Pullman Riga Old Town: Heritage Restyled for the Modern Traveller

Returning to Pullman Riga Old Town felt like catching up with an old friend. When we first visited, five years ago, we fell in love with the hotel's 18th-century character: exposed brick-wall cellars, high ceilings and cosy corners that reflect the city's timeless beauty. The hotel has since undergone a full renovation, and we were curious to see how a modern makeover would work.


From the outside, it remains an elegant Neoclassical building, but through the doors we were in for a surprise. The new open-plan lobby was a sleek, social space, complete with cocktail bar. It’s clear the redesign was guided by guest feedback – this is a hotel that understands what modern travellers want. With renovated bedrooms, a renowned restaurant and a brand-new spa, we couldn't wait to check in.

The first thing to note about this five-star Riga hotel is the unbeatable Old Town location. Tucked beside leafy Bastejkalna Park on a quiet street, it feels like a retreat – yet just a stone's throw away, Riga’s historic centre unfolds around you. Cobblestone alleys, elegant squares and centuries of architecture are just a few minutes' walk, along with famous sights like the Freedom Monument, St Peter’s Church and the National Opera building. Add in waterside walks along the Pilsetas Canal, and you’ve got both calm and culture right on your doorstep.

There was a conference taking place during our stay, which gave the hotel an upbeat, professional vibe – laptops open, espressos in hand and impromptu meetings taking place in the lobby. We even overheard talk of a whisky-tasting session led by the hotel's sommelier. The redesign really shines here: versatile spaces that work just as well for board meetings as they do for weddings or parties. With its airy atrium and vertical garden, it's easy to picture both corporate events and private celebrations flowing seamlessly under the glass roof.

Dinner at the hotel's Harper Woolf restaurant was a treat for all the senses. We opted to dine on the street-side terrace, where the warm evening air mingled with the buzz of locals and fellow guests sampling the shared-dining menu. Each dish felt like a story brought to life – global flavours reimagined with flair, and the knowledgeable staff were happy to guide us through wine pairings and the inspiration behind each creation. The oysters were fresh, the wild deer was delicate and deeply flavourful, and the Latvian honey cake was a work of art.

After a long journey, returning to our room felt like slipping into a sanctuary of calm. The design is modern and minimalist – think shades of beige and green, and stained wood flooring – yet comfortable and inviting. Everything we needed was at hand: minibar, sleek bath-shower and smart storage that made settling in effortless. From our window, we could see the park glowing softly under street lights, ready to explore in the morning. But tonight, all we wanted was to sink into the comfort of our plush king-size bed.

The 151 rooms and suites at Pullman Riga Old Town strike a balance between contemporary chic and inviting comfort. Neutral shades and clean lines give them a design-hotel feel, while subtle textures and thoughtfully chosen artworks inject warmth and character.

We loved the flexible set-up – all rooms can be twin or king, with space for extra beds – making rooms easily adaptable for business travellers, couples or families. Smart storage keeps the space uncluttered, while work desks, high-speed Wi-Fi and smart TVs make it easy to stay connected. Suites take it a step further, with separate lounges for relaxing or entertaining – a refined touch that makes longer stays especially comfortable.

Bathrooms are generously sized, with either a bath-shower combo or a decadent rain shower. With high-quality toiletries, spacious layouts and efficient design, it feels as stylish as it is functional.

The hotel has one of the best restaurants in Riga's Old Town and dining here is a highlight. From the breakfast buffet – think smoked salmon on sourdough or fresh fruit waffles with raw local honey – to a lunch menu of light bites and heartier dishes, the offerings are perfect whether you’re catching up on work or refuelling between sightseeing.

Dinner at Harper Woolf feels like a little adventure. Inspired by the travels of its fictional namesake, the menu ranges from local caviar to quail's eggs and ostrich cones, all beautifully presented. We loved the cosy, cave-like setting with deep-green velvet chairs, ocean-blue accents and adjustable lamps that made the space feel just right. The restaurant’s unique shared-dining concept – plates designed to be enjoyed together – draws both hotel guests and local foodies eager to experience something special in Riga.

The Harper Woolf bar quickly becomes our go-to for cocktails – don't miss sampling the Black Balsam or taking part in a tea ceremony with the hotel’s resident tea master. Together, these experiences feel immersive, personal and meaningfully connected to Riga's history.

Thanks to its clever redesign, the hotel has become one of the best business hotels in Riga, perfectly set up for corporate travellers and events. The meeting rooms are fully modern, with smart audiovisual technology, ergonomic bright-green chairs or colourful sofas, and versatile breakout areas. Yet the building’s historic character – exposed brickwork, a central fireplace and a vintage-style library – gives the spaces a unique charm that sets it apart from other venues.

With eight flexible areas, the hotel can host everything from intimate board meetings to conferences and weddings for up to 200 guests. An in-house events organiser ensures every detail – from seating arrangements to bespoke banquet menus – runs seamlessly, creating a professional yet welcoming atmosphere.

Up on the seventh floor, the Spa Zone is what every traveller needs: a tranquil place to relax after a busy day in the city or at meetings. We especially appreciated the long, narrow “swimming corridor” – a 19-metre pool that’s actually long enough to swim laps – which is lit up with underwater coloured lights and has views over the park. At the far end, a glass-windowed sauna offers a relaxing vantage point, while a spacious shower area and a wide range of spa treatments provide plenty of indulgent options.

If you're the type of person who likes to work out while you're away, you'll also find a moderately sized fitness centre, equipped with everything you need. Minimalist design meets comfort throughout the space, creating a calm, rejuvenating atmosphere.

• Business travellers seeking modern facilities and stylish meeting spaces
• Couples looking for a romantic city break in Riga’s historic Old Town
• Foodies eager to explore innovative global cuisine at Harper Woolf
• Design-conscious travellers who appreciate contemporary interiors with historic character
• Solo travellers wanting a welcoming, comfortable base with social dining and bar options
• Families or friends seeking flexible rooms and shared dining experiences
• Wellness enthusiasts looking to relax at the seventh-floor Spa Zone or keep active in the fitness centre
• Guests who enjoy a mix of culture, history and cosmopolitan city life in a central location

1. Savouring a dish at Harper Woolf: Cave-like interiors, deep-green velvet chairs and creatively plated dishes make every meal a picture-perfect moment.
2. Posing in the quirky corners of the meeting rooms: Exposed brick walls, a vintage library and modern fireplace create a striking backdrop for photos.
3. Sipping cocktails in the lobby: The colourful décor and equestrian artwork above the bar makes for a unique, photogenic setting.
4. Strolling through cobbled streets: The House of the Black Heads, with its ornate façade, is a must-capture sight in the Old Town.
5. Admiring the spires and rooftops: The view from St Peter’s Church tower frames Riga’s iconic rooftops and skyline beautifully.

Address: Jēkaba iela 24, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia

Public transport: Tram lines 1, 2 and 11; Bus line 22 from Riga Airport to the Old Town; 15-20 min taxi from Riga International Airport.