Airport transfers in Latvia 2026

Riga Airport offers several ways into the city. The most economical is the city bus, running every 10-20 minutes and taking about 30 minutes to reach the centre. For travellers with heavy luggage or arriving late, taxis are available at the official rank outside arrivals, typically taking 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Pre-booked transfers suit families or groups, providing a fixed price and a driver waiting for you. There’s no train or shuttle service from Riga Airport, so the bus or taxi are your main options. The bus wins for value; pre-booked transfers add convenience when timing or baggage is a concern.

Riga Airport does not have a regulated flat fare, so always use the official taxi rank outside the terminal. Avoid drivers who approach inside the building offering rides. Metered taxis are standard, but watch out for the classic trap: drivers claiming the meter is broken and quoting inflated fixed prices. Apps like Bolt and Yandex Taxi operate reliably in Riga, offering upfront pricing and cashless payments, a safer alternative to street hails.

The main public transport option is bus number 22, connecting Riga Airport to the city centre in about 30 minutes. Buses run roughly every 10 to 20 minutes during the day, with the last service around midnight. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or from the driver, but having local cash is helpful. Late-night arrivals or travellers with children and heavy luggage may find buses less practical, making taxis or pre-booked transfers a better choice.

Usually, public transport or taxis from the official rank suffice for most travellers. Pre-book a transfer if you arrive late at night, travel with a group, or head to an area where taxis are scarce or unregulated. Around the World compares fixed-price transfer services, letting you lock in a fare and avoid surprises on arrival.