Sunny family terrace

Sunny family terrace Overview

Sunny family terrace sits on 4 Kazdangas iela, tucked just off the main artery that runs between the Old Town and the new business district. I first spotted it on a rainy Tuesday, when the streetlights reflected off the glass windows and gave the whole block a soft, amber glow. The building itself is a modest brick structure, but the façade got a fresh coat of paint last spring, so it looks newer than most of the old Soviet blocks that line the street. I’ve walked past it so many times that I can tell you the exact point where the cobblestones give way to the smooth concrete of the parking lot, and how the smell of roasted coffee from the small café on Kazdangas iela lingers in the air when the morning rush starts.

When you step into the lobby, the first thing that hits you is the warm, slightly citrusy scent of the fresh linen on the pillows in the guest rooms. The reception desk is manned by a friendly woman who greets you with a genuine smile and a quick “Sveiki!”—the local greeting that feels like a personal invitation. She’s quick with the check‑in process, but she takes the time to point out the best spots: a tiny bistro a block away that serves the best pancakes in Riga, and a street vendor on Lielais Boulevard that sells smoked fish at an unbeatable price. She also reminds you that the parking lot is free for guests, though it does fill up quickly in the evenings, so if you’re planning to catch a late show at the opera, you might want to book a spot in advance.

The rooms themselves are a pleasant surprise. They’re 3‑star, but the décor is tastefully modern with a touch of Latvian folk pattern in the throw pillows—think minimalistic, but with a hint of color that feels like a postcard come to life. The beds are surprisingly comfortable; the mattress has that perfect medium‑firm feel that lets you unwind after a day of exploring. The bathrooms are compact but functional, with a rain‑shower that actually gives you a sense of being in your own little spa. Each room has a small balcony that overlooks the street; you can listen to the distant hum of traffic and the occasional blare of a bus, which is a normal part of the city’s soundtrack. The noise level inside the rooms is low, so you can get a good night’s sleep even if you’re staying during the busy summer season.

The hotel’s location is a real advantage for anyone wanting to experience the city like a local. From the front desk, it’s a short walk to the Riga Central Station, where you can hop on a train to the outskirts or catch a bus to the beach at Jurmala. In the evenings, the street lights paint the sidewalks in a golden hue that makes a stroll to the nearby bakery feel almost magical. The hotel doesn’t advertise itself as a “tourist hotspot,” but it’s right next to the old town’s main square, so you can explore the cobblestone streets, historic churches, and art galleries without taking a taxi. I’ve also discovered a hidden gem—an old cinema on Kazdangas iela that’s been converted into a cozy restaurant, serving traditional Latvian dishes like grey peas with speck. If you’re there after midnight, the place is surprisingly quiet, and the only noise is the clinking of glasses.

One small critique: the Wi‑Fi signal can be a bit spotty in the upper floors, so if you’re a digital nomad, you might want to move down a level. Also, the breakfast options are decent but a bit limited; they serve fresh pastries and a selection of cereals, but if you’re a big eater, you might want to grab a bagel from the café on the corner instead. However, these are minor inconveniences that hardly detract from the overall experience. The staff’s warm hospitality, the comfortable rooms, the free parking, and the prime location make Sunny family terrace a standout choice for families or solo travelers alike. If you’re planning a trip to Riga, I’d say this place is worth a stay—you’ll feel like a local, not a tourist, and you’ll have the best of both worlds: comfort and authenticity.

Facilities