Getting Around Riga
When visiting a new city an obvious concern is often transport. It’s no different when you consider getting around Riga – you’ve got plenty of options available but how do you use them and which are best?
Let’s start with the basics: The public transport system in the city is made up of trams, buses, trolley buses and minibuses. As a general rule, you’ll find that they run between 5.30 am and 11.30 pm. That it is only a basic rule – you’ll actually find that some service run hourly throughout the night. Surprised? Many people seem to be surprised by just how good the public transport system is in Riga.
There are a total of 39 bus routes in the city and you buy your tickets from the conductors who will be found on the buses. Price are generally very cheap by Western standards, meaning that this is a very cost effective way to see the city.
Trolley buses have 23 routes within the city and cost exactly the same as standard buses. You’ll also find that you use them the same way – paying the on-board conductor your fare.
There are 8 tram lines in the Riga, with fares again costing the same as for the buses. Our reviewers have always enjoyed making using of the trams – they provide an alternative that some of us don’t get to use too often back home!
Minibuses may seem a strange alternative but they do have a few advantages. While they can sometimes cost a little more than buses, you’ll find that they’re generally faster since they make less stops en route. They are also marginally more comfortable, depending on the state of the individual minibus.
One method of getting around Riga that we’ve not yet mentioned is taxis. You’ll find that there is a supposed set fare per mile when you use taxis in the city and that licensed cabs have yellow number plates. Be careful when you use an unlicensed taxi (one with white plates) as they may not use the standard meter, meaning that you’ll have to haggle for your fare. Treat taxis with care, as you would in any large metropolitan area.
Related Links: Visiting Riga, Riga Tourist Information
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