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

Should you visit Riga or Lucerne?

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

Should I visit Riga or Lucerne? 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 historical, vibrant, and fun 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a scenic, active, and cultural 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Riga and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Lucerne?

Both Lucerne and Riga have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Lucerne is more touristy than Riga and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Riga is popular for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Lucerne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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

Riga is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Riga or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Riga is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Riga is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Lucerne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Riga or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the superb old towns in both Riga and Lucerne.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Lucerne?

Both Riga and Lucerne are superb 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 Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Is Riga or Lucerne Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Riga or Lucerne.

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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly city. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Riga or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Lucerne is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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 Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Riga or Lucerne Better for Students?

Riga is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

Is Riga or Lucerne 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, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Riga or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Riga is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Riga?

How long in Riga or Lucerne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Riga and Lucerne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Riga than in Lucerne. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Riga, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lucerne.

Families should spend more time in Riga than Lucerne. 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.

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

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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of Lucerne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Riga or Lucerne?

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.

Lucerne is a fun place to experience. 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.

Five days in Riga or Lucerne?

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 museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Lucerne. 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.

A week in Riga or Lucerne?

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 historic city of Lucerne 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Lucerne?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Lucerne, 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 Lucerne?

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 Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Riga as well as Lucerne. Most visitors come to Riga for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Riga is cooler than Lucerne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Riga in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Lucerne averages at about 21°C (70°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in July than Lucerne. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Lucerne in the Autumn?

Both Lucerne and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year.

In October, Riga is generally much colder than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 7°C (45°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In October, Riga usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Riga or Lucerne in the Winter?

Both Lucerne and Riga during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lucerne. It's quite cold in Riga in the winter. Riga is much colder than Lucerne in the winter. The daily temperature in Riga averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Lucerne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in January than Lucerne. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Lucerne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Lucerne. Many travelers come to Riga for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Lucerne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Riga is much colder than Lucerne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Riga in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Lucerne averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In April, Riga usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Riga