The main ways of getting from Riga to Tallinn are by bus or private car service, depending on if you are looking for the cheapest or most comfortable option. It's also possible to fly, but this doesn't save you any time and is more of a hassle than ground transportation.
What is the cheapest way to get from Riga to Tallinn?
The cheapest way to travel from Riga to Tallinn is by bus. If you book in advance, on the Flixbus website you can find tickets for as low as $13 (€12)!
How long is the bus ride from Riga to Tallinn?
As the distance from Riga to Tallinn is 192 miles (310 km) and the buses make a stop in Parnu, the ride usually takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes. It can be longer if there’s traffic.
Can you take a train from Riga to Tallinn?
There are no direct trains from Riga to Tallinn, so a bus or private car will be faster and more convenient. We suggest you opt for one of these instead of spending 8 hours on the train.
What is the best way to get from Riga to Tallinn?
The best way to travel from Riga to Tallinn is by booking a private car transfer with Daytrip. You'll ride door-to-door in 4 hours with an English-speaking driver. What sets Daytrip apart from other transportation options is its flexibility, allowing you to visit sightseeing stops along the route.
Which is nicer, Tallinn or Riga?
Both cities are worth visiting, as they are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites with their own identities. Tallinn is known for its medieval charm, while Riga stands out for its Art Nouveau architecture. We say visit both and decide for yourself!
Daytrip은 전 세계 14,700+ 개 도시를 경험할 수 있는 가장 편리한 방법입니다.
모든 여행자는 자신이 방문하는 국가의 문화에 대한 진정한 통찰을 받을 자격이 있습니다. 그리고 지구상의 모든 놀라운 장소는 방문하고 감상할 가치가 있습니다. 우리는 독특한 현지 지식과 진정한 인간적 연결이 다른 문화를 진정으로 이해하는 데 있어 대체할 수 없다고 믿습니다.
While the Baltic States are often overlooked and might not be your typical vacation destination, Estonia, particularly Tallinn, is a sleeper sensation. Whether it’s the medieval charm of the Old Town, the fairytale-like atmosphere of the Christmas market in the main square, or the compact layout of the main landmarks, Tallinn surely knows how to keep visitors entertained. Yet, as enchanting as your destination is, your journey from Riga to Tallinn promises to be more than just a drive.
Depending on the season you visit the Baltic States, either lush green or snowy forest views will unfold, as you head north. When you ride with Daytrip, you can stop along the way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Baltics. While you are still in Latvia, be sure to explore the Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum, one of the oldest and largest outdoor museums in Europe, for a look at traditional living. Along the Gulf of Riga, take a moment to stretch your legs and discover the enchanting town of Parnu with the most stunning beaches in Estonia.
About Tallinn
Tallinn, founded in the early 13th century by the Danes, derives its name from the historical Danish influence, meaning “Danish city”. Over the centuries, Estonia's capital has endured numerous hardships, facing invasions and occupations by Danish, German, Swedish, and Russian forces. Nevertheless, each of them left a mark and made Tallinn the way it is to this day, making it a postcard-perfect destination.
The city continues to enchant visitors with its medieval charm and, while it may not seem obvious at first glance, Tallinn is also recognized as a technology hub and one of the most digitally advanced cities in Europe. Estonia has made significant investments in digital infrastructure, providing free public WiFi networks, and high-speed internet access in rural areas, as well as online public services and digital payment systems.
Estonia is also the very first country in the world to launch an E-Residency system. It allows non-residents to create a digital identity in the country, open a business in Estonia for the European market, and manage it remotely. Estonia really is ahead of its time!
As the city is well-connected to Helsinki by ferry, it is also often used as a gateway to explore the capital of Finland on a day trip. If you want to extend your vacation, adding Helsinki and a ferry trip to your itinerary is a great idea, considering the distance between Tallinn and Helsinki is short. Nevertheless, we suggest you keep on reading to learn more about Tallinn and explore all the corners of this charming town as it truly deserves attention!
From Riga to Tallinn: travel tips
Before you embark on your journey from Riga to Tallinn, here are some travel tips that will make your trip as enjoyable as possible:
Pick up some basic Estonian
While Estonia is geographically located among the Baltic countries, the Estonian language does not belong to the Baltic language branch. So even if you picked up some Latvian in Riga, you'll need to learn Estonian from scratch to impress the locals. Here are some words or phrases that will come in handy:
Tere (Hi)
Aitäh (Thanks)
Head aega (Goodbye)
Palun (Please)
Kas te räägite inglise keelt? (Do you speak English?)
As the phonetics of Estonian is quite tricky for an English speaker, make sure you check how to pronounce these expressions.
### Get the Tallinn Card
If you are planning to frequently use public transport, as well as visit different museums, make sure you get the Tallinn Card. It also includes the priority entrance to several attractions, such as the zoo, Tallinn TV Tower, and the Estonian Open Air Museum which tends to be busy in the peak season. The Tallinn Card also includes discounts on selected tours, restaurants, shops, and more.
One 24-hour card costs around $48 (€45), the 48-hour card costs almost $70 (€65), whereas the 72-hour card costs around $83 (€78). If you are traveling with kids, keep in mind that the card for kids has lower prices. You can also download the app called Tallinn Card to scan it from your phone.
How to get from Riga to Tallinn
One of the main questions that definitely comes to your mind when planning your trip is how to arrange a Riga to Tallinn transfer. Here are the main transportation options:
From Riga to Tallinn by bus
Taking a bus is the most budget-friendly option to reach Tallinn. This route is operated by two popular bus companies:
Flixbus: the lowest ticket prices start from around $13 (€12), and the travel time is from 4 hours and 10 to 30 minutes. Flixbus buses offer free WiFi and power sockets.
LuxExpress: if you buy in advance, you can purchase the cheapest tickets for $15 (€14), and the journey time is usually around 4 hours and 25 minutes. These buses are known for their comfortable seats, entertainment screens, and hot drinks onboard, so paying a bit more for the service (even if you missed the cheapest tickets) is totally worth it!
Each of the bus companies offers buses departing several times a day, so make sure you check their websites to find what accommodates your itinerary.
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From Riga to Tallinn by plane
While flying is not as popular as taking a bus for this route, it is sometimes chosen by those who live further away from Riga to avoid a bus transfer.
You can find great deals on the Airbaltic website for around $21 (€20). However, if you plan to travel by air, keep in mind that while the flight itself takes just 50 minutes, you need to arrive at the airport 2 hours in advance. If your accommodation is in the city center, it takes around 30 minutes to reach the airport, and it can take even longer if you travel in the afternoon due to Riga's notorious traffic. With all this in mind, you will in total spend almost 4 hours to reach Tallinn, so flying doesn't actually save any time.
From Riga to Tallinn by private car service
Would you like to explore more of Latvia and Estonia during your trip from Riga to Tallinn? It is possible with a private transfer with Daytrip. Your local driver will pick you up from your accommodation, load your luggage, and take you on an unforgettable 4-hour-long drive right to the doorstep of your accommodation in Tallinn. Along the way, you can explore the best sightseeing stops in both countries! Getting to your destination has never been this seamless!
If you are a history enthusiast, be sure to add the Turaida Museum Reserve to your itinerary and admire the 13th-century red-brick castle and its surroundings. Once you cross the border and enter Estonia, stop at Parnu and explore its stunning Old Town and beachside. Finish off your sightseeing adventure by visiting the Car Museum, where you can admire the largest Soviet car collection in Europe.
Things to do when you get to Tallinn
Once you explore the route from Riga to Tallinn, reach your destination and your driver heads off, it is finally time to get lost in Tallinn. Whether you prefer a guided tour or exploring on your own, here are our recommendations that are sure to become highlights of your trip:
Explore the heart of Tallinn
While it might sound obvious, Tallinn’s Old Town is indeed worth mentioning! It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a charming medieval atmosphere that will make you feel like you’re traveling in time. For a deeper understanding of the city’s history, consider booking a guided walking tour to hear fascinating stories of Tallinn's Old Town.
As you pass through the Viru Gates, now serving as one of the entrances to the Old Town, you enter an area bustling with diverse shops and restaurants. If you visit in December and head to the Town Hall Square, you'll be welcomed by a charming Christmas market and festive atmosphere.
### Admire the red roofs from above
Tallinn is known for its iconic red-roofed buildings scattered around like mushrooms after rain. It would be a pity not to climb one of the viewpoints in the city to soak in this unique view. Make sure you visit both the Patkuli and Kohtuotsa Viewing Platforms, as they are just a few minutes walk away from each other. The latter is more famous but both offer equally enchanting views of Tallinn. Consider yourself lucky if you visit in winter and there is a blanket of snow covering the rooftops, presenting a truly magical and panoramic view.
### See Tallinn’s modern side
If you are looking for a bit of contrast, explore the Rotermann Quarter, known for its seamless blend of historic architecture with modern design. In this area, you will find boutique shops, art galleries, public spaces, cafes, and a range of restaurants.
### Dine at a medieval-style restaurant
For a one-of-a-kind experience, be sure to include the medieval-themed Olde Hansa restaurant on your list! While the prices may be higher than elsewhere, you're paying for the entire experience! In the candle-lit hall, waiters dressed in medieval attire will enhance your visit as they act in character, making it an authentic medieval meal.
When is the best time to visit Tallinn
Just like any city in the Baltic countries, the best time to visit Tallinn is undoubtedly in summer (June to August) when the weather is the most pleasant. While Tallinn might not be as crowded as some major European destinations, there will still be crowds, so if you want to avoid that, plan your visit in either May or September.
If you're seeking a storybook experience and aren't put off by snow and freezing temperatures, December is the ideal time to visit Tallinn. During this magical month, the entire city sparkles with enchanting fairy lights, and you can immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the charming Christmas markets.
가는 길에 이 명소들을 방문하세요
Salaspils Memorial Ensemble
Brutalist architecture commemorates the brutal treatment of the victims of the Nazi labour camp that once stood here. Brutal Memories
Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum
An enormous piece of the old-country has been preserved in one of Europe’s largest open-air museums. A Home to Heritage
Turaida Museum Reserve
The beautiful park is filled with historic buildings, and crowned by a magnificent medieval castle. God’s Garden
Parnu
Estonia’s premier beach resort offers long walks on the beach, historic spas, and a charming Old Town. The Summer Capital
Car Museum
The vehicles on display in Estonia’s premier car museum give a beautiful overview of the country’s automobile history. Life in the Past Lane
“우리는 Day Trip에서 받은 서비스의 품질에 매우 만족했습니다. 우리는 8월 31일 아테네에서 레프카다로, 9월 7일 레프카다에서 아테네로 돌아오는 두 번의 Day Trip을 이용했습니다. 두 여행 모두 그리스의 아름다운 명소에서의 정차가 포함되어 있었습니다. 두 운전사 모두 훌륭하고 친절했습니다. 그러나 특히 우리를 레프카다에서 아테네로 데려다준 기사 Panos Peppas를 언급하고 싶습니다. Panos는 믿을 수 없을 만큼 친절하고 유쾌했으며, 뛰어난 고객 서비스를 제공했습니다. 그 서비스에는 모든 짐을 처리해 주는 것, 여행 내내 차가운 물을 제공해 주는 것, 단백질 바를 제공해 주는 것, 코린트 운하(경유지 중 하나)에 대한 인쇄물을 제공해 주는 것, 귀국 항공편의 터미널 및 게이트 정보를 찾아 알려주는 것, 그리고 자지키 요리법을 알려주는 것이 포함되었습니다.”
“우리는 이 회사를 정말 사랑하며, 지난 몇 년 동안 여러 번 이용했습니다. 직접 렌터카를 빌리는 번거로움 없이 A에서 B로 이동할 수 있었습니다. 매번 훌륭한 운전사들, 효율적이고 전문적이었습니다. 그 값어치를 충분히 하며, 우리는 Day Trip을 모든 사람에게 진심으로 추천합니다. 그들의 5성 평가는 완전히 자격이 있습니다.”
“Daytrip의 Gonzalo는 우리의 운전사였고, 그는 정말 놀라웠습니다. 휴대폰 신호가 좋지 않아 우리가 어디 있는지 찾기 위해 많은 노력을 기울였습니다. 그는 우리가 로비에 도착할 때까지 인내심 있게 기다렸고, Tulum Dreams Resort에서 공항 근처에 있는 칸쿤의 다른 호텔까지 우리를 데려다주었습니다. 그곳은 집으로 돌아가기 전이었고, 한 시간 반 정도 거리였습니다. 그는 공손하고, 예의 바르며, 친절했습니다. 긴 여정 내내 우리가 편안하도록 신경 써 주었습니다. 빠르고 간결하게. Tulum에서 Cancún까지 편도 차량을 찾는 것은 쉽지도 저렴하지도 않은데, 이 회사는 훌륭한 가격에 훌륭한 서비스를 제공합니다. 앞으로 Cancún/Tulum 지역에 있을 때 꼭 다시 이용할 것입니다. 감사합니다, DayTrip과 Gonzalo.”
“My husband and I traveled with driver, John, between Riga and Tallinn. His car was clean and comfortable ( including a cooled bottle of water waiting for us). He was polite, knowledgeable and a careful driver. We had great conversations along the way but when we needed to quiet, he was respectful. He showed us points along the way. We stopped for lunch, during which time we left our bags in the car, and he watched over them.”
“We had a great experience using Daytrip from Tallinn to Riga. Our driver, Ainars, was on time, very friendly and professional. Great experience. Will definitely use Daytrip again.”
“During a recent business trip in Europe in April 2019, we were lucky to have a short project in Tallinn and then three days open before our return to the US. So, I wanted to determine if it was affordable to get a private car service from Tallinn to Riga... and I came upon DayTrip. The idea that you could book a private car and add on sightseeing side trips into one package was only a dream, until that moment.
The entire experience from booking to drop-off was excellent and easy.
Our driver, Vitalijus, arrived on time at our hotel in Tallinn (in the Old Town, so it took savvy driving) in a Black Opel Zafira, which provided a perfectly comfortable ride. Vitalijus was quite fluent in English and we chatted throughout the four-hour ride.
We added a stop in Parnu, which is the Summer capital of Estonia. In April, there wasnt much action, but we found a quaint restaurant and had a very nice lunch, along with Vitalijus. The best part about the private car is that we could arrange for the pit stops at our discretion, and Viitalijus was more than happy to make it happen.
We finally made our way through the beautiful countryside and into downtown Riga, where Vitalijus made is way deep into the Old Town to find our Air BnB location.
Vitalijus was cordial and professional, and we were blessed with a truly excellent experience. Our first experience with DayTrip will not be our last. You would be surprised at the affordable cost for this type of personal service. Its worth the splurge to have control over your trip. If the comfort bus is your only option, or you are faced with travel that includes multiple changes in train stations, you should consider DayTrip.”
“We did two private door to door transfers with Daytrip. The first was from Tallin to Riga and the second from Riga to Vilnius. On both occasions, the driver was on time, courteous, and spoke excellent English. The car was clean and comfortable and and the driving excellent. We never felt uncomfortable. 5/5 for both drivers and the experience.”
“We recently travelled from Tallinn to Riga and then Riga to Vilnius. Both drivers were excellent: prompt, good drivers, excellent company and very informative. I would highly recommend this mode of transport to see more of the countryside and to have an opportunity to gain a little insight to life in the country you are visiting.
Excellent service and thanks to all involved!”
Tripadvisor 여행자 Voyager606210 의 리뷰
알아두면 좋은 정보
어린이
어린이와 함께 여행하시는 경우, 예약 시 알려주시면 적절한 어린이 좌석을 준비하겠습니다!
반려동물
애완동물은 허용됩니다(그리고 사랑받습니다)! 미리 알려주시면 됩니다. 예약의 다음 단계에서 애완동물에 대해 알려주실 수 있습니다.
팁
팁은 포함되지 않으며 필수도 아니지만, 여행을 정말 즐기셨다면 선택적으로 팁(10% 정도)을 주셔서 운전기사에게 감사의 마음을 표현할 수 있습니다.
수하물
대형 수하물
29x21x11 인치
74x53x28 cm
소형 수하물
22x14x9 인치
56x36x23 cm
각 승객은 위탁 수하물 1개와 기내 수하물 1개를 소지할 수 있습니다. 더 많은 가방이나 초과 수하물을 가지고 여행하는 경우 예약 시 이를 조정할 수 있습니다.
Daytrip은 현지 운전 기사분과 연결하여 한 도시에서 다른 도시로 문 앞에서 문 앞까지 이동할 수 있도록 도와주는 플랫폼입니다. 이동 중에 관광명소나 명소를 탐험할 기회도 제공합니다. 우리는 운전하고, 당신은 발견합니다.
모든 Daytrip 예약은 편도입니다. 다른 날짜에 왕복 여행이 필요한 경우, 별도의 편도 여행으로 예약하십시오. 당일치기 여행의 경우 맞춤 여행 요청을 하실 수 있습니다. 몇 시간 이상 머무를 계획이라면, 운전 기사 대기 비용을 지불하지 않기 위해 두 개의 편도 여행을 예약하는 것을 권장합니다.
Daytrip의 개인 서비스의 경우, 출발 24시간 전까지 전액 환불을 받을 수 있습니다. Daytrip Pool 공유 셔틀의 경우, 예약 시 세 가지 옵션을 제공합니다: 환불 불가능한 Non-refundable 옵션, 출발 24시간 전까지 취소 가능한 flexible 옵션, 출발 15분 전까지 취소 가능한 Super-flexible 옵션. Daytrip의 개인 서비스의 경우, 예약 취소는 출발 24시간 전까지 전액 환불되지만, 성수기에는 36시간 이내에 요청된 변경 사항은 운전기사의 일정에 따라 달라질 수 있습니다.
홈페이지에서 출발지와 도착지를 선택하고 출발 날짜와 시간을 입력하세요. 화면에 제공된 예약 지침에 따라 경유지 관광지를 검색하고 추가하세요. 간단하고 쉬우며 재미있게 다음 모험을 예약할 수 있습니다! 원하는 경로가 웹사이트에 없을 경우 맞춤 여행 요청을 할 수도 있습니다. 정확한 승차 또는 하차 주소를 모르는 경우에도 예약할 수 있으며, 나중에 주소들를 추가 및 수정할 수 있습니다!
각 승객분은 큰 가방 1개(29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm)와 작은 가방 1개(22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm)를 허용합니다. 고급 세단은 큰 가방 2개만 수용할 수 있습니다. 항상 귀하와 수하물에 가장 적합한 차량을 보내드리므로 예약 시 실제 여행 수하물의 양을 선택하십시오. 특대 수하물이 있거나 수하물이 적합할지 확신이 서지 않는 경우, 연락처로 문의해 주세요.
미국을 제외한 모든 지역에서는 운전자가 적절한 어린이용 카시트를 제공합니다(예약 시 알려주시면 됩니다). 미국의 경우, 일부 주에서는 고객이 직접 어린이용 카시트를 준비해야 합니다.
