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

Should you visit Riga or Split?

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

Should I visit Riga or Split? 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 off-the-beaten-path, charming, and unique 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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Split

Split is a touristy, fun-filled, and budget-friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Riga and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Split?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Split than Riga. While Riga is larger than Split, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Riga is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace. Riga is well known for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Split specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

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

Both Riga and Split offer a number of superb 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.

Split has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

Is Riga or Split Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are amazing in both Riga and Split.

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.

Split is a must-see party destination. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

Is Riga or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is notable for its resorts. However, Riga is not a resort destination.

Split is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

Riga is not a resort destination.

Is Riga or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Split. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Riga or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is notable for the beache. However, Riga is not a beach destination.

Split is considered a top beach destination. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Split Better for its Old Town?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Split offers a nice historic old town area. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Split?

Both Riga and Split 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 Split. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

Is Riga or Split Better for Families?

Split 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.

Split is a very kid-friendly city. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

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 Split Better for Couples?

Split 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.

Split makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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 Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Riga and Split are amazing 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 Split, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

Is Riga or Split Better for Students?

Riga and Split are both superb 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.

Split is very popular with students. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

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

Riga is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Split, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Riga or Split a more walkable city?

Riga and Split both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Split is a very walkable destination. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Riga?

How long in Riga or Split?

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

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

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

One day in Riga or Split?

In Riga, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant 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 nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Split. 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 Split?

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.

Split is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Split?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the historic destination of Split. 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 Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant 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 touristy city of Split offers shopping and museums. 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 Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Riga and Split, we can see that Split 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 Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Riga or Split?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Split, 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 Split?

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 Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Riga during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Riga for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Riga is much colder than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Riga usually gets more rain in July than Split. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Split. 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 and the shopping scene are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In the autumn, Riga is much colder than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In October, Riga usually receives less rain than Split. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Riga or Split in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Riga as well as Split. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Riga in the winter. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in January than Split. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Riga for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Riga is much colder than Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In April, Riga usually receives less rain than Split. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Riga