Zaķusala

Literally 'Hare Island,' Zaķusala is a large island in the Daugava River dominated by one unmissable landmark: the Riga Radio and TV Tower. It's not a residential district but rather a unique green space and broadcasting hub, offering a strange mix of nature and Soviet-era infrastructure. While centrally located, it feels surprisingly isolated, making it a destination for recreation and sightseeing rather than a place to live.

landmarkislandrecreationalsoviet-eraunique
Stay here if you like…
  • you are a TV or radio professional who wants the world's shortest commute to the broadcasting center.
  • you're seeking a truly unique urban experience, camping out (metaphorically) at the foot of a massive communications tower.
Map notes

We’re collecting points of interest for this neighborhood.

Good to know
An Island of Hares

The name Zaķusala translates to 'Hare Island,' a nod to its historically undeveloped, natural state.

Not a Residential Area

Aside from some small garden plots and the broadcasting center, the island is almost entirely uninhabited and has no hotels or shops.

Local Recreation Spot

The island is a popular spot for local fishermen and people looking for a quiet walk with dramatic views of the TV tower and the river.

Essentials
  • The island is bisected by the Salu tilts (Island Bridge), which provides the main access for cars, buses, and trolleybuses.
  • Public transport stops are located on the bridge, requiring a short walk to access the island's paths.
  • The Riga Radio and TV Tower is the tallest structure in Latvia and the European Union.
  • Pedestrian and cycling paths offer a scenic, if somewhat disconnected, route along the river.

Highlights to plug in

Riga Radio and TV Tower

Plot a stop at Riga Radio and TV Tower while exploring Zaķusala.

Salu tilts (Island Bridge)

Plot a stop at Salu tilts (Island Bridge) while exploring Zaķusala.

Things to do

An Island of Hares

The name Zaķusala translates to 'Hare Island,' a nod to its historically undeveloped, natural state.

Not a Residential Area

Aside from some small garden plots and the broadcasting center, the island is almost entirely uninhabited and has no hotels or shops.

Local Recreation Spot

The island is a popular spot for local fishermen and people looking for a quiet walk with dramatic views of the TV tower and the river.

Where to stay

Stay here if

you are a TV or radio professional who wants the world's shortest…

you are a TV or radio professional who wants the world's shortest commute to the broadcasting center.

Stay here if

you're seeking a truly unique urban experience, camping out…

you're seeking a truly unique urban experience, camping out (metaphorically) at the foot of a massive communications tower.

Essential

The island is bisected by the Salu tilts (Island Bridge), which…

The island is bisected by the Salu tilts (Island Bridge), which provides the main access for cars, buses, and trolleybuses.