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

Should you visit Riga or Jaco?

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

Should I visit Riga or Jaco? 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Riga attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Riga travel costs.

Jaco

Jaco is a popular, touristy, and laid back town. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Jaco travel costs.

Riga and Jaco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Jaco?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Riga. Although Riga and Jaco are both popular with visitors, Riga has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Riga is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Jaco is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Jaco is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches. Riga is popular for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture. It is also home to Riga St. Peter's Church.

How is Riga different from Jaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Riga is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Riga can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Jaco offers a few options for museum-goers. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.

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

Riga is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Jaco offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of restaurants around town that include hamburger joints, pizza shops, and other casual favorites. You'll find a variety of options along the main strip as well.

Is Riga or Jaco Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are fantastic in both Riga and Jaco.

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.

Jaco is a must-see party destination. What was once a quiet surfing town is now one of the most famous party destinations in Costa Rica. There are a constantly growing number of bars and clubs around town and you'll find tons of young tourists and backpackers looking for a party.

Is Riga or Jaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Jaco is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Jaco has a few good snorkeling spots. You can't really snorkel at Jaco Beach because of the waves and water conditions, but there are a number of snorkeling tours that leave from town and take you to better spots.

Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Riga or Jaco Better for Beaches?

Jaco is a popular place for the beach. However, Riga is not a beach destination.

Jaco is a good option for a beach vacation. Jaco Beach is a great spot for swimming and surfing. It's lost some of its original charm, but there's still golden sand and nearby horseback riding.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Jaco Better for its Old Town?

Riga is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Jaco does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Riga to see the historical old town. 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.

Jaco does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Jaco?

Riga is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Jaco is a great destination for shopping. Many of the shops are found along the main street. There are a number of souvenir stores and a few art galleries that are worth checking out.

Is Riga or Jaco More Beautiful?

Riga is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Riga attracts visitors from all around. The city's unique architecture is notable for its wooden buildings, which give the city an interesting historical style.

Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Riga or Jaco Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Riga or Jaco.

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.

Jaco is a family-friendly city. Nearby you'll find horseback riding, monkey tours, and other fun kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy the beaches in the area as well.

Is Riga or Jaco Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Jaco 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.

Jaco is a good city for couples to visit. It's one of the more touristy parts of Costa Rica, but if you enjoy surfing and beach life, then you'll find a lot to do in the area.

Is Riga or Jaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Riga, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Jaco. It's a touristy town with a bit of a party reputation. There are plenty of hostels and other backpackers around so you shouldn't have trouble meeting people.

Is Riga or Jaco Better for Students?

Riga is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Jaco is not popular with students.

Riga is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Jaco is not popular with students.

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

Riga is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Riga. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Public transit is generally limited in Jaco. Most people walk or get around by bicycle.

Is Riga or Jaco a more walkable city?

Riga and Jaco both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Jaco is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and walkable. You'll find many of the restaurants and shops along the main street, and it's easy to reach the beach on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Jaco or Riga?

How long in Riga or Jaco?

It's fun to spend time in either Riga or Jaco. In our opinion, Riga has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Riga than Jaco. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Riga, and 3-4 days is enough time in Jaco.

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

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

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 Jaco. 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 Jaco?

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.

Jaco is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Jaco?

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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the touristy destination of Jaco. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Riga or Jaco?

The vibrant 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.

The touristy town of Jaco offers nightlife and food. 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 Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Riga and Jaco, we can see that Riga is more expensive. And not only is Jaco much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Riga is in Europe and Jaco is in Central 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 Jaco would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jaco 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 Jaco.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Jaco?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Jaco, 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 Jaco?

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

Should I visit Riga or Jaco in the Summer?

Both Jaco and Riga during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Riga for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jaco year-round.

In the summer, Riga is much colder than Jaco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Riga in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Jaco averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Jaco gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Riga usually gets less rain in July than Jaco. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Jaco in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Jaco. Many visitors come to Riga in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Jaco attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Riga is generally much colder than Jaco. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 7°C (45°F), and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Jaco receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Riga usually receives less rain than Jaco. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to May in Jaco is the dry season. June to October is the hurricane season in Jaco.

Should I visit Riga or Jaco in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Riga as well as Jaco. Most visitors come to Riga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jaco throughout the year.

Riga can be very cold during winter. Riga is much colder than Jaco in the winter. The daily temperature in Riga averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Riga usually gets more rain in January than Jaco. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Jaco in the Spring?

Both Jaco and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Riga because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Plenty of visitors come to Jaco because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Riga is much colder than Jaco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Riga in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Jaco averages at about 29°C (85°F).

In April, Riga usually receives more rain than Jaco. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Jaco is November to May. June to October in Jaco is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Jaco and Riga