- Must visit
Estonian National Museum
Estonia’s flagship museum, with major exhibitions on Estonian culture, history, and everyday life in a striking modern building at Raadi.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Riga to Tartu
Showing times and prices for May 27
Cheapest price
$26
Average price
$28
Fastest journey
3 h 40 m
Average duration
4 h 8 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
223 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Riga to Tartu is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Riga to Tartu will cost around $28 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $26.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Riga for Tartu on Wed, May 27, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 27 the direct buses cover the 223 km distance in an average of 4 h 8 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .
On Wed, May 27 the slowest buses will take 4 h 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
25/175|v121>v2e1:15 PM4h05Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta5:20 PMTartu, Bussijaam$261One-way0 transfers- 915/25|v121>v2e7:15 AM3h40Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki10:55 AMTartu, Bussijaam$281One-way0 transfers
- 915/25|v121>v2e7:00 AM3h55Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta10:55 AMTartu, Bussijaam$281One-way0 transfers
- 25/175|v121>v2e12:30 PM4h50Skulte, Riga International Airport5:20 PMTartu, Bussijaam$281One-way0 transfers
- 915/25|v121>v2e7:15 AM3h40Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki10:55 AMTartu, Bussijaam$281One-way0 transfers
- 915/25|v121>v2e7:00 AM3h55Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta10:55 AMTartu, Bussijaam$281One-way0 transfers
- 25/175|v121>v2e1:15 PM4h05Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta5:20 PMTartu, Bussijaam$261One-way0 transfers
- 25/175|v121>v2e12:30 PM4h50Skulte, Riga International Airport5:20 PMTartu, Bussijaam$281One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Riga to Tartu
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Riga to Tartu among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 37m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $19, and a bus costs an average of $17.
Distance: 138 miles (223 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$28 Average price | $21 Average price Cheapest | $50 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 19m Average total duration 3h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 7m Average total duration Fastest 3h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Riga to Tartu is a train with an average price of $21 (€17).
This is compared to other travel options from Riga to Tartu:
A train is $7 (€5) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Riga to Tartu costing on average $28 (€23).
The fastest way to travel from Riga to Tartu is by train with an average journey time of 3h 37m.
Other travel options to Tartu take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Riga and Tartu including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Riga to Tartu among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $28 (€23) compared to roughly $50 (€41) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $22 (€18). The journey takes 3h 49m versus 3h 25m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Lux Express, FlixBus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Riga to Tartu Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Live departures
Riga to Tartu bus times
The table below shows live departures for Riga to Tartu buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 915/25|v121>v2e | 7:00 AM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta | 3h55 | 10:55 AM Tartu, Bussijaam | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 915/25|v121>v2e | 7:15 AM Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki | 3h40 | 10:55 AM Tartu, Bussijaam | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 25/175|v121>v2e | 12:30 PM Skulte, Riga International Airport | 4h50 | 5:20 PM Tartu, Bussijaam | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 25/175|v121>v2e | 1:15 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta | 4h05 | 5:20 PM Tartu, Bussijaam | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Riga to Tartu by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Riga to Tartu buses with Omio?
Lux Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Riga to Tartu.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Riga to Tartu.
Why book with Omio vs Lux Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Lux Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Riga to Tartu.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Lux Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Riga to Tartu.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Riga to Tartu.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Riga to Tartu.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Riga to Tartu
Latvia
Estonia
Buses from Riga to Tartu run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 49m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:35, the last at 19:30. The fastest bus covers the 138 miles (223 km) distance in 3h 40m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 138 miles (223 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 3h 40m |
First bus 12:35 AM |
Last bus 7:30 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 56 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: Lux Express, FlixBus from Riga to TartuYou can travel by bus between Riga to Tartu with Lux Express, FlixBus for as low as $17 (€14). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Lux Express
About
Lux Express, established in 1994 and branded in 2008, is a leading intercity bus operator headquartered in Tallinn, Estonia. It has grown to become one of the largest bus operators in Europe, with a fleet of over 100 buses. Lux Express operates in the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), Poland, Finland, and Russia, connecting capitals and key hubs from Tallinn to Warsaw and St. Petersburg to Helsinki. The company prides itself on offering a comfortable travel experience with amenities such as reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, charging points, media screens, and restrooms. Lux Express is known for its on-time services and commitment to passenger comfort and safety.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
Lux Express frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
To receive a booking code for a half-price ticket for a travel companion, you must email Lux Express prior to booking if you are traveling with a mobility device or wheelchair.
Additional luggage
One piece of hand luggage weighing no more than 5 kg and not exceeding 45 × 35 × 20 cm, and one piece of luggage weighing no more than 23 kg and not exceeding 70 × 30 × 55 cm, are included free of charge.
Luggage storage
Passengers are allowed to take more than one permitted piece of luggage if there is enough space and the coach crew agrees.
Refund
If a trip is canceled by Lux Express, the customer will be offered another departure, or a full refund will be issued within 14 days if no suitable alternative is found.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but it is recommended to consult with a doctor before traveling.
Unaccompagned minor
On international routes, unaccompanied minors can travel from the age of 12 years old, provided they have parental consent and contact details.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat numbers can be selected without an additional fee for Standard and Comfort class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Lux Express offers a half-price ticket fare for a travel companion if you are traveling with a mobility device or wheelchair.
Bikes
Bicycles are allowed if a bicycle ticket is purchased, and they must be properly packaged in a protective case by the passenger prior to boarding.
Pets
Pets are allowed on Estonian and Latvian domestic routes with a separate pet ticket purchased at a 40% discount, guaranteeing a separate seat for the pet and its transport cage or bag.
Entertaiment on board
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
FlixBus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Complete guide to Tartu
Things to do in Tartu
Discover the best of Tartu — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tartu trip today.
- Must visit
AHHAA Science Centre
A hands-on science center with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and family-friendly displays, popular with visitors seeking an engaging indoor attraction.
- Recommended
Tartu Art Museum
The city’s main art museum, known for Estonian modern and contemporary art and its famously leaning historic building on Town Hall Square.
- Must visit
Town Hall Square
Tartu’s central square, surrounded by historic buildings and lively year-round, making it the natural starting point for exploring the city.
- Must visit
Toomemägi Park
A hilltop park with ruins, bridges, monuments, and walking paths, offering one of the most atmospheric and photogenic areas in Tartu.
- Recommended
Emajõgi River Promenade
A pleasant walking area along the river with views, seating, and easy access to central attractions, especially popular in warmer months.
Mulgikapsad
A traditional Estonian dish of sauerkraut slowly cooked with barley and pork, especially common in southern Estonia and valued as hearty farmhouse food.
- Vegetarian
Kama
A classic Estonian flour blend made from roasted grains and peas, often mixed with kefir or sour milk for a simple local dessert or snack.
- Vegetarian
Kohuke
A popular Estonian curd snack coated in chocolate, widely eaten across the country and loved for its sweet, creamy taste.
Hõlm
A refined contemporary restaurant in Tartu known for polished Nordic-influenced cooking, tasting menus, and an elegant atmosphere.
Restaurant Antonius
An established fine dining venue in the Old Town, known for seasonal cuisine, classic service, and a romantic historic setting.
Kolm Tilli
A lively and popular casual restaurant celebrated for modern comfort food, creative pizzas, and a fashionable social atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by Baltic standards. Student-friendly options keep daily costs reasonable, while hotels and upscale dining cost more in peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-12 for fast food or lunch specials.
- Mid-range
- EUR 15-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included or prices reflect full cost. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for very good restaurant service is appreciated. Taxis can be rounded up.
Tartu Smart Bike
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.50
- Day pass
- EUR 4.50
To the city center
Tartu Bussijaam, Tartu -> Tartu Raekoja plats, Tartu
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- City buses in Tartu use contactless bank card payment onboard, and tickets can also be bought in the Pilet.ee system.
- Validate your ticket when boarding, and use Peatus or the city journey planner website to check live departures and routes.
FAQs: Bus from Riga to Tartu
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Riga to Tartu by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Tartu, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Riga to Tartu can start from as little as $17 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Riga to Tartu is $28 (€23) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Riga to Tartu is 3h 40m to travel the 138 miles (223 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Riga to Tartu leaves at 12:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Riga to Tartu leaves at 7:30 PM.
Yes, there are 6 direct buses a day from Riga to Tartu with Lux Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Riga to Tartu, you can count on Lux Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Tartu. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Riga and Tartu and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Tartu from Riga is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Riga to Tartu is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Riga and Tartu including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Riga to Tartu:
- Lux Express
- Lux Express offers a half-price ticket fare for a travel companion if you are traveling with a mobility device or wheelchair.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Riga to Tartu for bus company Lux Express, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Tartu are:
- Tartu University, one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe known for its historic architecture and academic significance
- Tartu Old Town, a charming area featuring cobblestone streets, classic wooden houses, and the iconic Town Hall Square
- AHHAA Science Centre, an interactive museum offering engaging exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages
- Tartu Cathedral, a medieval church ruin located on Toome Hill, offering panoramic views of the city
- Estonian National Museum, a modern museum showcasing the cultural history and heritage of Estonia.
The best things to do in Tartu include:
- Explore the botanical gardens at Tartu University
- Engage with interactive exhibits and hands-on science experiments at AHHAA Science Centre
- Wander through charming streets filled with cafes, shops, and historical landmarks in Tartu Old Town
- Discover Estonia's cultural history through extensive exhibits and artifacts at the Estonian National Museum
- Enjoy scenic views and visit the ruins of Tartu Cathedral on Toome Hill.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Riga to Tartu depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Lux Express, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Riga to Tartu.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Riga to Tartu:
- Lux Express
- To receive a booking code for a half-price ticket for a travel companion, you must email Lux Express prior to booking if you are traveling with a mobility device or wheelchair.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Riga to Tartu:
- Lux Express
- One piece of hand luggage weighing no more than 5 kg and not exceeding 45 × 35 × 20 cm, and one piece of luggage weighing no more than 23 kg and not exceeding 70 × 30 × 55 cm, are included free of charge.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Riga to Tartu. The following conditions apply:
- Lux Express
- Pets are allowed on Estonian and Latvian domestic routes with a separate pet ticket purchased at a 40% discount, guaranteeing a separate seat for the pet and its transport cage or bag.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Riga to Tartu with the following bus company: Lux Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Riga to Tartu with the following bus company: Lux Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Riga to Tartu with the following bus company: Lux Express, FlixBus.
Since both Riga and Tartu are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Riga to Tartu among Omio's users.
Estonia uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. For travelers, card payments are widely accepted and often more convenient than cash, especially in cities and for transportation tickets. However, carrying some cash can be useful in rural areas or small vendors.
In Tartu, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Scams are rare but can include overpriced taxi fares if not using official taxi services. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and use licensed transport options to ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Riga to Tartu
Riga
Tartu
The major bus station for departures in Riga is Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta for your trip from Riga to Tartu.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-23:00
Car connection
Prāgas ielaWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café Autoosta (in the station)
- Bakery Express (in the station)
- Fast Food Corner (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta
- Bus: 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 11, 18 Train: A, B, C
Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki
information
Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Tartu is Tartu, Bussijaam. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Tartu, Bussijaam for your trip to Tartu from Riga.
Tartu, Bussijaam
information
Most popular bus connections from Riga
More options for your journey from Riga to Tartu
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Tartu and Riga
Most popular bus connections to Tartu
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