Latvia isn’t the first place on people’s minds when they’re thinking about where to go on their European vacation; however, this country is a hidden gem with an amazing culture and some of the most stunning natural beauty in all of Europe. In fact, with all of its mountains, beaches, forests, and lakes, nearly half of Lativa is made up of completely natural and relatively untouched nature. But, Latvia also has some great cities full of welcoming locals, delicious food, and so much more. And, if you want to see what a Latvian city is all about, you need to go to Riga.
Riga is the capital city of the nation of Latvia and the largest city in the country by far. In fact, with around 600,000 inhabitants as of 2022, nearly a third of the country’s population lives in Riga. Compared to other parts of Europe, the city of Riga is very affordable. While you’re there, you can visit one of the many museums, experience the buzzing nightlife, dine at one of the city’s experimental restaurants, and admire the opulent architecture. So, if you’re planning a trip to Riga and you want to see all that the city has to offer, you should hire a motorbike and cruise around on your own schedule.
Here is everything you need to know about motorbike hire in Riga. Most things here can also be applied if you are renting a scooter as well. This guide includes:
- The best places to find motorcycle hire in Riga
- The normal price of motorcycle rental in Riga
- Whether you need an international driving permit to hire a motorcycle in Latvia
- Whether it’s dangerous to rent a motorbike in Riga
- The best things to do in Riga by motorcycle
Where Are the Best Places to Find Motorbike Rental in Riga?
If you plan on flying into Riga International Airport, the largest airport in the Baltic states, you should be able to find a motorcycle rental company only a short taxi ride away from the airport in the neighborhood of Zolitude. So, you can rent a motorbike and then drive directly to your accommodation within the city.
However, if you’d rather drop off your bags at your accommodation and then find a rental motorbike, there are several places around Riga where motorbike hire is common. The best place to start your search is in the very center of the city along the Daugava River, particularly near the neighborhood of Maskavas For state.
What Is the Normal Price of Motorbike Hire in Riga?
Compared to other European countries, Latvia is typically very cheap, even in its capital city. However, don’t expect a quality motorcycle to be extremely cheap. For instance, if you want to hire a decent motorbike, such as a Yamaha MT 125, you can expect to pay around €45 per day. However, if you want to upgrade to something more powerful, such as a Honda VFR 1200, you can expect to pay around €95 per day.
No matter what kind of vehicle you choose to rent, you should make sure that insurance and helmet rental are included in the stated rental price. It’s always wise to wear a helmet while driving a motorcycle and insurance could save you a ton of money if your rental vehicle is damaged or stolen.
Do You Need an International Driving Permit to Hire a Motorcycle in Latvia?
If you plan on driving a motorcycle in Latvia, you do not need to have an international driving permit if you have a valid license from the United States, the United Kingdom, or any country that is in compliance with the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. If you want to see if your home country falls into that category, you can find that information here.
If you do need to apply for your international driving permit, you will have to pay a $20 application fee. The permit also takes about two weeks to arrive in the mail, so you should make sure to send in your application at least two weeks before leaving your home country. You can apply for your IDP online here. Once you have your IDP, it will be valid for one full year.
Is It Safe to Hire a Motorbike in Riga?
First of all, you should know that they drive on the right side of the road and pass on the left in Latvia. It is also legally required to use your headlights at all times, night or day. You should never drink alcohol and drive as the legal limit is 0.05% in Latvia. You are also prohibited from using a cell phone at any time while driving.
In terms of road safety, the roads in Latvia are pretty well maintained; however, you should be wary of icy roads during the winter months from December to March. Latvian drivers are typically fairly relaxed and respectful. Latvian police officers are usually pretty fair as well, which means you don’t have to worry about paying any brides or being pulled over unjustly.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Riga by Motorcycle?
Now that you know all of the necessary information for hiring a motorbike in Riga, here are some of the best things to do around the city:
Vecriga
The old town section of Riga that sits right along the Daugava River is known as Vecriga and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site due to all of the important buildings located within the district and their fascinating history. Truly, in every direction that you turn in Vecriga, you’ll be greeted with amazing architecture and historical significance.
Highlights to be found in the Vecriga include the medieval Riga Cathedral and St. Peter’s Church, which features an impressive towering steeple. You can also see Riga Castle, which sits right along the Daugava River and is now the residence of the president of Latvia.
Riga Motor Museum
If you’re reading this article, you probably have somewhat of an interest in automobiles. So, while you’re in Latvia’s capital city, make sure to stop by the Riga Motor Museum, the biggest antique vehicle museum in the Baltic states. Founded in 1989, the museum now contains over 100 unique vehicles.
If you want to visit Riga Motor Museum, you only have to drive about 15 minutes outside of the city center. The admission fee for adults is only €10 for the whole day. Once you’re inside, you’ll have access to three floors of amazing vehicles, all of which have a unique and interesting theme.
The Corner House
If you’re interested in the history of Latvia’s Soviet occupation, you absolutely must take a tour through the corner house, the headquarters of the KGB during that period. The building is now full of enthusiastic tour guides that will tell you all about the history of the Soviet Union in Latvia and will even let you roam free through the building's jail cells.
This building, known as The Corner House, was not only home to the Soviet KGB, but also to a youth group called the “National Watch” as well as Latvia’s puppet government during World War II, both of which were appointed by the Nazis. The history of this visit is stunning and fascinating and you should definitely stop by during your time in Riga.
Roll Around Riga on a Motorcycle
There are many fun and interesting activities in the city of Riga. So, if you really want to get a feel for the city and its street life, hire a motorcycle and start making your own adventure!
Napisao 
