Where To Stay In Riga? All You Need To Know
Choosing Where To Stay In Riga
Are you trying to figure out where to stay in Riga? After spending three incredible days exploring Latvia’s captivating capital, I can guide you through the best accommodation options.
While I had an exceptional experience at the Hestia Hotel Draugi, I discovered numerous other fantastic places worth considering during my explorations of the city.
I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Riga, from the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town to the vibrant nightlife districts.
Whether you’re considering luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, or budget-friendly hostels, I’ll help you find the perfect base for your Riga adventure.
Make sure you check out my guides on the Best Things to Do in Riga and whether Riga is Worth Visiting.
Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means that if you make a booking through them, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. See my Privacy Policy.
Find My 3 Days In Riga Itinerary For Planning Your Trip
Old Town – Best For Everyone
This may be no surprise, but for me, the best place to stay in Riga is the Old Town.
Why? Well, there are numerous things to do all close by and within walking distance: The House of the Blackheads, the Cat House, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia, and Dome Square, among many other places.
However, it was blown to pieces by the Germans in World War 2 and since rebuilt, it’s a very beautiful city.
I couldn’t speak more highly of the 4-star Hestia Hotel Draugi.
What I loved was the location. Less than 6 minutes walking to the House of the Blackheads, it felt safe and was perfect for us as a couple during our first time in Riga.
Rooms were a nice size, and the buffet breakfast won me over. The beds were super soft, and it was warm in the cold days of March.
Budget Hotels in Old Town
Mid-Range Hotels in Old Town
Old Riga Great Location & View
Luxury Hotels in Old Town
Agenskalns – Best For A More Peaceful Experience
On the west side of the River Daugava, Āgenskalns is a really good option to consider when visiting Riga.
One of the best things about this district is its proximity to the Old Town. You can easily walk or take a tram into the historic centre.
You’ll find plenty of attractions in the area. The Holy Trinity Church and the National Library are just steps away, so you’re never far from the action.
While you’re on this side of the river, consider visiting the Riga Shooting Range, the Water Tower, or exploring the beautiful Kalnciema Quarter Market before heading to the Old Town.
This part of Riga did feel different to the old town.
When we visited, it was like fewer tourists were found here and more locals were around. This was great because it gave us a glimpse into daily life, which I enjoyed.
If you’re looking for a weekend away, check out my 2 days in Riga post.
Budget Hotels in Agenskalns
Mid-Range Hotels in Agenskalns
Luxury Hotels in Agenskalns
Brasa – Best For Hipsters
If you love modern hipster locations, you’ll find Brasa filled with artistic flair and colour.
Though it’s northeast of the Old Town, you can get there easily by train or bus (9, 11, 24, and 49 run through or near the district). I recommend getting coffee at Miera Maize Kafe and Rocket Bean Roastery for a hip coffee experience.
You’ll find the Great Cemetery and the Padomju Karavīru Kapi (Military Cemetery) in this district. Getting around is convenient with plenty of tram and bus stops throughout the area.
Additionally, you’ll discover art galleries and vintage shops if you want to do some shopping.
Budget Hotels in Brasa
Charming Residence on Ēveles Street
Mid-Range Hotels in Brasa
One bedroom Sunny Tallinn Street Apartment With Parking
Sky-High Sauna Retreat Penthouse with City Views
Pearl – new and cosy apartment close to Center
Centrs – Best For Nightlife
Located on the eastern side of the Bastejkalns Park is the Centre District of Riga.
The Art Academy of Latvia and the Nativity Cathedral are found in this part of the city.
There are hotels for people of every budget. I loved visiting the Bastejkalns park for a nice stroll through the park while in the city.
The Nativity Cathedral was also a beautiful place to see firsthand.
Apart from the old town this would be the next place I would stay when visiting Riga.
Budget Hotels in Centrs
Riga Central District, Тихий Центр города, всё под боком, удобно
Mid-Range Hotels in Centrs
Luxury Hotels in Centrs
Best Places to Stay In Riga For First Timers
In my opinion, any first-time traveller to Riga should stay in the Old Town.
It’s central, has loads of things to do, and has some amazing places to eat.
When we visited, I loved nothing more than walking along the cobblestone streets and admiring the colourful architecture, then ducking inside for a hot Latvian soup to escape the cold weather.
It was extremely satisfying to stay in the Old Town for all of these reasons.
Romantic Places To Stay For Couples
The old design and history of Riga make for a romantic city to escape for a few days.
If you stay in the exuberant Art Nouveau district, you can expect amazing architecture. The cobblestone streets add an extra layer of class, and you can escape for a romantic meal with some tasty Latvian food in the evening.
The Old Town and Centrs have the best places to stay for couples looking for that romantic getaway weekend.
The Grand Palace Hotel, with its amazing interior and Hotel Gutenberg will offer couples exactly that. Both have terrific reviews and look like an ideal place to spend a few days in Riga with a loved one.
Best Places To Stay In Riga For Solo Travellers
If you’re flying solo, then again, the Old Town is the place to be.
If you need a cheap but trusted place to stay, consider the Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel or Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hostel.
Both of these hostels are superbly located and you can potentially get a dorm room from less than €30.00 per night.
Another nice option is Central Hostel, where many solo travellers tend to stay. It has a great location too!
Both hostels score amazingly well on the reviews so people who stay here are mostluy saying good things.
Safety Wing Travel Insurance
I keep harping on about travel insurance.
So it goes without saying that I do not recommend anybody travel without it.
This couldn’t have been clearer when Guada needed to spend one week in a hospital in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Read about our story here.
Get yourself covered today, or even once you’ve arrived in the destination country.
Final Thoughts/Conclusion
Riga is an epic city to explore for a few days.
No matter when you visit, you’ll have a great time. I loved visiting Riga in winter.
As you can see, there are multiple places to stay, no matter your budget. Budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels can all be found in Riga, and some offer great deals.
Furthermore, I would have no problem recommending Hestia Hotel Draugi. It gave us an amazing buffet breakfast, and the beds were cushy and soft.
I hope you have a wonderful time in Riga.
Any questions? Just drop me a message.
Thanks for reading,
James
FAQs
Which Area To Stay In Riga?
Hands down, the best area in Riga to stay is the Old Town. It’s close to all the major attractions, and there are great restaurants, things to see and places to visit. The cobblestone streets are beautiful from the moment you leave the hotel. By foot, you can explore all the beauty this Baltic city has to offer.
Where To Avoid In Riga?
Based on my research, it’s best to avoid areas like Maskavas priekšpilsēta, Šķirotava, Brasa, and Bolderāja. These districts have higher rates of petty theft and muggings, so stay alert if you need to visit or pass through them.
Where Is The Hipster Area In Riga?
If you want to join the hipsters of Riga, you need to visit Miera Street. This is in the Mežaparks district, about 23 minutes using public transport. You can use the Nacionālā opera tram stop to take it there.
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