The most popular models representing the mini, compact, and economy car segments in Riga are: Chevrolet Matiz, Hyundai Accent, Renault Modus, Suzuki Swift, Toyota Yaris, Toyota Auris and others.
When hiring a budget hatchback, it is definitely worth saving on insurance deposit (franchise). Deposits on small cars in Latvia vary from 100 to 1.000 euro/dollars. Check the rental conditions of each car in your selection to find a vehicle with a minimum deposit.
If your routes in Latvia are foreseen to pass through hilly areas or mountains, it is not recommended to consider very small cars for rental. Their engines are usually insufficient for a confident driving on the roads with long or steep climbs.
At the rental office in Riga, consider to take a 'Breakdown Assistance' package or ask an officer for a contact data to use in case of a vehicle breakdown. Cheap cars are sometimes unpredictable in operation.
Upon receipt of the rental invoice, please check that all the information, as well as the final payment amount do match the data in your voucher.
OrangeSmile.com wishes you a safe and great trip to Riga!
Detailed FAQ on the rental process
Absolutely all parking lots in the central part of Riga are paid. Payments must be done for the use of parking space on weekdays from 8:00 to 20:00 and on Saturdays from 9:00 to 17:00. During other hours, parking is available free of charge. Similar rules are adopted in central parts of other major cities. The first hour of parking usually costs no more than 3 lati, and each next hour costs around 5 lati.
It is forbidden to park a car at a distance of less than 25m before and after public transport stops. Parking on sidewalks is also prohibited unless they have special road markings that allow parking. If you want to park your car on a country road, it must be located at a distance of 100m from any turns and more than 50m away from railway crossings.
In settlements, the maximum permitted speed is 50 km/h, and on country roads you can drive with the speed of 80 km/h. Highways adopt the 90 km/h speed limit. It is also worth mentioning that in many residential areas there is a special speed limit of 20 km/h. If there’s one, you will certainly see special road signs that warn drivers of the speed limit.
