Ķīpsala is an island in the Daugava just west of Riga's old town, close enough to feel central but different in mood. Its lanes mix restored wooden houses, Nordic-looking villas, university buildings, and views back across the river.
In summer, the island's beach becomes a popular city escape. The best reason to come, though, is a slow walk: Ķīpsala shows a quieter waterside Riga that is easy to miss if you stay on the old-town side of the river.