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

Should you visit Riga or Bali?

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

Should I visit Riga or Bali? 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 this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bali

Bali is a lush, frequented, and spiritual island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Riga and Bali: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Bali?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Bali than Riga. While Riga is larger than Bali, Bali has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bali is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Riga is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and big city activities. Bali is more touristy than Riga and is known for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Also, Bali is famous for Pura Lempuyang. Riga is well known for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Bali?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Riga is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bali 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, Bali is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

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 Bali Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are world-class in both Riga and Bali.

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.

Bali is a must-see party destination. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Is Riga or Bali Better for Resorts?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Riga is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Bali is a great choice. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Riga is not a resort destination.

Is Riga or Bali Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Bali a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Riga or Bali Better for Beaches?

Bali is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Riga is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Bali. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Bali Better for its Old Town?

Riga is a well-known place for its old town. However, Bali 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.

Bali does not have a historic old town.

Is Riga or Bali Better for Hiking?

Bali is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Riga is not a hiking destination.

Bali is a popular spot for hiking. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Riga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Bali?

Both Riga and Bali 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 Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Is Riga or Bali Better for Families?

Bali 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.

Bali is a very kid-friendly island. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

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 Bali Better for Couples?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Bali makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

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 Bali Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Riga and Bali are world-class destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Riga. 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.

A large number of backpackers visit Bali, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Is Riga or Bali Better for Students?

Riga is a well-known place for students. However, Bali is not popular with students.

Riga is very popular with students. 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.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Riga is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Riga can get you to some places easily. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Bali has some public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Riga or Bali a more walkable city?

Riga is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island 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.

Bali is generally not a very walkable city. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bali or Riga?

How long in Riga or Bali?

Both Riga and Bali have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than in Riga. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Riga, and 5-7 days is enough time in Bali.

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Riga. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Bali. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Bali?

Riga is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Bali is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Five days in Riga or Bali?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the high energy destination of Riga. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the stunning destination of Bali. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Riga or Bali?

The fun city of Riga offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the frequented island of Bali. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Riga and Bali, we can see that Riga is more expensive. And not only is Bali much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Riga is in Europe and Bali is in Asia, 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 Bali would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bali 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 Riga would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Riga than you might in Bali.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Bali?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Bali, 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 Bali?

Riga has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Bali in the Summer?

Both Bali and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Riga is much colder than Bali in the summer. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In July, Riga usually receives more rain than Bali. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bali receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Bali is April to September.

Should I visit Riga or Bali in the Autumn?

Both Bali and Riga during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Riga for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round.

In the autumn, Riga is much colder than Bali. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Bali averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Riga usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bali. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bali receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Riga or Bali in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Bali. Many visitors come to Riga in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Riga can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Bali. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Bali fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Bali. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bali receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Riga or Bali in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Riga as well as Bali. Most visitors come to Riga for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year.

Riga is much colder than Bali in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Bali fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in April than Bali. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bali receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Bali and Riga