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

Should you visit Riga or Stockholm?

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

Should I visit Riga or Stockholm? 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 high energy, off-the-beaten-path, and charming 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.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a safe, expensive, and beautiful 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Riga and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Stockholm?

You'll generally find more things to do in Stockholm than Riga. Stockholm is bigger than Riga, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Stockholm is better known for its music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Riga is more popular for its food and nightlife. Stockholm is more touristy than Riga and is known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. Also, Stockholm is famous for Gamla Stan (the old town). Riga is well known for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Riga different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Riga and Stockholm.

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 Stockholm specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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

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

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Riga or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

Riga is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

Many people head to Stockholm for the nightlife scene. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Riga or Stockholm Better for Music?

Stockholm is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Riga is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Stockholm The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Riga is not a live music destination.

Is Riga or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm can be explored in its historical center. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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 Stockholm?

Both Riga and Stockholm 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 Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Is Riga or Stockholm Better for Families?

Stockholm is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Stockholm is a very family-friendly destination. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm Better for Couples?

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Stockholm 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 backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Riga or Stockholm Better for Students?

Riga is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Riga. 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.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

Stockholm is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Stockholm has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

The public transit in Riga can get you to most places easily. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Is Riga or Stockholm a more walkable city?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Riga?

How long in Riga or Stockholm?

Both Riga and Stockholm have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than in Riga. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Riga, and 2-7 days is enough time in Stockholm.

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

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

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

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.

Stockholm 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 Stockholm?

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.

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the live music. 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 Stockholm?

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.

Stockholm is a coastal 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 Stockholm?

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.

Stockholm is a beautiful 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Stockholm?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 69% larger than the population of Riga. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm in the Summer?

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

Riga is around the same temperature as Stockholm in the summer. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In July, Riga usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Riga or Stockholm in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Riga as well as Stockholm. 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 Stockholm because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Riga is around the same temperature as Stockholm. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Stockholm averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Riga usually gets more rain in October than Stockholm. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Stockholm in the Winter?

Both Stockholm 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 Stockholm this time of year.

It's quite cold in Stockholm in the winter. The weather in Riga can be very cold. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Stockholm. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Riga or Stockholm in the Spring?

Both Stockholm 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 Stockholm for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Riga is around the same temperature as Stockholm in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Riga usually gets more rain in April than Stockholm. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Riga