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How to get from Riga to Tallinn
Direct buses from Riga to Tallinn take about 4 h 30 and are the most popular option. Flights take about 1 hour. By train, you change at Valga (and usually again at Tartu), and the whole trip takes about 6 to 8 hours.
Best option: Bus. Comfortable direct coaches run several times a day and arrive in central Tallinn.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Lux Express, FlixBus and others from Riga bus station to Tallinn bus station | about 4 h 30 | several a day | about €15–30 | Buses have Wi-Fi and toilets. |
| flight Riga (RIX) to Tallinn (TLL), with airBaltic | about 1 h | several flights a day | about €50–150 | Tallinn airport is close to the city. |
| train Train Riga–Valga, then Elron trains Valga–Tartu–Tallinn | about 6–8 h | a few a day | about €15–25 | Check current timetables for connections. |
| car Via Baltica (A1/E67) via Pärnu | about 4 h | fuel only | No border controls (Schengen). |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Book buses early for the cheapest fares.
- Pärnu is a good stop on the way.
- No passport control at the border, but carry ID.
- Tallinn old town is close to the bus station.
Common questions
Is there a direct train?
No. You need to change at Valga on the Latvian–Estonian border, and usually again at Tartu. The trip takes about 6 to 8 hours. The Rail Baltica high-speed project is still under construction. Check current timetables, as connections at Valga are not always good.
How long is the bus?
About 4 h 30. Buses run several times a day and are comfortable, with Wi-Fi and toilets. Lux Express and FlixBus run on this route, and tickets are cheaper when bought online in advance. Buses usually make a stop in Pärnu.
What is the cheapest way?
The bus is usually cheapest, often from about €15. Book early for the best fares. Train fares are also low, but the journey takes longer and needs changes. Flights are faster but cost more and add airport transfer time at both ends.
Can I drive?
Yes, via the Via Baltica through Pärnu. It takes about 4 hours. There are no border controls within the Schengen area. Carry your ID or passport. Parking in Tallinn's old town is limited and paid, so look for a car park nearby.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.