Riga is well connected with destinations across Europe and the Baltic region, making the Latvian capital easy to reach by plane, international coach, car or even a private yacht. Whether Riga is your final destination or the starting point for a wider Baltic trip, several convenient transport options are available.
Find practical information on getting to Riga, travelling between Riga Airport and the city centre, international bus connections and arriving by road or water.
Flying to Riga
RIX Riga Airport is Latvia's main international airport and the largest aviation hub in the Baltic states, connecting Riga with more than 85 destinations across Europe and beyond. Latvia's national airline, airBaltic, operates an extensive network of direct flights linking Riga with major European cities and international transport hubs.
The airport is located approximately 10 kilometres southwest of central Riga. Depending on traffic and your chosen mode of transport, reaching the city centre usually takes around 20-40 minutes.
Getting from Riga Airport to the City Centre
RIX Riga Airport is approximately 10 kilometres from central Riga, with several convenient ways to reach the city after your flight.
Bus route 22 connects the airport with the city centre, while the N22 night bus provides a seasonal late-night connection. Taxis, ride-hailing and car-sharing services are also available, with travel times depending on traffic and your destination.
For ticket information, travel times, stops and transport options, see our complete guide on how to get from Riga Airport to the city centre.
International buses from Riga Airport
If Riga is a stop on a longer Baltic journey, you may not need to travel into the city centre before continuing to your next destination.
International and regional bus operators provide direct connections from RIX Riga Airport to destinations in Latvia and neighbouring countries, including cities in Lithuania, Estonia and Poland.
The international bus stop is located in the P1 short-term car park opposite the airport's departure halls. Check individual operators for current destinations, timetables and ticket prices before travelling.
Arriving in Riga by international bus
Riga has frequent coach connections with major cities across the Baltic region and elsewhere in Europe. International buses are particularly convenient for travelling between Riga, Tallinn and Vilnius, as well as for connections with other cities in Lithuania, Estonia, Poland, Germany and Ukraine.
Most international coaches arrive at Riga International Bus Station, located next to Riga Central Market and only a short walk from Old Town. The central location makes it easy to continue to your accommodation by public transport, taxi or on foot.
Booking ahead is recommended during weekends, holidays and other busy travel periods.
Driving to Riga
Riga can be reached by road from Estonia and Lithuania, making driving a practical option for travellers exploring the Baltic states by car. The main international road connections link Riga with Tallinn to the north and Vilnius and Kaunas to the south.
Speed limits vary according to the road and location, so always follow posted signs. Headlights or daytime running lights must be used while driving. If you are visiting in winter, check Latvia's seasonal tyre and road-safety requirements before setting off.
Arriving in Riga by private yacht
Riga's location on the Daugava River and close to the Gulf of Riga means the city can also be reached by private yacht. Arriving by water offers a memorable approach to the Latvian capital, with views of Riga's skyline and historic church towers from the Daugava.
For the convenience of visiting sailors, Riga offers several yacht docks and marinas with a range of services and easy access to the city:
Facilities and services vary between marinas and may include electricity, water, showers and other amenities for visiting boats. Before sailing, contact your chosen marina directly to check berth availability, navigation information, available facilities and current prices.
Good to know before you arrive
Once you arrive, Riga is an easy city to explore. The compact city centre brings together the cobbled streets and medieval buildings of the Old Town, renowned Art Nouveau architecture, museums and galleries, restaurants, markets and green parks, with many of the main attractions within walking distance of one another.
Beyond the historic centre, Riga's neighbourhoods offer plenty more to experience, from local markets and creative quarters to wooden architecture, riverside promenades and contemporary cultural spaces. Riga combines history, culture, food and an active city atmosphere with easy access to the Baltic coast and other destinations across Latvia.