Searching for the best hostels in Riga? Riga, the capital of Latvia, is small enough to manoeuvre on foot and stylish enough to win over any millennial.
Riga is a multicultural city that begs to be strolled around on foot because of the contemporary music and artwork that erupts from its historic cobblestone streets.
There are numerous attractions, including hip bars and modern art galleries, as well as multiple hiking opportunities in the areas surrounding natural terrain.
Good To Know: We have a detailed guide about the best hostels in Europe.
Riga is a location that tends to get a little tipsy and is known for being a refuge for bachelors in general because of its nightlife.
Hence, it might appear somewhat challenging to pick the ideal hostel for females because you don’t want to be surrounded by young men on excursions.
So do not be alarmed! We’ve sifted through the city’s top hostels to make it simple for you to select the ideal hostel in Riga.
Our favorite hostels in Riga are:
- Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel - best for solo-travelers
- Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town - best for female solo travellers
- Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel - best for budget travellers, partygoers
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
1. Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel
2. Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town
3. Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel
The way you travel and where you’re going will affect what you carry; staying in hostels in Southeast Asia versus Europe is a totally different experience.
But generally speaking, do not bring too much. The secret is to divide your luggage in half, especially your clothing for the hostel.
You can definitely bring less clothing than you think you will need because you will never need as many and because there are almost always free clothes available at the hostels.
Other than that, an optimal organization is a goal in all other respects. Place your essentials in logical locations and make a note of those locations.
Lastly, leave your toiletries such as toothbrush, towel, undergarments, and other basics nearby if you are stopping by and planning to stay at the hostel.
This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…
- are tired of crappy hostels!
- want a social Hostel to actually meet people
- are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience
You can board one of the several modes of transportation available in Riga by leaving from the airport terminal.
You have the option of taking the bus, calling a taxi, or purchasing a ticket for a metro.
Keep in mind that a modest tip of around 10% is typically required when taking a cab in Riga as a considerate gesture and show of gratitude.
The cost of transportation is very inexpensive. A 24-hour day pass that can be used on all buses can be purchased for as little as 5 EUR. Negotiate prices!
Now, without any further ado, please read on for our selections of the most excellent hostels in Riga.
You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to “Best Hostels In” here.
Quick Introduction to Riga
Average price for a bed: Hostels in Riga cost 13€ – 20€ per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts from 22€ up to 31€ per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.
Prices always depend on season and holidays. Please always check exact rates on Hostelz.com or Hostelworld.com.
Check-In and Check Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3pm), while the Check-Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.
Transportation in Riga: In Riga, you can rent bicycles if you’d rather explore a city on your own. Grab an area map, and the residents will be more than happy to assist. Please be mindful of rowdy car drivers.
Safety in Riga: It is generally safe to go to Riga; the city’s crime rate is among the lowest in Europe, and even instances of pickpocketing are few. However, it is strongly recommended that you maintain a state of vigilance at all times, particularly while you are out on the streets.
🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:
- How to book hostels? (and websites to save $)
- 23 clever items: the hostel packing list to download
- How does the Hostelworld App work exactly? Our Advanced Guide
The 3 Best Hostels in Riga are …
Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Riga.
- Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel – best for solo-travelers
- Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town – best for female solo travellers
- Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel – best for budget travellers, partygoers
These are our favorite hostels in Riga. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.
1. Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel
2. Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town
3. Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| 🦸 Solo Traveler: | Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel |
| 🙎♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: | Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town |
| 🥳 Party Hostel: | Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel |
| 🎒 Backpackers: | Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel |
| 👩❤️👨Couple Hostel: | Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town |
| 👩💻 For Digital Nomads: | Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel |
| 🧘 Cozy Hostel: | Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town |
1. Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel
Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel is a unique space in the hostel industry.
For those who do not mind sharing space with others, whether in the common spaces or in the rooms, it offers a particular sort of atmosphere that makes you feel at home despite being away from your home.
The rooms in this hostel are arranged in a certain way to surround the kitchenette and a sizable shared space. This is the finest location to interact with people if you want to. Furthermore, the staff is very accommodating and encourages interactions daily.
The rooms are gorgeous and relatively roomy and come with ample storage.
The location is fantastic because both the party centre and the historic section of the town are conveniently accessible. It is also located near the train station.
Hence, an excellent starting point for day trips or travelling to your next location. It very much resembles a traditional travellers’ hostel.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Location: The Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel is situated in a convenient area, not far from Riga’s historic district. It is possible to reach the Old Town in less than 10 min on foot.
The multilingual staff at this Riga party hostel is happy to provide guests with information about the most popular tourist destinations in the area so that they may plan a day of sightseeing.
Guests have the chance to participate in pub crawls.
The best choice in Riga for
- partygoers
- solo travelers
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town
Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town is situated in a very conceptual area. As the name implies, you will see pretty small birds sitting around.
The hostel’s staff is likewise extraordinarily welcoming and accommodating.
The hostel also offers free WiFi access across the entire building and a lounge and communal kitchen.
There are accommodations with balconies that overlook the city. Bed linens and towels are also provided in every room.
The location of the hostel is fantastic. Just in the middle of the doma plaza, in the heart of the old town. The bus station is also near the hostel.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Location: The Blue Bird Hostel Riga is ideally situated in the Centre neighbourhood, only 7 minutes from the Latvian National Opera and from Bastejkalna Parks, and a 15-minute walk from the Latvian National Museum of Art.
A great choice for
- female solo travellers
- couples
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel
There’s a reason why Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel is Riga’s top backpacker hostel. It has a long history of being the centre of all the excitement.
You will have many opportunities to meet unique and like-minded individuals because most tourists come here.
It’s also designed for taking in the fantastic Riga nightlife and partying till dawn. This is what draws in partygoers.
It would be a good idea to choose a different place to go if you want a more tranquil experience. However, if having fun while having a drink is what you’re after, try the Naughty Squirrel.
In addition to being a terrific location for social and enjoyable events, it is also close to many of the top bars and restaurants.
It also provides a wide variety of enjoyable activities, such as AK-gun shooting and sampling delectable Latvian cuisine.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
The mattresses are relatively comfortable and come with fluorescent bulbs, curtains, and a rack underneath for all of your belongings.
This hostel is inexpensive, enjoyable to be in, and perfect for independent travelers.
Location: Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hostel is located in the centre of Riga’s historic Old Town, about 5 minutes walk from the central plaza.
This is one of the best hostels in Riga for
- budget travellers
- partygoers
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Riga for Solo Travelers?
What is seriously the best hostel in Riga for solo-travelers?
Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel is perfect for solo-travelers.
The dorm rooms at this hostel are organised in such a manner that they surround a spacious communal area as well as a kitchen. If you want to socialise, come over to Cinnamon.
The staff is kind and promotes everyday interaction. It also has a certain atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re at home even though you’re away from home.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Party Hostels in Riga
Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel is Riga’s top party and backpacker hostel.
Most tourists come here, so you will have lots of chances to meet interesting and like-minded people.
It’s also made so you can enjoy the great nightlife in Riga and party until dawn. This is what brings people to a party.
FUN parties, beers, and nightlife? You’ll find it here at Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
In a real sense, your preferences will determine which hostel is best for you.
Check out the Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hotel if you’re searching for a party.
Try the Blue Bird Hostel in Riga Old Town if you desire serenity, and you should go for the Cinnamon Sally Backpackers Hostel if you want easy access to the major attractions.
You will have a blast in Riga, no matter what.
We hope that this ranking of the top hostels in Riga will assist you in selecting one for your trip there.
Although Riga’s hostels are generally of excellent quality, there are a few that fall short.
In order to ensure that you enjoy your time in Riga, this list may assist you in avoiding poor and average hostels.
More Hostels worth a mention
Riga is a city that has it all! From beautiful Art Nouveau architecture to a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the delicious Latvian cuisine and growing food and drink scene make it a must-visit destination.
Excited to experience the best of Riga with hostels in Riga Old Town? Pack your bags and come explore this exciting and unique city! But if you are still looking for more hostels, we got you!
Tree House Hostel
Let’s take a look at another hostel in Riga Latvia. Tree House Hostel is a charming hostel located in the heart of the city.
Its unique design, resembling a tree house with wooden beams and cozy alcoves, adds to its rustic and inviting atmosphere.
The hostel offers a variety of dormitory rooms with different bed configurations, as well as private rooms, all equipped with comfortable beds and bedding.
The lounge is a great place to relax and socialize with other guests, with comfortable seating, a fireplace, and board games available.
The kitchen is fully equipped with everything guests need to prepare their own meals, including a stove, oven, microwave, and refrigerator.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Central Hostel
Central Hostel is situated within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions, making it a convenient choice for those looking to explore.
The hostel’s rooms are comfortable, with clean linens and comfortable beds. Some of the rooms feature private bathrooms, while others offer shared facilities. All rooms are equipped with lockers to ensure the security of guests’ belongings.
They have spacious and well-maintained common areas, including a kitchen, lounge, and terrace. The kitchen is equipped with all the necessary amenities for guests to cook their own meals, and the lounge and terrace provide ample space for socializing and relaxing.
Central Hostel is around 10-minutes away from the city centre.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Riga Old Town Hostel & Backpackers Pub
The Riga Old Town Hostel & Backpackers Pub is located in a beautifully restored 18th-century building, just steps away from Riga’s main attractions.
Riga Old Town Hostel & Backpackers Pub has a lively bar and restaurant, which serves delicious food and drinks at reasonable prices. The pub is a great place to meet fellow travelers and locals, and often hosts live music events and other entertainment.
The hostel has a fantastic option for travelers looking for an affordable and fun place to stay in Riga. The lively pub atmosphere and helpful staff make for a memorable and enjoyable stay.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
What about the cheapest hostels in Riga?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Riga.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Riga
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Hostel Tricks and Riga Backpacking Tips
Best-in-class tricks used in hostels. Here are some great hints and suggestions for travelling light and having a great time while staying in hostels:
- Make your dorm room feel like home. Maintain order, hang a curtain for privacy, put a dreamcatcher on your bed, and make the change to express yourself.
- Before you begin your travel, learn some delicious recipes to make. Cook at the hostel with these inexpensive yet healthy food recipes that you packed in your head. This way you will either make friends by serving food or you can make some money by selling it.
- Tupperware may be a pain to carry around, but you might still want to think about it, especially if you’re a crazy cook.
- Sometimes you can save money at a hostel by offering to sleep somewhere else on the property, like in a tent or outside.
- Most importantly, a smile; it’s an essential travel item. While staying at hostels, you will meet many lovely people, and the easiest way to get along with them is to simply smile and be kind. Never undervalue the impact of a smile.
Any Discounts?
You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.
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How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld
We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Riga best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!
Explore Riga On A Budget
The city’s Victorian, Gothic, and Imperial buildings date back to the time when it had a significant mediaeval port. It also contains over 800 Art Nouveau structures, an open-air museum, and a sizable main bazaar. A vibrant and enjoyable capital!
Unwind In A Classic Sauna
Saunas are an integral element of Latvian culture. Here, in addition to being scrubbed by birch switches for exfoliation, you alternate between the sauna’s heat and a chilly pool. For sauna’s keep a budget of 5 to 35 euros.
Visit Gauja National Park for Trekking
Among the most immaculate specimens of Latvian nature is found in Gauja National Park, which is situated in the northeast. Wander here to walk, ride, and take in the Gauja River vistas. Here you can also find Gutman’s Cave, which dates back 10,000 years. Free entry is offered.
Visit Sigulda’s Castles
It is said that this area is “the Switzerland of Latvia.” There are various historical structures here to visit, such as the 19th-century Krimulda Manor, Sigulda Castle in addition to the scenic beauty.
Take A Trip To Rundale Palace
It was constructed between the years 1736 and 1740 and 1764 and 1768. It was primarily used for latvian’s lavish social gatherings. The vast and beautiful Rococo style structure with expansive gardens and opulent rooms. Entry is 13 EUR.
Need an eSIM Card for Riga?
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Our Favorite Hostels in Riga put on a map + sights
Let us have a look at the map. Below, we list all three best Riga hostels on a map.
Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map having all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map will help you with planning your trip too.
In Riga we absolutely enjoyed:
- Art Nouveau Museum
- Vecrīga
- Art Nouveau Architecture
- Town Hall Square
- House of the Blackheads
- Riga Motor Museum
- Latvian National Opera and Ballet
- Bastejkalna Parks
- Riga Central Market
- Swedish Gate
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FAQs
Here we share with you the most asked question:
Any questions about hostels in Riga?
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Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥
Flights to Riga?
We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.
Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.
More handmade Guides for you
You can find more exquisite hostels in Europe:
- 40 best hostels in Italy
- best hostels in Vienna
- best hostels in Athens
- 20 best hostels in Greece
- best hostels in Prague
- best hostels in Gdansk, Poland
- best hostels in London
Over to you
Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!
Your question will help us to improve this Riga guide.
Last note: Our commitment
This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.
Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks
