Verified Facts
To get around in Latvia, you can use a combination of transportation options including buses, trains, and ride-hailing services, as well as domestic flights and car rentals, depending on your budget and preferred mode of travel.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Latvia is easily accessible by air, with Riga International Airport (RIX) being the main entry point for international travelers. The airport is located about 10 kilometers west of Riga's city center and offers direct flights to many European cities, including Amsterdam, Berlin, London, and Stockholm. You can also enter Latvia by land or sea, with several border crossings with neighboring countries such as Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. The main overland entry points are located along the A1 and A2 highways, which connect Riga to the borders with Estonia and Lithuania.
If you're traveling from within Europe, you can also take a bus or train to Latvia, with several companies operating daily services from major cities such as Berlin, Moscow, and Warsaw. The bus network is quite extensive, with many companies offering affordable fares and comfortable journeys. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Sweden or Germany to the port city of Riga or Ventspils, which offer a more leisurely and scenic way to enter the country.
Domestic Flights
Latvia has a limited domestic air network, with only a few airlines operating flights between Riga and other smaller towns and cities. The main domestic airline is airBaltic, which offers flights from Riga to Liepaja and Ventspils, as well as to several international destinations. You can book domestic flights online through the airline's website or through a travel agency, with prices starting from around 50-100 EUR for a one-way ticket. It's worth noting that domestic flights are not always the most convenient option, as the country is relatively small and many destinations can be reached by bus or car in a few hours.
Trains & Rail
Latvia has a moderate rail network, with trains connecting Riga to many smaller towns and cities across the country. The main rail company is Latvijas Dzelzceļš (LDz), which operates passenger services on several routes, including Riga to Daugavpils, Liepaja, and Valmiera. The trains are generally comfortable and reliable, with prices starting from around 10-20 EUR for a one-way ticket. You can book train tickets online through the LDz website or at the train station, with discounts available for advance bookings or group travel. However, the rail network is not as extensive as in some other European countries, and some destinations may require a bus or taxi connection.
Buses & Coaches
Latvia has an extensive network of buses and coaches, with many companies operating services between Riga and other towns and cities across the country. The main bus companies are Nordeka and Eurolines, which offer affordable fares and comfortable journeys to many destinations, including Daugavpils, Liepaja, and Valmiera. You can book bus tickets online or at the bus station, with prices starting from around 5-10 EUR for a one-way ticket. The buses are generally modern and well-maintained, with many services offering Wi-Fi and other amenities.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Riga, other cities | $1-2 | Affordable and convenient, with many routes and frequent services |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $2-5/km | Available at taxi ranks or by phone, with prices negotiable |
| Ride-Hailing | Riga, other cities | $5-10 | Available through Bolt and Uber, with prices varying depending on demand |
| Tram | Riga | $1-2 | A convenient and affordable way to get around the city, with several routes and frequent services |
Driving
- To drive in Latvia, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country, as well as car insurance that covers you for driving in the EU.
- The road quality in Latvia is generally good, with many highways and main roads well-maintained and easy to navigate.
- Fuel costs are relatively low, with gasoline and diesel available at many service stations across the country.
- Car rental companies such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar operate in Latvia, with prices starting from around 40-60 EUR per day for a compact car.
- Hazards to watch out for include potholes and road works, particularly on rural roads, as well as aggressive drivers and pedestrians.
- It's also worth noting that some roads in Latvia may be closed or restricted during the winter months due to snow and ice.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams and overcharging by taxi drivers, particularly at airports and train stations, and always agree on a price before you start your journey.
- Payment methods in Latvia include cash, credit cards, and mobile payments, with many businesses and services accepting contactless payments.
- Download the Trafi or Route planner app to help you navigate the public transport system and plan your journeys.
- Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, and keep a close eye on your belongings at all times.
- Consider purchasing a rechargeable public transport card, such as the Riga City Card, which can save you money and hassle when traveling around the city.
- Learn some basic Latvian phrases, such as "cena" (price) and "kāpēc" (why), to help you communicate with locals and get around more easily.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting rural areas or attending cultural events.