Tartu and Riga make a perfect pair. Tartu is known as the intellectual capital of Estonia, with the oldest university in the country, a charming Town Hall Square, Toome Hill and world class museums. Riga is the largest city in the Baltics, with one of the most beautiful old towns in Europe and famous Art Nouveau architecture. The two cities are just one drive apart, so many travellers combine them in a single trip. Here is how to choose your transport and what to see on the way.
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How to Get from Tartu to Riga: Bus, Train or Car with Driver
By bus. Intercity buses run between Tartu and Riga, including services to Riga Airport. It is the budget option for travellers with light luggage who are happy to follow a timetable. Book tickets in advance, especially at weekends and in high season.
By train. There is now a direct rail connection Tallinn ↔ Tartu ↔ Riga. The train works well if you travel from centre to centre and are not in a hurry. Check the current timetable and fares with the operator before you go.
By car with driver. The most comfortable choice for families, groups and passengers with luggage. Your driver picks you up at the door of your home or hotel in Tartu at the time you need, including at night and early in the morning, and drives you straight to your address in Riga or to the Riga Airport terminal. No bus station, no transfers and no timetable. You can stop on the way wherever you like. The price is fixed per car, see all details on our Tartu ↔ Riga transfer page.
Which One to Choose
If you travel alone and are in no hurry, the bus or the train will do. If there are three or more of you, if you have suitcases, children or an early flight from Riga, a car with driver saves time and energy, and the cost is shared between all passengers.
Things to Do in Tartu in One Day
Town Hall Square. The heart of old Tartu, with the Town Hall and the Kissing Students fountain, a symbol of the city. Nearby stands the famous leaning house, home to the Tartu Art Museum.
University of Tartu. Founded in 1632, it is one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. Its white columned main building stands right in the centre, and students set the rhythm of city life.
Toome Hill. A green park above the old town with the ruins of Tartu Cathedral, the Angel Bridge and the Devil Bridge. A lovely walk in any season.
Estonian National Museum. The largest museum in the country, in a striking modern building on the former Raadi airfield, telling the story of Estonian history and culture.
AHHAA Science Centre. An interactive science centre that children and adults both enjoy, a great choice for families.
Supilinn. The old wooden district by the Emajõgi river, where the streets are named after vegetables. Its quiet lanes show the true character of Tartu, which was a European Capital of Culture in 2024.
Things to See in Riga
Old Town. The historic centre of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was founded in 1201, and its narrow streets, squares and merchant houses are best explored on foot.
House of the Blackheads and Town Hall Square. The most recognisable building in Riga with a richly decorated facade, and the starting point of the main old town walks.
Church of St. Peter. Its tower offers a panoramic view over the old town and the Daugava river. Nearby is Riga Cathedral with its famous organ.
Three Brothers and the Cat House. Medieval houses and a building with cats on its roof, the subject of local legends.
Art Nouveau district. Alberta Street and its neighbours are famous for Art Nouveau facades that draw architecture lovers from around the world.
Central Market. One of the largest markets in Europe, set in former Zeppelin hangars, the place to taste local fish, bread and sweets.
Freedom Monument. The symbol of Latvia, standing between the old town and the city centre, next to the canal park.
Tartu and Riga in One Trip
A good plan is a morning walk in Tartu, then the drive to Riga and an evening in the old town. If you want to see more, take a look at our Baltic private tour from Tallinn via Tartu and Riga to Vilnius. If your trip starts in Tallinn, you can first travel to Tartu, see our Tallinn ↔ Tartu transfer.
Our cars and drivers are based both in Tartu and in Riga, so we meet guests at Riga Airport with a name sign and drive in both directions 24/7.
Useful Travel Tips
Estonia and Latvia share one currency, the euro, so there is no need to change money. You will hardly notice the border at Valga ↔ Valka, as it runs right through the town.
For an early flight from Riga Airport, leave Tartu with time to spare and arrange your car the day before. If you travel with children, ask for a child seat when you book.
One full day is enough for Tartu, while for Riga it is worth planning at least an evening and the next morning to enjoy the old town and the Art Nouveau district at a relaxed pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see Tartu and Riga in one day? Yes, if you start the morning in Tartu and spend the evening in old Riga. For a relaxed visit to Riga, it is better to stay overnight.
What should I see in Tartu in one day? Town Hall Square with the Kissing Students fountain, the university main building, Toome Hill and the Estonian National Museum.
What is the quickest way from Tartu to Riga Airport? A car with driver: you are picked up at your door at the right time and taken straight to the terminal with no changes.
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