Public Transport in Riga

Public transport in Riga is very good. There are a variety of options and all means of transport are easy to use. All public transport types have strict timetables (usually from 5:00 to 00:00) and these are usually reliable. Timetables can be found at each public transport stop.

E-ticket

All RSU students receive a personalised e-ticket, which gives a 50% discount for public transport in Rīga. All you have to do is go to the nearest vendor to top it up. You can also recharge your ticket online. Tickets are valid on all routes operated by Rīgas satiksme (buses, trams, trolleybuses) as well as on minibuses.

Rīgas Satiksme offers a variety of tickets as physical tickets, or digitally on an app – 90-minute tickets, 24-hour tickets, 3- or 5-day tickets etc. 

One 90-minute ticket costs EUR 1.5.

Public transport apps

Iphone/Android smart phone users can download public transport apps. The apps are run in offline mode and provide transport routes and schedules. The applications allow transport routes to be viewed on the map and can also display your location using GPS support.

• iPhone and Android can download the Trafi app
• iPhone users can download the Stops Riga app 
• Android users can download the Transport in Riga Pro app

Taxi

Another alternative is to take a taxi. Most taxis accept credit cards, but if you do not have any cash with you, ask before you embark. Be aware that Rīga is no different from any other major city in the world. The drivers may often try to overcharge you, especially when they hear you are not a native speaker. Always ask them to turn on the meter.

Taxi fares are considerably cheaper if you pre-order your taxi.

You can also request a taxi or private driver from your smartphone by using the Bolt mobile app.

Bicycles

The number of cyclists in Rīga is growing every year. Although bicycle culture is not as developed as in other major European capitals, it is improving and new bike lanes are opened every year. Overall, cycling in Rīga can be a pleasant experience, as long as you cycle politely and carefully. There are bicycle parking spaces by the University.

To find out more about bikeways in Riga (map and routes), please visit VIC, mapmyride or bikemap.

You can find bikes for short and long term rental.