International Students' Survival Guide to Life in Latvia

Quite a number of different airline companies serve Riga airport, including budget airlines, so it should not be too difficult to find a reasonable ticket. The website of Riga Airport can be found here: http://www.riga-airport.com/en/main/flights/airlines. Most international students usually choose to travel by plane, in which case you will arrive at Riga International Airport (RIX). 

After arriving at Riga International Airport, to get to your new home in Riga or any other city in Latvia, you first need to get to the city centre. There are several transport options available.

Public transport 

The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route, bus No.22, which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. A single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), the ticket vending machine at the bus stop, or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

Taxi 

You can pick any taxi at the airport, and you will pay at the end of the ride according to the tariff set by the carrier. The fare consists of a boarding fee, a distance fee, and a travel time fee. We recommend Baltic Taxi, which is the taxi company of our national airline AirBaltic. For taxi services (like Uber) – Bolt Taxi, which will also be useful during the rest of your stay in Latvia.

Rental car 

If you have an international driving license, you have the option to rent a car. The offices of globally known car rental companies are located in the Arrivals sector E and will be open at the pick-up time of your rental. Their business hours are adjusted to incoming flights. The car fleets of the rental companies are parked in Car Park P4. There are also car sharing apps available such as BOLT Drive, CityBee, and CarGuru that let you rent cars parked around the city. Find the closest car on the app of your choice, follow the instructions, and you’re off. Prices depend on duration, kilometres driven, and other factors; petrol is included.

Public transport – The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route which is bus Nr.22 which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. Single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), ticket vending machine at the bus stop or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

LTG Link offers a daily train service between Riga and Vilnius, Lithuania. The journey takes approximately 4 hours with six stops between the two cities. A regular ticket costs 24 euros.

Riga is well connected by extensive bus routes, offering connections to various countries including Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Germany, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Sweden, Russia, Switzerland, the UK, and Ukraine. Tickets for domestic and international buses can be purchased online through service providers’ websites and Ticketto.eu. All buses arrive at Riga International Bus Terminal, located in the heart of Riga next to the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.

Major highways connect Riga with Tallinn, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Kaunas, and Vilnius. Recent upgrades have improved northern and southern road links. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on rural roads, unless otherwise indicated. On certain highways, speed limits may reach 100-110 km/h during summertime. Headlights must be on at all times.

Latvia shares land borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. Travellers from Sweden and Germany can take ferries to Latvia, bypassing long road trips. When entering Latvia from Lithuania and Estonia, no border control is required due to adherence to the Schengen Agreement.

Foreign drivers may operate vehicles in Latvia if they possess:

• A driving licence issued in an EU Member State or European Free Trade Association country.
• A driving licence conforming to the categories defined by the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
• A driving licence with non-Latin lettering must be accompanied by a notarized translation into Latvian.

Residents of Latvia for over one year must exchange their driving licence according to established procedures, except for licences issued in EU Member States or European Free Trade Association countries, and for those with diplomatic or consular immunity.

Driving in Latvia is done on the right side of the road. The default speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on highways. Speeding is monitored both by stationary speed cameras and by the police.

• The minimum age for driving a car is 18
• Everyone in the car has to fasten their seatbelt (including the passengers in the back seat)
• Winter tires are compulsory between December 1 and March 1

Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and carries severe penalties. This applies to all modes of transport, including cars, bikes, electric scooters, etc. Offenders face substantial fines, loss of their driving licence for up to five years, severe administrative penalties, criminal liability, and even vehicle confiscation.

Riga boasts 6 tram lines, 22 trolleybus routes, and 50 bus routes that run from as early as 05:00 to as late as 01:00, depending on the route. You can purchase tickets for €1.50 at designated Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) ticket offices, public transport ticket machines, Narvesen newsstands, post offices, Rimi supermarkets, or via the Mobilly mobile app.

• As a student, upon arrival in Latvia, you will receive a notification from the higher education institution confirming your student status. With this notification, you should visit the Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) office to obtain an “e-talons” card. For €12 a month, this card offers unlimited rides on all forms of transport in Riga.

• Both tickets and cards are valid for trams, trolleybuses, and city buses. Simply touch your ticket or card against the electronic reader upon boarding the bus, trolleybus, or tram. A green light will flash, and the display will indicate how many rides remain on your card (e.g. Balance: 9) or how many days are left until you need to renew your monthly pass.

Cycling as a means of transport for commuting in Latvia is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to well-developed and improving infrastructure in Riga and regionally. Bicycle parking is easily accessible, and there are numerous opportunities to purchase both new and used bicycles. This supportive environment makes commuting by bike a convenient and sustainable option for many residents.

By Bus:

Latvia boasts excellent and regular bus connections, making it one of the most convenient transportation options for anyone travelling to other cities and towns. All domestic buses operate from Riga International Bus Terminal, situated in the heart of Riga near the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town. Information regarding buses in Latvia, including timetables, journey durations, routes, ticket prices, and other details, is available on information boards at the bus station. This information is also accessible online in Latvian, Russian, and English through websites like Autoosta.lv, 1188, and the Mobilly app. Tickets for domestic and international routes can be purchased from the following locations:

• Ticket desks at the bus station during office hours
• From the bus driver
• At the 24/7 ticket sales terminal or ticket machine at Riga International Bus Station
• Online via Bezrindas.lv for domestic routes and
• Buseurope.eu for international routes
• Through the Mobilly app

By Train:

Latvia’s railway network connects the capital with six lines leading to various destinations: Tukums, Liepāja, Daugavpils, Indra, Aglona, Zilupe, Gulbene, Valga, and Skulte. Timetables can be found at each station and online at vivi.lv and 1188.lv. Rail tickets can be purchased with cash or card at station ticket offices. If a ticket office is closed or unavailable at a certain station, tickets can be purchased on board from the conductor. Alternatively, travellers can check schedules and purchase tickets using the ViVi or Mobilly mobile apps.

Quite a number of different airline companies serve Riga airport, including budget airlines, so it should not be too difficult to find a reasonable ticket. The website of Riga Airport can be found here: http://www.riga-airport.com/en/main/flights/airlines. Most international students usually choose to travel by plane, in which case you will arrive at Riga International Airport (RIX). 

After arriving at Riga International Airport, to get to your new home in Riga or any other city in Latvia, you first need to get to the city centre. There are several transport options available.

Public transport 

The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route, bus No.22, which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. A single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), the ticket vending machine at the bus stop, or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

Taxi 

You can pick any taxi at the airport, and you will pay at the end of the ride according to the tariff set by the carrier. The fare consists of a boarding fee, a distance fee, and a travel time fee. We recommend Baltic Taxi, which is the taxi company of our national airline AirBaltic. For taxi services (like Uber) – Bolt Taxi, which will also be useful during the rest of your stay in Latvia.

Rental car 

If you have an international driving license, you have the option to rent a car. The offices of globally known car rental companies are located in the Arrivals sector E and will be open at the pick-up time of your rental. Their business hours are adjusted to incoming flights. The car fleets of the rental companies are parked in Car Park P4. There are also car sharing apps available such as BOLT Drive, CityBee, and CarGuru that let you rent cars parked around the city. Find the closest car on the app of your choice, follow the instructions, and you’re off. Prices depend on duration, kilometres driven, and other factors; petrol is included.

Public transport – The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route which is bus Nr.22 which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. Single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), ticket vending machine at the bus stop or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

LTG Link offers a daily train service between Riga and Vilnius, Lithuania. The journey takes approximately 4 hours with six stops between the two cities. A regular ticket costs 24 euros.

Riga is well connected by extensive bus routes, offering connections to various countries including Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Germany, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Sweden, Russia, Switzerland, the UK, and Ukraine. Tickets for domestic and international buses can be purchased online through service providers’ websites and Ticketto.eu. All buses arrive at Riga International Bus Terminal, located in the heart of Riga next to the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.

Major highways connect Riga with Tallinn, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Kaunas, and Vilnius. Recent upgrades have improved northern and southern road links. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on rural roads, unless otherwise indicated. On certain highways, speed limits may reach 100-110 km/h during summertime. Headlights must be on at all times.

Latvia shares land borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. Travellers from Sweden and Germany can take ferries to Latvia, bypassing long road trips. When entering Latvia from Lithuania and Estonia, no border control is required due to adherence to the Schengen Agreement.

Foreign drivers may operate vehicles in Latvia if they possess:

• A driving licence issued in an EU Member State or European Free Trade Association country.
• A driving licence conforming to the categories defined by the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
• A driving licence with non-Latin lettering must be accompanied by a notarized translation into Latvian.

Residents of Latvia for over one year must exchange their driving licence according to established procedures, except for licences issued in EU Member States or European Free Trade Association countries, and for those with diplomatic or consular immunity.

Driving in Latvia is done on the right side of the road. The default speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on highways. Speeding is monitored both by stationary speed cameras and by the police.

• The minimum age for driving a car is 18
• Everyone in the car has to fasten their seatbelt (including the passengers in the back seat)
• Winter tires are compulsory between December 1 and March 1

Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and carries severe penalties. This applies to all modes of transport, including cars, bikes, electric scooters, etc. Offenders face substantial fines, loss of their driving licence for up to five years, severe administrative penalties, criminal liability, and even vehicle confiscation.

Riga boasts 6 tram lines, 22 trolleybus routes, and 50 bus routes that run from as early as 05:00 to as late as 01:00, depending on the route. You can purchase tickets for €1.50 at designated Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) ticket offices, public transport ticket machines, Narvesen newsstands, post offices, Rimi supermarkets, or via the Mobilly mobile app.

• As a student, upon arrival in Latvia, you will receive a notification from the higher education institution confirming your student status. With this notification, you should visit the Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) office to obtain an “e-talons” card. For €12 a month, this card offers unlimited rides on all forms of transport in Riga.

• Both tickets and cards are valid for trams, trolleybuses, and city buses. Simply touch your ticket or card against the electronic reader upon boarding the bus, trolleybus, or tram. A green light will flash, and the display will indicate how many rides remain on your card (e.g. Balance: 9) or how many days are left until you need to renew your monthly pass.

Cycling as a means of transport for commuting in Latvia is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to well-developed and improving infrastructure in Riga and regionally. Bicycle parking is easily accessible, and there are numerous opportunities to purchase both new and used bicycles. This supportive environment makes commuting by bike a convenient and sustainable option for many residents.

By Bus:

Latvia boasts excellent and regular bus connections, making it one of the most convenient transportation options for anyone travelling to other cities and towns. All domestic buses operate from Riga International Bus Terminal, situated in the heart of Riga near the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town. Information regarding buses in Latvia, including timetables, journey durations, routes, ticket prices, and other details, is available on information boards at the bus station. This information is also accessible online in Latvian, Russian, and English through websites like Autoosta.lv, 1188, and the Mobilly app. Tickets for domestic and international routes can be purchased from the following locations:

• Ticket desks at the bus station during office hours
• From the bus driver
• At the 24/7 ticket sales terminal or ticket machine at Riga International Bus Station
• Online via Bezrindas.lv for domestic routes and
• Buseurope.eu for international routes
• Through the Mobilly app

By Train:

Latvia’s railway network connects the capital with six lines leading to various destinations: Tukums, Liepāja, Daugavpils, Indra, Aglona, Zilupe, Gulbene, Valga, and Skulte. Timetables can be found at each station and online at vivi.lv and 1188.lv. Rail tickets can be purchased with cash or card at station ticket offices. If a ticket office is closed or unavailable at a certain station, tickets can be purchased on board from the conductor. Alternatively, travellers can check schedules and purchase tickets using the ViVi or Mobilly mobile apps.

Quite a number of different airline companies serve Riga airport, including budget airlines, so it should not be too difficult to find a reasonable ticket. The website of Riga Airport can be found here: http://www.riga-airport.com/en/main/flights/airlines. Most international students usually choose to travel by plane, in which case you will arrive at Riga International Airport (RIX). 

After arriving at Riga International Airport, to get to your new home in Riga or any other city in Latvia, you first need to get to the city centre. There are several transport options available.

Public transport 

The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route, bus No.22, which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. A single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), the ticket vending machine at the bus stop, or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

Taxi 

You can pick any taxi at the airport, and you will pay at the end of the ride according to the tariff set by the carrier. The fare consists of a boarding fee, a distance fee, and a travel time fee. We recommend Baltic Taxi, which is the taxi company of our national airline AirBaltic. For taxi services (like Uber) – Bolt Taxi, which will also be useful during the rest of your stay in Latvia.

Rental car 

If you have an international driving license, you have the option to rent a car. The offices of globally known car rental companies are located in the Arrivals sector E and will be open at the pick-up time of your rental. Their business hours are adjusted to incoming flights. The car fleets of the rental companies are parked in Car Park P4. There are also car sharing apps available such as BOLT Drive, CityBee, and CarGuru that let you rent cars parked around the city. Find the closest car on the app of your choice, follow the instructions, and you’re off. Prices depend on duration, kilometres driven, and other factors; petrol is included.

Public transport – The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route which is bus Nr.22 which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. Single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), ticket vending machine at the bus stop or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

LTG Link offers a daily train service between Riga and Vilnius, Lithuania. The journey takes approximately 4 hours with six stops between the two cities. A regular ticket costs 24 euros.

Riga is well connected by extensive bus routes, offering connections to various countries including Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Germany, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Sweden, Russia, Switzerland, the UK, and Ukraine. Tickets for domestic and international buses can be purchased online through service providers’ websites and Ticketto.eu. All buses arrive at Riga International Bus Terminal, located in the heart of Riga next to the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.

Major highways connect Riga with Tallinn, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Kaunas, and Vilnius. Recent upgrades have improved northern and southern road links. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on rural roads, unless otherwise indicated. On certain highways, speed limits may reach 100-110 km/h during summertime. Headlights must be on at all times.

Latvia shares land borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. Travellers from Sweden and Germany can take ferries to Latvia, bypassing long road trips. When entering Latvia from Lithuania and Estonia, no border control is required due to adherence to the Schengen Agreement.

Foreign drivers may operate vehicles in Latvia if they possess:

• A driving licence issued in an EU Member State or European Free Trade Association country.
• A driving licence conforming to the categories defined by the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
• A driving licence with non-Latin lettering must be accompanied by a notarized translation into Latvian.

Residents of Latvia for over one year must exchange their driving licence according to established procedures, except for licences issued in EU Member States or European Free Trade Association countries, and for those with diplomatic or consular immunity.

Driving in Latvia is done on the right side of the road. The default speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on highways. Speeding is monitored both by stationary speed cameras and by the police.

• The minimum age for driving a car is 18
• Everyone in the car has to fasten their seatbelt (including the passengers in the back seat)
• Winter tires are compulsory between December 1 and March 1

Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and carries severe penalties. This applies to all modes of transport, including cars, bikes, electric scooters, etc. Offenders face substantial fines, loss of their driving licence for up to five years, severe administrative penalties, criminal liability, and even vehicle confiscation.

Riga boasts 6 tram lines, 22 trolleybus routes, and 50 bus routes that run from as early as 05:00 to as late as 01:00, depending on the route. You can purchase tickets for €1.50 at designated Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) ticket offices, public transport ticket machines, Narvesen newsstands, post offices, Rimi supermarkets, or via the Mobilly mobile app.

• As a student, upon arrival in Latvia, you will receive a notification from the higher education institution confirming your student status. With this notification, you should visit the Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) office to obtain an “e-talons” card. For €12 a month, this card offers unlimited rides on all forms of transport in Riga.

• Both tickets and cards are valid for trams, trolleybuses, and city buses. Simply touch your ticket or card against the electronic reader upon boarding the bus, trolleybus, or tram. A green light will flash, and the display will indicate how many rides remain on your card (e.g. Balance: 9) or how many days are left until you need to renew your monthly pass.

Cycling as a means of transport for commuting in Latvia is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to well-developed and improving infrastructure in Riga and regionally. Bicycle parking is easily accessible, and there are numerous opportunities to purchase both new and used bicycles. This supportive environment makes commuting by bike a convenient and sustainable option for many residents.

By Bus:

Latvia boasts excellent and regular bus connections, making it one of the most convenient transportation options for anyone travelling to other cities and towns. All domestic buses operate from Riga International Bus Terminal, situated in the heart of Riga near the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town. Information regarding buses in Latvia, including timetables, journey durations, routes, ticket prices, and other details, is available on information boards at the bus station. This information is also accessible online in Latvian, Russian, and English through websites like Autoosta.lv, 1188, and the Mobilly app. Tickets for domestic and international routes can be purchased from the following locations:

• Ticket desks at the bus station during office hours
• From the bus driver
• At the 24/7 ticket sales terminal or ticket machine at Riga International Bus Station
• Online via Bezrindas.lv for domestic routes and
• Buseurope.eu for international routes
• Through the Mobilly app

By Train:

Latvia’s railway network connects the capital with six lines leading to various destinations: Tukums, Liepāja, Daugavpils, Indra, Aglona, Zilupe, Gulbene, Valga, and Skulte. Timetables can be found at each station and online at vivi.lv and 1188.lv. Rail tickets can be purchased with cash or card at station ticket offices. If a ticket office is closed or unavailable at a certain station, tickets can be purchased on board from the conductor. Alternatively, travellers can check schedules and purchase tickets using the ViVi or Mobilly mobile apps.

Quite a number of different airline companies serve Riga airport, including budget airlines, so it should not be too difficult to find a reasonable ticket. The website of Riga Airport can be found here: http://www.riga-airport.com/en/main/flights/airlines. Most international students usually choose to travel by plane, in which case you will arrive at Riga International Airport (RIX). 

After arriving at Riga International Airport, to get to your new home in Riga or any other city in Latvia, you first need to get to the city centre. There are several transport options available.

Public transport 

The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route, bus No.22, which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. A single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), the ticket vending machine at the bus stop, or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

Taxi 

You can pick any taxi at the airport, and you will pay at the end of the ride according to the tariff set by the carrier. The fare consists of a boarding fee, a distance fee, and a travel time fee. We recommend Baltic Taxi, which is the taxi company of our national airline AirBaltic. For taxi services (like Uber) – Bolt Taxi, which will also be useful during the rest of your stay in Latvia.

Rental car 

If you have an international driving license, you have the option to rent a car. The offices of globally known car rental companies are located in the Arrivals sector E and will be open at the pick-up time of your rental. Their business hours are adjusted to incoming flights. The car fleets of the rental companies are parked in Car Park P4. There are also car sharing apps available such as BOLT Drive, CityBee, and CarGuru that let you rent cars parked around the city. Find the closest car on the app of your choice, follow the instructions, and you’re off. Prices depend on duration, kilometres driven, and other factors; petrol is included.

Public transport – The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route which is bus Nr.22 which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. Single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), ticket vending machine at the bus stop or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

LTG Link offers a daily train service between Riga and Vilnius, Lithuania. The journey takes approximately 4 hours with six stops between the two cities. A regular ticket costs 24 euros.

Riga is well connected by extensive bus routes, offering connections to various countries including Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Germany, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Sweden, Russia, Switzerland, the UK, and Ukraine. Tickets for domestic and international buses can be purchased online through service providers’ websites and Ticketto.eu. All buses arrive at Riga International Bus Terminal, located in the heart of Riga next to the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.

Major highways connect Riga with Tallinn, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Kaunas, and Vilnius. Recent upgrades have improved northern and southern road links. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on rural roads, unless otherwise indicated. On certain highways, speed limits may reach 100-110 km/h during summertime. Headlights must be on at all times.

Latvia shares land borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. Travellers from Sweden and Germany can take ferries to Latvia, bypassing long road trips. When entering Latvia from Lithuania and Estonia, no border control is required due to adherence to the Schengen Agreement.

Foreign drivers may operate vehicles in Latvia if they possess:

• A driving licence issued in an EU Member State or European Free Trade Association country.
• A driving licence conforming to the categories defined by the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
• A driving licence with non-Latin lettering must be accompanied by a notarized translation into Latvian.

Residents of Latvia for over one year must exchange their driving licence according to established procedures, except for licences issued in EU Member States or European Free Trade Association countries, and for those with diplomatic or consular immunity.

Driving in Latvia is done on the right side of the road. The default speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on highways. Speeding is monitored both by stationary speed cameras and by the police.

• The minimum age for driving a car is 18
• Everyone in the car has to fasten their seatbelt (including the passengers in the back seat)
• Winter tires are compulsory between December 1 and March 1

Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and carries severe penalties. This applies to all modes of transport, including cars, bikes, electric scooters, etc. Offenders face substantial fines, loss of their driving licence for up to five years, severe administrative penalties, criminal liability, and even vehicle confiscation.

Riga boasts 6 tram lines, 22 trolleybus routes, and 50 bus routes that run from as early as 05:00 to as late as 01:00, depending on the route. You can purchase tickets for €1.50 at designated Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) ticket offices, public transport ticket machines, Narvesen newsstands, post offices, Rimi supermarkets, or via the Mobilly mobile app.

• As a student, upon arrival in Latvia, you will receive a notification from the higher education institution confirming your student status. With this notification, you should visit the Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) office to obtain an “e-talons” card. For €12 a month, this card offers unlimited rides on all forms of transport in Riga.

• Both tickets and cards are valid for trams, trolleybuses, and city buses. Simply touch your ticket or card against the electronic reader upon boarding the bus, trolleybus, or tram. A green light will flash, and the display will indicate how many rides remain on your card (e.g. Balance: 9) or how many days are left until you need to renew your monthly pass.

Cycling as a means of transport for commuting in Latvia is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to well-developed and improving infrastructure in Riga and regionally. Bicycle parking is easily accessible, and there are numerous opportunities to purchase both new and used bicycles. This supportive environment makes commuting by bike a convenient and sustainable option for many residents.

By Bus:

Latvia boasts excellent and regular bus connections, making it one of the most convenient transportation options for anyone travelling to other cities and towns. All domestic buses operate from Riga International Bus Terminal, situated in the heart of Riga near the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town. Information regarding buses in Latvia, including timetables, journey durations, routes, ticket prices, and other details, is available on information boards at the bus station. This information is also accessible online in Latvian, Russian, and English through websites like Autoosta.lv, 1188, and the Mobilly app. Tickets for domestic and international routes can be purchased from the following locations:

• Ticket desks at the bus station during office hours
• From the bus driver
• At the 24/7 ticket sales terminal or ticket machine at Riga International Bus Station
• Online via Bezrindas.lv for domestic routes and
• Buseurope.eu for international routes
• Through the Mobilly app

By Train:

Latvia’s railway network connects the capital with six lines leading to various destinations: Tukums, Liepāja, Daugavpils, Indra, Aglona, Zilupe, Gulbene, Valga, and Skulte. Timetables can be found at each station and online at vivi.lv and 1188.lv. Rail tickets can be purchased with cash or card at station ticket offices. If a ticket office is closed or unavailable at a certain station, tickets can be purchased on board from the conductor. Alternatively, travellers can check schedules and purchase tickets using the ViVi or Mobilly mobile apps.

Quite a number of different airline companies serve Riga airport, including budget airlines, so it should not be too difficult to find a reasonable ticket. The website of Riga Airport can be found here: http://www.riga-airport.com/en/main/flights/airlines. Most international students usually choose to travel by plane, in which case you will arrive at Riga International Airport (RIX). 

After arriving at Riga International Airport, to get to your new home in Riga or any other city in Latvia, you first need to get to the city centre. There are several transport options available.

Public transport 

The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route, bus No.22, which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. A single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), the ticket vending machine at the bus stop, or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

Taxi 

You can pick any taxi at the airport, and you will pay at the end of the ride according to the tariff set by the carrier. The fare consists of a boarding fee, a distance fee, and a travel time fee. We recommend Baltic Taxi, which is the taxi company of our national airline AirBaltic. For taxi services (like Uber) – Bolt Taxi, which will also be useful during the rest of your stay in Latvia.

Rental car 

If you have an international driving license, you have the option to rent a car. The offices of globally known car rental companies are located in the Arrivals sector E and will be open at the pick-up time of your rental. Their business hours are adjusted to incoming flights. The car fleets of the rental companies are parked in Car Park P4. There are also car sharing apps available such as BOLT Drive, CityBee, and CarGuru that let you rent cars parked around the city. Find the closest car on the app of your choice, follow the instructions, and you’re off. Prices depend on duration, kilometres driven, and other factors; petrol is included.

Public transport – The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route which is bus Nr.22 which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. Single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), ticket vending machine at the bus stop or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

LTG Link offers a daily train service between Riga and Vilnius, Lithuania. The journey takes approximately 4 hours with six stops between the two cities. A regular ticket costs 24 euros.

Riga is well connected by extensive bus routes, offering connections to various countries including Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Germany, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Sweden, Russia, Switzerland, the UK, and Ukraine. Tickets for domestic and international buses can be purchased online through service providers’ websites and Ticketto.eu. All buses arrive at Riga International Bus Terminal, located in the heart of Riga next to the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.

Major highways connect Riga with Tallinn, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Kaunas, and Vilnius. Recent upgrades have improved northern and southern road links. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on rural roads, unless otherwise indicated. On certain highways, speed limits may reach 100-110 km/h during summertime. Headlights must be on at all times.

Latvia shares land borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. Travellers from Sweden and Germany can take ferries to Latvia, bypassing long road trips. When entering Latvia from Lithuania and Estonia, no border control is required due to adherence to the Schengen Agreement.

Foreign drivers may operate vehicles in Latvia if they possess:

• A driving licence issued in an EU Member State or European Free Trade Association country.
• A driving licence conforming to the categories defined by the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
• A driving licence with non-Latin lettering must be accompanied by a notarized translation into Latvian.

Residents of Latvia for over one year must exchange their driving licence according to established procedures, except for licences issued in EU Member States or European Free Trade Association countries, and for those with diplomatic or consular immunity.

Driving in Latvia is done on the right side of the road. The default speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on highways. Speeding is monitored both by stationary speed cameras and by the police.

• The minimum age for driving a car is 18
• Everyone in the car has to fasten their seatbelt (including the passengers in the back seat)
• Winter tires are compulsory between December 1 and March 1

Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and carries severe penalties. This applies to all modes of transport, including cars, bikes, electric scooters, etc. Offenders face substantial fines, loss of their driving licence for up to five years, severe administrative penalties, criminal liability, and even vehicle confiscation.

Riga boasts 6 tram lines, 22 trolleybus routes, and 50 bus routes that run from as early as 05:00 to as late as 01:00, depending on the route. You can purchase tickets for €1.50 at designated Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) ticket offices, public transport ticket machines, Narvesen newsstands, post offices, Rimi supermarkets, or via the Mobilly mobile app.

• As a student, upon arrival in Latvia, you will receive a notification from the higher education institution confirming your student status. With this notification, you should visit the Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) office to obtain an “e-talons” card. For €12 a month, this card offers unlimited rides on all forms of transport in Riga.

• Both tickets and cards are valid for trams, trolleybuses, and city buses. Simply touch your ticket or card against the electronic reader upon boarding the bus, trolleybus, or tram. A green light will flash, and the display will indicate how many rides remain on your card (e.g. Balance: 9) or how many days are left until you need to renew your monthly pass.

Cycling as a means of transport for commuting in Latvia is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to well-developed and improving infrastructure in Riga and regionally. Bicycle parking is easily accessible, and there are numerous opportunities to purchase both new and used bicycles. This supportive environment makes commuting by bike a convenient and sustainable option for many residents.

By Bus:

Latvia boasts excellent and regular bus connections, making it one of the most convenient transportation options for anyone travelling to other cities and towns. All domestic buses operate from Riga International Bus Terminal, situated in the heart of Riga near the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town. Information regarding buses in Latvia, including timetables, journey durations, routes, ticket prices, and other details, is available on information boards at the bus station. This information is also accessible online in Latvian, Russian, and English through websites like Autoosta.lv, 1188, and the Mobilly app. Tickets for domestic and international routes can be purchased from the following locations:

• Ticket desks at the bus station during office hours
• From the bus driver
• At the 24/7 ticket sales terminal or ticket machine at Riga International Bus Station
• Online via Bezrindas.lv for domestic routes and
• Buseurope.eu for international routes
• Through the Mobilly app

By Train:

Latvia’s railway network connects the capital with six lines leading to various destinations: Tukums, Liepāja, Daugavpils, Indra, Aglona, Zilupe, Gulbene, Valga, and Skulte. Timetables can be found at each station and online at vivi.lv and 1188.lv. Rail tickets can be purchased with cash or card at station ticket offices. If a ticket office is closed or unavailable at a certain station, tickets can be purchased on board from the conductor. Alternatively, travellers can check schedules and purchase tickets using the ViVi or Mobilly mobile apps.

Quite a number of different airline companies serve Riga airport, including budget airlines, so it should not be too difficult to find a reasonable ticket. The website of Riga Airport can be found here: http://www.riga-airport.com/en/main/flights/airlines. Most international students usually choose to travel by plane, in which case you will arrive at Riga International Airport (RIX). 

After arriving at Riga International Airport, to get to your new home in Riga or any other city in Latvia, you first need to get to the city centre. There are several transport options available.

Public transport 

The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route, bus No.22, which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. A single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), the ticket vending machine at the bus stop, or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

Taxi 

You can pick any taxi at the airport, and you will pay at the end of the ride according to the tariff set by the carrier. The fare consists of a boarding fee, a distance fee, and a travel time fee. We recommend Baltic Taxi, which is the taxi company of our national airline AirBaltic. For taxi services (like Uber) – Bolt Taxi, which will also be useful during the rest of your stay in Latvia.

Rental car 

If you have an international driving license, you have the option to rent a car. The offices of globally known car rental companies are located in the Arrivals sector E and will be open at the pick-up time of your rental. Their business hours are adjusted to incoming flights. The car fleets of the rental companies are parked in Car Park P4. There are also car sharing apps available such as BOLT Drive, CityBee, and CarGuru that let you rent cars parked around the city. Find the closest car on the app of your choice, follow the instructions, and you’re off. Prices depend on duration, kilometres driven, and other factors; petrol is included.

Public transport – The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route which is bus Nr.22 which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. Single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), ticket vending machine at the bus stop or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

LTG Link offers a daily train service between Riga and Vilnius, Lithuania. The journey takes approximately 4 hours with six stops between the two cities. A regular ticket costs 24 euros.

Riga is well connected by extensive bus routes, offering connections to various countries including Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Germany, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Sweden, Russia, Switzerland, the UK, and Ukraine. Tickets for domestic and international buses can be purchased online through service providers’ websites and Ticketto.eu. All buses arrive at Riga International Bus Terminal, located in the heart of Riga next to the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.

Major highways connect Riga with Tallinn, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Kaunas, and Vilnius. Recent upgrades have improved northern and southern road links. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on rural roads, unless otherwise indicated. On certain highways, speed limits may reach 100-110 km/h during summertime. Headlights must be on at all times.

Latvia shares land borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. Travellers from Sweden and Germany can take ferries to Latvia, bypassing long road trips. When entering Latvia from Lithuania and Estonia, no border control is required due to adherence to the Schengen Agreement.

Foreign drivers may operate vehicles in Latvia if they possess:

• A driving licence issued in an EU Member State or European Free Trade Association country.
• A driving licence conforming to the categories defined by the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
• A driving licence with non-Latin lettering must be accompanied by a notarized translation into Latvian.

Residents of Latvia for over one year must exchange their driving licence according to established procedures, except for licences issued in EU Member States or European Free Trade Association countries, and for those with diplomatic or consular immunity.

Driving in Latvia is done on the right side of the road. The default speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on highways. Speeding is monitored both by stationary speed cameras and by the police.

• The minimum age for driving a car is 18
• Everyone in the car has to fasten their seatbelt (including the passengers in the back seat)
• Winter tires are compulsory between December 1 and March 1

Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and carries severe penalties. This applies to all modes of transport, including cars, bikes, electric scooters, etc. Offenders face substantial fines, loss of their driving licence for up to five years, severe administrative penalties, criminal liability, and even vehicle confiscation.

Riga boasts 6 tram lines, 22 trolleybus routes, and 50 bus routes that run from as early as 05:00 to as late as 01:00, depending on the route. You can purchase tickets for €1.50 at designated Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) ticket offices, public transport ticket machines, Narvesen newsstands, post offices, Rimi supermarkets, or via the Mobilly mobile app.

• As a student, upon arrival in Latvia, you will receive a notification from the higher education institution confirming your student status. With this notification, you should visit the Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) office to obtain an “e-talons” card. For €12 a month, this card offers unlimited rides on all forms of transport in Riga.

• Both tickets and cards are valid for trams, trolleybuses, and city buses. Simply touch your ticket or card against the electronic reader upon boarding the bus, trolleybus, or tram. A green light will flash, and the display will indicate how many rides remain on your card (e.g. Balance: 9) or how many days are left until you need to renew your monthly pass.

Cycling as a means of transport for commuting in Latvia is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to well-developed and improving infrastructure in Riga and regionally. Bicycle parking is easily accessible, and there are numerous opportunities to purchase both new and used bicycles. This supportive environment makes commuting by bike a convenient and sustainable option for many residents.

By Bus:

Latvia boasts excellent and regular bus connections, making it one of the most convenient transportation options for anyone travelling to other cities and towns. All domestic buses operate from Riga International Bus Terminal, situated in the heart of Riga near the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town. Information regarding buses in Latvia, including timetables, journey durations, routes, ticket prices, and other details, is available on information boards at the bus station. This information is also accessible online in Latvian, Russian, and English through websites like Autoosta.lv, 1188, and the Mobilly app. Tickets for domestic and international routes can be purchased from the following locations:

• Ticket desks at the bus station during office hours
• From the bus driver
• At the 24/7 ticket sales terminal or ticket machine at Riga International Bus Station
• Online via Bezrindas.lv for domestic routes and
• Buseurope.eu for international routes
• Through the Mobilly app

By Train:

Latvia’s railway network connects the capital with six lines leading to various destinations: Tukums, Liepāja, Daugavpils, Indra, Aglona, Zilupe, Gulbene, Valga, and Skulte. Timetables can be found at each station and online at vivi.lv and 1188.lv. Rail tickets can be purchased with cash or card at station ticket offices. If a ticket office is closed or unavailable at a certain station, tickets can be purchased on board from the conductor. Alternatively, travellers can check schedules and purchase tickets using the ViVi or Mobilly mobile apps.

Quite a number of different airline companies serve Riga airport, including budget airlines, so it should not be too difficult to find a reasonable ticket. The website of Riga Airport can be found here: http://www.riga-airport.com/en/main/flights/airlines. Most international students usually choose to travel by plane, in which case you will arrive at Riga International Airport (RIX). 

After arriving at Riga International Airport, to get to your new home in Riga or any other city in Latvia, you first need to get to the city centre. There are several transport options available.

Public transport 

The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route, bus No.22, which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. A single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), the ticket vending machine at the bus stop, or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

Taxi 

You can pick any taxi at the airport, and you will pay at the end of the ride according to the tariff set by the carrier. The fare consists of a boarding fee, a distance fee, and a travel time fee. We recommend Baltic Taxi, which is the taxi company of our national airline AirBaltic. For taxi services (like Uber) – Bolt Taxi, which will also be useful during the rest of your stay in Latvia.

Rental car 

If you have an international driving license, you have the option to rent a car. The offices of globally known car rental companies are located in the Arrivals sector E and will be open at the pick-up time of your rental. Their business hours are adjusted to incoming flights. The car fleets of the rental companies are parked in Car Park P4. There are also car sharing apps available such as BOLT Drive, CityBee, and CarGuru that let you rent cars parked around the city. Find the closest car on the app of your choice, follow the instructions, and you’re off. Prices depend on duration, kilometres driven, and other factors; petrol is included.

Public transport – The public transport stop is right across the parking lot from the Arrivals Terminal. Follow the Public Transport signs. There is one designated city bus route which is bus Nr.22 which departs from RIX and arrives in Riga city centre. Single ticket costs 1.50 EUR and can be bought at the Airport’s Information Office (Arrivals E), “Narvesen” shops (on the 1st and 2nd floor), ticket vending machine at the bus stop or on the “Mobilly” mobile app.

LTG Link offers a daily train service between Riga and Vilnius, Lithuania. The journey takes approximately 4 hours with six stops between the two cities. A regular ticket costs 24 euros.

Riga is well connected by extensive bus routes, offering connections to various countries including Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Germany, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Sweden, Russia, Switzerland, the UK, and Ukraine. Tickets for domestic and international buses can be purchased online through service providers’ websites and Ticketto.eu. All buses arrive at Riga International Bus Terminal, located in the heart of Riga next to the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.

Major highways connect Riga with Tallinn, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Kaunas, and Vilnius. Recent upgrades have improved northern and southern road links. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on rural roads, unless otherwise indicated. On certain highways, speed limits may reach 100-110 km/h during summertime. Headlights must be on at all times.

Latvia shares land borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. Travellers from Sweden and Germany can take ferries to Latvia, bypassing long road trips. When entering Latvia from Lithuania and Estonia, no border control is required due to adherence to the Schengen Agreement.

Foreign drivers may operate vehicles in Latvia if they possess:

• A driving licence issued in an EU Member State or European Free Trade Association country.
• A driving licence conforming to the categories defined by the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
• A driving licence with non-Latin lettering must be accompanied by a notarized translation into Latvian.

Residents of Latvia for over one year must exchange their driving licence according to established procedures, except for licences issued in EU Member States or European Free Trade Association countries, and for those with diplomatic or consular immunity.

Driving in Latvia is done on the right side of the road. The default speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on highways. Speeding is monitored both by stationary speed cameras and by the police.

• The minimum age for driving a car is 18
• Everyone in the car has to fasten their seatbelt (including the passengers in the back seat)
• Winter tires are compulsory between December 1 and March 1

Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and carries severe penalties. This applies to all modes of transport, including cars, bikes, electric scooters, etc. Offenders face substantial fines, loss of their driving licence for up to five years, severe administrative penalties, criminal liability, and even vehicle confiscation.

Riga boasts 6 tram lines, 22 trolleybus routes, and 50 bus routes that run from as early as 05:00 to as late as 01:00, depending on the route. You can purchase tickets for €1.50 at designated Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) ticket offices, public transport ticket machines, Narvesen newsstands, post offices, Rimi supermarkets, or via the Mobilly mobile app.

• As a student, upon arrival in Latvia, you will receive a notification from the higher education institution confirming your student status. With this notification, you should visit the Riga Transport (Rīgas Satiksme) office to obtain an “e-talons” card. For €12 a month, this card offers unlimited rides on all forms of transport in Riga.

• Both tickets and cards are valid for trams, trolleybuses, and city buses. Simply touch your ticket or card against the electronic reader upon boarding the bus, trolleybus, or tram. A green light will flash, and the display will indicate how many rides remain on your card (e.g. Balance: 9) or how many days are left until you need to renew your monthly pass.

Cycling as a means of transport for commuting in Latvia is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to well-developed and improving infrastructure in Riga and regionally. Bicycle parking is easily accessible, and there are numerous opportunities to purchase both new and used bicycles. This supportive environment makes commuting by bike a convenient and sustainable option for many residents.

By Bus:

Latvia boasts excellent and regular bus connections, making it one of the most convenient transportation options for anyone travelling to other cities and towns. All domestic buses operate from Riga International Bus Terminal, situated in the heart of Riga near the Central Railway Station and Central Market. The Bus Terminal is just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town. Information regarding buses in Latvia, including timetables, journey durations, routes, ticket prices, and other details, is available on information boards at the bus station. This information is also accessible online in Latvian, Russian, and English through websites like Autoosta.lv, 1188, and the Mobilly app. Tickets for domestic and international routes can be purchased from the following locations:

• Ticket desks at the bus station during office hours
• From the bus driver
• At the 24/7 ticket sales terminal or ticket machine at Riga International Bus Station
• Online via Bezrindas.lv for domestic routes and
• Buseurope.eu for international routes
• Through the Mobilly app

By Train:

Latvia’s railway network connects the capital with six lines leading to various destinations: Tukums, Liepāja, Daugavpils, Indra, Aglona, Zilupe, Gulbene, Valga, and Skulte. Timetables can be found at each station and online at vivi.lv and 1188.lv. Rail tickets can be purchased with cash or card at station ticket offices. If a ticket office is closed or unavailable at a certain station, tickets can be purchased on board from the conductor. Alternatively, travellers can check schedules and purchase tickets using the ViVi or Mobilly mobile apps.