It’s not one of the most well-known cities in the world but Riga, the capital city of Latvia has plenty to offer everyone who visits. It’s thriving culture and nightclub scene has earned it the moniker of the “Baltic Berlin”, but it’s an excellent location for people of all ages and tastes.
Getting to Riga is easy, and there are many low-cost carrier flights that can get you there on a budget. The low flight prices also means it doubles up as a weekend getaway destination as well as a spot for much longer vacations.
This Baltic city is divided into six neighbourhoods or districts: The Old Town, Agenskalns, Mezaparks, Teika, Central Riga, and Miera Iela. Each district has its own atmosphere, sights to see and places to visit. There are also a wide range of accommodation types, including hotels, hostels, self-catering suites and apartments.
What’s the best area to experience the city for the first time, tourists, what’s the best district for views of Riga Castle and the Old Churches or where to stay on a budget? Read on below to find out more best neighbourhoods to stay in Riga Latvia.
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Riga?
Best for First Time (Sightseeing): Central Riga / Old Town
First time visitors to the city of Riga, Latvia are better off staying in Central Riga or the Old Town (Centra rajons). Both are perfectly located for exploring the city as well as providing plenty of attractions of their own. From both locations you’ve got good access to train and bus stations, if you want to take a trip to another area of Latvia. The Old Town area is best explored on foot, or why not become an intrepid explorer and make use of the great public transport?
1. Old Town
The Old Town district, located in the centre of Riga, is a must place to visit, especially for first time tourists to the city. This historic centre has a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its historic value and importance.
As well as experiencing Riga’s rich architectural heritage there are also some delightful narrow streets to wander along. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars serving some of Latvia’s traditional food.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): Dome Hotel • Grand Palace Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: Boutique Hotel KRISTOFS • Hotel Forums
2. Zemgale Suburb (Āgenskalns)
This quaint district is located on the left bank of the Daugava River. It’s quite an old area with rather an abundance of small wooden houses.
Something else that attracts many tourists is the weekly market. And when you want to enjoy some down time away from the bustle of the city there are some relaxing green spaces and parks.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): Park Inn by Radisson Riga Valdemara • Bellevue Park Hotel
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: Bridge Hotel • Two Wheels
3. Latgale Suburb
There are plenty of attractions to keep you entertained in the Latgale Suburb. Riga Central Market is there, together with St Peter’s Church and Riga Cathedral.
- Best Accommodation: Rixwell Gertrude Hotel
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: RIGAAPARTMENT Sonada Hotel • Hanza Hotel
4. Riga Central Railway Station
This is the main railway station for the capital city and most forms of public transport stop in the area.
From the Central Station you can take a train to Russia, Belarus, and Lithuania. While you’re waiting for your train there’s a large shopping centre and close by there’s the largest cinema in the city.
- Best Hotels (Great Value): Opera Hotel & Spa • Mercure Riga Centre
- Best Cheap / Affordable Hotels: Nika Apart Hotel (Aparthotel) • Rija Irina Hotel
