Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Latvia
CapitalRiga
Population1.8 million
Area64,559 km² (24,926 sq mi)
LanguagesLatvian
Currencyeuro (€)
TimezoneUTC+02:00
RegionEurope / Northern Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Economic Indicators

GDP per Capita (PPP)$43,394 (2024)
Inflation Rate1.3% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$1,645 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend35.1% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.3% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data

The cost of transportation in Latvia can vary depending on the mode of transport, with a monthly transit pass costing around $45 USD and taxi start rates beginning at approximately $2.50 USD.

Quick Facts

Monthly Transit Pass($45 USD)
Taxi Start Rate($2.50 USD)
Fuel (per liter)($1.40 USD)
Ride-Hailing Available(Yes — Bolt, Yandex.Taxi)
CurrencyEUR

Getting Around Overview

Latvia has a well-developed transportation system, with a range of options available for getting around, including public transportation, taxis, ride-hailing services, and rental cars. The quality of public transit is generally good, with frequent and reliable bus and train services connecting major cities and towns. Most people in Latvia get around using public transportation, with buses being the most popular mode of transport, followed by trains and taxis.

The country's capital, Riga, has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trolleybuses, making it easy to get around without a car. Outside of Riga, public transportation options may be less frequent, but still reliable and affordable. Latvia is also a relatively small country, making it easy to explore by car or bike, with scenic routes and bike paths connecting major cities and towns.

Public Transportation

Transport TypeSingle Fare (USD)Monthly Pass (USD)Notes
City Bus$1.50$45Good coverage, frequent services
Metro / SubwayN/AN/ANot available in Latvia
Minibus / Shared Taxi$2.50N/ALimited routes, mostly in rural areas
Commuter Train$3-$5$100Connects Riga to surrounding cities and towns

Taxi & Ride-Hailing

ServiceBase Fare (USD)Per km (USD)Typical City Ride (USD)Notes
Metered Taxi$2.50$1.50$5-$10Available in all major cities
Ride-Hailing App$1.50$1.00$3-$6Bolt, Yandex.Taxi available
Airport TransferN/AN/A$15-$25To city center, depending on traffic

Fuel & Driving Costs

ItemCost (USD)Notes
Gasoline (per liter)$1.40
Diesel (per liter)$1.30
Car Rental (per day)$40-$60Economy car, depending on rental agency
Parking (per hour, city)$2-$5
Toll Roads (typical)$5-$10Limited toll roads, mostly on highways

Intercity & Long-Distance

Route TypeCost Range (USD)Notes
Intercity Bus (4-5 hrs)$10-$20Riga to other major cities, frequent services
Domestic Flight$50-$100Limited domestic flights, mostly from Riga
Train (long-distance)$20-$50Connects Riga to other major cities, less frequent services

Transport Tips

  • Use public transportation for short distances, as it is affordable and reliable.
  • Consider purchasing a monthly transit pass for frequent travel.
  • Use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Yandex.Taxi for convenient and affordable door-to-door services.
  • Always negotiate the fare with taxi drivers before starting your journey.
  • Be aware of peak hour traffic in major cities, and plan your journey accordingly.
  • Consider renting a car for longer trips or exploring rural areas, as public transportation options may be limited.
Related Cost Guides: Cost of Living Overview · Monthly Budget · Rent & Housing · Economy · Latvia vs Lithuania