- Must visit
Estonian National Museum
Estonia’s flagship museum with major exhibitions on Estonian culture, history, and contemporary identity in a striking modern building at Raadi.
No buses found
We are not able to find a bus between these two places.
The cheapest and fastest busesfrom Riga to TartuShowing times and prices for Jul 10
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Riga to Tartu bus with Lux Express
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 $18. 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 $18, and a bus costs an average of $16.
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 11:50AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
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, Saturday, July 11. 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 | |
| 14|v121>v2e · 146|v121>v2e | 11:50 AM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta | 5h30 | 5:20 PM Tartu, Bussijaam | 1 transfer | |
| 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 |
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 $16 (€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 $16 (€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 $16 (€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
$16 (€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
$29 (€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
University of Tartu Museum
Museum in the historic cathedral ruins on Toome Hill, covering the university’s science, education, and academic heritage.
- Must visit
AHHAA Science Centre
Large hands-on science museum popular with families and visitors for interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and science demonstrations.
- Must visit
Town Hall Square
The central square of Tartu, lined with historic buildings and terraces, and home to the city’s most photographed fountain.
- Must visit
Toome Hill Park
Historic hilltop park with ruins, bridges, monuments, and classic walking routes through the university district.
- Recommended
Emajõgi River Promenade
Pleasant riverside walking area popular for strolls, views, and relaxed city-center atmosphere, especially in warmer months.
Mulgipuder
A traditional Estonian potato and barley mash, often enriched with butter and served with fried onions or pork. It is one of the country’s best-known comfort foods.
- Vegetarian
Kama
A classic Estonian roasted flour mix made from grains and peas, usually stirred into kefir, yogurt, or sour milk. It is a distinctive local staple and dessert ingredient.
- Gluten-free
Rosolje
A festive beet and potato salad, usually mixed with pickles and herring in a creamy dressing. It is common at Estonian family gatherings and holiday tables.
Hõlm
A well-regarded modern fine dining restaurant in Tartu, known for polished Estonian and Nordic-influenced cooking and an elegant atmosphere.
Vilde ja Vine
A popular central Tartu restaurant and wine bar offering contemporary European dishes, good desserts, and a lively but relaxed setting.
Kolm Tilli
A fashionable casual spot in Aparaaditehas, known for creative street food, pizza, and cocktails in a trendy industrial setting.
Euro
Moderate by Baltic standards. Daily costs are manageable, with cafés and casual meals fairly priced, while hotels and fine dining cost more in peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-12 for a simple lunch or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 15-25 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 45-80 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated. Taxis can be rounded up. No tip is expected for counter service.
BusMap Tartu
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 3.75 EUR
To the city center
Tartu Bussijaam, Tartu -> Raekoja plats, Tartu
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available on Tartu city buses, and the same fare applies as with a single ticket purchased digitally.
- Validate your ticket when boarding and use the official app or pilet.ee to check routes, departures, and mobile tickets.
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 $16 (€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
Most Riga to Tartu buses use the Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta to Tartu, Bussijaam station pair. Use this guide to compare Riga and Tartu bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Riga
Arrival bus stations in Tartu
Which Riga station do buses to Tartu leave from?
Buses from Riga to Tartu leave from Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Riga city centre at Pragas iela 1, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia.
Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā AutoostaPragas iela 1, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia
City-centre transport
Getting to Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta from Riga city centre
Tram1, 5, 8, 10, 14 · 5m · $1 · every ~24 min
Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta bus station facilities and services
Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Autoosta (in the station), Bakery Express (in the station), Fast Food Corner (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and inside the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta: Elevators, ramps.
Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki
City-centre transport
Getting to Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki from Riga city centre
Bus22 · 27m · $1 · every ~9 min
3 · 40m · $1 · every ~12 min
Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga
City-centre transport
Getting to Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga from Riga city centre
Bus22, N22 · 26m · $1 · every ~12 min
Tartu, Bussijaam
City-centre transport
Getting to Tartu, Bussijaam from Tartu city centre
Bus7, 6, 13 · 3m · $1 · every ~11 min
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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