Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Latvia is increasingly relying on public transport to reduce car usage and limit CO₂ emissions. With dense regional bus networks, a fully renewed train fleet, and an urban network managed by mobile apps, the country offers a relatively easy-to-navigate system for a French-speaking visitor, provided you know the tricks. This practical guide gathers essential information for getting around by public transport, with a special focus on Riga, without neglecting intercity connections and accessibility issues.
Understanding how transport is organized in Latvia
The Latvian system is based on several levels of responsibility. At the national level, the Ministry of Transport and the Road Transport Administration plan regional bus and train services, grant licenses to carriers, and finance a large part of the supply through subsidies. Passenger rail is operated by the national operator ViVi (a brand of Pasažieru vilciens), while freight trains fall under Latvijas dzelzceļš (Latvian Railways).
In Riga, public transport (buses, trolleybuses, trams) and paid parking are managed by the public company Rīgas satiksme. In other Latvian cities, urban transport services are organized by municipalities, often entrusted to local operators such as Ventspils Reiss, Liepājas busu parks, or Dautrans.
Above this framework, several national strategies set the roadmap: Latvia’s Sustainable Development Strategy until 2030, the National Development Plan 2021‑2027 (NDP2027), and the Transport Development Guidelines 2021‑2027. The goal is clear: reduce individual car use, develop multimodality, strengthen cycling and public transport, and cut the sector’s carbon footprint by 90% by 2050, in line with the European Green Deal.
Getting around Riga: buses, trams, trolleybuses, and minibuses
In Riga, most transport is surface-based. The subway project planned during Soviet times was abandoned, and the city now relies on a dense network of buses, trolleybuses, and trams. Services typically start around 5:00–5:30 AM and stop shortly before midnight, with additional night services on weekends on certain lines.
The network covers both the historic center (Old Town), Art Nouveau districts, major boulevards, residential suburbs, and industrial areas. Stops are frequent, frequencies are tight during peak hours, and passenger information is available in Latvian and often in English on newer vehicles.
Different modes in Riga
The three pillars of the network are as follows: buses, which handle most radial and ring routes; trolleybuses, a legacy of the 20th century but now modernized; and trams, which structure several major axes. Minibuses supplement the service on certain routes, with a slightly different fare.
For transfers to airports and access to major tourist districts, it is advisable to focus on the most suitable transport lines, although the overall offering is extensive.
| Mode | Number of lines (approx.) | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| Bus (Riga) | ~51–52 | Most extensive network, serves entire metropolitan area |
| Trolleybus | ~22 | 100% wheelchair accessible in Riga |
| Tram | 6–8 depending on count | Modernization ongoing, several low-floor cars |
| Minibus | a few lines | Fares close to buses, flexible routing |
Day services run continuously until late evening. On weekend nights, specific lines (N1, N4, N6, etc.) depart from the center every hour, serving major residential neighborhoods like Imanta, Jugla, Teika, or Pļavnieki. This night service operates as a separate commercial offering, with specific fare rules (limited discounts, tickets generally sold on board only).
How to find schedules and routes in Riga
Several tools are available to plan your trips. The official website of Rīgas satiksme (www.rigassatiksme.lv) offers maps, schedules, and a route planner, in Latvian and English. However, it may be temporarily difficult to access from some non-EU servers for cybersecurity reasons.
The “Rīgas satiksme” mobile app, though useful for real-time tracking and ticket purchases, requires a Latvian, Estonian, or Lithuanian phone number for registration, making it difficult for tourists from other countries to use.
To bypass this, many travelers turn to Mobilly, another widely used app in Latvia, or simply to general-purpose apps like Google Maps or Trafi, which integrate transport data.
| Tool | Main functions | Practical notes |
|---|---|---|
| rigassatiksme.lv | Schedules, maps, route planner | Languages: Latvian, English |
| Rīgas satiksme app | Purchase “code tickets,” real-time tracking, parking info | Registration limited to Baltic numbers |
| Mobilly | Bus/tram/train tickets, parking, other services | Also available on AppGallery (Huawei) |
| 1188.lv | National and regional train/bus schedules | Interactive route map |
| NAVITIME Transit | Maps and multimodal route planner (offline) | Includes major Latvian networks |
Tickets and fares in Riga: how to use the e-talons
Riga has implemented a unified fare system for buses, trams, and trolleybuses. The cornerstone is the e-talons, a multifunctional electronic card.
Different ticket types
The e-talons comes in three versions: a personalized card (with name and photo) for residents and regular users; a non-personalized plastic card, rechargeable; and a yellow cardboard ticket, valid for a limited period. In addition, there are “code tickets,” digital tickets purchased via the app.
Several ticket families exist, with different durations and uses.
| Ticket type | Indicative price (€) | Validity and use |
|---|---|---|
| 90-minute ticket | 1.50 | Unlimited trips for 90 min on bus/tram/trolleybus |
| 24-hour ticket | 5.00 | Unlimited travel on the entire network for 1 day |
| 3-day ticket | 8.00 | Ideal for an extended weekend |
| 5-day ticket | 10.00 | Short stay with frequent travel |
| Monthly “all network” | 30.00 | Subscription for all Rīgas satiksme modes |
| Onboard ticket (driver) | 2.00 | Paper ticket purchased directly from driver |
| Standard trip with e-talons | 1.15 | Unit price when loaded as single trips |
Buying a ticket directly from the driver is still possible, but more expensive than via e-talons or ticket machines. On line 22 (airport–center), it is even possible to pay only by bank card on board for a specific paper ticket.
Where and how to buy tickets
Tickets and e-talons cards can be found at many points of sale: Narvesen kiosks, post offices, some supermarkets (Maxima, Rimi), ticket machines at major stops, Rīgas satiksme customer service centers, and of course via mobile apps.
When using public transport with a 90-minute ticket, you must validate your ticket at each boarding using a yellow electronic validator. The first validation starts the countdown. Each transfer requires re-validation. The trip is fully covered as long as the last validation occurs before the 89th minute, even if the total travel time slightly exceeds 90 minutes upon final arrival.
Inspections are frequent and fines are dissuasive: a passenger without a valid ticket risks a penalty between 15 and 30 euros. Therefore, it is wise to keep your ticket until the end of the trip and check that validation has been registered at each boarding.
Discounts and free travel in Riga
Riga has a fairly broad social policy via discounts on subscriptions or free travel for certain groups. Severely disabled persons (groups I and II) and minors with disabilities receive full free travel on municipal transport, as does their companion in some cases. Persons in group III residing in Riga also travel for free.
This is the monthly price in euros of the most advantageous subscription, reserved for full-time students.
For foreign visitors, the most practical option is often the 24, 72, or 120-hour pass, which offers great flexibility at a moderate cost.
Riga: useful lines, airport, and night travel
Certain lines are particularly strategic for travelers, especially those connecting the airport, tourist areas, and leisure zones.
Getting to the center from the airport
Riga International Airport (code RIX), the country’s main hub and home to airBaltic, is about a 30-minute ride from the city center. The most economical option is urban bus line 22, operated by Rīgas satiksme. It departs from parking P1, between exits E and C of the Arrivals area, and reaches the center in about half an hour, with a frequency of 10 to 30 minutes depending on the time of day.
Information on how to buy a ticket directly on board the vehicle
A ticket can be bought directly from the driver by bank card.
All other e-talons options remain valid if previously loaded.
Travelers with reduced mobility can also use an adapted taxi service, such as RedCab, which has wheelchair-accessible vehicles. It is advisable to reserve 3 to 4 hours in advance; the trip to the center costs around 22 euros.
Exploring the city by tram and bus
The tram remains a pleasant way to cross Riga. Line 11 is iconic: it connects the center to the large wooded area of Mežaparks in about 30 minutes. Other lines serve important axes, such as line 5 or line 7, although these are not yet fully wheelchair accessible.
Buses 4, 7, and 8 serve the Āgenskalns district, a market and café area on the left bank, just minutes from the historic center. Night lines, numbered N1 to N10 depending on the period, take over on weekend nights from the central station, with regular departures at fixed times.
These night services operate on a slightly different model: they are a special commercial offering, with tickets sold on board and limited discounts (though free travel for disability remains in effect). The buses, often yellow midibuses, stop on request: simply signal that you want to get off.
Accessibility: wheelchairs, visual impairment, and aids
Latvia has committed to applying European accessibility standards, but implementation remains uneven, especially in rural areas and historic centers with cobblestone streets.
In Riga: buses and trolleybuses largely accessible
Progress is most visible in Riga. The vast majority of city buses are low-floor and have a designated wheelchair space. Access is via an electronic ramp (or sometimes manual), usually at the center or rear door. A button with the wheelchair pictogram on the exterior signals the driver to deploy the ramp.
According to available data, about 80% of Riga’s buses were already accessible in 2021, and all trolleybuses are accessible. These feature low floors and specific accommodations for wheelchair users, in addition to audio and visual stop announcements.
Trams and specific obstacles
The situation is more mixed for trams. Riga still operates two generations of equipment: older high-floor trams, inaccessible to wheelchairs, and modern low-floor cars (Škoda 15T) equipped with mechanical lifts. Only the latter allow wheelchair access, via the front door, after activating the button requesting deployment.
Level boarding is not systematic: a platform lifts the wheelchair from the street. Moreover, many stops located in the middle of the road require crossing the street and tracks, sometimes searching for a pedestrian crossing with a lowered ramp.
Track reconstruction work is underway on several lines, with the aim of subsequently buying only low-floor trams. However, some lines remain inaccessible or only partially accessible, with lines 5 and 7 often cited as exceptions.
Intercity, trains, and other cities
At the national level, new regional service contracts require that over 60% of buses be adapted for people with reduced mobility. These newer vehicles average 3.7 years of age and include seat belts, Wi-Fi, contactless payment, and audio and visual stop announcements. Drivers receive specific training on assisting people with disabilities, valid for five years.
For intercity lines, an accessible bus must be reserved at least 36 hours in advance via Riga Bus Station (by phone or email). Persons with disabilities in groups I and II travel free on these lines (excluding taxis) upon presentation of their documents.
On the rail side, accessibility remains limited. Only certain trains and a few stations (Rīga, Jelgava, Daugavpils, Sigulda, Saulkrasti, Dubulti, etc.) are equipped for level boarding on the newest trains (Škoda 16Ev, PESA 730 ML). Assistance must be requested at least 36 hours before departure from ViVi. Again, severely disabled persons travel free, including tickets.
Finally, several cities are embracing accessibility. Liepāja has a fleet of 43 low-floor buses, specially designed for wheelchairs and strollers, with audio and visual announcements on board and at stops. Jurmala offers a beach with accessible pathways near the Dzintari concert hall, as well as low-cost daily parking.
| Aspect | Riga (capital) | Regions / other cities |
|---|---|---|
| Urban buses | Mostly accessible | 61% of regional buses adapted |
| Trolleybuses | 100% accessible | Not available everywhere |
| Trams | Partial accessibility (modern cars) | Limited rail accessibility, specific stations |
| Intercity (bus) | Accessible bus reservation 36 h ahead | Free travel for disability groups I & II |
| Trains | Assistance to be reserved 36 h ahead | A few lines and stations with level boarding |
Regional transport: intercity buses and trains
Outside Riga, travel is mainly by intercity bus, complemented by a rail network connecting the capital to most historic regions.
Intercity bus network
Latvia stands out for its very dense coverage of regular lines. Eight major regional routes around Riga have been identified as priority corridors for more frequent, comfortable, and sometimes free services. Buses connect not only cities (Riga–Liepāja, Riga–Valmiera, Riga–Sigulda, etc.) but also many rural towns.
Schedules, routes, durations, and fares are displayed at bus stations and available online (autoosta.lv, 1188.lv) in Latvian, Russian, and English. Tickets can be purchased at counters, at ticket machines (open 24/7 at Riga central station), via the Mobilly app, or, as a last resort and if seats are available, directly from the driver.
Comparison platforms like CheckMyBus, Wanderu, or Busbud also list services, including international ones (FlixBus and other operators). For example, you can find up to 30 daily departures Riga–Valmiera, about twenty daily connections to Vilnius or Tallinn, and many trips to Berlin, Warsaw, or Prague.
Trains: network structure and services
The Latvian rail network has about 2,300 km of Russian-gauge (1,520 mm) lines, part of which is electrified, plus a few dozen kilometers of narrow-gauge tourist track. Passenger trains connect Riga to all major cities and many smaller localities:
The Riga railway hub serves several main directions: west toward Liepāja via Jelgava; northwest to Tukums II, also serving the Jurmala seaside resorts (Dubulti, Sloka, Ķemeri); north, the Skulte line passes through the seaside resorts of Carnikava and Saulkrasti; northeast toward the Estonian border via Sigulda, Valmiera, and Valga; and east and southeast, the large Aizkraukle radial to Krustpils, Daugavpils, Rēzekne, and Zilupe, with branches to Madona or Gulbene.
Schedules are available at stations, on the Pv.lv (ViVi) website, on 1188.lv, and via Mobilly. Tickets can be bought at the counter, on board from the conductor if the counter is closed, or on the app. Symbols on timetable boards indicate specifics: surcharges for reserved seats, “comfort” cars, or express trains, and operating days (codes DARBD. for weekdays, BRĪVD. for weekends and holidays).
The new electric and battery-powered trains, gradually introduced between 2024 and 2029, aim to make rail more attractive, with regular frequencies (arrivals and departures at fixed intervals) and more modern boarding conditions.
| Main lines from Riga | Some destinations served |
|---|---|
| Tukums line | Dubulti, Sloka, Ķemeri, Tukums II |
| Skulte line | Carnikava, Saulkrasti, Skulte |
| Sigulda / Valga line | Sigulda, Cēsis, Valmiera, Valga (Estonian border) |
| Jelgava / Liepāja line | Jelgava, Liepāja |
| Aizkraukle / Daugavpils line | Ogre, Lielvārde, Aizkraukle, Krustpils, Daugavpils, Rēzekne, Zilupe |
Bike–public transport integration
National and local policies strongly emphasize cycling development as a complementary mode to public transport. A significant portion of the population already uses bicycles, and the goal is to make it a key element of daily mobility.
Cycling policies in Latvia
A Cycling Traffic Development Plan (2018‑2020) set an initial target: enable 30% of Latvians to cycle at least one day per week. It focused on two axes: infrastructure development and promotion/education. Since then, the Ministry of Transport has been preparing a broader Micromobility Plan, integrating scooters, e-bikes, and other solutions.
According to a survey commissioned by the Ministry of Environment, nearly half of Latvians use a car daily, 26% walk, 19% use public transport, and 5% cycle. In large cities, the car share rises to over 50%, while public transport share decreases slightly. The challenge is therefore to strengthen multimodal connections, particularly around stations and major stops.
This is the estimated total length, in kilometers, of bike paths and greenways recorded before the 2021 territorial reform.
Riga: toward multimodal hubs
In Riga, cycling is booming, even in winter. Between 2014 and 2019, the number of cyclists on major bridges increased sharply, and the share of residents cycling at least once a week reached 27%. The city has adopted a cycling development concept until 2030, followed by a new cycling infrastructure strategy, aiming to quadruple the number of cyclists and reduce cycling accidents by 40%.
Within this framework, Riga is developing “mobility points” around several railway stations: Zemitāni, Sarkandaugava, Dauderi, Ziemeļblāzma, Bolderāja, Šķirotava, etc. These sites are to include covered bike parking, bike and scooter rental stations, direct connections with bus and tram, and even complementary services (solar benches, air quality sensors, smart lockers). The VEF Mobility Point, inaugurated in 2020 in the VEF district, already serves as a showcase for these concepts.
The company NOVALITY is developing secure parking shelters powered by solar panels. Accessible via an app, these modules offer individual lockers to store and charge e-bikes and e-scooters. This innovation aims to encourage a shift from cars to micromobility, complementing public transport.
Trains and buses that accept bikes
Latvian trains generally carry bicycles, with bike pictograms on the relevant cars. This makes it possible to plan day trips combining rail and cycle tourism: from Riga to Sigulda or Cēsis to access the Gauja Valley, to Valmiera and the north, or to the Baltic seaside resorts.
Some intercity bus companies, such as Lux Express or Ecolines, also offer the possibility of loading a bike in the hold, subject to conditions and sometimes an extra fee. It is advisable to check directly with the carrier or on their website for details.
Major cities like Jurmala, Ogre, Jelgava, or Tukums are accessible by train from Riga central station, and offer bike rental services, allowing you to explore beaches, nature parks, and historic centers without a car.
Case studies: beyond Riga
While Riga concentrates most of the flow and innovations, other Latvian cities are experimenting with new mobility models, showing how public transport and micromobility can complement each other in smaller or rural contexts.
Valmiera: toward integrated cycling governance
Valmiera, with about 25,000 inhabitants, has been the subject of in-depth research on developing cycling as a mode of transport. The city adopted a transport infrastructure development concept in 2019, with a cycling component integrated into its sustainable development strategy. The goal: to become a “green city” where walking, cycling, and active modes are prioritized.
Progress is visible with new lanes, parking near schools, and planned covered parks. However, network continuity and intermodality with buses remain problematic, with few bike racks or parking at stops. This example shows that a small town can structure its policy around infrastructure, animation, and governance involving NGOs.
Jurmala, Cēsis, Vidzeme: testing sharing and demand-responsive transport
The coastline of Jurmala, accessible by train from Riga, is also experimenting with innovative mobility solutions. The city plans to create “hubs” where public transport, sharing services (bikes, scooters, car sharing), and demand-responsive shuttles, and eventually autonomous vehicles, would be available. It already offers its residents two free train tickets per day for Jurmala–Riga trips, to encourage rail use.
Number of passengers carried by a demand-responsive bus service in 11 months in low-density areas of Vidzeme.
Electric bike-sharing systems have also been tested in Valmiera and Cēsis as part of European projects, with stations strategically placed near railway and bus stations to maximize intermodality.
Regulations, safety, and best practices
Traveling by public transport in Latvia does not require complex preparation, but a few rules and customs are worth knowing.
Behavior on board and permitted items
Passengers must always validate their ticket at each boarding. Priority should be given to seniors, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities on reserved seats, and passengers should avoid blocking doors and aisles with large luggage.
Certain items are strictly prohibited: flammable or explosive substances, toxic or strong-smelling products, weapons, and unprotected sharp objects. Bicycles are generally not allowed on city buses and trams (except for balance bikes and children’s tricycles), unlike trains, which accept them in special cars.
Animals are accepted under conditions, mainly in cages or small carriers. Dogs must generally be kept on a short leash, wear a muzzle, and be up-to-date on vaccinations. In Liepāja, for example, permitted animals (dogs, cats, decorative birds) travel free, but at the full responsibility of their owner.
Rules for transporting animals
Train tickets, groups, and surcharges
On the rail, the ticket serves as proof of transport contract and must be kept until alighting. It can be supplemented en route if you decide to extend your trip beyond the originally purchased destination, sometimes with a small surcharge paid to the conductor.
Trains offering seat reservation or a comfort compartment require a modest supplement (about 1 to 1.50 euros). Codes (E, K, P, R) on schedules indicate these specifics, express trains, or service suspensions for maintenance.
Groups of at least ten people may benefit from specific rules but cannot combine individual discounts. Tickets for certain subscriptions or multi-day passes stop being sold a few minutes before train departure due to inspection procedures.
Safety and assistance
Safety on Latvian transport is generally good. Inspectors and driving staff are present on most trains and regional buses. For night travel, especially in the city, authorities recommend planning your return (night bus, taxi, ride-hailing) rather than walking long distances in poorly lit areas.
Ride-hailing apps like Bolt are very popular. Regular taxis are available near stations and the Old Town. Choose clearly marked vehicles equipped with a taximeter. If not, agree on the price before departure. A city trip usually costs a few euros, while a ride from the center to the outskirts is often between 5 and 10 euros.
In case of problems, the emergency number is 112, valid throughout the country. For lost items, you can contact the driver directly or Rīgas satiksme customer service, including via social media.
Trends and outlook: toward a more integrated system
Latvia is at a turning point for its public transport. On one hand, motorization has exploded since the late 1990s, with the car fleet tripling in a decade. On the other hand, bus and train ridership has been rising again since the end of the pandemic, though it has not yet fully returned to 2019 levels.
The government and regions want to capitalize on this momentum: massive train renewal, rejuvenation of regional bus fleets, implementation of regular schedules, development of integrated tickets combining bus, tram, train, and micromobility around Riga, gradual reduction of bus/rail duplications to concentrate resources on complementary rather than competing services.
The Latvian capital is undertaking several projects to improve its mobility: extension of tram line 7, acquisition of new trolleybuses and trams, creation of park-and-ride facilities, modernization of the Rīgas satiksme app, and participation in European projects on autonomous vehicles, last-mile logistics, and smart cities.
For the visitor or foreign resident, this already translates into a relatively clear transport system, affordable fares, a well-advanced digital transition (smartphone tickets, real-time info), and growing attention to accessibility and intermodality with cycling. By taking the time to become familiar with a few key concepts — e-talons, main lines, information sites (1188.lv, Pv.lv, rigassatiksme.lv) — public transport is an effective gateway to discovering Latvia without a car.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
