Tartu to Riga bus with Lux Express

Sun, May 24
+ Add return
Lux Express
FlixBus
Go Bus AS
SEBE
Peatus Estonia
2,000+ travel companies
Lux Express
FlixBus
Go Bus AS
SEBE
Peatus Estonia
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Tartu to Riga

Showing times and prices for May 24

Cheapest price

$28

Average price

$34

Fastest journey

3 h 30 m

Average duration

4 h 16 m

Buses per day

11

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 $34 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $28.

Fast buses

Of the 11 buses that leave Tartu for Riga on Sun, May 24, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, May 24 the direct buses cover the 223 km distance in an average of 4 h 16 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 30 m .

On Sun, May 24 the slowest buses will take 5 h 45 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.

  • Lux Express385/24|v2e>v121
    11:10 AM3h55
    Tartu, Bussijaam
    3:05 PMRīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta
    $281One-way
    0 transfers
  • Lux Express915/25|v2e>v121
    6:30 PM3h40
    Tartu, Bussijaam
    10:10 PMRīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta
    $281One-way
    0 transfers
  • Lux Express915/25|v2e>v121
    6:30 PM3h30
    Tartu, Bussijaam
    10:00 PMRiga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki
    $281One-way
    0 transfers
  • Lux Express385/24|v2e>v121
    11:10 AM4h30
    Tartu, Bussijaam
    3:40 PMSkulte, Riga International Airport
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • Lux Express145|17058e>8723e · 14|8723e>18859
    8:30 AM7h05
    Tartu, Bussijaam
    3:35 PMRīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta
    $361One-way
    1 transfer

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 $19. 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 $19, and a bus costs an average of $17.

Distance: 138 miles (223 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

$29

Average price

$22

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 $22 (€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 $29 (€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 $29 (€23) compared to roughly $50 (€41) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $22 (€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

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Lux Express
Departure Time
08:30AM
Arrival Time
03:35PM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
Lux Express
Departure Time
11:10AM
Arrival Time
03:40PM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
Lux Express
Departure Time
12:45PM
Arrival Time
06:35PM
Duration
5h50
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
Lux Express
Departure Time
04:45PM
Arrival Time
10:30PM
Duration
5h45
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
Lux Express
Departure Time
06:30PM
Arrival Time
10:10PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$26

Live departures

Tartu to Riga bus times

The table below shows live departures for Tartu to Riga buses for today, Saturday, May 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Lux Express385/24|v2e>v12111:10 AM Tartu, Bussijaam
4h30
3:40 PM Skulte, Riga International Airport0 transfersDirect
Lux Express385/24|v2e>v12111:10 AM Tartu, Bussijaam
3h55
3:05 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta0 transfersDirect
Lux Express145|17058e>8723e · 14|8723e>1885912:45 PM Tartu, Bussijaam
8h15
9:00 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta1 transfer
Lux Express145|17058e>8723e · 14|8723e>1885912:45 PM Tartu, Bussijaam
5h50
6:35 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta1 transfer
Lux Express145|17058e>8723e · 14|8723e>1885912:45 PM Tartu, Bussijaam
6h50
7:35 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta1 transfer
Lux Express145|17058e>8723e · 14|8723e>188594:45 PM Tartu, Bussijaam
5h45
10:30 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta1 transfer
Lux Express915/25|v2e>v1216:30 PM Tartu, Bussijaam
3h30
10:00 PM Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki0 transfersDirect
Lux Express915/25|v2e>v1216:30 PM Tartu, Bussijaam
3h40
10:10 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta0 transfersDirect
Sunday, May 24
Lux Express145|17058e>8723e · 14|8723e>188598:30 AM Tartu, Bussijaam
7h05
3:35 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta1 transfer
Lux Express145|17058e>8723e · 211/949|8723e>188598:30 AM Tartu, Bussijaam
6h05
2:35 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta1 transfer
Lux Express145|17058e>8723e · 14|8723e>188598:30 AM Tartu, Bussijaam
10h05
6:35 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta1 transfer

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

EstoniaEstonia
LatviaLatvia
Icon of bus

Buses from Tartu to Riga run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 46m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 (€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
$17 (€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 $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 30m
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
$14 (€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
$25 (€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

Latvian National Museum of Art

Latvia’s main fine arts museum, known for major Latvian art collections and a landmark historic building in the city center.

  • Must visit

Museum of the Occupation of Latvia

Essential museum documenting Latvia under Soviet and Nazi occupations, with powerful exhibitions on repression, resistance, and memory.

  • Recommended

Art Museum Riga Bourse

Art museum in a grand Venetian Renaissance style building, showing international art, decorative arts, and changing exhibitions.

Euro

Moderate by European standards: budget eats are affordable, while hotels and central dining cost more in peak season.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 8-12 for a simple meal.
Mid-range
EUR 15-30 per person.
Fine dining
EUR 50+ per person.
Coffee
EUR 2.50-4 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is often included or modest. Round up small bills; 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants for good service. Tipping is not expected for cafes, but rounding up is polite.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Tartu to Riga can start from as little as $17 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Tartu to Riga is $29 (€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

Tartu
Riga
The major bus station for departures in Tartu is Tartu, Bussijaam. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Tartu, Bussijaam for your trip from Tartu to Riga.
Tartu, Bussijaam
information

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