A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Riga vs. Granada for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Riga or Granada?

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

Should I visit Riga or Granada? 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Granada

Granada is a historic, beautiful, and charming city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Riga and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Granada?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Riga than Granada. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Riga is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Granada attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Granada is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Riga is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture. It is also well known for Riga St. Peter's Church.

How is Riga different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada 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 Granada are among the most recognizable in the world. Many visitors head to Granada specifically to visit the famed Alhambra. The palace and fortress complex will not disappoint. The gardens are beautifully maintained and the palace is filled with intricate details. It's easy to spend hours wandering around. In addition to The Alhambra, the Granada Cathedral is also impressive to visit. If you have kids or extra time to fill, head to Parque de las Ciencias, which is the city's Science Park.

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 Granada? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Granada. It's a very touristy city so restaurants can be hit or miss. There are some amazing local eateries, but you'll also find a number of places with lower quality, overpriced food. Classic local dishes include Churros, Plato Alpujarreño, and Habas con Jamón. Tapas are very popular and many restaurants provide free tapas with drink orders. There are also a number of Moroccan restaurants around town.

Is Riga or Granada Better for Nightlife?

Riga is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

The people in Granada know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene kicks off around 11 pm, when most people have finished up a late dinner. There's a laid-back atmosphere with pubs, live music, and dance clubs that stay open late into the night. There are several popular streets at night including Calle Elvira, Calle Reyes Católicos, and the Realejo District.

Is Riga or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Granada is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Granada can be explored in its historical center. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

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.

Is Riga or Granada Better for Hiking?

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

Granada is a popular spot for hiking. Ruta de Los Cahorros is a great hike about 25 minutes outside of Granada that begins in the town of Monochil. It crosses many bridges and weaves through dramatic canyons. There are places where you can wade in the water or check out a hidden waterfall. It's well worth the time and can be reached by taxi or public bus.

Riga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Granada?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Granada offers some nice shopping areas. The town is filled with souvenir shops and places to buy local items. It's fun to wander through the old town and pop into the many different shops.

Is Riga or Granada Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Riga or Granada.

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.

Granada is a family-friendly city. While the highlight of the city is the Alhambra, kids will likely enjoy exploring the shops or seeing a Flamenco show a bit more. Just outside of town is a wonderful hike, Ruta de Los Cahorros. It begins near the town of Monachil which is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. The hike goes through canyons and across bridges and its a wonderful activity for the whole family.

Is Riga or Granada Better for Couples?

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

Granada is a very popular place to visit for couples. It is a beautiful city that is filled with charm and history. Couples will enjoy exploring the Alhambra, taking in a Flamenco show, or sipping Sangria with tapas. The city is incredibly beautiful with stunning views and many great restaurants.

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 Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Granada is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a touristy city and it's a popular destination for backpackers as well. There are plenty of hostels around town and the city has social atmosphere with many opportunities to meet other travelers.

Is Riga or Granada Better for Students?

Riga and Granada are both high quality 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.

Granada is very popular with students. It's a popular study abroad destination. Accommodation for students is usually affordable and this is also a great city for integrating into the local culture. You may even end up with a Spanish roommate.

Is Riga or Granada 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, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Granada, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town that many tourists take advantage of. Taxis are also very affordable, so for many visitors, that is an easy option.

Is Riga or Granada a more walkable city?

Riga and Granada both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Granada is a very walkable destination. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Riga?

How long in Riga or Granada?

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

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

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

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

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Granada. 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 Granada?

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.

Granada is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. 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.

Five days in Riga or Granada?

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 charming destination of Granada. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Riga or Granada?

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 beautiful city of Granada offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Granada?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Granada, 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 Granada?

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 Granada in the Summer?

Both Granada and Riga during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Riga because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Granada this time of year.

In July, Riga is generally cooler than Granada. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 17°C (63°F), and Granada fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Riga usually gets more rain in July than Granada. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Granada receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Granada in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Granada. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Riga is much colder than Granada in the autumn. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Granada fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In October, Riga usually receives more rain than Granada. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Riga or Granada in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Riga as well as Granada. Many travelers come to Riga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Granada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Riga. In the winter, Riga is much colder than Granada. Typically, the winter temperatures in Riga in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Granada averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in January than Granada. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Granada in the Spring?

Both Granada and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Riga in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Granada for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Riga is generally much colder than Granada. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 5°C (42°F), and Granada fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In April, Riga usually receives around the same amount of rain as Granada. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Granada and Riga