Which city is cheaper, Prague or Riga?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Riga vs. Prague for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples
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Should you visit Riga or Prague?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Riga or Prague? 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.
Prague
Prague is a beautiful, festive, and fun-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.
Riga and Prague: Pros and Cons
Riga
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Impressive beauty
- Less popular with couples
Prague
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Less popular for food
How is Riga different from Prague?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Prague and Riga. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Is Riga or Prague Better for Museums and Historical Sights?
Riga
Prague
Plenty of people visit the sights and museums in both Riga and Prague.
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.
With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Prague has many famous sights for visitors. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum.
Is Riga or Prague Better for Food?
Riga
Prague
Most foodies will appreciate the restaurant options in Riga a bit more than Prague.
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.
Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.
Is Riga or Prague Better for Nightlife?
Riga
Prague
Evening events are similar in both Riga and Prague.
Riga is a world class party destination. 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.
Prague is a must-see party destination. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.
Is Riga or Prague Better for its Old Town?
Riga
Prague
It's fun to wander around the old towns in both Riga and Prague.
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.
Prague has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.
Is Riga or Prague Better for Shopping?
Riga
Prague
Both Riga and Prague are good 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 Prague. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy.
Is Riga or Prague Better for Families?
Riga
Prague
Kids will enjoy a visit to either Riga or Prague.
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.
You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Prague. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.
Is Riga or Prague Better for Couples?
Riga
Prague
While Riga and Prague are both popular destinations, overall Prague is considered to be a more popular choice.
Prague makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.
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 Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Riga
Prague
Both Riga and Prague are popular destinations for backpackers.
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.
A large number of backpackers visit Prague, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.
Is Riga or Prague Better for Students?
Riga
Prague
Riga and Prague are both good 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.
Students come from all over the world to visit Prague. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.
Is Riga or Prague Better for Public Transit?
Riga
Prague
Both Riga and Prague offer public transit options.
Riga has some very good public transit options. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.
The thorough and effecient public transit system of Prague can take you anywhere. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.
Is Riga or Prague a more walkable city?
Riga
Prague
Riga and Prague both are comparable when exploring on foot.
Riga is a very walkable city. The city is small enough that most areas can be explored on foot.
It's very easy to get around on foot in Prague. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.
Should I spend more time in Prague or Riga?
How long in Riga or Prague?
Both Riga and Prague have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Prague than Riga.
The ideal length of time for a trip to Riga is 2-4 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Prague is 2-7 days.
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How many days in Riga or Prague? Ideal Length of StayRiga 2-4Prague 2-7
One day in Riga or Prague?
Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Riga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
Prague is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Prague?
Riga is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Prague 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 Prague?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Riga. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Prague is a fun-filled big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Prague?
Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the off-the-beaten-path destination of Riga. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
Prague is a festive city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayRiga €82Prague €84
The average daily cost (per person) in Riga is €82, while the average daily cost in Prague is €84. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Riga and Prague in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personRiga €42Prague €51
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomRiga €84Prague €102
Compare Hotels in Riga and Prague
Looking for a hotel in Riga or Prague? 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.
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 Prague Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Riga €12Prague €6.30
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Riga
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Riga:
- Private Departure Transfer from Riga City to Riga RIX Airport: $15
- Private Airport Transfer: from Riga to Riga International Airport (RIX): $18
- Private Arrival Transfer from Riga Airport (RIX) to Riga City Center: $19
- Private Departure Transfer from Riga City Center to Riga Airport (RIX): $19
- Private Transfer: Riga to Riga International Airport (RIX): $21
- English Speaking Private Arrival Transfer from Riga Airport: $25
- Airport transfer & private driver services: $25
- Departure Private Transfer Riga City to Riga Airport RIX by Sedan Car: $26
- Private Minibus Departure Transfer to Riga Airport: $27
- Private Taxi transfer from Jurmala to Riga: $27
- English Speaking Private Departure Transfer to Riga Airport: $37
- Transfer service Riga airport: $37
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Prague
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Prague:
- Ultra - Prague Private Airport Transfer from City Centre to Prague Airport PRG: $8.71
- Prague Airport Shared Departure Transfer: $12
- Prague Airport Shared Arrival Transfer And Half-Day City Walking Tour: $13
- Shared Departure Transfer: Prague Hotel to Prague Airport: $14
- Prague Airport: Shared Shuttle Transfers: $16
- Private Airport Transfer: from Prague to Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (PRG): $17
- Private Airport Transfer: Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) to Prague: $17
- Private Departure Transfer from Prague to Prague Airports: $17
- Private Arrival Transfer from Vaclav Airport (PRG) to Prague City Center: $18
- Private Departure Transfer from Prague City Center to Vaclav Airport (PRG): $18
- Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: Prague Airport: $19
- Transfer in Private Vehicle from Prague City Center to Airport: $21
Is it cheaper to fly into Riga or Prague?
Prices for flights to both Prague 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
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Food Meals for one dayRiga €26Prague €20
Typical Food prices in Riga
Some typical examples of dining costs in Riga are as follows:
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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.
- Private Guided Virtual Food Tour of Riga: $12
- Central Market Latvian Food Tour: $34
- Riga Medieval Dinner: $102
- Riga Medieval Dinner: $102
Typical Food prices in Prague
Some typical examples of dining costs in Prague are as follows:
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Fruit€4.10
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Lunch for One€12
-
Bananas€0.58
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Cookies€0.32
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Prague
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Prague.
- Prague City Tour by Bus With Optional Boat Tour, Charles Bridge Museum and Dinner: $15
- Traditional Balkan Burek cooking class and dinner in Prague for small groups: $59
- Medieval Dinner with Transfers: $69
- 3-Hour Dinner Cruise with Transfers: $77
- Mozart Concert and Dinner in Prague: $82
- Roman pasta cooking class and dinner in Prague: $90
- Czech Folklore Show with dinner and private transfer: $96
- Dinner cruise - open buffet - with 2 incl transfers: $106
- Folklore Evening Including Traditional Czech Dinner in Prague: $107
- Medieval Dinner with Transfers: $108
- Medieval dinner in Prague with incl transports: $118
- Prague Cooking Class with Tereza: $121
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Riga €17Prague €13
Tours and Activities in Riga
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Riga are as follows:
- An audio tour of Old from St Peter's Church to the Monument of Freedom: $5.00
- Riga's Architecture: An art nouveau history audio tour: $5.00
- Riga Art Nouveau walking tour: $8.71
- Classic Car Museum Tour: $9.95
- Riga Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
- Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
- Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat: $16
- Gastronomic tour with professional chef: $19
- The Best Of Riga Walking Tour: $22
- Daily Riga Bike Tour: $22
- The Best Of Riga Walking Tour: $23
- Best of Riga Walking Tour - Regular Walking tours: $25
Typical Entertainment prices in Prague
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Prague are as follows:
-
Opera Tickets€4.10
-
Two Tickets for Charles Bridge Tower€5.74
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Image Theatre for Two€39
Tours and Activities in Prague
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Prague are as follows:
- Skip the Line: Prague Botanical Garden Outdoor Exposition Ticket: $4.35
- Entrance Ticket: $5.29
- Entrance Ticket: $6.22
- Skip the Line: iFriday & iWeekend at Apple Museum: Discount PASS Ticket: $6.84
- Skip the Line: iMonday at Apple Museum: Discount PASS Ticket: $7.09
- Skip the Line: Prague - Papilonia - Butterfly House Ticket: $7.71
- Old Town Exploration Game & City Tour: $7.93
- Skip the Line: Apple Museum in Prague Entrance Ticket: $8.71
- Skip the Line Access to LEGO® Museum in the Centre of Prague: $9.21
- Everyday Prague Tour: $11
- Skip-the-Line Prague National Film Museum Ticket: $11
- Skip the Line: iTuesday & iWednesday at Apple Museum: Discount PASS Ticket: $11
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayRiga €16Prague €8.56
Sample the Local Flavors in Riga
Also in Riga, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Pub Crawl in Riga: $37
- Pub Crawl- Your best night out in Riga with our local guide!: $47
- Riga Public Pub Crawl: $60
- Riga Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $64
- Riga Brewery Tour: $83
- Riga Brewery Tour: $83
- Riga Beer Killer Bar Crawl: $83
- Riga Wine Tasting Session: $115
- Gauja National Park Tour: Castles and Wine Tasting: $149
- Culinary, Historic and Wine Tour to Sigulda and Cesis: $224
- Exclusive Latvian Wine Tasting In Riga: $380
- 1.5-Hour Latvian Wine Tasting Experience: $476
Typical Alcohol prices in Prague
Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Prague from other travelers:
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A Bottle of Wine€6.52
Sample the Local Flavors in Prague
Also in Prague, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Bar Crawl with 2-Hour Open Bar: $28
- Taste wine properly - wine tasting session: $30
- 1-Hour Segway Experience and Brewery Tour: $56
- 3-hour Brewery Segway Tour including Monastic Beers: $85
- Private 3-Hour Monastery Brewery Segway Tour + Beers: $85
- Private Karlovy Vary with Royal Brewery or Mozer Full Day Trip: $128
- Private Kutna Hora with Sedlec Ossuary and Local brewery Full Day Trip: $149
- Pilsner Urquell brewery and Pilsen City Private tour from Prague All-Inclusive: $199
- Prague Wine Tasting and Countryside Small-Group Tour with Lunch: $215
- Private Tour: Chateau Lany and Krakovec Castle and Krusovice Royal Brewery from Prague Including Tasting and Czech Lunch: $217
- Pilsner Urquell brewery private day trip and cheese tasting on family eco-farm: $220
- Private Pilsner Urquell brewery, Pilsen City and Bohemian Glass factory day tour: $230
When comparing the travel costs between Riga and Prague, we can see that Prague 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.
When is the best time to visit Riga or Prague?
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 Prague in the Summer?
Both Prague and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Riga for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Prague because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
Riga is cooler than Prague in the summer. The temperature in Riga is usually 17°C (63°F) in July, and Prague stays around 19°C (66°F).
In July, Riga usually receives more rain than Prague. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyRiga 17°C (63°F)Prague 19°C (66°F)
Should I visit Riga or Prague in the Autumn?
Both Prague and Riga during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Prague this time of year.
In the autumn, Riga is much colder than Prague. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October are around 7°C (45°F), and Prague is about 11°C (52°F).
Riga usually gets more rain in October than Prague. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberRiga 7°C (45°F)Prague 11°C (52°F)
Should I visit Riga or Prague in the Winter?
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Prague. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Prague for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
Be prepared for some very cold days in Prague. It's quite cold in Riga in the winter. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Prague. Temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Prague stays around 1°C (33°F).
In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Prague. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryRiga -5°C (23°F)Prague 1°C (33°F)
Should I visit Riga or Prague in the Spring?
The spring brings many poeple to Riga as well as Prague. Many travelers come to Riga for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Prague in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
Riga is much colder than Prague in the spring. The temperature in Riga is usually 5°C (42°F) in April, and Prague stays around 10°C (49°F).
Riga usually gets less rain in April than Prague. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilRiga 5°C (42°F)Prague 10°C (49°F)
Typical Weather for Prague and Riga
| Riga | Prague | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | -5°C (23°F) | 33 mm (1.3 in) | 1°C (33°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) |
| Feb | -4°C (24°F) | 25 mm (1 in) | 2°C (35°F) | 36 mm (1.4 in) |
| Mar | -0°C (31°F) | 31 mm (1.2 in) | 6°C (42°F) | 39 mm (1.5 in) |
| Apr | 5°C (42°F) | 39 mm (1.5 in) | 10°C (49°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
| May | 12°C (53°F) | 43 mm (1.7 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
| Jun | 15°C (60°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
| Jul | 17°C (63°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 70 mm (2.7 in) |
| Aug | 16°C (62°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) |
| Sep | 12°C (54°F) | 76 mm (3 in) | 16°C (60°F) | 52 mm (2.1 in) |
| Oct | 7°C (45°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) |
| Nov | 2°C (36°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) | 6°C (43°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) |
| Dec | -2°C (28°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) | 2°C (36°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
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