Experience the cultural richness of Liepaja with Hotel Amrita as your base

By Molly McPharlin

As travellers search for European destinations off the beaten path, many are discovering smaller cities away from the rising summer temperatures of southern Europe. One such destination is Latvia. Located on the country’s west coast, Liepaja offers an appealing blend of unspoilt landscapes, historic charm, and rich culture. For a place to relax while exploring the region, Hotel Amrita combines warm Latvian hospitality with Swedish elegance.

Hotel Amrita, a four-star establishment owned by a Swedish family who fell in love with Liepaja and its many attractions, opened in 1997. Since then, it has been a cornerstone of hospitality in the region, offering high-quality services to both tourists and business travellers.

The hotel has built a reputation as a welcoming destination, providing comfort, quality, and tailored services, ensuring that every guest not only enjoys a memorable stay but also leaves with a desire to return. Daiga Jansone, general manager at Hotel Amrita, says; “The hotel strives to create an atmosphere where customers feel valued and cared for.” Jansone, who has worked in the hospitality industry for years, feels that an atmosphere of warmth and professionalism defines Hotel Amrita. “We have a genuine passion for ensuring guests’ needs are met and everyone’s experience at the hotel is positive.”

Experience the cultural richness of Liepaja with Hotel Amrita as your base

The culinary delights of Restaurant Oskars. Photo: Karlis Volkovskis

Creating a relaxing space for all to enjoy

In the last few years, Hotel Amrita has embraced a dynamic vision of continuous improvement, undergoing significant renovations to enhance its facilities. These upgrades include 83 fully renovated rooms, the restaurant Oskars, a lively bar called Bruno, and versatile spaces for conferences and celebrations.

Interiors boast custom-made furniture, soothing colour schemes, and stylish lighting, all designed for elegance and practicality. “Rooms offer a diverse range of options, including comfortable spaces for families and those travelling for both business and leisure,” says Jansone.

The Penthouse Suites, completed at the end of 2024, feature additional luxurious touches and an elevated, contemporary look.

A relaxing sitting area in one of Hotel Amrita’s updated penthouse rooms. Photo: Janis Dreimanis

Sophisticated and warm dining

Restaurant Oskars offers a sophisticated yet cosy ambiance. Its interior combines modern design with inviting details, providing the perfect setting for enjoying anything from a romantic meal for two, a family celebration, or an evening out with friends. Its menu offers fresh cuisine embracing local ingredients with nods to Italian, South American and local Latvian culinary traditions.

Meanwhile, Bruno Bar’s welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for relaxing and socialising. The bar is family-friendly and children are welcome. The diverse menu combines traditional Latvian cuisine with popular international dishes and with full meals, snacks, and desserts, is suitable for anything from casual dining to a quick bite. Bruno Bar is also the perfect place to try Latvian beer and other regional drinks while playing board games with friends or watching live sports on the big screen. “There is something for everyone, and everyone is welcome,” says Jansone.

A little niche for playing chess at Bruno Bar. Photo: Karlis Volkovskis

An ideal location to explore

Hotel Amrita is conveniently located close to Liepaja’s centre, providing an ideal base to explore the city and its environs on foot or by bicycle. Close to the hotel, visitors can experience the original wooden buildings and art nouveau architecture, Liepaja’s museum and theatre, one of the oldest in Latvia, and the Great Amber concert hall, home to world-class musical performances. The city is also a foodie haven, with charming cafés and stylish restaurants serving traditional Latvian dishes and exquisite European fare.

Close by, Liepaja’s beaches tempt with relaxation and stunning sunsets. Liepaja, often called the city where the wind is born, offers visitors a wide range of activities. Nature lovers can explore Jurmala Park or head to Berberlini Park, where they can try wakeboarding, a treetop adventure course, and more. On rainy days, Liepaja Olympic Centre offers swimming and spa treatments.

One of Liepaja’s distinctive neighbourhoods is Karosta, originally built as a military base. This area features imposing Tsarist-era buildings and Soviet-style architecture, starkly contrasting the rest of the city. The Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, with its golden domes, is a testament to the city’s diverse influences. History enthusiasts will find Karosta Prison particularly intriguing – a Soviet-era relic that provides interactive history tours and an immersive glimpse into the past.

A European cultural centre

Hotel Amrita is eagerly anticipating Liepaja 2027, when the city will proudly host the title of European Capital of Culture. This prestigious event promises vibrant cultural activities, performances, and exhibitions, highlighting Liepaja’s rich heritage and artistic spirit.

“Liepaja is a hidden gem,” adds Jansone. “We hope travellers from all over will come to explore the region and enjoy its tranquil beaches, rich history, and exciting adventure opportunities, with Hotel Amrita providing a place to feel at home.”