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

Should you visit Riga or Honolulu?

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

Should I visit Riga or Honolulu? 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 fun, high energy, and off-the-beaten-path 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a vibrant, multi-cultural, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Riga and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Honolulu?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Riga. While Riga is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is very popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Riga attracts visitors for its nightlife and historical sights. Honolulu is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also well known for Pearl Harbor. Riga is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Honolulu 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 Honolulu are among the most recognizable in the world. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

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 Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Riga and Honolulu offer a number of excellent 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.

Honolulu has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Is Riga or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Riga is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Riga is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Is Riga or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Honolulu is a great choice. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Riga is not a resort destination.

Is Riga or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Honolulu. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Riga or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu 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 Honolulu. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Honolulu Better for its Old Town?

Riga is great for its historic old town. However, Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Riga is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Is Riga or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Riga is not a hiking destination.

People visit Honolulu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Riga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Honolulu?

Both Riga and Honolulu are excellent 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 Honolulu. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Is Riga or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Honolulu is a very family-friendly destination. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

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 Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu 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.

Honolulu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

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 Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Honolulu is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

Is Riga or Honolulu Better for Students?

Riga is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Riga. 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.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

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

Riga is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Riga. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Honolulu has a few public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Riga or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Riga and Honolulu both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Honolulu is a very walkable destination. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Riga?

How long in Riga or Honolulu?

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

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

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

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

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.

Honolulu is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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 Honolulu?

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.

Honolulu 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 Honolulu?

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.

Honolulu is a energetic big city where you can fill many days. This city 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 Honolulu?

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.

Honolulu is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Honolulu?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 100% larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Honolulu, 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 Honolulu?

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 Honolulu in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Riga as well as Honolulu. Many visitors come to Riga in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Honolulu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Riga is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 17°C (63°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

Riga usually gets more rain in July than Honolulu. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Honolulu in the Autumn?

Both Honolulu and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Riga for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Riga is much colder than Honolulu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

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

Should I visit Riga or Honolulu in the Winter?

Both Honolulu and Riga during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Riga because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

The weather in Riga can be very cold. In the winter, Riga is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Riga in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Honolulu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Riga usually gets less rain in January than Honolulu. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Honolulu in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Honolulu. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Riga is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 5°C (42°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In April, Riga usually receives around the same amount of rain as Honolulu. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Riga