Riga International Airport

Overview

Riga International Airport (RIX) is the busiest airport in the Baltic states, serving as the primary gateway to Latvia and a key transit hub for the region. Located just outside the capital, the airport handles a mix of leisure and business travellers, as well as connecting passengers travelling between Europe, Russia, and the CIS. The airport is the home base for airBaltic, Latvia’s national carrier, and offers direct flights to numerous European cities, with seasonal routes to the Middle East and beyond. Despite its relatively compact size, Riga Airport efficiently manages a steady flow of passengers, making it a convenient entry point to the Baltic region.

Location & Access

Riga Airport is situated in the Marupe municipality, approximately 10 kilometres southwest of Riga’s historic centre. Its location along the A10/E22 motorway provides quick access by car, with the journey to the Old Town typically taking 15–20 minutes depending on traffic. For those using public transport, the airport is well connected: bus route 22 runs directly between the airport and the central bus station (Autoosta), passing through the city centre. Additionally, a dedicated railway station connects the airport to Riga Central Station via regular trains, offering a fast and affordable option. Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available outside the arrivals hall. For those driving, the airport features a paid parking lot with designated wheelchair-accessible spaces, clearly marked and conveniently located near the terminal.

Facilities

Riga Airport provides a range of amenities designed to meet the needs of all travellers. Confirmed facilities include:

• Wheelchair accessibility: The airport is equipped with accessible parking, entrances, and toilets, ensuring smooth navigation for passengers with reduced mobility.
• Baggage storage: Left-luggage facilities are available for short- or long-term storage, ideal for travellers with layovers or early arrivals.
• Toilets and baby changing stations: Clean restrooms are located throughout the terminal, including baby changing tables for families.
• On-site services: The airport houses a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as currency exchange points, ATMs, and a tourist information desk. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the terminal.
• Paid parking: Short- and long-term parking options are available, with clear signage and payment machines. While the airport does not have a hotel within the terminal, several accommodation options are located nearby, within walking distance or a short shuttle ride.

About the Region

Riga, Latvia’s capital, is renowned for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, a maze of cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and imposing guild houses. The city is also famed for its remarkable collection of Art Nouveau architecture, particularly along Alberta iela. Beyond the urban centre, Latvia offers vast forests, pristine lakes, and a coastline along the Baltic Sea, with popular destinations like the seaside resort of Jurmala just a 20-minute drive from the airport. The region’s temperate climate brings warm summers and cold, snowy winters, attracting visitors year-round. Historically, Riga has been a crossroads of cultures, influenced by German, Swedish, Polish, and Russian rule, which is reflected in its diverse cuisine and festivals. For transit passengers, the airport provides a quick connection to neighbouring Estonia and Lithuania, making it a strategic stop for exploring the Baltic states.

Practical Information

• Address: Riga International Airport, Marupe, LV-1053, Latvia
• Website: www.riga-airport.com
• Phone: +371 29 311 187
• Hours: The airport is operational daily, but the terminal building is not open 24 hours. Passengers are advised to check with their airline for specific access times, especially for early-morning or late-night flights. Peak hours are typically around 1:00 PM and 10:00 PM.
• Lounge access: Several lounges are available, including those operated by airBaltic and other providers. Access may be granted through business class tickets, loyalty programmes, or paid entry.
• Currency: Latvia uses the euro. ATMs are available in the arrivals and departures areas.
• Language: Latvian and English are widely used, with many staff members speaking Russian as well.

For the most up-to-date information on flight schedules, security wait times, and special assistance, it is best to consult the airport’s official website or contact its information desk directly.