Honestly, if you're wandering around the cobblestone maze of Latvia's capital, you might walk right past Jēkaba iela 24 without realizing what’s inside. From the outside, it looks like just another stately, historic Riga facade. But the Pullman Riga Old Town is anything but typical.
It’s a 5-star hotel built inside what used to be the 18th-century horse stables of Baron Munchausen. Yeah, that guy. The legendary fabulist.
Because of that history, the whole place has this quirky, high-end equestrian theme that manages to be cool rather than tacky. You’ll see horse sculptures, stable-inspired wooden accents, and harness motifs everywhere. It’s a vibe.
What the Pullman Riga Old Town is really like
Most people expect "stuffy" when they hear 5-star hotel in a UNESCO World Heritage site. This place isn't that. It’s sleek. It’s modern. It’s kinda dark and moody in the best way possible.
📖 Related: Miami Beach Tide Table: What Most People Get Wrong About South Florida Waters
The renovation—which was quite extensive around 2025—kept the 1789 bones but added all the tech you actually want. We’re talking LED Smart TVs, rain showers that actually have decent pressure, and some of the fastest Wi-Fi in the Baltics.
The Room Situation
You've got 154 rooms to choose from. If you can, snag one with a view of Bastejkalna Park. Looking out at the canal and the greenery while you’re sitting in the heart of a medieval city is a major flex.
The beds? They use these orthopedic pillows and heavy linens that make it dangerously hard to wake up for breakfast. I’ve heard people rave about the "Presidential Suite," but even the Superior and Deluxe rooms feel plenty roomy for a city-center hotel where space is usually at a premium.
Eating and Drinking at Equus
The main restaurant is called Equus, and it’s basically built into the old brick vaults. It feels like eating in a very expensive, very chic dungeon.
They do a fusion thing. You’ll find traditional Latvian ingredients—think rye bread, local forest mushrooms, and fresh Baltic fish—mixed with modern European techniques.
🔗 Read more: Finding Your Way: What a Map of Middle East UAE Actually Tells You About the Region
- The Breakfast: It’s a massive buffet. They have honeycomb, local cheeses, and those tiny Latvian pancakes.
- Tea Deli: This is a dedicated spot for tea ceremonies. It’s super quiet and great if you need to escape the Old Town crowds for an hour.
- Vinoteca: Their wine bar. It’s got a solid selection of international stuff, though the prices are definitely 5-star hotel prices.
The 7th Floor Secret
A lot of guests miss this because they’re too busy exploring the House of the Blackheads or the Three Brothers nearby. Go to the 7th floor.
There’s a 19-meter indoor swimming pool up there. It’s long, rectangular, and has floor-to-ceiling windows looking right out over the park and the city’s historic rooftops. There’s also a FitandSpa lounge with saunas and a gym that stays open 24/7.
Swimming in a heated pool while looking at a snow-covered Riga park in January? That’s the peak Pullman experience.
Is the Location Actually Good?
Location-wise, Pullman Riga Old Town is basically unbeatable. You’re steps away from the Parliament (Saeima) and the Latvian National Theatre.
You can walk to the Riga Dome Cathedral in about five minutes. The Freedom Monument is maybe an eight-minute stroll. Basically, you don't need a car. In fact, don't bring one. Parking in the Old Town is a nightmare and the hotel's parking—while available nearby—isn't cheap.
Things Most People Get Wrong
One thing to watch out for is the "Old Town Noise." Because this hotel is right on the edge of the park and slightly tucked away from the main bar streets like Kalku iela, it’s actually surprisingly quiet.
Some 5-star hotels in Riga are right above nightclubs. This one isn't. You get the history without the 3 AM karaoke drifting into your window.
Practical Logistics for Your Stay
If you’re planning a trip, here are the brass tacks.
🔗 Read more: Double Trouble State Park: Why This Jersey Pine Barrens Spot is Actually Worth the Drive
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM and check-out is noon. They’re pretty strict about it unless you have Accor status.
The airport (RIX) is about 15-20 minutes away by bolt or taxi. It’ll cost you somewhere between 15 and 25 Euro depending on the time of day. Don't bother with the bus unless you're on a super tight budget; the taxi drops you right at the door, which is a lifesaver when you're dragging luggage over 400-year-old cobblestones.
Quick Insight: If you’re a light sleeper, ask for a room facing the internal atrium. It’s dead silent. If you want the "wow" factor, the park view is the only way to go.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check Direct Prices: While sites like Booking.com are easy, the Accor website often has "member rates" that save you 10% instantly.
- Book the Spa Early: The FitandSpa lounge is popular, especially on weekends. If you want a massage, book it at least 48 hours before you arrive.
- Download the Bolt App: It’s the Uber of the Baltics. Use it for your ride from the airport and for food delivery if you don't feel like the fancy hotel menu one night.
- Visit Bastejkalna Park: It’s literally across the street. Walk through it at sunset for the best photos of the city canal.