Originally opening its doors in 1878 as the first hotel in town with a telephone and electric lights, the structure that’s now Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga has never ceased to impress. Indeed, legions of A-List clientele have nestled within its storied walls, and modern restorations have kept it way ahead of any new regional competitor. But is this Riga’s crowning glory? We explore the five-star stay to find out.

While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga review

Location with an opera calling

You can’t help but notice that this is a premiere location. Adjacent is the Latvian National Opera and Ballet, meaning a double helping of majesty is a must. Your opera experience is held within its neo-classic walls, whereby over a century of classic and contemporary performing arts projects have been hosted. Some of the current season shows include Carmen, Giselle, Madame Butterly, Swan Lake, and Nutcracker. When the curtain falls, a mere few steps bring you right back onto the smart gray carpet of Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga’s entrance. It’s almost like an extension of the opera.

The Opera Deluxe Room

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga encompasses 141 stay options; 100 rooms tiered at Superior, Deluxe Room, and Opera; and 41 suites that span Junior right up to Presidential. We checked into an Opera Deluxe Room, its USP being the views across the National Opera House, one of Riga’s postcard scenes. 

Window sills are big enough to perch on with an illy coffee to take in the gathering outside come show time, and in the day locals enjoy the pristine gardens situated in front. When you’re ready to retire, choose from the king-sized bed (with pillow preference selected via email before arrival) or the spacious sitting area at the other end. The calming tones of cream, mahogany, and grey separated by geometric lines allow guests to switch off and embrace the now. You could even say the colours are a dash of Ferrero Rocher, and for us, that’s always the sign of a sumptuous treat. Backlighting adds to a natural glow.

In line with the Kempinski brand, the bathroom offers an additional haven in water. Melt in a deep soaking marble bathtub with Salvatore Ferragamo products before drying off into branded Riga robes. We loved that the floor was heated. The room also features a stand-alone work desk, with USB and European socket compartments; minibar, personal safe, smart TV, and high-tech lighting where guests can operate relax modes, night modes, and full switch on at the touch of a button. Our room also came with a large walk-in wardrobe

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga bedroom with king bed and surrounding furniture
The plush bedrooms were beautifully lit

Food and drink

In the sixties, the hotel pulled out another first. It was the only spot in town that served cocktails. It’s still the ‘it’ place for Rigans, and we noticed that locals made up as high a number as international visitors in the F&B spaces. We had a peek at Stage 22, a buzzing rooftop restaurant and bar which apparently is the prettiest in the city. It covers the right corner of floor eight and boasts landmark views including the Opera House. 

Stage 22 rooftop bar terrace area
Stage 22

Breakfast was held in Amber, a bright golden-tinged room that takes design inspiration from Baltic Sea gemstones. Royal red seating invites guests to get comfy over buffet and a la carte options that range from eggs royale to won ton soup. We felt the morning offering was generous as there were over 100 food choices on offer—you might find yourselves here longer than expected. On weekends and holidays, there’s the ‘late riser’ (which basically translates to brunch), and that includes free-flow sparkling wine and non-alcoholic additions alongside the hot and cold buffet.

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga breakfast buffet station
The breakfast buffet station

The hotel also has a Lobby Lounge and a Cigar Lounge. 

Kempinski The Spa

Kempinski hotels are well-regarded for their spas, and in Riga the reputation is upheld. You’ll find wellness underneath the hotel, meaning daytime woes are left out above. We enjoyed the public areas, which included a 16-metre-long pool, and spied a large fitness centre. Though we didn’t book treatments, the spa does offer facial and body treatments either solo or in tandem with a partner. Some rituals embody Latvian culture and tradition. There’s also a rasul mud treatment room, a bio sauna, and a relaxation room. The saunas overlook the pool. Waterproof slippers and light robes are provided, and guests are welcome to wear their room robes down for convenience. 

Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga spa with lounger chairs next to the indoor pool
The indoor spa

Find out more about Grand Hotel Kempinski Riga

But wait, there’s more