Biķernieku mežs (Biķernieki Forest)
Plot a stop at Biķernieku mežs (Biķernieki Forest) while exploring Mežciems.
Mežciems
Literally translating to "forest village," Mežciems is a large residential district defined by its Soviet-era apartment blocks set amidst sprawling pine forests. It offers a tranquil, nature-oriented lifestyle far from the tourist crowds, popular with families and long-term residents. While not a destination for visitors, it provides an authentic glimpse into local life with excellent access to green spaces and convenient shopping centers.
residentialgreenfamily-friendlysoviet-eraquiet
Stay here if you like…
- You want to live like a local in a quiet, green area and don't mind a 30-minute commute to the city center.
- You're a nature lover looking for affordable housing with immediate access to vast forests for walking, jogging, or skiing.
- You are studying or working at the Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital and want a short commute.
Map notes
We’re collecting points of interest for this neighborhood.
Good to know
A Village in the Forest
The name Mežciems means "forest village," which perfectly captures the neighborhood's character of panel housing blocks built directly within a pine forest.
Soviet Architecture
The area is a classic example of late-Soviet urban planning, with a focus on functional, large-scale housing projects.
Despite its residential feel, the neighborhood is home to several large supermarkets and the "Domina Shopping" center is nearby, making errands easy.
Essentials
- The neighborhood is well-served by multiple trolleybus and bus lines, with a typical journey to the Old Town taking around 30-40 minutes.
- Its main artery is Sergeja Eizenšteina street, which connects the area to the city's eastern suburbs and central districts.
- Biķernieki Forest provides an extensive network of trails for recreation year-round, from cycling in the summer to cross-country skiing in winter.
Highlights to plug in
Gaiļezers Lake
Plot a stop at Gaiļezers Lake while exploring Mežciems.
Biķernieki Complex Sports Base
Plot a stop at Biķernieki Complex Sports Base while exploring Mežciems.
Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital (RAKUS)
Plot a stop at Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital (RAKUS) while exploring Mežciems.
Things to do
A Village in the Forest
The name Mežciems means "forest village," which perfectly captures the neighborhood's character of panel housing blocks built directly within a pine forest.
Soviet Architecture
The area is a classic example of late-Soviet urban planning, with a focus on functional, large-scale housing projects.
Despite its residential feel, the neighborhood is home to several large…
Despite its residential feel, the neighborhood is home to several large supermarkets and the "Domina Shopping" center is nearby, making errands easy.
Where to stay
Stay here if
You want to live like a local in a quiet, green area and don't mind a 30
You want to live like a local in a quiet, green area and don't mind a 30-minute commute to the city center.
Stay here if
You're a nature lover looking for affordable housing with immediate…
You're a nature lover looking for affordable housing with immediate access to vast forests for walking, jogging, or skiing.
Stay here if
You are studying or working at the Riga Eastern Clinical University…
You are studying or working at the Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital and want a short commute.
