There is a direct 4-hour bus from Riga to Vilnius, but a faster and more comfortable experience might come from a Daytrip private car transfer. This swift door-to-door service boasts unmatched safety and convenience with a friendly, English-speaking professional driver.
What is the cheapest way to get from Riga to Vilnius?
The most affordable option is the direct bus ticket, which typically costs $20-$50, with the most reasonable prices available on the Lux Express when booked online. These relatively cheap tickets run between the Rīgas Starptautiskā Autoosta and Vilnius Shopping Centre panorama bus stations.
Is Vilnius worth visiting as a day trip from Riga?
While it is possible to visit Vilnius as a day trip from Riga, the journey is at least 3.5 hours long, and it may be better to plan to spend one night in Vilnius's historic old town to make the most of your road trip between these two cities.
Is there a direct train from Riga to Vilnius?
There is a direct train from Riga to Vilnius, and the journey takes an average of 4.5 hours, not counting the time spent getting to and from the train stations. Passengers can purchase a mobile ticket online in advance for the most reasonable price, typically around $15-$25.
How long is the bus from Riga to Vilnius International Airport?
The direct bus from Riga to Vilnius International Airport takes around 5.5 hours. Alternatively, several private shuttle companies run services along this route and may be able to offer a faster or more flexible journey out of this Baltic capital.
How to get to Vilnius from Riga?
The best option for the Riga to Vilnius transfer is with a Daytrip private transfer. This service elevates your travel experience with door-to-door transport and the option to create your own sightseeing tour with stops such as the Rundale Palace.
자주 묻는 질문
질문이 있으시면, 여기에 답변이 있습니다.
Daytrip은 전 세계 14,600+ 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.
The Riga to Vilnius transfer takes approximately three to four hours, covering a distance of 180 miles (290 kilometers) through the beautiful Baltic countryside. When choosing a Daytrip private transfer, you can transform what would be a simple drive into an exciting day trip with optional sightseeing stops along the way.
For example, consider breaking your journey with a visit to Rundale Palace, a magnificent Baroque masterpiece often called the "Versailles of Latvia." This stunning 18th-century palace features ornate interiors and meticulously maintained French-style gardens that are particularly beautiful during the summer months.
Or perhaps you'd prefer to explore the Hill of Crosses, a unique pilgrimage site where thousands of crosses have accumulated over decades, creating a powerful and moving landscape. The time you spend traveling between these Baltic capitals can become one of the highlights of your Baltic adventure rather than just a necessary transfer.
About Vilnius
After completing your journey from Riga to Vilnius, you'll find yourself in Lithuania's capital, a city dating back to the 14th century. Vilnius proudly boasts one of Eastern Europe's largest surviving medieval old towns, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994. The city's skyline is punctuated by numerous church spires from various architectural styles, such as Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque.
The cultural significance of Vilnius can't be overstated. It was designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2009, highlighting its importance in the continent's cultural landscape. Literature enthusiasts might be interested to know that the city maintains strong literary traditions, with Vilnius University housing one of the oldest libraries in Eastern Europe, containing precious manuscripts and rare publications.
Unlike many European capitals that developed around rivers for trade and defense, Vilnius grew around hills. The city is situated in a picturesque valley where the Neris and Vilnia rivers meet, surrounded by hills that offer panoramic views of the cityscape. This unique topography has influenced the city's development and layout over centuries.
Historically, Vilnius was known for its religious tolerance, becoming home to diverse communities including Catholics, Orthodox Christians, Jews, Karaites, and others. This multicultural heritage is still visible today in the city's architecture and cultural landmarks. The Jewish community, in particular, had a significant presence before WWII, with Vilnius being known as the "Jerusalem of the North" due to its importance as a center of Jewish learning and culture.
Modern Vilnius balances its rich history with forward-thinking innovation. The city has emerged as a growing technology hub in the Baltic region. It has a thriving startup ecosystem and many technology parks. This blend of historical charm and contemporary dynamism makes Vilnius a fascinating destination for travelers seeking both cultural depth and modern amenities during their visit to the Baltic states.
From Riga to Vilnius: travel tips
Make your Riga to Vilnius transfer smooth and enjoyable with these essential travel tips for navigating between these two Baltic capitals.
Plan your border crossing
Although both Latvia and Lithuania are part of the Schengen Area, it's still advisable to carry your passport or ID card in your cabin bag during the trip. While formal border checks are typically minimal, random inspections can occur. Having your identification readily available will ensure there are no delays in your journey time.
Add a sightseeing stop
Although you are traveling from one capital city to another, many of Latvia and Lithuania’s best-kept secrets are in the smaller cities. Plan a stop or two at sights like the Trakai Island Castle or the medieval city of Panevezys for a more well-rounded trip to the Baltics.
How to get from Riga to Vilnius
There are several transportation options for your Riga to Vilnius transfer, each with its own advantages depending on your travel preferences, budget, and schedule. Let's explore them from most to least convenient.
Private transfer from Riga to Vilnius
The most comfortable and flexible way to travel from Riga to Vilnius is with a Daytrip private car service. This door-to-door transfer takes approximately three to four hours of direct drive time and begins right at your accommodation in Riga, ending at your doorstep in Vilnius. This makes it the most convenient method for getting between these Baltic capitals.
With Daytrip, you'll travel with a professional, English-speaking local driver who ensures your comfort and safety throughout the journey. The major advantage over public transportation is the ability to add sightseeing stops along the way, turning your transfer into an enriching day trip through the Baltic countryside.
Bus from Riga to Vilnius
Taking a bus is the most budget-friendly option for traveling between these cities. Companies like Lux Express and Ecolines operate regular services on this route, with journey times of 4-5 hours depending on traffic conditions. Buses typically depart from Riga International Coach Terminal and arrive at Vilnius Bus Station.
Ticket prices range from €15-25 one way, with the exact fare depending on how far in advance you book and the level of comfort you choose. Most buses offer amenities like free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and entertainment systems, making the trip relatively comfortable. The bus timetable typically includes multiple daily departures, giving you flexibility in planning your travel day.
Train from Riga to Vilnius
Currently, there is no direct train connection between Riga and Vilnius. The Baltic railway network is undergoing significant development with the Rail Baltica high-speed rail project, but as of now, taking the train would require multiple changes and significantly more time than other transportation options.
When the Rail Baltica project is completed (expected in the coming years), train travel between these Baltic capitals will become a viable and likely the fastest option.
Flights from Riga to Vilnius
While flights between Riga and Vilnius exist, they're generally not recommended for this relatively short distance. When accounting for airport transfer times, security procedures, and check-in requirements, flying actually takes longer than driving or taking a bus. Additionally, direct flights on this route are limited and often expensive compared to ground transportation options.
If you do need to travel by air, airBaltic operates this route, with flight times of approximately 50 minutes. However, consider this option only if you have specific scheduling constraints or are connecting to other flights.
Things to do when you get to Vilnius
After completing your Riga to Vilnius transfer, a wealth of cultural and historical experiences awaits you in Lithuania's captivating capital. Here are some must-see attractions to include in your visit:
Explore Vilnius Old Town
Vilnius boasts one of Eastern Europe's largest surviving medieval old towns, a UNESCO World Heritage site spanning approximately 3.6 square kilometers. Getting lost in its maze of cobblestone streets reveals architectural treasures spanning Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Don't miss Pilies Street, the oldest and most vibrant street in the Old Town, lined with artists, craftspeople, and cafés.
The Vilnius Tourist Information Center offers excellent walking tour maps that highlight key attractions within this historic district. A leisurely exploration takes at least half a day, though history buffs might want to dedicate a full day to fully appreciate the area's rich heritage.
Visit Gediminas Tower
Standing proudly on a hill overlooking the city, Gediminas Tower is the remaining part of the Upper Castle and one of Vilnius's most iconic landmarks. The climb to the tower rewards visitors with panoramic views of the red-tiled roofs of the Old Town against the backdrop of the city's modern skyline.
Inside, you'll find a museum detailing the history of Vilnius and the tower itself. The site holds particular significance as a symbol of Lithuania's resilience and independence. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the setting sun bathes the city in golden light, creating perfect conditions for memorable photographs.
Discover Užupis Republic
Just across the Vilnia River from the Old Town lies Užupis, a bohemian neighborhood that declared itself an independent republic on April 1, 1997. This artistic district, often compared to Montmartre in Paris or Christiania in Copenhagen, has its own constitution, flag, president, and even an army (of about 12 people).
The Užupis Constitution is displayed on a series of mirrored plaques in multiple languages along Paupio Street. The district's quirky atmosphere, street art, and creative energy make it a fascinating place to visit, especially during its Independence Day celebrations on April 1st.
Tour the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights
Housed in the former KGB headquarters, this powerful museum (also known as the KGB Museum) documents Lithuania's difficult experiences under Soviet and Nazi occupations. The building itself served as a prison and execution site, with the original cells and execution chamber preserved as sobering reminders of this dark period.
The exhibits provide comprehensive insights into Lithuanian resistance movements and the struggle for independence. While emotionally challenging, a visit provides valuable historical context for understanding contemporary Lithuanian identity and the recent history of the Baltic states.
When is the best time to visit Vilnius
The ideal time for your Riga to Vilnius transfer and stay depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and special events. Summer (June to August) brings the warmest weather with temperatures averaging 64-72°F (18-22°C), making it perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying the city's many café terraces. This is the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors at popular sites.
For those who prefer fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May) or early autumn (September). During these months, the weather remains pleasant with temperatures around 59-64°F (15-18°C), and you'll encounter fewer tourists while still enjoying relatively long daylight hours for sightseeing.
Winter visits (November to March) offer a different but equally charming experience, with Christmas markets bringing festive cheer to the Old Town in December. However, be prepared for cold temperatures ranging from 23-36°F (-5 to 2°C) and limited daylight hours. Despite the chill, the snow-covered medieval architecture creates a magical atmosphere that many visitors find captivating.
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
Rundale Palace
Latvia’s most distinguished Baroque monument is an exercise in aristocratic opulence. The Versailles of Latvia
Bauska Castle
This picturesque complex is actually two distinct castles, where visitors can get an interesting look into the lifestyle of medieval nobility. Two for One
Hill of Crosses
Under Soviets rule, locals would risk death to leave crosses on this hilltop, which now has hundreds of thousands of crucifixes and statues. A Forest of Faith
Panevezys
Though it was ravaged by war, this medieval city’s heritage persists in its museums and theatres. A Hearty Heritage
Trakai Island Castle
This picturesque red brick castle was the historical capital of Lithuania, having hosted foreign dignitaries from all over Europe. The Lake Town
“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.”
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“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.”
“마리안나는 우리를 픽업해서 헤라클리온에서 하니아까지 데려다주었습니다. 날씨가 매우 안 좋아서 그녀는 몇 분 늦었지만, 직접 연락해서 알려주었습니다. 마리안나는 하니아에 살고 있으며, 도중에 하니아에서 할 수 있는 활동들과 볼거리를 알려주며 우리의 여행을 더욱 흥미롭게 만들어 주었습니다. 그녀는 매우 안전하게 운전했고, 비가 많이 오는 상황에서도 저희는 그녀의 운전 속도와 실력에 안심할 수 있었습니다. 그녀는 사랑스러운 사람이고 영어도 유창하게 합니다. 우리는 Daytrip을 적극 추천하며, 헤라클리온이나 하니아에 계신다면 꼭 마리안나를 요청해 보세요.”
“멕시코에서 두 번의 이동을 위해 Daytrip을 이용했는데, 두 번 다 정말 좋았습니다. 매우 편안했고, 목적지마다 완벽한 시간에 도착할 수 있었습니다. 두 명의 기사님 모두 훌륭했으며, 우리는 매우 안전하다고 느꼈습니다. 특히, 우리의 기사 중 한 명인 미겔은 최고의 음악을 틀어주기도 했습니다! 다음 멕시코 여행에서도 꼭 Daytrip을 이용할 예정입니다.”
“We traveled from Riga to Vilnius by way of Bauska castle (60 min) and Rundale Palace (60 min). They let us know of the driver details a few day before the trip, which was a relief. The driver was a kind gentleman with good English and knowledge of sightseeing. The car was very clean and he drove safely. The palace was very nice and we should have alocated more time. The whole trip was comfortable and saved a lot of time when compared with a bus trip. We will use Daytrip again.”
“We had a great experience with Daytrip. Janis was a wonderful driver and guide. When looking for options to travel from Riga to Vilnius, we found limited options. When I found your company, and the possibility to not only get from one place to the next, but see sights along the way, it was a perfect fit. Janis was a great conversationalist and found a beautiful spot for us to have lunch.”
Tripadvisor 여행자 486melissan 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 지역에서 운전기사분은 적절한 어린이용 카시트를 제공합니다(예약 시 알려 주세요). 미국의 일부 주에서는 고객분이 자신의 어린이용 카시트를 준비해야 할 수 있습니다. 해당 여행에 적용되는지 확인하려면 Daytrip 고객 서비스에 문의해 주세요.
