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How to Get to Riga

Airport Overview

Rīga International Airport RIX

RIX is the single major international airport serving Riga and Latvia. It is a contemporary, well-connected facility. AirBaltic, the national carrier, operates direct flights to over 70 destinations all Over europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East, and CIS countries. It is a major connection point.

Airlines & Routes

  • Other airlines include Ryanair, A Low-cost european airline, Lufthansa, LOT Polish Airlines, Finnair, SAS, and Turkish Airlines.
  • These airlines connect Riga to various European hubs, giving a range of choices.
  • No direct flights from North America or Asia; connections via major European hubs are typical.

Seasonal Flight Availability

Flight frequency increases, and things are more expensive during summer (June-August) plus national holidays (Christmas, New Year). Expect lower prices and reduced frequency in the off-season (November-April), outside of public holiday periods.

Airport Facilities & Services

  • Duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes.
  • ATMs and currency exchange services.
  • Car hire counters, luggage storage, VIP lounges, Free Wi-Fi.

Save on Flights

Sign up for Dollar Flight Club for cheap flight alerts.

Compare Flights

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Airport Transfers

Public bus route 22 offers a cost-effective transfer to downtown.

Transfer Options from RIX

Public Transport & Taxis

  • Bus Route 22: Connects RIX to the downtown area (Abrenes iela) and The Historic center. Approx. 30 min, €1.15-€2.00.
  • Minibus: Private services for a slightly more direct route.
  • Taxi: Official taxis available. Bolt and Forus ride-sharing apps offer better rates. Approx. 15-25 min, €15-€25.
  • Car Rental: Major global and domestic companies have desks at the airport.

Cost-Effective Transfer Tip

  • When arriving at RIX, use the public bus route 22 to downtown.
  • Purchase your ticket from a machine or kiosk before boarding for the best price.
  • This is a cost-effective and efficient transfer option.
  • Tickets for public transportation can be bought from a machine (e-ticket) or directly from the driver (higher fare).

Air Travel Resources

Flight Deals

Find discounted flights and error fares with Dollar Flight Club.

Global Flight Search

Compare prices from a large number of airlines and travel agents on Skyscanner.

Airport Parking & Hotels

Book airport parking or hotels for a smoother travel experience.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings & Train Travel

As a Schengen country, Latvia has no routine border checks once you arrive from another Schengen country by land (such as, from Lithuania or Estonia). Border crossings with non-Countries in the schengen area (Russia, Belarus) involve full passport and customs control.

Train Connections

  • International passenger train amenities are restricted, often needing transfers.
  • The "Baltic Express" connects Riga to Tallinn and Vilnius via transfers.
  • Domestic rail services link Riga to major Latvian towns, offering scenic exploration.

Long-Distance Buses

An extensive international bus the system connects Riga to major cities across the Baltics, Poland, Germany, Russia, Ukraine, and other destinations. Companies like Lux Express, FlixBus, and Ecolines operate frequent and comfortable services. The Riga International Coach Terminal is conveniently near Old Town.

Bus Travel Advantages

  • Comfortable and frequent services.
  • Often more direct than train options for Baltic capitals.
  • Generally cost-effective for regional travel.

Self-Driving Considerations

You need a valid national driving license. Non-EU/EEA citizens also need an International Driving Permit. Legally needed items in your car include registration documents, insurance (Green Card), a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a warning triangle, and a reflective vest.

Road Conditions & Safety

  • Main roads are generally good; secondary roads vary.
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced.
  • Drunk driving laws are very strict (0.0% BAC). Watch for wildlife on rural roads.

Car Rental in Riga

Major companies like Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, and Enterprise have offices in Riga and at the airport. Local companies also offer options. Requirements typically include being 21-25 years old and holding a valid driver's a license for 1-2 years.

Car Rental Resources

  • Compare car rental deals at DiscoverCars.com.
  • A credit card for the deposit is important.
  • Paid parking zones exist in the city center and The Ancient part of the city; use parking apps or machines.

Driving Laws & Fines

  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Headlights must stay on 24/7, even during the day.
  • Latvia enforces a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol (0.0% BAC).
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced.
  • Familiarize yourself with Latvian traffic signs to avoid fines.
  • Pay close attention to parking rules in the city center.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry & Cruise Services

Riga’s location on the Daugava River and near the Baltic Sea makes it accessible by ferry and sailing ship. Tallink Silja operates regular overnight ferry services between Riga and Stockholm, Sweden. The ferry terminal is within walking distance or a short taxi ride from Old Town. This gives a comfortable method of travel between the two capitals.

Cruise Ship Arrivals

  • Riga is a popular cruise ship destination.
  • Ships dock at the Riga Passenger Terminal, close to the city center.
  • Easy access to attractions from the terminal.

River Transport & Immigration

River transportation is mainly for scenic local tours on the Daugava River and city canal, specifically during warmer months (May-September). These are not typically typically for international arrivals or daily commuting. Standard Schengen entry and exit procedures apply at seaports.

Port Connections & Ferry Tip

  • For ferry travel from Sweden (a Schengen country), checks are minimal.
  • For cruise ships from non-Schengen ports, full immigration control procedures are established.
  • If traveling by ferry from Stockholm, get your tickets beforehand, particularly during peak season.

Scenic River Tours

Enjoy boat tours on the Daugava River and city canal for unique city views.

Ferry Connections

Regular overnight ferries connect Riga with Stockholm, offering a comfortable travel option.

Schengen Procedures

Minimal checks for ferries from Schengen countries; full control from non-Schengen ports.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

Latvia has no specific exit fees or taxes for departing travelers from Rīga International Airport (RIX) or alternative transportation hubs. The price of your ticket commonly comprises any relevant charges.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • Air Travel (Schengen): Arrive at RIX at least 2 hours before departure.
  • Air Travel (Non-Schengen): Arrive 3 hours in advance.
  • Bus/Train: Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for comfortable boarding.

Departure Facilities

Check-in online, where feasible, saves time at the airport. Follow the ferry operator's recommended check-in times, usually 1-2 hours prior to departure.

RIX Facilities

  • RIX (Rīga International Airport) has check-in counters, security, duty-free, restaurants, cafes, lounges.
  • Riga International Coach Terminal offers waiting areas, small shops, cafes, and luggage lockers.
  • Riga Central Rail Depot includes waiting areas, shops, and cafes for passengers.

Departure Checkpoints

Reconfirm Departures

Reconfirm your flight, bus, or ferry departure times 24-48 hours before scheduled departure.

Stay Informed

This enables you to stay informed of any changes and adjust your plans accordingly.

Early Arrival Benefits

Arriving early prevents last-minute rush and gives comfort.

Final Departure Reminder

Reconfirm your flight, bus, or ferry departure times 24-48 hours before your scheduled departure. This assists you stay informed of any changes and adjust your plans accordingly.

How to Get to Riga. Flights, Transportation, Airlines