- Must visit
Latvian National Museum of Art
The main national art museum presents Latvian and Baltic art in a grand historic building with strong permanent and temporary exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Tartu to Riga
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 06
Cheapest price on Oct 06
$25
Average ticket price on Oct 06
$26
Fastest journey on Oct 06
3 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Oct 06
3 h 54 m
Buses on Oct 06
4
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 $26 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.
Fast buses
On Tue, Oct 06, we found 4 buses from Tartu to Riga, including 4 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 06 the direct buses cover the 223 km distance in an average of 3 h 54 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 30 m .
On Tue, Oct 06 the slowest buses will take 4 h 30 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.
385/24|v2e>v12111:10 AM3h55Tartu, Bussijaam3:05 PMRīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta$251One-way0 transfers- 915/25|v2e>v1216:30 PM3h40Tartu, Bussijaam10:10 PMRīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta$261One-way0 transfers
- 915/25|v2e>v1216:30 PM3h30Tartu, Bussijaam10:00 PMRiga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki$261One-way0 transfers
- 385/24|v2e>v12111:10 AM4h30Tartu, Bussijaam3:40 PMSkulte, Riga International Airport$271One-way0 transfers
- 915/25|v2e>v1216:30 PM3h30Tartu, Bussijaam10:00 PMRiga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki$261One-way0 transfers
- 915/25|v2e>v1216:30 PM3h40Tartu, Bussijaam10:10 PMRīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta$261One-way0 transfers
- 385/24|v2e>v12111:10 AM3h55Tartu, Bussijaam3:05 PMRīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta$251One-way0 transfers
- 385/24|v2e>v12111:10 AM4h30Tartu, Bussijaam3:40 PMSkulte, Riga International Airport$271One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Tartu to Riga
Estonia
Latvia
Buses from Tartu to Riga run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 51m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $6 (€5) if you book in advance.
There are 4 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 4h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $6 (€5) |
Buses per day 9 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 3h 30m |
First bus 12:35 AM |
Last bus 7:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 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
Tartu to Riga Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 3h30 | 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 tomorrow, Tuesday, October 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 385/24|v2e>v121 | 11:10 AM Tartu, Bussijaam | 3h55 | 3:05 PM Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 385/24|v2e>v121 | 11:10 AM Tartu, Bussijaam | 4h30 | 3:40 PM Skulte, Riga International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 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
Why should you book Tartu to Riga buses with Omio?
Ecolines as well as FlixBus or Lux Express 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 Ecolines?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Ecolines, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Lux Express 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 Ecolines 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, Busbud or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Lux Express 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.
Bus providers: Lux Express, Ecolines, FlixBus from Tartu to RigaYou can travel by bus between Tartu to Riga with Lux Express, Ecolines, FlixBus for as low as $6 (€5). 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 Lux Express Duration
3h 30m
Cheapest Lux Express Price
$6 (€5)
Lux Express frequency
4 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
Ecolines
About
Ecolines is a Latvian long-distance bus company, founded in 1993, and is one of the largest and most experienced coach operators in Europe and the Baltic States. It offers comfortable travel to approximately 20 countries and 205 cities daily, with a fleet of over 200 buses, primarily Neoplan, MAN, and Setra coaches. Ecolines operates an extensive route network across the Baltic States, Western, and Eastern Europe, with major hubs including Riga, Berlin, Hamburg, and Warsaw. Many buses offer amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, and Wi-Fi, and on longer trips, personal entertainment devices and stewards are available.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Ecolines Duration
6h 50m
Cheapest Ecolines Price
$12 (€10)
Ecolines frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg and one checked bag up to 30kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Designated seating; Assistance with luggage.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; prior arrangement required.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; additional fee may apply.
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 FlixBus Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$12 (€10)
FlixBus frequency
1 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 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
Museum of the Occupation of Latvia
Well-curated museum on Latvia’s occupations by Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. It gives vital context for Riga and modern Latvia.
- Must visit
Riga Art Nouveau Center
Fascinating museum on the Art Nouveau era inside a richly decorated 1903 apartment. Ideal for understanding Riga’s iconic architecture.
- Must visit
Old Town
Riga’s UNESCO-listed medieval core is packed with churches, guild houses, squares, and winding lanes. It is the city’s classic walking area.
- Must visit
Alberta iela
Celebrated avenue lined with ornate Art Nouveau facades by Eisenstein and others. A top place to appreciate Riga’s architectural fame.
- Recommended
Bastejkalna Parks
Leafy canal-side park around the old city moat, ideal for relaxed walks, bridges, flowers, and classic views of central Riga.
- Gluten-free
Pelēkie Zirņi Ar Speķi
Grey peas with bacon is a classic Latvian winter dish of stewed peas mixed with fried onions and bacon, especially tied to festive tables.
- Vegetarian
Rupjmaizes Zupa
Rye bread soup is a traditional sweet dessert made from dark rye bread, dried fruit and spices, valued for turning Latvia's staple bread into comfort food.
- Vegetarian
Sklandrausis
Sklandrausis is a protected Latvian pastry with rye crust and carrot-potato filling, rooted in Livonian and Kurzeme cooking traditions.
Max Cekot Kitchen
One of Riga's best-known fine dining restaurants, offering tasting menus, polished service and contemporary Baltic cuisine.
Restaurant 1221
Refined Latvian fine dining in the Old Town, known for seasonal local ingredients, elegant plating and a calm historic setting.
Rozengrāls
A respected cellar restaurant serving modern Latvian cuisine with game, fish and regional produce in a warm medieval atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for the Baltics: hotels and dining cost more than Vilnius, but public transport is cheap and budget eats are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at higher-end venues. Rounding up is common; 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants. Taxis usually round up. Cafes may use small change or none.
Rīgas satiksme
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €5.00
To the city center
Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta -> Riga Old Town
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the Rīgas satiksme app or from ticket machines before boarding; onboard fares are usually higher.
- Contactless bank card payment is available on many buses, trams, and trolleybuses, but app or advance purchase is often cheaper.
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 $6 (€5) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Tartu to Riga is $19 (€16) ; 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 4 direct buses a day from Tartu to Riga with FlixBus, Lux Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Tartu to Riga, you can count on Ecolines, FlixBus, Lux Express 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.
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:
- Ecolines
- Assistance
- Designated seating
- Assistance with luggage.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Lux Express
- Lux Express offers a half-price ticket fare for a travel companion if you are traveling with a mobility device or wheelchair.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Tartu to Riga for bus company Ecolines, FlixBus, Lux Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Tartu to Riga depends on the bus companies:
- Ecolines
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Changes allowed for a fee.
- 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 Ecolines, FlixBus, Lux Express.
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:
- Ecolines
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg and one checked bag up to 30kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- 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.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Tartu to Riga:
- Ecolines
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- 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.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Tartu to Riga. The following conditions apply:
- Ecolines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- additional fee may apply.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
- 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.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Tartu to Riga with the following bus company: Ecolines, FlixBus, Lux Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Tartu to Riga with the following bus company: Ecolines, FlixBus, Lux Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Tartu to Riga with the following bus company: Ecolines, FlixBus, Lux Express.
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 Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki. 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 Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki, 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.
Riga, Ilukstes street/PlavniekiRiga, Ilukstes street (Plavnieki), Latgales priekšpilsēta, Rīga, LV-1082, Latvia
City-centre transport
Getting to Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki from Riga city centre
Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki is 5 km from Riga city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus22 · 27m · $1 · every ~9 min
3 · 40m · $1 · every ~12 min
Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki bus station facilities and services
Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki. ATMs are available at Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Riga, Ilukstes street/Plavnieki: The station is accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta RīgaRiga Airport (RIX), P133, Mārupe, Mārupes novads, LV-1053, Latvia
City-centre transport
Getting to Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga from Riga city centre
Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga is 1 km from Riga city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus22, N22 · 26m · $1 · every ~12 min
Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga bus station facilities and services
Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Limited food options available nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga. ATMs are located near the waiting area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Skulte, Starptautiskā lidosta Rīga: Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
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
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