Zanna`s Apartment – Matisa 101

First Impressions

When I first pulled up to Zanna’s Apartment – Matisa 101, I’ll be honest — it doesn’t look like much from the outside. This is a residential building in Rīga, not some flashy hotel, but that’s actually what makes it special. You’re staying in a real neighborhood where locals live, and there’s something refreshing about that authenticity. The building itself is well-maintained, and finding the entrance was straightforward once I figured out the numbering system (typical for Riga, really).

The Space Itself

This apartment is what I’d call a pleasant surprise. Zanna has clearly put thought into making guests comfortable — the space feels lived-in but not cluttered, modern but not sterile. The kitchen is actually functional, which you can’t always count on with vacation rentals. I mean, you’ve got proper cookware, a decent-sized fridge, and enough counter space to actually prepare a meal if you want to save some euros. The living area flows nicely into the sleeping space, and honestly, it feels more spacious than the photos suggest.

Location and Getting Around

Matīsa iela is one of those streets that locals know but tourists often miss, and that works in your favor here. You’re about a 15-minute tram ride from Old Town, which means you can easily get to all the tourist spots but come home to a quieter area at night. There’s a Rimi supermarket within walking distance — trust me, you’ll appreciate that for breakfast supplies and snacks. The neighborhood has that authentic Riga feel, with Soviet-era buildings mixed with newer developments, and you’ll see more locals than tourists on the streets.

Practical Perks

Here’s what really sold me on this place: parking is actually free, which is almost unheard of in Riga these days. If you’re driving, this alone probably saves you 15-20 euros a day compared to city center options. The WiFi works well (I was working remotely part of my stay), and Zanna is genuinely responsive if you need anything. She left clear instructions for everything, from the washing machine to the best local coffee shop. Small touches like that make a difference when you’re trying to settle in somewhere new.

Why Guests Love It

Look, this isn’t going to wow you with fancy amenities or concierge service, but it delivers exactly what it promises — a comfortable, clean space that feels like home. Couples seem to particularly appreciate the setup, and I can see why. You’ve got privacy, your own room to spread out, and enough space to actually relax together without feeling cramped. The fact that it consistently gets such high ratings tells you everything you need to know about Zanna’s attention to detail. For the price point, especially with that free parking situation, it’s honestly hard to beat if you want to experience Riga like a local rather than a tourist.