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!
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.
沿途参观这些景点
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
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