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

Should you visit Heraklion or Riga?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Heraklion and Riga can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a historic, vibrant, and accessible city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Riga

Riga is a vibrant, fun, and high energy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Riga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Riga?

Both Riga and Heraklion have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Heraklion is better known for its beaches, while Riga is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Riga is well known for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Heraklion different from Riga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Riga.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Heraklion. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Riga. 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 Heraklion or Riga? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Riga both to be excellent destinations.

Heraklion has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

Dining out in Riga is an experience not to be missed. 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 Heraklion or Riga Better for Nightlife?

Riga is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Riga just to party. 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.

Heraklion is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

Is Heraklion or Riga Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is notable for the beache. However, Riga is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is considered a top beach destination. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Riga Better for its Old Town?

Riga is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Riga is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Riga?

Riga is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Riga is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Heraklion to go shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Is Heraklion or Riga Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Riga are notable to visit with kids.

Heraklion is a family-friendly city. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Riga. 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 Heraklion or Riga Better for Couples?

Heraklion is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for couples. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

Riga is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Heraklion or Riga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Riga is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Heraklion is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Is Heraklion or Riga Better for Students?

Riga is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Riga. 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.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Riga is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Riga has some very good public transit options. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

You'll find some public transit in Heraklion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

Is Heraklion or Riga a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Riga are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Riga or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Riga?

It's fun to spend time in either Heraklion or Riga. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Riga due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-4 days is enough time in Riga.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Riga than Heraklion 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 Riga.

One day in Heraklion or Riga?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Riga. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Riga?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Riga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Riga?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling destination of Heraklion. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming city of Riga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Riga?

The accessible city of Heraklion offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Riga is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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 Heraklion and Riga, we can see that Heraklion 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 Heraklion would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heraklion 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 Heraklion Expensive? and Is Riga Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Riga?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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 Heraklion or Riga in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Riga. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Riga in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Riga in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Riga fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Riga. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Riga receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Riga in the Autumn?

Both Riga and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Riga for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Heraklion is much warmer than Riga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Riga averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In October, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Riga. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Riga receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Riga in the Winter?

Both Riga and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Riga because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Riga can be very cold. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Riga. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Riga fluctuates around -5°C (23°F).

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Riga. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Riga receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Riga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Riga. The spring months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Riga this time of year.

Heraklion is much warmer than Riga in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Riga fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Riga. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Riga receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Riga and Heraklion