Jugla

Situated on the northeastern edge of Riga, Jugla is a sprawling residential district defined by its namesake lake and abundant green space. Dominated by Soviet-era apartment blocks interspersed with older wooden houses, it offers a quieter, more nature-oriented lifestyle away from the urban core. While it lacks the bustle of the center, its lakeside setting and major cultural attractions provide a unique appeal for both residents and curious visitors seeking a different side of Riga.

lakesideresidentialgreen-spacefamily-friendlysoviet-era-architecture
Stay here if you like…
  • You're looking for more affordable housing and value having direct access to nature for walks, boating, or fishing.
  • You want to experience a local, residential part of Riga and don't mind a longer commute to the city center.
  • You're visiting specifically for the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum and prefer to stay nearby.
Good to know
Major Cultural Landmark

The neighborhood is home to the expansive Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, one of Latvia's most important cultural sites, located on the shores of Lake Jugla.

Architectural Contrast

Jugla's landscape is a mix of pre-war wooden houses, private homes, and the large-scale Soviet apartment buildings typical of Riga's suburbs.

The name 'Jugla' refers to the confluence of two rivers that form the lake, making it a hub for water-based recreation in the summer.
Essentials
  • Jugla is well-connected to the center via multiple bus and tram lines, with the journey typically taking 30-45 minutes.
  • Due to its large size, getting around within the neighborhood often requires using local public transport or a car.
  • Daily amenities, supermarkets, and local markets are readily available, but they are clustered in commercial hubs rather than spread evenly.
  • It's a popular choice for families and long-term residents due to its relative affordability and access to schools and parks.

Highlights to plug in

Lake Jugla (Juglas ezers)

Plot a stop at Lake Jugla (Juglas ezers) while exploring Jugla.

Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum

The neighborhood is home to the expansive Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, one of Latvia's most important cultural sites, located on the shores of Lake Jugla.

Strazdumuiža Park

Plot a stop at Strazdumuiža Park while exploring Jugla.

The White Cross (Baltais Krusts) monument

Plot a stop at The White Cross (Baltais Krusts) monument while exploring Jugla.

Things to do

Architectural Contrast

Jugla's landscape is a mix of pre-war wooden houses, private homes, and the large-scale Soviet apartment buildings typical of Riga's suburbs.

The name 'Jugla' refers to the confluence of two rivers that form the…

The name 'Jugla' refers to the confluence of two rivers that form the lake, making it a hub for water-based recreation in the summer.

Where to stay

Stay here if

You're looking for more affordable housing and value having direct…

You're looking for more affordable housing and value having direct access to nature for walks, boating, or fishing.

Stay here if

You want to experience a local, residential part of Riga and don't mind…

You want to experience a local, residential part of Riga and don't mind a longer commute to the city center.

Stay here if

You're visiting specifically for the Latvian Ethnographic Open

You're visiting specifically for the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum and prefer to stay nearby.