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

Should you visit Riga or Portofino?

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

Should I visit Riga or Portofino? 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Portofino

Portofino is a opulent, exclusive, and luxurious seaside village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Riga and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Portofino?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Riga than Portofino, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Riga is better known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Portofino is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Portofino is more touristy than Riga and is known for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. 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 Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Riga is notable for its sights and museums. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.

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

Both Riga and Portofino offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

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.

Portofino has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

Is Riga or Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Riga is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit 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.

Portofino has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.

Is Riga or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Portofino is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Riga is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Portofino is a great choice. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

Riga is not a resort destination.

Is Riga or Portofino Better for Beaches?

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

Portofino is a good option for a beach vacation. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Riga and Portofino.

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 Portofino. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Is Riga or Portofino Better for Hiking?

Portofino is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Riga is not a hiking destination.

Portofino is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Riga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Portofino?

Both Riga and Portofino are high quality 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 Portofino. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.

Is Riga or Portofino Better for Families?

Riga is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Portofino is not always a place people visit with their families. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.

Is Riga or Portofino Better for Couples?

Portofino is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Portofino makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

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 Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village 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.

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.

Is Riga or Portofino Better for Students?

Riga is notable for students. However, Portofino is not popular with students.

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.

Portofino is not popular with students.

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

Riga is notable for its public transit. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Riga can get you to some places easily. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.

Is Riga or Portofino a more walkable city?

Portofino is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Portofino on foot. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Riga?

How long in Riga or Portofino?

In either Riga or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Portofino than Riga because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Riga, and 2-5 days is enough time in Portofino.

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

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

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.

Portofino is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Portofino?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the off-the-beaten-path 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.

Portofino is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Portofino?

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.

Portofino might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This seaside village offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Riga or Portofino?

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.

Because Portofino is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Portofino?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 1400 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Portofino, 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.