Transportation in Riga
What began as a small 12th-century fishing village on the right bank of the River Daugava has evolved into the largest city in the Baltic States.Riga is big by local standards, but many of its best treasures are easily reached on foot. Surrounded by a canal and the River Daugava, Old Town is the place to go for nightlife and shopping. The New Town is famous for its grand Art Nouveau buildings and boasts some of Riga's finest restaurants. The Left Bank of the river is an odd mix of industry and parkland, while the historic wooden architecture of the Moscow District is only now beginning to experience a revival. Farther afield are the prestigious garden city of Mež aparks and the Soviet housing estates of Mežciems.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Tram
Around 11 different tram routes service the city on both sides of the River Daugava. To avoid a surcharge, buy a ticket beforehand at newsstands around the city. Time stamp the ticket in the machines provided in the tram. The inexpensive flat fee covers the entire length of the route, from start to finish.
Taxi
Beware Riga's cabs. Meters are often fixed and drivers don't mind taking the longest route to your destination. The red cabs at the Reval Hotel Latvija and the Albert Hotel are reputable, but, in general, try to avoid hailing taxis on the street. Ask hotel or restaurant staff to order a cab for you. Bear in mind that even taxis have to pay a large fee to enter the Old Town.
Bus
Buses and trolleybuses are never far from sight on Riga's busy streets and boulevards. Tickets can be purchased from the conductor, who will make himself known or, on some buses, from the driver.
Foot
The entire Old Town and much of the New Town can be easily reached on foot. Cars must pay a large sum of money for the privilege of driving in the Old Town, so you'll rarely ever see a traffic jam on its cobblestone streets.
Transportation Tips
All public transport in Riga is cheap by most European standards. Monthly public transport cards can be purchased, but are hardly worth the cost for stays of less than two weeks. The Riga Card, which provides free transport and free or discounted admission to museums is widely available throughout the city.
