Urban Apartment

Urban Apartment Overview

Urban Apartment sits at Emīlijas Benjamiņas iela 10‑27, right on the corner of the lively Ķīpsala district. I remember walking up that cobblestone block in late autumn, the smell of freshly baked rye bread drifting from a tiny bakery called “Rūta’s.” The building itself is a classic pre‑war brick façade, but the interior is a breath of modernity—clean lines, neutral palettes, and a generous amount of natural light that makes the space feel less like a hotel room and more like a private loft. When you walk in, the front desk is a welcoming, bearded concierge who actually knows the best spots for late‑night coffee. He pulls out a map of Riga’s hidden alleys and shows you the shortcut to the old wooden bridge over the Daugava, where you can catch the sunset over the city’s skyline.

I stayed there during the late summer, when the streets are buzzing with festivals and the food trucks are rolling in front of the main square. The noise level is pretty decent for a city hotel—there’s a faint hum of traffic from the main road, but the walls are thick enough to keep the city’s chatter at a polite whisper. Check‑in was quick and friendly; they actually give you a local SIM card that works on the city’s free Wi‑Fi network. I was surprised that they provided a small, hand‑crafted welcome kit—an artisanal soap and a sachet of dried lavender from a nearby garden, which made the quarters feel extra cozy. Parking is a bit of a story: the only street‑level spots are reserved for residents, so you’ll need to use the paid garage two streets over at Lāčplēša Street. It’s a bit of a walk, but you’ll get a good stroll through the historic district, past the old bell tower, and along the river promenade. I couldn’t complain about the cost—just the usual city‑rate, but it was worth every euro for the convenience.

The rooms themselves are thoughtfully designed; the queen‑size bed is plump and the linens feel like a cloud. The kitchenette has a compact fridge, a kettle, and a tiny espresso machine—perfect for whipping up a quick breakfast before you hit the market at the nearby “Rīga Bazaar.” The bathroom is surprisingly spacious, with a rain shower that feels like a mini spa—just add a splash of your favorite body wash and you’re in your own private oasis. I also noticed that the apartment has a small balcony with a view of the old city walls—a quiet spot to sip coffee while listening to the distant bells from St. Peter’s Church. The Wi‑Fi is reliable, with a discreet router that doesn’t get in the way of the décor. The only minor gripe I had was that the closet area felt a little cramped; you might want to bring a travel shoe rack if you’re packing a lot of footwear. But honestly, the vibe here is relaxed, and the staff go out of their way to make it feel like you’re staying with a friend rather than a hotel guest. If you’re looking for a place that balances the charm of old Riga with practical comforts, this is definitely the spot to consider.

Travelers should reserve a hotel in Riga at least two months ahead for major events like opera festivals, ensuring the best rates and prime locations near historic attractions.

Facilities