A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Riga vs. Nuremberg for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Riga or Nuremberg?

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

Should I visit Riga or Nuremberg? 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.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a historic, fascinating, and charming city. 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 Nuremberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Riga or Nuremberg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Riga than Nuremberg. Riga is bigger than Nuremberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Riga is better known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Nuremberg is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Nuremberg is more touristy than Riga and is known for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. 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 Nuremberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Riga
Nuremberg

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg are among the most recognizable in the world. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

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 Nuremberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Riga
Nuremberg

Riga is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Riga or Nuremberg Better for Nightlife?

Riga
Nuremberg

Riga is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

Is Riga or Nuremberg Better for its Old Town?

Riga
Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Nuremberg can be explored in its historical center. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.


Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Nuremberg?

Riga
Nuremberg

Both Riga and Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

Is Riga or Nuremberg Better for Families?

Riga
Nuremberg

Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

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 Nuremberg Better for Couples?

Riga
Nuremberg

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

Nuremberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

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 Nuremberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga
Nuremberg

Riga is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Nuremberg 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 budget travelers and backpackers visit Nuremberg. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

Is Riga or Nuremberg Better for Students?

Riga
Nuremberg

Riga and Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg is very popular with students. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

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

Riga
Nuremberg

Both Riga and Nuremberg offer excellent public transit options.

Riga has some very good public transit options. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

The public transit in Nuremberg can get you to most places easily. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.


Is Riga or Nuremberg a more walkable city?

Riga
Nuremberg

Riga and Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg is a very walkable destination. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nuremberg or Riga?

How long in Riga or Nuremberg?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Riga than Nuremberg 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.


  • How many days in Riga or Nuremberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Riga 2-4 
    Nuremberg 1-3

One day in Riga or Nuremberg?

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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of Nuremberg. 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 Nuremberg?

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.

Nuremberg is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. 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 Nuremberg?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming 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 museums and nightlife around the fascinating destination of Nuremberg. 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 Nuremberg?

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 charming city of Nuremberg 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Nuremberg or Riga?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Riga is €104, while the average daily cost in Nuremberg is €103. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Riga and Nuremberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Riga 53
    Nuremberg 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Riga 106
    Nuremberg 122
Compare Hotels in Riga and Nuremberg

Looking for a hotel in Riga or Nuremberg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Riga


Hotels in Nuremberg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Riga Hotel Prices and Nuremberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Riga 15
    Nuremberg 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Riga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Riga:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Riga Airport RIX to Riga City by Minibus: $90
  • From Cesis and Sigulda Day Trip with Hotel Transfers: $150
  • From Private Transfer to Tallinn: $342
  • From Private Transfer to Tallinn with Sightseeing: $459
  • From Private Transfer to Vilnius with Sightseeing: $427
  • From Transfer to Tallinn with Turaida Museum Reserve: $230
  • From Vilnius: One-Way Private Transfer to Riga: $182
  • Paintball Adventure: Expert Guide & Transfers Included!: $80
  • Private Transfer From Riga Airport To Riga City Center: $38
  • Private Transfer from Riga Airport to Hotel with English speaking driver: $54
  • Private Transfer from Riga City Center to Riga Airport RIX: $32
  • Private Transfer from Riga City to Riga Airport RIX by Car or Van: $70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town: $76
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $191
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $204
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $215
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $243
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with Beer Museum : $246
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $251
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $257
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Salzburg with 2h of Sightseeing: $290

Is it cheaper to fly into Riga or Nuremberg?

Prices for flights to both Nuremberg and Riga change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Riga 33
    Nuremberg 34
Typical Food Prices in Riga

Some typical examples of dining costs in Riga are as follows:


  • Fast Food Lunch
    5.77

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Riga

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Riga.

  • Central Market Latvian Food Tour: $42
  • Unique Food Tour: $52
  • Medieval Guided Tour & Three-Course Dinner Experience: $96
  • Riga Medieval Dinner: $114
  • Private Cooking Master Class In The Latvian Family : $131
  • Taste Market Tour & Cooking Masterclass: $138
  • Cooking Experience with Chef: Learn & Dine: $139
  • Latvian Food: Cooking Masterclass with a Chef: $152

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nuremberg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nuremberg.

  • 3-Hour St. Johannis Food Tour in German: $95
  • Classic North Side Food Tour in German: $95
  • Nürnberg City Tour with Traditional Dinner & Beer: $267

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Riga 21
    Nuremberg 10

Tours and Activities in Riga

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Riga are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.95
  • Riga Old Town Legends Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG): $7.39
  • Entrance Ticket - House of the Black Heads: $7.49
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Boat tour in Canal and Daugava: $9.62
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Riga Nightlife Ticket: $11
  • Canal Boat Sightseeing Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14

Tours and Activities in Nuremberg

Here are a few actual costs in Nuremberg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Southern Old Town": $3.20
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Northern Old Town": $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.28
  • Nuremberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.92
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Exploration Game & Guided Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nuremberg:Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.49
  • Self-guided Tour former Nazi Party Rally Grounds: $8.45
  • Self-guided tour around the Kaiserburg: $9.52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Riga 20
    Nuremberg 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Riga

Also in Riga, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Old town pub & bar crawl, hidden gems, and local party: $25
  • Pub Crawl in Riga: $33
  • Riga Evening Adventure: Pub Crawl & Games Night: $37
  • Riga's Old Town Beer Bike Tour & Guided Pub Crawl: $37
  • Riga Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $54
  • Riga Beer Killer Bar Crawl: $55
  • Latvian Wine Tasting & Monk Show: $75
  • Old Town Sightseeing & Latvian Wine Tasting with Show: $96
  • Riga Pub Crawl & Party Bus Tour: $523
  • Yacht Tour with Medieval Banquet and Wine Tasting: $3,320

Sample the Local Flavors in Nuremberg

Also in Nuremberg, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: $24
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513


When comparing the travel costs between Riga and Nuremberg, we can see that Riga is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Riga or Nuremberg?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Nuremberg. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg?

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 Nuremberg in the Summer?

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

Riga is cooler than Nuremberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Nuremberg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In July, Riga usually receives more rain than Nuremberg. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Riga 17°C (63°F) 
    Nuremberg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Riga or Nuremberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Riga as well as Nuremberg. 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 Nuremberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Riga usually gets more rain in October than Nuremberg. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Riga 7°C (45°F) 
    Nuremberg 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Riga or Nuremberg in the Winter?

Both Nuremberg 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, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nuremberg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nuremberg in the winter. The weather in Riga can be very cold. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Nuremberg. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Nuremberg fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Nuremberg. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Riga -5°C (23°F) 
    Nuremberg 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Riga or Nuremberg in the Spring?

Both Nuremberg 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. Also, many travelers come to Nuremberg for the natural beauty.

Riga is much colder than Nuremberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Nuremberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in April than Nuremberg. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Riga 5°C (42°F) 
    Nuremberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Nuremberg and Riga

Riga Nuremberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 1°C (34°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)