Lucavsala

Escape the urban grind on Lucavsala, a large island oasis in the Daugava River. Primarily a massive recreational park, this neighborhood is Riga's go-to spot for summer relaxation, outdoor sports, and major music festivals. With its sandy beach, community gardens, and wakeboard park, Lucavsala offers a dose of nature and activity just minutes from the city center, though it's not a traditional residential area.

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Stay here if you like…
  • You're attending a summer music festival and want to be right in the action.
  • You crave daily access to green space for jogging, swimming, or relaxing by the water.
  • You're looking for a unique urban camping experience during major events.
Good to know
Festival Central

The island is home to some of Latvia's largest music festivals, transforming the park into a major event venue during the summer.

Community Gardens

A significant portion of the island is dedicated to 'mazdārziņi' (allotment gardens), a beloved local tradition you can glimpse from the main paths.

Historical Site

A prominent obelisk on the island serves as a memorial to the soldiers who defended Riga against Saxon troops during the Great Northern War in 1701.

While there's a popular public beach, it's primarily a day-trip destination with very limited accommodation options.
Essentials
  • Connected to the city center and Pārdaugava via the Island Bridge (Salu tilts).
  • Several public transport routes (bus and trolleybus) stop directly on the island.
  • Extensive walking and cycling paths make it a popular spot for active recreation.
  • Parking is available but becomes extremely limited and often paid during large events.

Highlights to plug in

Lucavsala Recreation Park (Atpūtas parks)

Plot a stop at Lucavsala Recreation Park (Atpūtas parks) while exploring Lucavsala.

Memorial to the Defenders of Riga

Plot a stop at Memorial to the Defenders of Riga while exploring Lucavsala.

Lucavsala Beach

Plot a stop at Lucavsala Beach while exploring Lucavsala.

The community gardens (mazdārziņi)

A significant portion of the island is dedicated to 'mazdārziņi' (allotment gardens), a beloved local tradition you can glimpse from the main paths.

Things to do

Festival Central

The island is home to some of Latvia's largest music festivals, transforming the park into a major event venue during the summer.

Historical Site

A prominent obelisk on the island serves as a memorial to the soldiers who defended Riga against Saxon troops during the Great Northern War in 1701.

While there's a popular public beach, it's primarily a day

While there's a popular public beach, it's primarily a day-trip destination with very limited accommodation options.