and a barista who knows how to pull a latte so it looks like it’s been there forever. Check‑in is quick and friendly, no long queue, which is a relief after a hectic flight. The staff even tosses you a welcome card with a list of nearby cafés that locals swear by, so you’re not just handed a key but a little local guide.
The rooms are a solid 4‑star experience, but what really makes them special is the window view. You can see the bustling street of Ģertruda with its tiny cafés and bookshops, and just a short walk away is the Old Town’s cobblestones that feel like you’re stepping back in time. The bed is a cloud‑like comfort, and the bathroom feels like a spa with a deep soaking tub that makes you want to linger. The only real gripe: the hallway lights flicker sometimes, but that’s a tiny price to pay for the soft, warm glow that fills the space. Noise from the city is pretty low, especially if you’re on the upper floors; you can hear the distant honk of a bus and the murmur of a nearby market, but it’s far enough away to let you dream.
If you’re looking for a place that blends the vibe of a local apartment with the perks of a hotel, Sherlock Apartments does it right. Just step outside and you’ll find yourself on a short walk to the Central Market where the scent of fresh fish and rye bread hits you immediately. A few blocks over, the Latvian National Opera offers a night of culture if you’re in the mood for a show, and the nearby cafés serve coffee so strong you’ll want to stay there until dawn. Parking is a bit of a scavenger hunt—street parking is limited on weekends, so consider using the nearby public parking lot, but it’s usually free if you find a spot early. The hotel’s quiet hours are respected; you’ll hear only the occasional hum of a neighbor’s TV in the early morning. Honestly, this place feels like a second home in Rīga, and I’d recommend it to anyone who wants an authentic, hassle‑free stay with a dash of local charm.
