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

Should you visit Riga or Liverpool?

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

Should I visit Riga or Liverpool? 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. 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.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a fun-filled, diverse, and historic port city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and theater.

Riga and Liverpool: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Liverpool?

You'll generally find more things to do in Riga than Liverpool. Riga is bigger than Liverpool, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Riga is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Liverpool is more popular for its theatre productions and music. Liverpool is more touristy than Riga and is known for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." Riga is well known for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture. Also, Riga is famous for Riga St. Peter's Church.

How is Riga different from Liverpool?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Riga is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Riga. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Liverpool. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.

Is Riga or Liverpool Better for Theater?

Liverpool is notable for its theatre productions. However, Riga is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Liverpool. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Riga is not a theatre destination.

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

Riga is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known 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.

Liverpool may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a diversity of flavors that are influenced by the city's international population. There are also several famous local dishes including scouse (a meat stew), toad in the hole (a giant yorkie stuffed with British sausages) and wet nelly (a dessert).

Is Riga or Liverpool Better for Nightlife?

Riga is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

Many people head to Liverpool for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is fun and diverse Head to the waterfront for comedy clubs or the Ropewalks and Seel Street if you want a swanky experience. Cavern Quarter is the place to go for an all night party.

Is Riga or Liverpool Better for Music?

Liverpool is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Riga is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Liverpool Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Riga is not a live music destination.

Is Riga or Liverpool Better for its Old Town?

Riga is well known for its old town. However, Liverpool 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.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Liverpool?

Both Riga and Liverpool 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 Liverpool. Head to Liverpool ONE for the area's best shopping. This is the largest open-air shopping center in the UK and it's filled with a mix of name brands and independent vendors.

Is Riga or Liverpool Better for Families?

Liverpool 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.

Liverpool is a very kid-friendly port city. One of the most popular activities for families is Pleasureland, an amuseument park with rides that are fun for young kids. The city also has many museums and play spaces that are great for families.

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 Liverpool Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Liverpool 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.

Liverpool is a good city for couples to visit. The city is fun, and the best way to enjoy a romantic getaway is to find a fun or unique activity that you can enjoy together. Going dancing, dining out, or seeing a show are all fun activities in the area.

Is Riga or Liverpool Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Liverpool. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

Is Riga or Liverpool Better for Students?

Riga and Liverpool are both excellent 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.

Liverpool is very popular with students. The city is diverse, affordable, and offers an excellent academic environment. International students will fill welcomed and enjoy a fun city with a lot to offer.

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

Riga is well known for its public transit. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Riga can get you around easily. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

While Liverpool offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

Is Riga or Liverpool a more walkable city?

Riga and Liverpool 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.

Liverpool is a very walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Liverpool or Riga?

How long in Riga or Liverpool?

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

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

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Riga. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Liverpool. 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 Liverpool?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Riga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Liverpool 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 Liverpool?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the off-the-beaten-path city of Riga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find shopping and museums around the historic destination of Liverpool. 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 Liverpool?

Riga is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The fun-filled port city of Liverpool offers museums and theater. 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 Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Liverpool?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 58% larger than the population of Liverpool. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Liverpool, 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 Liverpool?

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 Liverpool in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Liverpool. Many visitors come to Riga in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Liverpool for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Riga is a little warmer than Liverpool in the summer. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Liverpool fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In July, Riga usually receives more rain than Liverpool. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Riga or Liverpool in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Riga as well as Liverpool. 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. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Liverpool because of the shopping scene and the music scene.

In the autumn, Riga is much colder than Liverpool. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Liverpool averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in October than Liverpool. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Liverpool in the Winter?

Both Liverpool and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Riga because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Liverpool this time of year.

The weather in Riga can be very cold. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Liverpool. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Liverpool fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Liverpool. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Riga or Liverpool in the Spring?

Both Liverpool and Riga during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Riga this time of year.

Riga is much colder than Liverpool in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Liverpool fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

Typical Weather for Liverpool and Riga