Europe > 🇱🇻 Latvia
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Latvia can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Latvia; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Latvia?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Latvia?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.🏙️ Main Cities in Latvia
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Riga | RIX |
Should You Rent a Car in Latvia? 🚗🌲
Latvia is a Baltic nation known for its Art Nouveau architecture, quiet pine forests, long sandy beaches, and charming medieval towns. While public transport works well between major destinations, many of Latvia’s most beautiful natural and historic sites sit in rural areas. So, should you rent a car in Latvia? If you want to explore beyond Riga and enjoy the country’s peaceful landscapes, renting a car can be a major advantage.
At first glance, Latvia might seem like a typical European city-break destination where a car isn’t needed, especially since Riga is very walkable and packed with cultural highlights. However, Latvia’s greatest treasures are often found in the countryside—such as its national parks, castles, lakes, and coastal villages—where public transport is limited. This makes the car or no car decision more nuanced than it may appear.
🚶 When You Don’t Need a Car
If your trip is focused on Riga or major towns, you can easily get around using public transport and guided tours.
| Destination | Why a Car Isn’t Needed | Best Transport Option |
|---|---|---|
| Riga (capital) | Compact and walkable | Walking, tram, bus |
| Jūrmala | Beach resort with train access | Train from Riga |
| Sigulda (day tour) | Tour buses offer transport | Guided excursion |
| Cēsis (historic town) | Accessible by train and bus | Rail + short walk |
➡ Ideal for visitors who prefer city exploration or organised day trips.
🚗 When Renting a Car Is the Best Option
Renting a car gives you freedom to explore national parks, medieval castles, and the scenic Baltic coast at your own pace.
| Benefit | What You Can Explore |
|---|---|
| Scenic road trips | Rural countryside and coastal drives |
| Historic access | Castles and small towns |
| Nature travel | Gauja National Park, lakes, forests |
| Flexibility | Visit hidden villages and viewpoints |
🌿 Popular Self-Drive Routes
| Route / Region | Highlights | Driving Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Riga → Sigulda → Cēsis | Castles, hiking trails | Well-maintained roads |
| Riga → Jūrmala → Kolka Cape | Baltic Sea coastline | Coastal drive |
| Latgale region | Lakes and traditional villages | Quiet rural roads |
| Kurzeme region | Seaside cliffs & lighthouses | Scenic western route |
🚦 Driving in Latvia – What to Expect
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You drive on the right-hand side
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Roads are generally in good condition, although some rural roads may be gravel
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Traffic is light outside Riga
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Winter driving may require caution due to snow and ice
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Parking in Riga is widely available but metered in central zones
Car Rental Availability
You’ll find major companies such as Hertz, Avis, Sixt, Europcar, and local agencies at Riga International Airport and in the city centre. A standard car is sufficient for most routes, though a 4×4 can be helpful in winter.
🚕 Alternatives to Renting a Car
| Transport Type | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Train | City-to-town travel | Affordable and scenic |
| Bus | Widespread coverage | Reliable intercity network |
| Taxi & Bolt app | Local city journeys | Very affordable |
| Guided tours | National parks and castles | Transport included |
🧭 Conclusion
Renting a car in Latvia is the best way to explore the country’s natural beauty, rural heritage, and coastal landscapes with complete freedom. If your trip focuses solely on Riga and nearby towns reachable by train, you can easily enjoy Latvia without a vehicle. The ideal choice depends on whether you are planning a countryside adventure or a city-based getaway.
