Top 15 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Riga 2023

The largest of the three Baltic capitals, beautiful and vastly underrated Riga has often been dubbed ‘The Paris of the North.’ Adored for its thriving art, medieval architecture, tranquil parks, and glamorous street-side cafés, Riga is a city with a spirit-filled melange of history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and creative visionaries; I loved this gem of a town! 

Riga’s Gothic spires blend with a striking Art Nouveau scene to create a pulsating cityscape like no other under the shadow of the iconic Freedom Monument.

Many of Riga’s centuries-old buildings now house some of the Baltic’s most charming hotels, which range from opulent quirky boutiques to unique five-star mansions. Here are my favorite cool and unusual hotels in Riga, Latvia (in no particular order).

Our Top 3 Best Cool and Unusual Hotels
1.
Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by Semarah l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Instagrammable Vibes
Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by Semarah
2.
Dome hotels l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Boutique Accommodations
Dome hotels
3.
Rixwell Konventa Seta Design Hotel l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Trendy Design
Rixwell Konventa Seta Design Hotel
Best For Instagrammable Vibes

Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by Semarah

Romantic trendy boutique in Riga

 

Set in Riga’s historic heart, just a few steps from the Old Town, Grant Poet encompasses a full range of five-star offerings. These include Mouth-watering cuisine, a vibrant bar, blissful spa treatments, a state-of-the-art wellness center, and ample event space.

The guestrooms invite you to live the property’s historic charm, with opulent furniture, traditional chandeliers, and high ceilings setting the tone.

The large windows in my room allowed me to kickstart my day with astonishing views over the city’s gleaming rooftops, which was a wonderful feature. Occupying five stories, the building is dressed head to toe in extravagant modern furnishings, which sit elegantly on the beautifully patterned tiled floors.

Pros

Stunning design and vibe

Fine views from windows

Tasty food buffet

Relaxing spa therapies

Cons

Some noise from outside

Parking is extra

Best For Boutique Accommodations

Dome hotels

Dome Hotel - a hidden gem stylish 5-star boutique hotel

Brimming with character, this supremely stylish boutique hotel is graced by 18th-century elements that beautifully contrast the slick and modern designer touches.

My favorite aspect of the hotel was its location on a quaint cobbled street, where a step outside the property landed me right within Riga’s historic center.

Inside, local materials have been incorporated to beautify the hotel’s medieval features. This is evident in the romantic spa, where rattan furniture has added a graceful touch to the blissful wellness atmosphere.

The 15 sleek, luxurious rooms welcome plenty of natural light, and the antique in-room fittings elegantly juxtapose the charming handmade features.

Pros

Gorgeous design and fine-dining cuisine

Housed in a 13th-century building

Spa sauna Turkish Bath and rooftop terrace

Situated in a charming cobblestone street

Cons

Some rooms are small

Service can be a little slow

WiFi can be spotty

Best For Trendy Design

Rixwell Konventa Seta Design Hotel

Rixwell Konventa Seta Design Hotel - a charming and contemporary venue2

 

Situated in one of the oldest building complexes in the Old Town, Rixwell Konventa Seta combines a modern design with a historic aura to create a unique atmosphere.

‘Two More Beers,’ the hotel’s Restaurant, is one of Riga’s most stylish, with thoughtful details and vivid colors setting the tone for a memorable dining experience.

From here, you can access the stunning summer terrace, which is my favorite place to kick back and relax. Whether you choose one of the sleek and sophisticated guestrooms or the spacious apartments, prepare to be captivated by the elegant, state-of-the-art furniture designed to exude comfort and bliss.

Pros

Stylish restaurant 'Two more beers'

Cozy summer terrace

Classic wooden room

Conference and banquet facilities

Cons

Little expensive

Parking is paid

Best For Couples

A22 Hotel

A22 Hotel - a sophisticated and elegant hotel

A22 beckons guests to immerse in the luxury of authentic architecture, astonishing history, and vibrant interiors. A flair of Art Nouveau embellishes the spacious guestrooms, which are equipped with layered artisan details and sophisticated amenities.

The design concept is all about orchestrating a sense of chic tranquillity, and each room embodies this through a unique piece of art.

I thought the way traditional hues were combined with high-end technology and soothing tones created an idyllic sanctuary and certainly gave me the blissful night’s sleep I was after. The essence of art is also the source of inspiration for the on-site Restaurant John, which satisfies any epicurean cravings with an intimate, candlelit gourmet feast. 

Pros

Stylish boutique style with modern tech

Vibrant and spacious rooms

Creative decor

On-site restaurant and dining

Cons

A bit away from the city

Air con can be a bit temperamental

Best For Aparthotel

Neiburgs Hotel

Neiburgs Hotel - an ultra-creative hotel

This exquisitely decorated Art Nouveau building is set on a narrow, cobbled street in Riga’s Old Town. Many of the period features, from the parquet flooring and stucco details to the restored Thonet furniture, were carefully chosen in reminiscence of the property’s storied heritage.

They are, however, harmonized with contemporary designer touches like enormous Zava Ociu ceiling lamps and Ligne Roset armchairs. I thought the service was top-notch, which made me feel at home as I sat among vintage furniture in the charming communal lobby.

Brightly lit by large windows and adorned with colorful paintings, the ground-floor Restaurant is a blissful expression of Latvian cuisine, with a keen eye on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Pros

Modern design and a stunning outlook

Delicious Veggie-Burgers and other food options

Offers spa and extensive fitness services

Cons

Can get booked up

No extra beds available

Best For Old Town Location

Hotel Justus

Hotel Justus - a quirky-chic boutique hotel

Hotel Justus belongs to a small group of friends who spotted a unique but run-down building and revived it with artistic energy.

Only a few steps from the famous Dome Cathedral, this elegant four-star boutique invites you through an authentic façade into a world of historic charm and comfort. The traditional brickwork is combined with captivating objets d’art to evoke an atmosphere that merges the past with the present.

The hotel has long been a favorite shooting spot for Soviet movies, and the stylish European Restaurant balances a slick aesthetic with superb gastronomical delights.

My room was an unparalleled spot to combine leisure and work, with high-end amenities such as a modern work desk standing side by side with antique décor

Pros

Rooms adorned with vintage furnishings

Chic European eatery

Located nearby famous Dome Cathedral

Onsite sauna and spa

Cons

Some Rooms are small

Parking is extra

Best For Spa and Wellness

Wellton Riverside Spa Hotel

Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel - a high-end place to stay in Riga2

Graced by jaw-dropping panoramas of Riga, this superior urban retreat offers 265 bright and modern rooms, a refined restaurant, and the Old Town’s largest spa complex.

Arguably, the most epic spot of all, however, is the 8th-floor terrace, which is an Instagrammers dream. I spent an unforgettable evening here relishing a gorgeous Baltic sunset!

The stunning wellness center is ready to pamper mind, body, and soul, with a Turkish bath, herbal sauna, cedar bath, and many more trailblazing facilities on offer.

The ground-floor Restaurant and bar is the epitome of European flair, and its eclectic menu complements a crafted cocktail list.

Pros

Stunning Baltic sunset from the terrace

Largest spa resort

European restaurant with an eclectic menu

Turkish bath and herbal sauna

Cons

Service at the spa is slow

Limited dining options

Best For Luxury Stay

Grand Palace Hotel

Grand Palace Hotel Riga

 

Grand Palace is Latvia’s only member of the prestigious ‘Leading Hotels of the World’ collection, and is situated just two minutes’ walk from the Cathedral.

Dating back to 1877, the building was originally the Central Bank of Latvia. As you step off the cobbled streets and through the grand wooden doors of the hotel, you will be led up to an opulent reception adorned with Ottoman-style rugs, gold-painted fittings, and a marble staircase.

The walls of my room were hung with both modern paintings and framed old prints, sharing a nod to Riga’s maritime history. The velvet-upholstered chairs and sofas of the stylish Restaurant invite guests to decompress as they tuck into delicious, internationally-inspired cuisine fully.

Pros

Cultural and historical location

Rooms with modern and historic artwork

Restaurants offering international cuisine

Luxurious and spacious suites

Cons

A pricey option

Average breakfast

Best For City Views

Pullman Riga Old Town

Pullman Riga Old Town - a cool and unusual hotel2

Set in a magnificent building dating from 1789, The Pullman neighbors Dome Square and Freedom Monument in the heart of Riga’s historic center.

The guestrooms are clad head-to-toe in luxury materials and feature state-of-the-art amenities like LED Smart TVs, rain showers, a minibar, and tea & coffee making facilities.

A range of dining options is also on offer here. You can indulge in tapas and shared plates at Tapastry, afternoon teas at Tea Deli, and delicious a la carte meals in EQUUS.

Local DJs set a vibrant scene on weekends in the junction area, but for those looking to relax fully, the 5th-floor terrace awaits with sweeping Old Town panoramas.

Pros

Panoramic old town views from a terrace

Rooms offer atrium and park views

Wine collection and extensive dining options

Relaxing Foot Spa Lounge

Cons

Parking is extra

Small pools

Best For Indoor Swimming Pool

Grand Hotel Kempinski

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga - an upmarket and lavish hotel

A bastion of authentic Latvian luxury, Grand Hotel Kempinski impresses with 141 immaculately designed chic guestrooms, a majestic rooftop restaurant, various meeting facilities, and a blissful spa center.

Set by the entrance to the city’s historic center, each room affords epic views and promotes a blissful night’s sleep amid plush linens and comfy furniture.

As you step out of this elegant cocoon, you will be greeted by the stunning National Opera House, which has a wide selection of restaurants, boutiques, and landmarks within walking distance.

The laid-back lounge bar and the intimate Amber restaurant provide all-day food and drinks menus, while the stunning Stage 22 is the perfect spot to savor an after-dinner cocktail.

Pros

Accessible to main city landmarks

Rooms offer serene views

The onsite restaurant with a varied menu

Indoor swimming pool

Cons

Low lighting in rooms

Parking is extra

Best For Great Breakfast

OnePlace2b

OnePlace2b - an iconic historic property1

 

OnePlace2b invites you to explore and appreciate a refined hospitality experience teeming with sophistication and charm. A unique feature of the hotel is the exclusivity of the rooms, which are named after some of the famous cities of the world.

I stayed in the Dubai room, in which I truly felt like a king. The crystal chandelier and the Arabian patterned fabrics brought plenty of character, while the marble walls and opulent bathrooms symbolized the true essence of luxury. Other rooms include Amsterdam, London, Venice, and Las Vegas and are themed accordingly.

Further, on-site facilities include a modern sports center, a serene beauty salon, and exquisite internationally-inspired restaurants.

Pros

Tasty onsite dining and breakfast

Close to old town

Elegant spa and beauty parlor

Offers indoor swimming pool

Cons

Vintage-chic decor might not suit everyone

No gym

Can get booked up

Best For Art Nouveau District Location

Hestia Hotel Jugend

Hestia Hotel Jugend - a stylish instagrammable hotel2

Located in an area famed for its Art Nouveau charm, Hestia Hotel Jugend caters perfectly to the business traveler, owing to its cutting-edge design, modern furniture, and ergonomic workspaces.

Upon entry, I was amazed at how the hotel has completely transcended the disparity between modern and historic by cladding the traditional vaulted ceilings with glass to enhance the spacious feel. A standout space is the creative on-site Restaurant Eleven, whose delicate atmosphere complements its eclectic menu.

Throughout the property, there are many zones where you can completely detach from city life and fulfill your business work, with high-velocity Wi-Fi, top-of-the-range coffee, and comfy seating areas at your disposal.

Pros

A mix of modern and historic decor

Restaurant Eleven with an eclectic menu

Stylish communal areas

10 min walk from Old Town

Cons

Some rooms are small

No onsite gym

Best For Families

Forums Boutique Hotel

Forums Boutique Hotel - an upscale and classy hotel

I thought this hotel offered a cool and quirky twist on the typical Old Town abode. Housed in an affluent 19th-century townhouse, Forums Boutique Hotel blends classical elements with modern, luxury features to curate a unique and elegant accommodation experience.

During your stay here, be sure to explore the local vicinity, which abounds with world-class eateries and artisan boutiques. The 53 guestrooms exude intimacy, sophistication, and serenity through white-washed interiors that set a beautiful canvas for the soft wooden hues and lavish seating areas.

Each room is equipped with a satellite TV, a minibar, and a lavish bathroom with designer toiletries.

Pros

Stylish guestrooms

A blend of traditional and modern elements

Close to many famous attractions

Family rooms available

Cons

Some noise

Pets are not allowed

Best For Pet-friendly Stay

Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA

Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA - a cool and trendy hotel

This Old Town oasis brings a modern look to Riga’s historic center, reflecting the hallmarks of Wellton’s modern accommodation concept.

Within a short stroll, there are many beloved tourist attractions, eateries, and boutique shops. The hotel boasts 174 exquisitely furnished rooms, where contemporary comforts, bright colors, and high-quality soundproofing ooze a sense of relaxation.

The spa, equipped with a massage pool, hydromassage lounge chairs, and a Turkish bath, offers a retreat from the fast pace of city life with extensive recreation opportunities.

Meanwhile, the 1st-floor Restaurant, bar Tapas Tapas, offers a classic menu inspired by both Latvian and global gastronomic pleasures.

Pros

Easy access to tourist attractions

Stylish rooms with a relaxing ambiance

Spa lounge with Turkish bath

Onsite restaurant

Cons

Air con can be a bit temperamental

Noisy corridors

Best For Budget-friendly Stay

Two wheels

Two Wheels - a rustic-chic accommodation1

With an impeccable mix of value, comfort, and convenience, Two Wheels is an idyllic retreat situated a short walk from the city center.

Upon arrival, I was embraced by an intimate, family atmosphere and captivated by the cozy design. The hotel boasts ten rooms, each arranged in a renovated 19th-century wooden building, where modern elegance is combined seamlessly with historical flair.

There was a certain mystique about this property, exuded through the dazzling architecture, which sits beautifully within leafy surroundings and becomes ever more majestic during winter snowfall. Within the nearby vicinity are bountiful restaurants serving traditional Latvian dishes and contemporary European cuisine. 

Pros

Located in a peaceful quiet area

Intriguing architecture

Close to Latvian and European eateries

A 15-minute walk from the airport

Cons

No microwaves or fridges in rooms

Steep stairs

Top 15 Coolest Hotels In Riga

In the table below, we have compared the top 15 cool and unusual hotels in Riga. You can sort them based on price per night, distance to attractions, and restaurants nearby:

Hotel NameLocationPrice Range (km)Fitness FacilitiesDistance to Attractions (km)Nearby Restaurants
Grand Poet Hotel and SPA by SemarahRaiņa bulvāris 5/6$278-$309Yes0.52
Dome HotelMiesnieku Iela 4$215-$383No0.353
Rixwell Konventa Seta Design HotelKalēju iela 9/11$94-$173No0.451
A22 HotelAusekļa iela 22$282-$1628No1.33
Neiburgs HotelJauniela 25/27$201-$227Yes0.352
Hotel JustusJauniela 24$88-$185No0.353
Wellton Riverside SPA Hotel11. novembra krastmala 33$154-$193Yes0.753
Grand Palace HotelPils iela 12$186-$240Yes0.352
Pullman Riga Old TownJēkaba Iela 24$111-$152Yes0.452
Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga22 Aspazijas bulvāris$336-$1254Yes0.451
OnePlace2bTērbatas iela 73$1304Yes1.63
Hestia Hotel JugendPulkveža Brieža iela 11$143-$165No1.12
Forums Boutique HotelValņu iela 45$188-$358No0.652
Wellton Riga Hotel & SPAVaļņu iela 49$125-$218Yes0.72
Two WheelsBaložu iela 12$91No1.83