Latvia
Money in Latvia: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use euros (EUR) for all purchases; cards work everywhere in Riga and most towns, but keep €5‑10 in cash for markets and rural guesthouses. Tip 5‑10% in restaurants, round up taxis, and leave small change for cafés.
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Key facts
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Cash necessity
- 1 (keep small amount for markets and guesthouses)
- Card acceptance
- Widely accepted, contactless everywhere in Riga
- Typical tip
- 5‑10% in restaurants, round up taxis, small change for cafés
Currency and payment basics
Latvia uses the euro (EUR). ATMs are abundant in Riga, Jūrmala, Sigulda and other towns; most dispense €10, €20 and €50 notes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at hotels, restaurants and shops; contactless payments work on trams and buses.
Keep a few euros in cash for the Central Market stalls, small souvenir shops and guesthouses outside the main cities where card terminals may be absent.
| Payment method | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cash | Markets, rural guesthouses | Carry €5‑10 |
| Debit/Credit cards | City shops, hotels, restaurants | Visa/Mastercard most common |
| Contactless | Public transport, cafés | Works on most terminals |
Tipping guidelines
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, round up the bill or leave 5‑10% for good service. For cafés and bakeries, leave small change (≈€0.50). Taxi drivers expect the fare rounded up to the nearest euro.
- Restaurants: 5‑10% of the total bill
- Cafés/bars: round up or €0.50‑1
- Taxis: round up to the next euro
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Latvia?
Latvia uses the euro (EUR) for all transactions.
Should I use cash or a card in Latvia?
Cards work everywhere in cities; keep a small amount of cash for markets, rural guesthouses and any place without a card terminal.
How much should I tip in Latvia?
Tip 5‑10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave a few euros or small change in cafés.
Are ATMs easy to find in Latvia?
Yes, ATMs are common in Riga, Jūrmala, Sigulda and most towns. They dispense €10, €20 and €50 notes.
Can I use contactless payments on public transport?
Yes, contactless cards and mobile payments work on trams and buses in Riga and other cities.
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Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- secondaryVoykit – Latvia guide
Ask about Latvia
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