Practical tips for visiting Riga
Airport
Riga International Airport (RIX) is about 10 kilometres from the centre and is the largest airport in the Baltics, the hub of airBaltic. Bus 22 runs to the centre in about 30 minutes; tickets cost a few euros. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Bolt cost around €15 to €20. A rail link (Rail Baltica) is under construction.
Getting around
Rīgas satiksme operates trams, buses and trolleybuses. Buy e-tickets at Narvesen kiosks, ticket machines or via apps, and validate them on boarding; contactless payments are increasingly available. The Old Town is pedestrian-friendly, and most sights can be reached on foot. Bolt and other taxi apps are inexpensive and reliable. Trains to Jūrmala and Sigulda depart from the Central Station.
Best time to visit
Late May to early September offers long days, with the sun setting close to 22:30 around Midsummer, and temperatures of 20 to 25°C. Winters are cold and dark, often below zero with snow, which can be beautiful but requires warm clothing. Autumn is colourful but rainy. December brings Christmas markets.
Budget
Riga is one of the more affordable EU capitals. Hostel beds cost €15 to €30, mid-range doubles €60 to €120 and luxury hotels €150 and up. A coffee costs €2.50 to €4, a beer €4 to €6, and a meal at a mid-range restaurant €15 to €30. Lido buffets offer filling meals for around €10.
Currency and payments
Latvia uses the euro. Cards are accepted almost everywhere. Some market stalls prefer cash.
Language
Latvian is the official language, a Baltic language related to Lithuanian. Russian is also widely spoken, and English is common among younger people and in tourism. "Paldies" means thank you and "Labdien" means good day.
Safety
Riga is safe. Watch out for overpriced bars in the Old Town that use promoters to lure tourists, sometimes with hugely inflated bills; check prices before ordering. Pickpocketing occurs in crowded areas.
Tipping
Tipping around 10 percent in restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory.
Weather tips
Bring layers year-round, as the Baltic weather changes quickly. In winter, wear shoes with grip, as pavements can be icy.
Public transport in detail
Rīgas Satiksme runs trams, trolleybuses and buses. Buy e-tickets in the mobile app or at Narvesen kiosks, or tap a contactless bank card on validators in vehicles. Validate your ticket every time you board; inspectors issue fines. Bus 22 links the airport and city centre.
Taxis and ride hailing
Bolt, a company from neighbouring Estonia, is widely used and usually cheaper than street taxis. If you take a taxi, agree on the fare or ensure the meter is used.
Mobile and connectivity
Latvia has fast mobile internet, and EU roaming rules apply. Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés and public places.
Shopping hours and markets
Many shops in the centre open daily, and large supermarkets stay open until 22:00. The Central Market opens early in the morning, the best time for fresh produce.
Food specialities to look for
Try rye bread, grey peas with bacon, smoked fish, kefir and the dessert rupjmaizes kārtojums (layered rye bread with cream and jam). Riga Black Balsam, a herbal liqueur first made in the eighteenth century, is a classic souvenir.
Weather
Riga's summers are mild, with average highs around 22°C, while winter temperatures often drop below zero. Snow and ice are common from December to March, so pack waterproof footwear.
Midsummer
Jāņi, the Midsummer festival on 23 and 24 June, is Latvia's most important celebration. Many residents leave the city for the countryside, so some shops and restaurants close.
Cards and discounts
The Riga Pass includes free entry to many museums, discounts and public transport, and can be good value if you plan intensive sightseeing.
Opening hours of museums
Many museums close on Mondays, and some have different summer and winter hours. Check websites before visiting, especially on public holidays.
Accessibility
The Old Town's cobblestones and uneven pavements can be difficult for wheelchair users and parents with prams. Newer trams are low-floor, but older ones have steps.
Sustainable travel
Riga is compact and walkable. Bicycles and electric scooters can be rented through apps, and the riverside has bike paths. Choose local markets and restaurants that serve seasonal Latvian produce.
Language tips
A few words of Latvian are appreciated: labdien (good day), paldies (thank you) and lūdzu (please). Street signs are in Latvian, and the ā, ē, ī and ū macrons mark long vowels.
Seasonal events
White Night (Baltā nakts) in September opens galleries and museums late into the night across Riga.
Weather
Winters are cold and dark, summers mild with long evenings.
Emergencies
Dial 112. Tap water in Riga is generally safe to drink, though many people prefer filtered water.
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