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

Should you visit Riga or Houston?

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

Should I visit Riga or Houston? 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. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Houston

Houston is a sprawling, southern, and one-of-a-kind city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Riga and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Houston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Houston than Riga. Houston is bigger than Riga, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Houston is better known for its music and big city activities, while Riga is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Riga is well known for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. Also, Houston is famous for The Space Center Houston.

How is Riga different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Houston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Riga is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Riga or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Riga is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

Many people head to Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Riga or Houston Better for Music?

Houston is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Riga is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Riga is not a live music destination.

Is Riga or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Riga is well known for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Houston?

Riga is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Riga or Houston Better for Families?

Houston 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.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

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 Houston Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Houston make for a notable 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.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Riga or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Riga or Houston Better for Students?

Riga is well known for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit 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.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

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

Riga is well known for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Riga or Houston a more walkable city?

Riga is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known 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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Riga?

How long in Riga or Houston?

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

Houston 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 Houston?

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 southern big city of Houston. 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 Houston?

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 one-of-a-kind city of Houston 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Houston?

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

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 Houston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Houston. Most visitors come to Riga for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Riga is much colder than Houston in the summer. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Riga usually receives less rain than Houston. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Riga or Houston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Riga as well as Houston. The autumn months attract visitors to Riga because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

In the autumn, Riga is much colder than Houston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Houston averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. Riga usually gets less rain in October than Houston. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Houston in the Winter?

Both Houston and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Riga in the winter. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Houston. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Houston. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Riga or Houston in the Spring?

Both Houston and Riga during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Riga for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Houston in the spring for the activities around the city.

Riga is much colder than Houston in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Riga usually gets less rain in April than Houston. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Houston and Riga