Riga International Airport (RIX) is located about 10 km southwest of Riga city center. The journey takes 20-30 minutes by bus or taxi, with Bus 22 providing a direct and affordable connection to the Old Town area.

About Riga City Center

Riga's city center encompasses one of Europe's most remarkable architectural landscapes, centered around the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town (Vecrīga). The medieval core features cobblestoned streets, Gothic church spires, the iconic Three Brothers buildings (the oldest stone dwellings in the city), and the imposing Riga Cathedral with its magnificent organ — one of the world's largest when built in 1884.

Beyond the Old Town walls, Riga boasts the finest collection of Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) architecture in the world. Over 800 Art Nouveau buildings line the streets of the center, particularly along Alberta iela and Elizabetes iela, featuring elaborate facades decorated with mythological figures, screaming masks, floral motifs, and geometric patterns designed by Mikhail Eisenstein (father of filmmaker Sergei Eisenstein). The Art Nouveau Museum on Alberta iela recreates an original apartment interior.

The Central Market, housed in five enormous former Zeppelin hangars near the riverfront, is one of Europe's largest and most atmospheric markets, selling fresh fish, Latvian rye bread, smoked meats, dairy products, and seasonal berries. The Daugava River waterfront provides pleasant walking with views of the skyline, while the trendy Miera iela neighborhood has emerged as Riga's creative quarter with specialty coffee shops, concept stores, and independent restaurants.

Nearby Landmarks

Old Town Riga Cathedral Art Nouveau district Central Market Freedom Monument

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost Varies by traffic
Time 20-40 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Exit RIX arrivals and find the bus stop outside the terminal
2. Board Bus 22 direction Riga centre (runs every 10-15 min, €2.00 with e-ticket)
3. Ride to the Nacionālā opera (National Opera) stop (approximately 25 min)
4. Walk into the Old Town (5 min) or continue to other stops
5. Alternatively, Bolt/taxi from the terminal costs €15-20 to the Old Town

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi Varies by traffic 20-40 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Bus 22 runs until approximately 11:30 PM, with a night bus N22 running hourly through the night. Taxis from the airport cost €15-20 to the city center at any hour. Bolt ride-hailing is widely used in Riga and often cheaper than traditional taxis. The Old Town has active nightlife, keeping transport available.

Luggage Tips

Bus 22 is a standard city bus with limited luggage space — manageable with one bag but uncomfortable with multiple large items during busy periods. The bus stop in the city center is near the National Opera, a short walk from Old Town hotels. Taxis or Bolt are better for heavy luggage.

Accessibility

RIX airport is fully accessible. Bus 22 uses low-floor buses with wheelchair ramps. Riga's Old Town has cobblestone streets that are challenging for wheelchairs, though main routes are manageable. The Art Nouveau district has smoother pavements. Most modern hotels meet EU accessibility standards.