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

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Should you visit Riga or Hamburg?

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

Should I visit Riga or Hamburg? 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 charming, unique, and historical 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a energetic, cultural, and vibrant port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Riga and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Riga
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Hamburg
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Cons
  • Less popular with backpackers


How is Riga different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Riga or Hamburg Better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Riga
Hamburg

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

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 Hamburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most famous district is the port area, which has a number of cultural sights and a pedestrian trail. There are also many museums and architectural landmarks around town.


Is Riga or Hamburg Better for Food?

Riga
Hamburg

Both Riga and Hamburg offer a number of unique 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.

Hamburg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city has a mix of cosmopolitan restaurants and traditional places where you can enjoy a classic German dish like currywurst or labskaus (a type of stew).

Is Riga or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Riga
Hamburg

Evening events are similar in both Riga and Hamburg.

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.

Hamburg has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is often overlooked, but it's nightlife scene is actually among the best. There are techno concerts, music festivals, and nightclubs that appeal to all personalities.

Is Riga or Hamburg Better for Shopping?

Riga
Hamburg

Both Riga and Hamburg are good 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 Hamburg. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Is Riga or Hamburg Better for Families?

Riga
Hamburg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Riga or Hamburg.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hamburg. The city has a surprising number of opportunities to see wildlife nearby including a zoo and a wildlife park just outside of town. The city also has great playgrounds that are fun for kids who need a break from sightseeing.


Is Riga or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Riga
Hamburg

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Hamburg 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.

Hamburg is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in town include taking a boat ride or harbor cruise or grabbing a cocktail at one of the city's many bars.

Is Riga or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga
Hamburg

While Hamburg and Riga are both good for backpackers, overall Riga is more popular.

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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hamburg. Many backpackers overlook the city, but there are a number of good hostels and a relaxing vibe that makes for a nice visit.

Is Riga or Hamburg Better for Students?

Riga
Hamburg

Riga and Hamburg are both 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.

Plenty of students visit Hamburg. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

Is Riga or Hamburg Better for Public Transit?

Riga
Hamburg

Both Riga and Hamburg offer public transit options.

Riga has some very good public transit options. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

The public transit in Hamburg can get you to most places easily. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.


Is Riga or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Riga
Hamburg

Riga and Hamburg both are comparable when exploring on foot.

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

Hamburg is a very walkable destination. Most tourist areas can easily be explored on foot.

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Riga?

How long in Riga or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Riga and Hamburg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Riga than Hamburg.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Riga is 2-4 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Hamburg is 1-3 days.


  • How many days in Riga or Hamburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Riga 2-4 
    Hamburg 1-3

One day in Riga or Hamburg?

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 nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Hamburg. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Riga or Hamburg?

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.

Hamburg is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the live music. 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 Hamburg?

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 food and shopping around the cultural destination of Hamburg. This port 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 Hamburg?

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 energetic port city of Hamburg 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.

Which city is cheaper, Hamburg or Riga?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Riga is €82, while the average daily cost in Hamburg is €93. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Riga and Hamburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Riga €42
    Hamburg €43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Riga €84
    Hamburg €86
Compare Hotels in Riga and Hamburg

Looking for a hotel in Riga or Hamburg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Riga


Hotels in Hamburg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Riga Hotel Prices and Hamburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Riga €12
    Hamburg €23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Riga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Riga:

  • Airport transfer & private driver services: $25
  • Departure Private Transfer Riga City to Riga Airport RIX by Minibus: $93
  • Departure Private Transfer Riga City to Riga Airport RIX by Minivan: $46
  • Departure Private Transfer Riga City to Riga Airport RIX by Sedan Car: $26
  • English Speaking Private Arrival Transfer from Riga Airport: $25
  • English Speaking Private Departure Transfer to Riga Airport: $37
  • English Speaking Private Minibus Arrival Transfer from Riga Airport: $49
  • Mercedes-Benz Viano Van Transfer from Riga to Vilnius/Talinn/Any Baltic Country: $425
  • PanCars CITY RACE + airport/hotel transfer: $81
  • Private Airport Transfer: from Riga to Riga International Airport (RIX): $18
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Riga Airport (RIX) to Riga City Center: $19
  • Private Departure Transfer from Riga City Center to Riga Airport (RIX): $19

Typical Local Transportation prices in Hamburg

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Hamburg:


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    €1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hamburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hamburg:

  • Private Airport Transfer: from Hamburg to Hamburg Airport (HAM): $38
  • Private Airport Transfer: Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Hamburg: $38
  • Private Transfer: HAM Hamburg Airport to Hamburg City Center: $40
  • Private Departure Transfer from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport: $42
  • Hamburg Airport Transfers : Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg in Business Car: $58
  • Hamburg Airport Transfers : Hamburg to Hamburg Airport HAM in Business Car: $58
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $59
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $62
  • Private Transfer: Hamburg to Hamburg Airport (HAM): $65
  • Private Transfer: Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Hamburg: $65
  • Hamburg Airport Transfers : Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg in Luxury Van: $73
  • Private Transfer to/from Hamburg Airport (HAM): $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Riga or Hamburg?

Prices for flights to both Hamburg and Riga change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Riga €26
    Hamburg €28
Typical Food prices in Riga

Some typical examples of dining costs in Riga are as follows:


  • Fast Food Lunch
    €5.77

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Riga

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Riga.

  • Private Guided Virtual Food Tour of Riga: $12
  • Central Market Latvian Food Tour: $34
  • Riga Medieval Dinner: $102
  • Riga Medieval Dinner: $102

Typical Food prices in Hamburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hamburg:


  • Pink Thai Soup Dinner and Spring Rolls
    €15
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    €5.00
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    €6.00
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    €15
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    €4.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    €6.00
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    €3.50
  • Coffee and Donut
    €4.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hamburg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hamburg.

  • Historic Reeperbahn Tour with Optional Dinner in Hamburg: $38
  • St. Georg Hamburg - Food Tour: $45
  • HafenCity & Elbphilharmonie - Food Tour: $50
  • Sternschanze Hamburg - Food Tour: $53
  • St. Pauli - Food Tour: $53
  • Eat Like A Local : Hamburg Private Food Tour With Tastings: $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Riga €17
    Hamburg €31

Tours and Activities in Riga

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Riga are as follows:

  • An audio tour of Old from St Peter's Church to the Monument of Freedom: $5.00
  • Riga's Architecture: An art nouveau history audio tour: $5.00
  • Riga Art Nouveau walking tour: $8.71
  • Classic Car Museum Tour: $9.95
  • Riga Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat: $16
  • Gastronomic tour with professional chef: $19
  • The Best Of Riga Walking Tour: $22
  • Daily Riga Bike Tour: $22
  • The Best Of Riga Walking Tour: $23
  • Best of Riga Walking Tour - Regular Walking tours: $25

Typical Entertainment prices in Hamburg

Here are a few typical costs in Hamburg for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Tower at St. Michael's Church
    €3.50

Tours and Activities in Hamburg

Here are a few actual costs in Hamburg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Spicy's Gewürzmuseum Entry Ticket and Audio Guide: $5.66
  • RICKMER RICKMERS Museum Entry Ticket: $6.79
  • Walking Tour for School Groups: $8.48
  • Panoptikum Hamburg Ticket: $8.58
  • Hamburg Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Hamburg by Boat: 1-Hour Hanseatic Tour: $16
  • Express outer Elbphilharmonietour: $19
  • Speicherstadt and Hafencity Guided Tour: $19
  • 2-Hour St. Georg Walking Tour: $19
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tour - Yellow Double Decker - GROUP TICKETS: $20
  • GROUP TICKETS HOP-ON HOP-OFF City Tour by Bus: $20
  • Outer Elbphilharmonie Tour: Public Tour in German: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Riga €16
    Hamburg €14

Sample the Local Flavors in Riga

Also in Riga, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl in Riga: $37
  • Pub Crawl- Your best night out in Riga with our local guide!: $47
  • Riga Public Pub Crawl: $60
  • Riga Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $64
  • Riga Brewery Tour: $83
  • Riga Brewery Tour: $83
  • Riga Beer Killer Bar Crawl: $83
  • Riga Wine Tasting Session: $115
  • Gauja National Park Tour: Castles and Wine Tasting: $149
  • Culinary, Historic and Wine Tour to Sigulda and Cesis: $224
  • Exclusive Latvian Wine Tasting In Riga: $380
  • 1.5-Hour Latvian Wine Tasting Experience: $476

Sample the Local Flavors in Hamburg

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Hamburg:

  • Club and Pub Tour of St. Pauli: $27
  • Corona Pub Crawl with special drinks: $62
  • Private guided Club & Pub tour - Pub Crawl: $358

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Riga and Hamburg, we can see that Hamburg is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.


When is the best time to visit Riga or Hamburg?

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 Hamburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Hamburg. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Riga is around the same temperature as Hamburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Riga in July are around 17°C (63°F), and Hamburg is about 17°C (62°F).

In July, Riga usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hamburg. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Riga 17°C (63°F) 
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Riga or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Riga as well as Hamburg. Many travelers come to Riga for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Hamburg in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Riga is generally cooler than Hamburg. Temperatures in Riga average around 7°C (45°F), and Hamburg stays around 10°C (50°F).

Riga usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hamburg. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Riga 7°C (45°F) 
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Riga or Hamburg in the Winter?

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

Hamburg can be very cold during winter. Riga can get quite cold in the winter. Riga is much colder than Hamburg in the winter. The temperature in Riga is usually -5°C (23°F) in January, and Hamburg stays around 0°C (33°F).

In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Riga -5°C (23°F) 
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Riga or Hamburg in the Spring?

Both Hamburg and Riga during the spring are popular places to visit. 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 Hamburg because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Riga is cooler than Hamburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Riga in April are around 5°C (42°F), and Hamburg is about 8°C (46°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in April than Hamburg. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Riga 5°C (42°F) 
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Riga

Riga Hamburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)


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Riga vs. Hamburg Travel Comparison

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