Walking around Riga

Many of the main sights and sounds (don’t forget the Opera!) of Riga are within an easy walking distance.

Before you begin checking out the attractions, we recommend visiting the tourism office at the Ratslaukums (center of Old Town; tel: 6704 4377) as a starting point. The office is open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM. Grab a map, a few brochures, and start hoofing it!

For more information, visit Riga’s Tourism Board website. Tourism offices are also available at Riga’s main bus station (Autoosta) and at the central train station.

Buses, Trolleys, and Trams

While Old Town Riga is most easily navigated by foot alone, other forms of transport—namely a system of trams, trolleys, and buses—are handy for visiting areas further afield. Of course, they'll also come in handy if you’re staying in Center (or further out) and want to get back and forth to Old Town with ease. And, of course, they come in handy when getting to the airport and train station.

The main bus station in Riga is situated just south of the Old Town near Central Market. From here, and at other major hubs like the Ratslaukums (Town Hall Square), tourists are well poised for sightseeing.

For more information, including maps and timetables, visit the Riga bus system's website (available in English).

Tickets for all forms of local transport are .40 LVL (about €.55) in advance, and .50 LVL (about €.60) if purchased from a driver or conductor.

Taxis in Riga

Taxis are easily available throughout the city, most notably in front of the main train station and airport. Beware of cars with non-functioning meters, or taxis without any decals on the outer doors or in the windows. A typical rate during the daytime is .40 LVL per kilometer, around .50 LVL per kilometer at night (from about 10 PM to 6 AM). If taking a taxi from the airport, ask for the fare before getting into the cab.

The two main taxi companies are Riga Taxi (8000 1010) and Bona Taxi (8000 5050).