A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Riga for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Athens or Riga?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Riga. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a historic, ancient, and vibrant city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Riga

Riga is a fun, high energy, and off-the-beaten-path city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Riga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Riga?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Riga are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Riga is known for its shopping and impressive beauty. Athens is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Riga is popular for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Riga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Riga and Athens. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Riga?

Athens is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Athens are among the most recognizable in the world. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Many visitors head to Riga specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As a capital city with a diverse history, you'll find a number of museums and landmarks in the area. Visitors frequently visit The Freedom Monument, St. Peters Church, the Riga Cathedral, The House of the Black Heads, and any of the many museums around town.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Riga? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Riga has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city offers a great opportunity to try many Latvian specialties including rasol (a potato salad), pelmeni (a Latvian dumpling), and karbonade (kind of like schnitzel). The cuisine is hearty and filling with lots of bread, dumpling, and meats. Riga is also where you'll find the largest food market in Europe, which is the perfect place to wander and pick up some local items.

Is Athens or Riga Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is amazing in both Athens and Riga.

The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Riga is a world class party destination. Despite being a small city, this capital has gained a reputation for its party atmosphere. The historic center comes to life in the evenings, particularly between Wednesdays and Saturdays. The area is compact enough that you can walk from club to club and prices are reasonable.

Is Athens or Riga Better for its Old Town?

Athens is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Athens can be explored in its historical center. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Riga. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming architecture. The city is less touristy than many places in Europe so you can usually avoid the large crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk. During the evening you'll find the area turns into an entertainment district with many clubs and bars.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Riga?

Riga is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Riga. Some of the most interesting shopping in the city is in the old town. Prices might be a little more expensive than you expect but it's possible to find some unique items. The city also has many markets, including the largest food market in Europe, which is a must-see.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Riga Better for Families?

Athens is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Athens is a very kid-friendly city. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Riga is a family-friendly city. During the winter months, there are a number of museums that are fun to explore with kids including the Nature Museum, the Railroad Museum, the Aviation Technology Museum, and the Riga Firefighter Museum. There are also several indoor play areas. When the weather is warmer there are a number of outdoor parks and playgrounds to explore.

Is Athens or Riga Better for Couples?

Athens and Riga both good destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Riga is a nice destination for couples. The city has a charming old town that you can explore, taking time to relax in the city squares or sip coffee at a cafe. There are also many nice restaurants that will make for a romantic date night.

Is Athens or Riga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Athens and Riga are amazing places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit Athens, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Riga is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many affordable hostels around town as well as restaurants where you can grab a cheap meal. The city offers a great European experience at a fraction of the price of many cities.

Is Athens or Riga Better for Students?

For students, both Athens and Riga are superb places to visit.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Riga is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city's affordability and vibrant atmosphere make it a great spot for international students. There are many places to hang out and a lively nightlife scene that appeals to young travelers.

Is Athens or Riga Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens and Riga both offer superb public transit to get you around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Public transit in Riga is fairly effecient and thorough. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Is Athens or Riga a more walkable city?

Athens and Riga are superb when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Riga is very walkable. The city is small enough that most areas can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Riga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Riga or Athens?

How long in Athens or Riga?

It's fun to spend time in either Athens or Riga. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Athens due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-4 days is enough time in Riga.

Families should spend more time in Athens than Riga. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Athens, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Athens than Riga. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Athens that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Riga if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Athens.

One day in Athens or Riga?

Athens is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Riga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Riga?

Athens is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Riga is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Riga?

Athens is a energetic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Riga. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Riga?

Athens is a energetic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy destination of Riga. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Riga, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Riga much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Riga would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Riga and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Riga.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Athens Expensive? and Is Riga Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Riga?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Athens. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Riga, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Athens or Riga?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Riga in the Summer?

Both Riga and Athens during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Riga for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally much warmer than Riga. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Riga fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Riga. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Riga receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Riga in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Riga. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Riga in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Athens is much warmer than Riga in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Riga fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Riga. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Riga receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Riga in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as Riga. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Riga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Riga can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Athens is much warmer than Riga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Riga averages at about -5°C (23°F).

Athens usually gets more rain in January than Riga. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Riga receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Riga in the Spring?

Both Riga and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Riga because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Athens is generally much warmer than Riga. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Riga fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Riga. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Riga receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Riga and Athens