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

Should you visit Riga or Perth?

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

Should I visit Riga or Perth? 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Perth

Perth is a sunny, friendly, and relaxed city. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Riga and Perth: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Perth?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Riga than Perth. While Perth is larger than Riga, Riga has more sights and attractions for tourists. Riga is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Perth attracts visitors for its beaches. Perth is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location. Riga is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture. It is also well known for Riga St. Peter's Church.

How is Riga different from Perth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Riga and Perth.

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 Perth specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage Museum.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Perth. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

Is Riga or Perth Better for Nightlife?

Riga is very popular for nightlife. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Perth. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

Is Riga or Perth Better for Beaches?

Perth is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Riga is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Perth. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Perth Better for its Old Town?

Riga is great for its historic old town. However, Perth does not have a historic old town.

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.

Perth does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Perth?

Riga is great for shopping. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Perth offers some nice shopping areas. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.

Is Riga or Perth Better for Families?

Perth 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.

Perth is a very kid-friendly city. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

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 Perth Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Perth make for a nice 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.

Perth is a good city for couples to visit. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.

Is Riga or Perth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Perth. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Is Riga or Perth Better for Students?

Riga is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Riga is very popular with students. 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.

Perth is a good city to visit for students. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Riga. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Perth has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.

Is Riga or Perth a more walkable city?

Riga is great for its walkability. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Perth is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Perth or Riga?

How long in Riga or Perth?

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

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

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

In Riga, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fun destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Perth. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Perth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Riga. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Perth is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Perth?

Riga is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Riga. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the isolated destination of Perth. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Riga or Perth?

You'll find food and shopping around the off-the-beaten-path destination of Riga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The sunny city of Perth offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Australia, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Perth?

Perth has a larger population, and is about 95% larger than the population of Riga. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Perth, 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 Perth?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Perth is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Riga has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Riga or Perth in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Riga as well as Perth. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Perth for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Riga is generally cooler than Perthin January. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 17°C (63°F), and Perth fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

Riga usually gets more rain in July than Perthin January. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Perth receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Perth in the Autumn?

Both Perth and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Riga for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Perth in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Riga is much colder than Perth in the autumn. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Perth fluctuates around 19°C (67°F)in April.

In October, Riga usually receives more rain than Perthin April. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Perth receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Riga or Perth in the Winter?

Both Perth and Riga during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Riga in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Perth for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Riga can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Riga is much colder than Perth. Typically, the winter temperatures in Riga in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Perth averages at about 13°C (55°F)in July.

Perth gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Riga usually gets less rain in January than Perthin July. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Perth receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Perth in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Perth. Most visitors come to Riga for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Perth because of the beaches.

In April, Riga is generally much colder than Perthin October. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 5°C (42°F), and Perth fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In April, Riga usually receives less rain than Perthin October. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Perth receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Perth and Riga