Staying at Cinnamon Sally Hostel, Riga, Latvia — My Experience
Intro
Cinnamon Sally Hostel makes an excellent base in Riga, just a short walk from Old Town. It offers authenticity, shared spaces, and a welcoming spirit that feels genuine from the moment you arrive.
📍 Location & Getting There
The hostel is about a 500-metre walk from the bus and train stations. Finding it is straightforward once you know the trick: turn left out of the bus station, head toward Origo Shopping Mall, and look for McDonald’s on the corner across the street. The hostel entrance is actually inside the McDonald’s building — easy to miss if you’re expecting a sign. You’ll receive the access code with your booking, and the hostel is located on the third floor, accessible by lift.
Being close to Old Town and the rivers means you’re never far from food. Restaurants and local convenience stores are nearby, while landmarks like the Freedom Monument and the Old Town gates are only about 700 metres away.
Senior Tip: Bring sturdy walking shoes for Riga’s cobblestone streets.
👋 First Impressions
The welcome here sets the tone. Staff greeted me warmly, explained the layout, and outlined house rules, including quiet hours (11 pm – 8 am), which made for restful nights. These small touches make it easy to settle in.
🛌 Rooms
Cinnamon Sally Hostel offers both private rooms and mixed dorms. Rooms are more spacious than those of many hostels, and each guest receives fresh linen, a towel (a real bonus), a shelf, a locker, and power outlets at each bed.
The bunks are sturdy, and the staff kindly gave me a bottom bunk as requested. However, they are squeaky when you move — though still comfortable for sleeping.
A few upgrades would make the experience even better:
- Privacy curtains
- Softer, individual bedside lighting
- Air conditioning for hot summer nights
🍳 Common Spaces & Facilities
The kitchen is well-equipped with utensils, a stove, a fridge, a microwave, and a toaster. There’s also a large dining area where breakfast is served — and breakfast is included in the price, a welcome extra.
For digital nomads and those working remotely, several lounges provide quiet, uninterrupted work-spaces away from the main communal lounge. A TV is starting to be the norm for a lot of modern hostels perhaps there is an opportunity here for management to look at. Free tea and coffee are available all day, which is a thoughtful touch. (One small request: add a pair of scissors in the kitchen!)
Bathrooms are located on both sides of the building and kept relatively clean, with separate showers and toilets. Wi-Fi is strong most of the time, but can drop out occasionally in the breakfast room.
The reception area also offers seating, making it easy to socialise or relax between outings.
💰 Value for Money
Prices vary with the season. When I visited in late August, I paid €92 for 4 nights in an 8-bed dorm — a fair price, though rates can rise in the peak summer months. Dorm beds generally range from €20–30 per night, depending on season and setup.
Considering the location, the friendly staff, and very good facilities, it’s excellent value — especially outside high season.
♿ Accessibility
Reception is on the third floor, accessible by lift through the McDonald’s entrance on the ground floor. This makes it a good choice for seniors or travellers with mobility concerns. Staff were thoughtful and ensured I had a lower bunk, just as I’d requested.
Note: Reception closes at 11 pm, so plan your arrival accordingly.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Sally Hostel was a breath of fresh air — a well-run hostel with great staff and an atmosphere that makes you feel part of something rather than just another guest. With a few small tweaks — privacy curtains, softer lighting, and yes, a pair of scissors in the kitchen — it could go from very good to excellent.
I stayed for 4 nights and would highly recommend this hostel if you’re visiting Riga.
⭐ My Ratings
Staff: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (10/10)
Room: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (8.5/10)
Location: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (9/10)
Common Spaces: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (10/10)
Facilities: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (9/10)
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (9.3/10)