- Must visit
Latvian National Museum of Art
Latvia’s main art museum, known for its national collection, major temporary exhibitions, and impressive historic building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Tartu to Riga
Showing times and prices for Jul 08
Cheapest price
$29
Average price
$29
Fastest journey
3 h 30 m
Average duration
3 h 35 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
223 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Tartu to Riga is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Tartu to Riga will cost around $29 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Tartu for Riga on Wed, Jul 08, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 08 the direct buses cover the 223 km distance in an average of 3 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 30 m .
On Wed, Jul 08 the slowest buses will take 3 h 40 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.
915/25|v2e>v1216:30 PM3h30Tartu, Bussijaam10:00 PMRiga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki$291One-way0 transfers- 915/25|v2e>v1216:30 PM3h40Tartu, Bussijaam10:10 PMRīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta$291One-way0 transfers
- 915/25|v2e>v1216:30 PM3h30Tartu, Bussijaam10:00 PMRiga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki$291One-way0 transfers
- 915/25|v2e>v1216:30 PM3h40Tartu, Bussijaam10:10 PMRīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta$291One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Tartu to Riga
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Tartu to Riga 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 bus which can get you there in 3h 46m. 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 16m Average total duration Fastest 3h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration 3h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Tartu to Riga is a train with an average price of $21 (€18).
This is compared to other travel options from Tartu to Riga:
A train is $7 (€6) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Tartu to Riga costing on average $28 (€23).
The fastest way to travel from Tartu to Riga is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 46m.
Other travel options to Riga take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Tartu and Riga including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Tartu to Riga 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 $21 (€17). The journey takes 3h 46m versus 3h 31m 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.
Tartu to Riga Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $29 |
Live departures
Tartu to Riga bus times
The table below shows live departures for Tartu to Riga buses for today, Tuesday, July 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 915/25|v2e>v121 | 6:30 PM Tartu, Bussijaam | 3h40 | 10:10 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 915/25|v2e>v121 | 6:30 PM Tartu, Bussijaam | 3h30 | 10:00 PM Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Tartu to Riga 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 Tartu to Riga buses with Omio?
Lux Express as well as FlixBus, Go Bus AS, SEBE, Peatus Estonia and more offer buses services from Tartu to Riga.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Tartu to Riga.
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, Go Bus AS, SEBE or Peatus Estonia to find the best option for your trip from Tartu to Riga.
- 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 Tartu to Riga.
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, Go Bus AS, SEBE or Peatus Estonia to find the best option for your trip from Tartu to Riga.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Tartu to Riga.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Tartu to Riga
Estonia
Latvia
Buses from Tartu to Riga run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 46m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $16 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 5 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 30m.
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 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€14) |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 5 |
Fastest bus 3h 30m |
First bus 12:35 AM |
Last bus 7:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 63 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, Go Bus AS, SEBE, Peatus Estonia, Tartu Bussikeskus from Tartu to RigaYou can travel by bus between Tartu to Riga with Lux Express, FlixBus, Go Bus AS, SEBE, Peatus Estonia, Tartu Bussikeskus 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 30m
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
$13 (€11)
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.
Go Bus AS
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 30m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
Go Bus AS frequency
2 a day
SEBE
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 45m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
SEBE frequency
1 a day
Peatus Estonia
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 30m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€20)
Peatus Estonia frequency
1 a day
Tartu Bussikeskus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 35m
Tartu Bussikeskus frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Riga
Things to do in Riga
Discover the best of Riga — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Riga trip today.
- Must visit
Riga Motor Museum
One of the Baltics’ best transport museums, featuring classic cars, Soviet vehicles, and interactive displays.
- Must visit
Museum of the Occupation of Latvia
A powerful museum explaining Latvia’s experience under Soviet and Nazi occupations through documents, objects, and testimonies.
- Must visit
Vecriga
Riga’s Old Town is the city’s essential walking area, packed with medieval streets, squares, and landmark buildings.
- Must visit
Alberta iela
The city’s most famous Art Nouveau street, ideal for architecture lovers and one of Riga’s most photographed spots.
- Recommended
Dome Square
A central Old Town square framed by historic buildings and Riga Cathedral, often used for events and seasonal markets.
- Gluten-free
Pelēkie Zirņi Ar Speķi
Grey peas cooked and served with fried bacon and onions, one of Latvia’s most iconic traditional dishes, especially in winter.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Rupjmaize
Dense Latvian dark rye bread with a slightly sweet, malty flavor, a staple of local meals and national food culture.
- Vegetarian
Sklandrausis
A traditional shortcrust tart filled with potato and carrot, associated with western Latvia and recognized as part of Latvian culinary heritage.
Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs
A famous cellar tavern for Latvian food, beer, and live folk atmosphere, popular for traditional dishes in Old Riga.
Milda
A well-regarded restaurant serving refined Latvian cuisine with seasonal ingredients in a modern but welcoming setting.
3 Pavāru Restorāns
An established contemporary restaurant by noted chefs, known for creative Latvian-inspired tasting dishes and polished service.
Euro
Moderate by European standards. Old Town dining costs more, while local cafes and transit stay fairly affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-120 per person.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or modest. Rounding up is common; 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated, but not mandatory. Small tips for taxis are optional.
Rigas Satiksme
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.50
- Day pass
- EUR 5.00
To the city center
Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta, Riga, Latvia -> Rīga Centrs, Riga, Latvia
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the Mobilly or Rigas Satiksme app to avoid paying a higher onboard fare. Card payment availability depends on the vehicle and sales channel, so app or kiosk purchase is safer.
- Validate your ticket immediately after boarding buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Controllers regularly check tickets, and fines apply if you travel without a valid ticket.
FAQs: Bus from Tartu to Riga
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Tartu to Riga 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 Riga, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Tartu to Riga can start from as little as $16 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Tartu to Riga 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 Tartu to Riga is 3h 30m 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 Tartu to Riga leaves at 12:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Tartu to Riga leaves at 7:30 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct buses a day from Tartu to Riga with Lux Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Tartu to Riga, you can count on Lux Express, FlixBus, Go Bus AS, SEBE, Peatus Estonia, Lux Express, Tartu Bussikeskus for the best way to get you to Riga. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Tartu and Riga and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Riga from Tartu is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Tartu to Riga is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Tartu and Riga including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Tartu to Riga:
- 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 Tartu to Riga for bus company Lux Express, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Riga are:
- Riga Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets
- Riga Central Market, one of Europe's largest markets housed in former Zeppelin hangars offering local produce and goods
- St. Peter's Church, a historic church with a viewing platform providing panoramic views of the city
- Art Nouveau District, an area renowned for its extensive collection of Art Nouveau buildings and intricate facades
- Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, showcasing traditional Latvian rural life with historic buildings and crafts.
The best things to do in Riga include:
- Riga Cathedral, visit the largest medieval church in the Baltic states with its impressive organ and historical significance
- Latvian National Opera, enjoy a performance at this prestigious venue known for its high-quality productions
- Jurmala Beach, relax on the sandy shores of this popular seaside resort town near Riga
- Latvian National Museum of Art, explore a vast collection of Latvian and international art
- Kalnciema Quarter, experience a vibrant cultural hub with markets, concerts, and events.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Tartu to Riga 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 Tartu to Riga.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Tartu to Riga:
- 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 Tartu to Riga:
- 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 Tartu to Riga. 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 Tartu to Riga with the following bus company: Lux Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Tartu to Riga with the following bus company: Lux Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Tartu to Riga with the following bus company: Lux Express, FlixBus.
Since both Tartu and Riga 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 Tartu to Riga among Omio's users.
Latvia uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. For travelers, card payments are widely accepted in cities and larger establishments, making them convenient for most purchases, while cash may be preferred in small towns, markets, or rural areas.
In Riga, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and public transport. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides without meters and currency exchange fraud at unofficial exchange points. It's advised to use official taxis, avoid street money changers, and keep belongings secure in busy spots.
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 Tartu to Riga
Most Tartu to Riga buses use the Tartu, Bussijaam to Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta station pair, with some services arriving at Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga. Use this guide to compare Tartu and Riga bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Tartu
Arrival bus stations in Riga
Tartu, Bussijaam
City-centre transport
Getting to Tartu, Bussijaam from Tartu city centre
Bus7, 6, 13 · 3m · $1 · every ~11 min
Which Riga station do buses from Tartu arrive at?
Buses from Tartu to Riga most often arrive at Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta. Some services arrive at Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Riga arrival station.
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.
Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga
City-centre transport
Getting to Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga from Riga city centre
Bus22, N22 · 26m · $1 · every ~12 min
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
Most popular bus connections from Tartu
More options for your journey from Tartu to Riga
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Riga and Tartu
Most popular bus connections to Riga
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