- 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 Viljandi to Riga
Showing times and prices for Aug 01
Cheapest price
$22
Average price
$22
Fastest journey
4 h 25 m
Average duration
4 h 28 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
181 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Viljandi to Riga is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Viljandi to Riga will cost around $22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Viljandi for Riga on Sat, Aug 01, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct buses cover the 181 km distance in an average of 4 h 28 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 25 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 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.
4:00 PM4h25Viljandi8:25 PMRiga$221One-way0 transfers- 3:00 PM4h30Viljandi7:30 PMRiga$221One-way0 transfers
- 4:00 PM4h25Viljandi8:25 PMRiga$221One-way0 transfers
- 3:00 PM4h30Viljandi7:30 PMRiga$221One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus for Viljandi to Riga
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Viljandi to Riga among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 5m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $20, and a bus costs an average of $20.
Distance: 112 miles (181 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$26 Average price Cheapest | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 35m Average total duration Fastest 4h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Viljandi to Riga is a bus with an average price of $26 (€22).
The fastest way to travel from Viljandi to Riga is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 5m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Viljandi and Riga.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Viljandi to Riga among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Viljandi to Riga Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Lux Express | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Compare prices and tickets Viljandi to Riga by bus
Compare 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.
Sat
Aug 01
Aug 01
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Aug 07
Why should you book Viljandi to Riga buses with Omio?
Lux Express as well as FlixBus, Ecolines, Go Bus AS, SEBE and more offer buses services from Viljandi to Riga.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Viljandi 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, Ecolines, Go Bus AS or SEBE to find the best option for your trip from Viljandi 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.
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, Ecolines, Go Bus AS or SEBE to find the best option for your trip from Viljandi to Riga.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Viljandi to Riga
Estonia
Latvia
Buses from Viljandi to Riga run on average 18 times per day, taking around 4h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $20 (€16) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:05, the last at 18:00. The fastest bus covers the 112 miles (181 km) distance in 4h 25m.
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 112 miles (181 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€16) |
Buses per day 18 |
Fastest bus 4h 25m |
First bus 1:05 AM |
Last bus 6:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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, Ecolines, Go Bus AS, SEBE, Peatus Estonia, Atko Bussiliinid AS, Tartu Bussikeskus from Viljandi to RigaYou can travel by bus between Viljandi to Riga with Lux Express, FlixBus, Ecolines, Go Bus AS, SEBE, Peatus Estonia, Atko Bussiliinid AS, Tartu Bussikeskus for as low as $20 (€16). 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
4h 25m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
Lux Express frequency
18 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
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.
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
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.
Go Bus AS
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
Go Bus AS frequency
1 a day
SEBE
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 30m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
SEBE frequency
1 a day
Peatus Estonia
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 20m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€20)
Peatus Estonia frequency
1 a day
Atko Bussiliinid AS
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 35m
Atko Bussiliinid AS frequency
1 a day
Tartu Bussikeskus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 20m
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
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 Viljandi to Riga
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Viljandi 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 Viljandi to Riga can start from as little as $20 (€16) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Viljandi to Riga is $26 (€22) ; 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 Viljandi to Riga is 4h 25m to travel the 112 miles (181 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 Viljandi to Riga leaves at 1:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Viljandi to Riga leaves at 6:00 PM.
There are 18 buses a day from Viljandi to Riga which require at least one change with Lux Express, FlixBus, Ecolines, Go Bus AS, SEBE, Peatus Estonia, Lux Express, Atko Bussiliinid AS, Tartu Bussikeskus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Viljandi to Riga, you can count on Lux Express, FlixBus, Ecolines, Go Bus AS, SEBE, Peatus Estonia, Lux Express, Atko Bussiliinid AS, Tartu Bussikeskus for the best way to get you to Riga. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Viljandi and Riga and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Riga from Viljandi is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Viljandi to Riga is June.
Yes, you can take a bus between Viljandi and Riga.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Viljandi to Riga:
- Ecolines
- Assistance
- Designated seating
- Assistance with luggage.
- 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 Viljandi to Riga for bus company Lux Express, FlixBus, Ecolines.
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 Viljandi 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 Lux Express, FlixBus, Ecolines.
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 Viljandi to Riga.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Viljandi to Riga:
- Ecolines
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg and one checked bag up to 30kg.
- 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 Viljandi to Riga:
- Ecolines
- 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.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Viljandi to Riga. The following conditions apply:
- Ecolines
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- additional fee may 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 Viljandi to Riga with the following bus company: Lux Express, FlixBus, Ecolines
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Viljandi to Riga with the following bus company: Lux Express, FlixBus, Ecolines.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Viljandi to Riga with the following bus company: Lux Express, FlixBus, Ecolines.
Since both Viljandi 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 Viljandi 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 Viljandi to Riga
Most Viljandi to Riga buses use the Viljandi, Coach Station to Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta station pair. Use this guide to compare Viljandi and Riga bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Viljandi
Arrival bus stations in Riga
Viljandi, Coach Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Viljandi, Coach Station from Viljandi city centre
Bus68A, 27, 19A, 20, 53, 28A · 3m · every ~3 min
66, 68A, 27, 20, 21, 28A · 4m · every ~3 min
Which Riga station do buses from Viljandi arrive at?
Buses from Viljandi to Riga most often arrive at Rīga, Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta. Some services arrive at {secondaryArrivalStation}, 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.
Most popular bus connections from Viljandi
More options for your journey from Viljandi to Riga
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Riga and Viljandi
Most popular bus connections to Riga
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