Spacious 2-story apt. w/ terrace – 280 m2

Spacious 2-story apt. w/ terrace – 280 m2 Overview

Spacious 2‑story apt. w/ terrace – 280 m2 sits right on Strēlnieku iela, a street that’s a bit off the usual map but still close enough to the old town that you can walk there in about ten minutes. I remember the first time I stepped in— the huge living room opened onto a balcony that looked out over the river lane, and the light that poured in from the terrace was just a little warmer than the indoor lights, as if the building was taking a deep breath. The apartment is basically a mini‑villa, with a separate kitchen, a big dining area, and two generous bedrooms that share a bathroom. It feels more like a home than a hotel, which is a big deal when you’re on a long layover or looking for a place to relax after a day of sightseeing.

I’ve stayed here twice already, once during the Christmas market season and once in late spring. In the winter, the terrace can feel a bit chilly, especially if you’re a morning coffee person, but the apartment’s insulation means the heating kicks in quickly and the whole space stays toasty. You get that unmistakable Latvian scent of damp stone in the hallway, but the kitchen’s stainless steel appliances keep it smelling fresh instead of stale. The place is quiet— not entirely silent, but the city’s hum is muffled by the thick walls. The neighbors are a friendly bunch, a couple who live in the apartment above, and they’re not the typical “quietly crashing” kind; they’re more like the kind of people who’ll chat about the best pierogi spots on a rainy afternoon.

Check‑in is straightforward. The front desk is manned by a young woman who speaks English fluently— she’s the kind of person who makes the whole “hotel” feel less like a corporate chain and more like a local host. She hands over a keycard and a map of the city that’s actually useful— it marks the nearest metro, the bus stops, and the best places to grab a latte for under €3. She even recommends a little café on Brivibas Street, just a block over, where the pastries are the best thing you’ll find in Riga. Parking is a bit of a challenge because the building doesn’t have a dedicated space, but the street has a few meters‑deep spots that will fit a standard car if you’re willing to wait a little. I usually park in the back alley, and the building’s owner will let me in if I call him; it’s all part of the charm.

The building is a three‑story Victorian structure, so the lobby has this old‑world feel— a polished wooden counter, a small fireplace, and a couple of mismatched chairs that look like they’ve been there forever. I’m not saying it’s the most glamorous, but it carries a sense of history that’s missing in the newer, glassy hotels downtown. The terrace itself is a highlight: it’s a wide, flat space with a small garden and a few potted plants. On a clear night, you can hear the distant bells of St. Peter’s Cathedral ringing, and the city lights flicker like a sea of tiny stars. The balcony is perfect for taking in the sunset after a day of exploring the old town’s cobblestones. It’s a little quiet in the evenings, but you can hear the faint sound of a street musician playing accordion somewhere down the street— the city’s soundtrack, if you will.

Honestly, the only thing that could be improved is the Wi‑Fi. It’s decent for browsing and checking emails, but if you’re a digital nomad or need to stream something, you might want to invest in a hotspot or a local SIM card. That said, the apartment’s layout makes it easy to set up a small office space on the living room’s side, and there’s a nice, sturdy desk that’s not too cramped. The windows are big, so you can get natural light all day, which is a big plus if you’re prone to the winter blues.

All in all, staying here is like having a personal base in Riga. It’s not flashy, but it’s functional, and the people who run it know the city inside and out. They’ll give you tips to avoid the tourist traps and show you where the locals actually dine. If you’re looking for a place that feels like a second home rather than a temporary stopover, this one’s got you covered. The only real downside is that the building’s architectural quirks— a slightly uneven floor in the hallway and a window that opens a bit too wide— might be a bother if you’re a meticulous traveler. But for the most part, it’s a solid, comfortable spot that will make your Riga trip feel more like a personal adventure than a ticking off of a list.

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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