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

Should you visit Riga or Auckland?

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

Should I visit Riga or Auckland? 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 high energy, off-the-beaten-path, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Riga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Riga travel costs.

Auckland

Auckland is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and thrill-seeking 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Auckland travel costs.

Riga and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Auckland?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Auckland than Riga. While Riga is larger than Auckland, Auckland has more sights and attractions for tourists. Auckland is better known for its beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Riga is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Auckland is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Also, Auckland is famous for the Sky Tower. Riga is well known for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Auckland 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 Auckland?

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Riga and Auckland.

Riga offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Auckland specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

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

Both Riga and Auckland offer a number of great 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.

Auckland has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Riga or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Riga is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Riga or Auckland Better for Beaches?

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

Auckland is considered a top beach destination. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Auckland Better for its Old Town?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Auckland does not have a historic old town.

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.

Auckland does not have a historic old town.

Is Riga or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Auckland is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Riga is not a hiking destination.

Auckland is a good destination for hiking. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Riga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Auckland?

Both Riga and Auckland are great shopping destinations.

Riga is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 explore the shopping areas in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Is Riga or Auckland More Beautiful?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Riga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city's unique architecture is notable for its wooden buildings, which give the city an interesting historical style.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Riga or Auckland Better for Families?

Auckland 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.

Auckland is a very kid-friendly city. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

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 Auckland Better for Couples?

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

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

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 Riga or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Auckland 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.

Auckland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Is Riga or Auckland Better for Students?

Riga and Auckland are both great 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.

Auckland is very popular with students. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

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

Riga is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Riga can get you around easily. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Riga or Auckland a more walkable city?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Riga?

How long in Riga or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Riga and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Riga than in Auckland. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Riga, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

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

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

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

The beautiful city of Riga offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Auckland is a big city destination where you can fill many days. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Auckland?

Riga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Riga, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Auckland 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.

Five days in Riga or Auckland?

Riga is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the adventurous big city of Auckland. 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.

A week in Riga or Auckland?

Riga is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

The adrenaline-filled city of Auckland 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Riga and Auckland, we can see that Auckland 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 Auckland is in Pacific, 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 Auckland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auckland 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 Auckland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Riga or Auckland?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Auckland, 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 Auckland?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Auckland is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Riga has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Riga or Auckland in the Summer?

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

Riga is cooler than Auckland in the summer. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Auckland fluctuates around 20°C (68°F)in January.

Riga usually gets more rain in July than Aucklandin January. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Auckland in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Riga is much colder than Auckland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Auckland averages at about 16°C (61°F)in April.

In October, Riga usually receives less rain than Aucklandin April. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Riga or Auckland in the Winter?

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

Riga can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Aucklandin July. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite rainy in Auckland. Riga usually gets less rain in January than Aucklandin July. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Auckland in the Spring?

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

Riga is much colder than Auckland in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Auckland fluctuates around 14°C (58°F)in October.

In April, Riga usually receives less rain than Aucklandin October. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Riga