Within walking distance of the train station and yet along one of the most atmospheric walkways of Riga's Old Town, Hotel Radi un Draugi occupies a 14th-century four-storey building which was expertly renovated inside and out. Marstalu iela where this hotel is located is a 200 metres long pedestrianised street whose north end opens into Audeju iela, a short distance away from St.Peter's Church. The south end of Marstalu iela leads towards the widest section of Riga's ring road and opens just in front of the river.
Radi un Draugi translates into Relatives and Friends. No better name than this could be chosen to witness for the hotel's excellent family and friendly atmosphere. As soon as you enter through the hotel's main door, you will be greeted by a couple of enthusiastic English-speaking receptionists whose friendly manners towards clients are as outstanding as their impeccable blue uniforms. While booking your room, they will ask you to sit over a drink in the adjoining lounge where you'll find a good selection of English dailies and a vast range of tourist brochures from which you can take your pick.
This three-star hotel which has lately become exceedingly popular both with tour operators and with independent tourists offers a choice of 77 cosy rooms spread on 3 floors. During the last renovation and embellishment, each room was given a modern facelift. Our spacious and comfortable double painted in two shades of yellow was completed with light-wood furniture, a satellite television, a direct-dial telephone and a luxurious bathroom. A big door concealed by a pair of curtains that matched the bed coverings opened on to the balcony which overlooked Marstalu iela.
Atmospheric and attractive during the day, this street becomes noisy and rowdy at night when a couple of night clubs and music clubs open their doors for business. If you can't beat all this and you're not in the mood of joining in, ask for a room which overlooks the hotel's inner courtyard.
The hotel's basement has been equipped with facilities for breakfast. Served between 8am and 11am, it is an extravagant manifestation of everything. Fresh fruit in abundance, crispy bread rolls, a choice of hot dishes and a diversity of plain and creamy cakes form part of the splendid display. Eat as much as you like but trying all is unluckily impossible.
The excellent service, the atmospheric location, the great breakfast and the friendliness of the staff have all contributed in making Hotel Radi un Draugi a paradise of relaxation. If you keep in mind the cheap price you have to pay for all this, you will soon understand why it is necessary to book ahead, particularly during the tourist season. If you don't, you stand a good chance of being disappointed.