Riga is the Baltics’ biggest and liveliest city — a UNESCO-listed old town, Art Nouveau architecture that rivals Vienna, and a nightlife scene that draws weekend visitors from across Europe. But Latvia isn’t just about the capital. Within an hour of Riga, you’ve got seaside resorts, medieval castles, national parks, and even a bobsleigh track. Rent a car at Riga International Airport and the entire country is within easy reach.
Why Rent a Car at Riga Airport?
Latvia is compact — you can drive from one end to the other in under five hours. That means everything is accessible from Riga as a day trip or weekend getaway. The capital’s old town is walkable, but Jurmala’s beaches, Sigulda’s castles, and the countryside manors all require transport. Public buses and trains exist, but they’re slower and less flexible than having your own wheels.
Riga International Airport is just 13 kilometres from the city centre — one of the most convenient capital city airports in Europe. You can be in the old town 20 minutes after landing. And when you’re ready to explore further, the main highway network connects Riga to all major Latvian destinations.
Where to Go From Riga
Latvia’s compact size means day trips are easy:
Riga Old Town
20-25 minutes from the airport. Riga’s UNESCO-listed old town is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval centres. Wander through cobblestone streets, admire the Gothic spires of St. Peter’s Church, and explore the Art Nouveau district just outside the old walls. The Central Market, housed in old Zeppelin hangars, is worth a visit for local produce and street food.
Jurmala
About 30 minutes from Riga (25 km). Latvia’s premier seaside resort stretches for 33 kilometres along the Gulf of Riga. The beach is wide and sandy, the water is shallow (though cold), and the town is known for its wooden villas and Soviet-era sanatoriums. A popular weekend escape for Riga residents and increasingly for international visitors.
Sigulda and Gauja National Park
About 1 hour from Riga (50 km). This is Latvia’s adventure capital. The Gauja River has carved dramatic cliffs and caves through the landscape, overlooked by medieval castles at Sigulda, Turaida, and Krimulda. Try the bobsleigh track (you can ride a summer bobsled), go hiking or cycling in the national park, or take the cable car across the valley. Popular in winter for skiing and tobogganing.
Cesis
About 1.5 hours from Riga (90 km). One of Latvia’s prettiest towns, Cesis has a perfectly preserved medieval centre, a castle (both medieval and Livonian Order ruins), and easy access to Gauja National Park. Less touristy than Sigulda but equally charming.
Kuldiga
About 2 hours from Riga (150 km). This small town is home to Europe’s widest waterfall — the Venta Rapid, spanning 249 metres. The old town is remarkably intact, with wooden houses and a historic brick bridge. One of Latvia’s hidden gems and well worth the drive.
Bauska and Rundale Palace
About 1.5 hours from Riga (80 km). Rundale Palace is Latvia’s answer to Versailles — a magnificent Baroque palace designed by the same architect who created the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. The gardens alone are worth the visit. Nearby Bauska has a ruined castle at the confluence of two rivers.
Driving Tips for Latvia
Driving in Latvia is straightforward and generally stress-free:
Drive on the right. Latvia follows the European standard.
Good roads. Main highways are well-maintained. Secondary roads can be narrower but are generally in decent condition. In winter, even main roads can be snow-covered — drive carefully.
Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on open roads, and 110-130 km/h on highways (seasonal limits apply in winter). Speed cameras are common.
Winter driving. From December to March, winter tyres are mandatory. If you’re visiting in winter, your rental car should be equipped — but confirm when booking. Snow and ice are common, especially in the countryside.
Headlights. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day.
Alcohol limit. Latvia has a strict 0.05% blood alcohol limit. Best to avoid any alcohol if you’re driving.
Collecting Your Rental Car
Riga International Airport is modern and efficient. Rental counters from major companies (Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, SIXT, Europcar) are in the terminal building. The drive to Riga city centre takes 20-25 minutes via the A10 highway.
You’ll need a valid driving licence (EU licences are accepted; others need an International Driving Permit), passport or ID card, and credit card. Drivers must be at least 21, with some companies requiring 23 or 25 for premium vehicles. Two years of driving experience is often required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
If your licence is from an EU/EEA country, no. If it’s from elsewhere (UK, US, Canada, Australia), yes — an IDP is required alongside your domestic licence.
Is it safe to drive in Latvia?
Yes. Roads are good, drivers are generally courteous, and crime is low. The main risks are winter driving conditions and wildlife on rural roads (deer, moose, wild boar). Avoid driving at night in rural areas during autumn and spring when animals are most active.
What’s the best time to visit?
May to September offers the best weather — warm days, long daylight hours, and green countryside. December to February is cold and dark, but magical if you want winter activities like skiing and Christmas markets. Spring and autumn are cooler but less crowded.
Can I drive to Estonia or Lithuania?
Absolutely. Latvia is sandwiched between its Baltic neighbours. Tallinn is about 4 hours north, Vilnius about 4 hours south. Most rental companies allow cross-border travel within the EU without additional paperwork. Border controls have been abolished within the Schengen Area.
What type of car do you recommend?
A compact car is fine for Riga and main highways. If you’re visiting in winter or planning to explore rural areas, consider a vehicle with higher ground clearance. For Gauja National Park’s unpaved trails, a small SUV can be helpful.
Book Your Riga Car Rental
Ready to discover the Baltics? Book your car rental at Riga Airport and explore Latvia’s medieval castles, seaside resorts, and unspoiled countryside at your own pace. From Art Nouveau architecture to ancient forests, this underrated corner of Europe awaits. Reserve your vehicle today with no hidden fees and free cancellation available.