{"id":4535,"date":"2026-02-17T22:17:25","date_gmt":"2026-02-17T20:17:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/?p=4535"},"modified":"2026-03-09T13:35:56","modified_gmt":"2026-03-09T11:35:56","slug":"how-to-get-from-riga-to-tallinn","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/transfers\/how-to-get-from-riga-to-tallinn\/","title":{"rendered":"Riga to Tallinn \u2013 7 Best Ways to Travel in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Planning to travel from Riga to Tallinn? We\u2019ve got you covered!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Riga is beautiful and can fill days of fun exploring: charming Old Town streets, picturesque Art Nouveau houses, and modern creative districts. You should absolutely plan to visit the Estonian capital city, Tallinn, as well. Tallinn has it all too \u2014 a historic Old Town, a beautiful seaside, cool museums, and great food.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s even better than the two capitals is the fun you can have travelling between them. We\u2019ve ranked your options not just by speed and cost, but also by how fun (or frustrating) each travel method might be. Fear not, traveller \u2014 whether you\u2019re planning ahead or winging it with Wi-Fi and hope, this guide breaks down all the ways to get from Riga to Tallinn.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

1. Riga to Tallinn by Bus<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Blue<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

TIME:<\/strong> ~4\u202fh 30\u202fmin
COST:<\/strong> from \u20ac10 to \u20ac30 (Lux Express<\/a>, FlixBus<\/a>, Ecolines<\/a>)
HASSLE:<\/strong> 1 (super easy)
FUN:<\/strong> 1\u20132 (depends on the seat and your playlist)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The bus is the most popular option, and with good reason. It\u2019s affordable, comfortable, runs nearly every hour, and connects the city centres directly. You can hop on at Riga International Coach Station, next to the Riga Central Market, and disembark at Tallinn Coach Station (Bussijaam). This is a mere 15-minute tram or bus ride from the Old Town.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


The three main service providers on this route are Lux Express<\/a>, FlixBus<\/a>, and Ecolines<\/a>. Lux Express tends to win the comfort race with plush seats, personal screens, decent legroom, and sometimes even free coffee on board. Ecolines comes a close second, while FlixBus is usually the cheapest but the most basic. Most buses have Wi-Fi and power outlets, making it easy to zone out with a podcast, music, or get some work done (or pretend to).<\/p>\n\n\n\n


Travel time is about 4 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and bus type. There are usually no border checks, but be sure to keep your travel documents handy \u2014 you are switching countries, even if it feels seamless. In short: it\u2019s the best bang-for-your-buck option for getting from A to B.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

2. Riga to Tallinn Sightseeing Tour Bus<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

TIME:<\/strong> ~11-12\u202fh (full-day tour)
COST:<\/strong> \u20ac95 per person
HASSLE:<\/strong> 1 (book a seat and show up – click here<\/a>)
FUN:<\/strong> 5 (hands-down)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Make the most of your trip \u2014 this isn\u2019t just transport, it\u2019s a curated journey. Traveller Tours will take you from Riga to Tallinn<\/a> via the scenic route, making stops along the way, and introducing you to two countries in one go. <\/p>\n\n\n\n


Traveller Tours\u2019 minibus shuttle typically includes stops such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Sigulda<\/strong> \u2013 visit the famed bobsleigh track for breathtaking views over Gauja Valley<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. C\u0113sis<\/strong> \u2013 wander medieval castle ruins, soak in Old Town charm<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Gauja National Park<\/strong> \u2013 hike the sandstone cliffs at Sieti\u0146iezis<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Viljandi<\/strong> \u2013 stroll ruins of the Teutonic castle and charming Old Town<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    You and a small group of fellow travellers (maximum 8) will experience some of the most interesting stops between Riga and Tallinn. Capital cities only tell part of the story; an experienced local guide fills in the rest with countryside views, lesser-known history, and quirky local stories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


    Yes, it takes a full day (around 11-12 hours). You start early in Riga and take less-travelled roads to Tallinn. The value lies not only in the sights but also in the shared experience with like-minded travellers. Is it maximum fun? Very possibly.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

    3. Riga to Tallinn by Train<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
    \"Orange<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    TIME:<\/strong> ~6,5\u20138\u202fh depending on connections
    COST:<\/strong> ~\u20ac30\u201340
    HASSLE:<\/strong> 4 (requires transfers and timing coordination)
    FUN:<\/strong> 2 (a mellow, scenic adventure)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n

    There is currently no direct train from Riga to Tallinn<\/a>. You can, however, make the journey by changing trains at the Latvian\u2013Estonian border. The main challenge is timing: tickets can sell out, connections are limited, and missing a transfer can mean a long wait. This option is best for travellers who enjoy slow travel and plan ahead.
    <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    The journey works as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    1. Riga \u2192 Valga<\/strong>: Travel to Valga on a Vivi-operated<\/a> train (usually a PESA 730 ML unit). The route passes through towns such as Sigulda, C\u0113sis, and L\u012bgatne. Amenities vary by service.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    2. Valga \u2192 Tartu \u2192 Tallinn<\/strong>: Change platforms in Valga and board an Elron <\/a>Stadler FLIRT train. Most services stop in Tartu, J\u00f5geva, Tamsalu, and other towns before reaching Tallinn.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

      You must purchase tickets separately for each segment. Total travel time is usually between 6 and 8 hours, depending on how well the connections line up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


      At Valga\/Valka, the border crossing is literally a walk across the platform \u2014 no formalities required. If you have time, you can even wander between the twin towns while waiting.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

      4. Riga to Tallinn by Private Transfer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
      \"Little<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      TIME:<\/strong> ~4\u202fh (non-stop)
      COST:<\/strong> ~\u20ac220\u2013300 (per vehicle, not per person)
      HASSLE:<\/strong> 1 (door-to-door luxury)
      FUN:<\/strong> 3 (you control the ride)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n

      Looking for maximum comfort and zero stress? A private transfer from Riga to Tallinn might just be your style. You get picked up at your hotel in Riga and dropped off at your accommodation in Tallinn \u2013 no stations, no transfers, no dragging suitcases across cobbles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


      The trip usually takes around 4 hours via the Via Baltica route. You can book anything from a basic sedan to a business-class van or even a luxury vehicle, depending on your group size and budget. The cost ranges from \u20ac220 to \u20ac300 per vehicle. Split between four people, it suddenly doesn\u2019t sound so extravagant, does it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n


      Some transfer services even offer optional sightseeing stops along the way \u2013 kind of like a custom tour, but entirely private. Just make sure to confirm your itinerary with the provider in advance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

      5. Riga to Tallinn by Plane<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
      \"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      TIME:<\/strong> ~2.5\u20133\u202fh (door-to-door)
      COST:<\/strong> from 40\u20ac (basic) to 400\u20ac (business class), give or take because prices may change
      HASSLE:<\/strong> 2 (airports add time)
      FUN:<\/strong> 2 (if you’re into air travel)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n

      Riga and Tallinn are not that far apart; the direct airBaltic <\/a>flight takes about an hour. Add check-in, security, and airport transfers, and the trip easily stretches to 3\u20134 hours in total. Basically the same as taking the bus or a private transfer. Also keep in mind that neither Riga nor Tallinn airport is in the city centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


      Fares can start around \u20ac40, but it\u2019s more realistic to pay \u20ac75\u2013120 (luggage and seat selection not included) unless booked well in advance. If flying already fits into your travel plan, it can work \u2013 but otherwise, the bus or sightseeing tour is often smoother.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

      6. Riga to Tallinn by Car<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
      \"Two<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      TIME:<\/strong> ~4\u202fh (via Via Baltica E67)
      COST:<\/strong> \u20ac80-100\/day (fuel + rental)
      HASSLE:<\/strong> 2 (one\u2011way rental fee applies)
      FUN:<\/strong> 3\u20135 (freedom to explore)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n

      For maximum control and freedom to stop whenever and wherever – drive yourself. Fastest is to take the E67 \u201cVia Baltica\u201d. It is a very straightforward and fast way from Riga to Tallinn. Renting a car is easy, but remember that dropping it off in another country usually comes with extra fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


      If you crave flexibility, this is ideal. Create your own sightseeing route, take your time, ditch the plan, and follow your whims.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

      7. Walk or Bike from Riga to Tallinn<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
      \"Hiking
      Photo: Brand Estonia \/ Priidu Saart<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      TIME:<\/strong> several days
      COST:<\/strong> minimal (food, gear, accommodation)
      HASSLE:<\/strong> 3 (self-sufficient itinerary)
      FUN:<\/strong> 5 (an epic adventure)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n

      All the respect to anyone who plans on doing this. The shortest direct route is around 310 km and mostly follows major roads, which is not exactly scenic for walking or cycling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      If you are already doing it, go all in. Two options stand out. One: follow the coast<\/a>. Start in Riga, hug the sea north all the way to P\u00e4rnu, then decide whether to continue along the coast or detour to Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, or other islands. Two: head through Gauja National Park<\/a>, cross the border, and pick up Estonia\u2019s hiking trails <\/a>through bogs, forests, and moors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Walking or cycling like this always impresses locals. Public camping sites are common, often free or very affordable, and the countryside offers everything from simple guesthouses to fancy manor spa hotels. It takes planning, fitness, and spirit \u2013 but the reward is unmatched.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

      Quick Comparison<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Mode<\/th>Time<\/th>Price<\/th>Hassle<\/th>Fun<\/th>Best for<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
      Bus<\/strong><\/td>~4.5h<\/td>\u20ac10-30<\/td>1<\/td>1\u20132<\/td>Most travellers: convenient + low-cost<\/td><\/tr>
      Sightseeing tour<\/strong><\/td>~12h<\/td>\u20ac95<\/td>1<\/td>5<\/td>Those who love local stories & scenery<\/td><\/tr>
      Train<\/strong><\/td>6.5\u20138h w\/transfer<\/td>\u20ac30\u201340<\/td>4<\/td>2<\/td>Railway fans & scenic route lovers<\/td><\/tr>
      Flight<\/strong><\/td>~2.5\u20133h<\/td>\u20ac40+<\/td>2<\/td>2<\/td>Time-pressed travellers<\/td><\/tr>
      Car rental<\/strong><\/td>~4h<\/td>\u20ac80-100\/day<\/td>2<\/td>3\u20135<\/td>Independent explorers<\/td><\/tr>
      Bike or hike<\/strong><\/td>days<\/td>minimal<\/td>3<\/td>5<\/td>Adventure seekers<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

      Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      If ease and price matter most, stick with the bus<\/strong>\u2014cheap, central, comfy. Want the trip itself to be a memorable tour? The sightseeing shuttle<\/a><\/strong> is a full-day highlight. Other options\u2014train, flight, car, bike\u2014offer a different flavor of travel: choose based on your mood, budget, and how much of the Baltic you want to experience along the way<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      <\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

      Planning to travel from Riga to Tallinn? We\u2019ve got you covered! Riga is beautiful and can fill days of fun exploring: charming Old Town streets, picturesque Art Nouveau houses, and modern creative districts. You should absolutely plan to visit the Estonian capital city, Tallinn, as well. Tallinn has it all too \u2014 a historic Old …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":3830,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[112,131],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4535","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-riga","category-transfers","entry","clearfix"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4535","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4535"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4535\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4571,"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4535\/revisions\/4571"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3830"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4535"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4535"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/testblog.traveller.ee\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4535"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}