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

Should you visit Riga or Atlanta?

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

Should I visit Riga or Atlanta? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Riga

Riga is a off-the-beaten-path, charming, and unique 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.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a sprawling, suburban, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Riga and Atlanta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Atlanta?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Atlanta than Riga. While Riga is larger than Atlanta, Atlanta has more sights and attractions for tourists. Atlanta is more popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Riga is known for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Atlanta is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also home to the Georgia Aquarium. Riga is popular for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Atlanta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Atlanta 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 Atlanta are among the most recognizable in the world. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

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 Riga or Atlanta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Riga and Atlanta offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Riga. 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.

Atlanta has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Is Riga or Atlanta Better for Nightlife?

Riga is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Riga is a must-see 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.

Atlanta offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Is Riga or Atlanta Better for its Old Town?

Riga is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Riga to see the historical old town. 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.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Atlanta?

Atlanta is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Atlanta make it a world-class shopping destination. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

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.

Is Riga or Atlanta Better for Families?

Atlanta 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.

Atlanta is a very kid-friendly city. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

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 Riga or Atlanta Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Atlanta make for a good place to visit.

Riga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Atlanta is a good city for couples to visit. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Riga or Atlanta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Riga, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Is Riga or Atlanta Better for Students?

Riga and Atlanta are both very good destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Atlanta is very popular with students. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

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

Riga is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

Riga offers a very effecient public transportation network. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Riga or Atlanta a more walkable city?

Riga is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

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

Should I spend more time in Atlanta or Riga?

How long in Riga or Atlanta?

It's fun to spend time in either Riga or Atlanta. In our opinion, Riga has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Riga than Atlanta. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Riga than Atlanta 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 Riga or Atlanta?

In Riga, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Riga or Atlanta?

In Riga, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Riga has to offer.

Atlanta is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

Five days in Riga or Atlanta?

Riga is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the sprawling big city of Atlanta. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Riga or Atlanta?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Riga. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Riga. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The sprawling city of Atlanta offers nightlife and food. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Riga and Atlanta, we can see that Atlanta is more expensive. And not only is Riga much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Riga is in Europe and Atlanta is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Atlanta would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Atlanta 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 Riga Expensive? and Is Atlanta Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Riga or Atlanta?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Atlanta. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Atlanta, 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 Riga or Atlanta?

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 Riga or Atlanta in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Riga is much colder than Atlanta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Riga in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Atlanta averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. Riga usually gets less rain in July than Atlanta. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Atlanta in the Autumn?

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

In October, Riga is generally much colder than Atlanta. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 7°C (45°F), and Atlanta fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

In October, Riga usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Riga or Atlanta in the Winter?

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

Riga can be very cold during winter. Riga is much colder than Atlanta in the winter. The daily temperature in Riga averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Atlanta fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Riga usually gets less rain in January than Atlanta. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Atlanta in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Riga is much colder than Atlanta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Riga in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Atlanta averages at about 65°F (18°C).

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Riga usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Atlanta and Riga