One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to get around Riga is by tram. The city’s tram network is extensive, reliable, and a great way to see more of the capital beyond the Old Town. Operated by Rīgas Satiksme, the trams run through much of the city, linking the centre with surrounding neighbourhoods, parks, and markets.

Riga’s tram system is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the early 1880s when horse-drawn trams first appeared. Electric trams were introduced in 1901, and today the network continues to evolve, with new modern low-floor trams gradually replacing the older Soviet-era ones. The contrast between the two makes riding the trams in Riga an experience in itself.

The newer trams are clean, quiet, and accessible, with digital displays and automated announcements in both Latvian and English. They’re also smoother and more comfortable to ride, with heating in the winter and large windows that make it easy to enjoy the passing city views. The older models, still operating on some routes, feel like a step back in time. They’re noisier and have that classic mechanical charm, which many locals and visitors find nostalgic.

Tickets are affordable and can be bought from kiosks, ticket machines, or through the Rīgas Satiksme mobile app. It’s worth validating your ticket as soon as you get on board to avoid a fine.

You can watch my short video at the top of this page which gives you a quick look at what the trams are really like in Riga, from the older models that still rattle through the streets to the sleek modern ones now gliding across the city.

Whether you’re heading to the Central Market, the Art Nouveau district, or just want to get a feel for daily life in Riga, hopping on a tram is one of the best ways to do it. It’s cheap, simple, and offers a glimpse into both the city’s history and its modern rhythm.