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

Should you visit Riga or Austin?

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

Should I visit Riga or Austin? 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 vibrant, fun, and high energy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Austin

Austin is a eccentric, unconventional, and lively city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Riga and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Austin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Austin. Although Riga and Austin are popular destinations, Austin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Austin is very popular for its food, music, and hiking, while Riga attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Austin is more touristy than Riga and is known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital. Riga is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Riga and Austin.

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 Austin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Austin 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, Austin is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Riga or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are fantastic in both Riga and Austin.

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.

Austin is a must-see party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Is Riga or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Riga is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Austin Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Riga is not a live music destination.

Is Riga or Austin Better for its Old Town?

Riga is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Austin 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.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Riga or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Riga is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Riga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Austin?

Riga is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Riga is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Riga or Austin Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Riga or Austin.

Riga is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Austin is a family-friendly city. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Riga or Austin Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Austin make for a nice 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.

Austin is a good city for couples to visit. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Riga or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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.

Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Is Riga or Austin Better for Students?

Riga and Austin 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.

Austin is very popular with students. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Riga is a great destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Riga or Austin a more walkable city?

Riga is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Riga?

How long in Riga or Austin?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Riga than Austin. 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 Austin 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 Austin?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Austin. 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 Austin?

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.

Austin 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 Austin?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the lively destination of Austin. 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 Austin?

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.

The eccentric city of Austin offers shopping and museums. 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Austin?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Austin. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Austin, 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 Austin?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Riga or Austin in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Austin. Many travelers come to Riga for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Austin in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Riga is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 17°C (63°F), and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

In July, Riga usually receives more rain than Austin. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Riga or Austin in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Riga as well as Austin. 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 Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Riga is much colder than Austin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Riga usually gets less rain in October than Austin. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Austin in the Winter?

Both Austin and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Riga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Austin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Riga can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Riga is much colder than Austin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Riga in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Austin averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Austin. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Riga or Austin in the Spring?

Both Austin and Riga during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Riga because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In April, Riga is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 5°C (42°F), and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Riga usually gets less rain in April than Austin. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Riga