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

Should you visit Riga or Thessaloniki?

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

Should I visit Riga or Thessaloniki? 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 vibrant, fun, and high energy 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.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a vibrant, high energy, and bustling city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Riga and Thessaloniki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Thessaloniki?

You'll generally find more things to do in Riga than Thessaloniki. Riga is bigger than Thessaloniki, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Riga is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Thessaloniki is more popular for its beaches. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. 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 Thessaloniki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Riga and Thessaloniki.

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 Thessaloniki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

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

Both Riga and Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

Is Riga or Thessaloniki Better for Nightlife?

Riga is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Riga just to party. 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.

The people in Thessaloniki know how to have a good time. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

Is Riga or Thessaloniki Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a moderate city for the beache. However, Riga is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Thessaloniki. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Thessaloniki Better for its Old Town?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

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.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Thessaloniki?

Both Riga and Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Is Riga or Thessaloniki Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Riga or Thessaloniki.

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.

Thessaloniki is a family-friendly city. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

Is Riga or Thessaloniki Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Thessaloniki make for a notable 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.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

Is Riga or Thessaloniki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Riga is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Is Riga or Thessaloniki Better for Students?

Riga and Thessaloniki are both high quality 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.

Thessaloniki is very popular with students. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Is Riga or Thessaloniki 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, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Is Riga or Thessaloniki a more walkable city?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Thessaloniki or Riga?

How long in Riga or Thessaloniki?

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

Families should spend more time in Riga than Thessaloniki. 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 Riga than Thessaloniki. 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki?

In Riga, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this vibrant city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. 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 Thessaloniki?

Riga is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Thessaloniki is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Thessaloniki?

You'll find museums and nightlife 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. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Thessaloniki. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Riga or Thessaloniki?

Riga is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The high energy city of Thessaloniki offers nightlife and food. 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 Tours for Seniors to Greece, and The Best Contiki Tours to Greece.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Thessaloniki?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Thessaloniki, 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 Thessaloniki?

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 Thessaloniki in the Summer?

Both Thessaloniki and Riga during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Riga because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year.

Riga is cooler than Thessaloniki in the summer. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Riga usually gets more rain in July than Thessaloniki. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Thessaloniki in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Thessaloniki. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Riga is much colder than Thessaloniki. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Thessaloniki averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In October, Riga usually receives more rain than Thessaloniki. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Riga or Thessaloniki in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Riga as well as Thessaloniki. Many travelers come to Riga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Riga. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Thessaloniki. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in January than Thessaloniki. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Thessaloniki in the Spring?

Both Thessaloniki and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Riga in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

Riga is much colder than Thessaloniki in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In April, Riga usually receives more rain than Thessaloniki. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Thessaloniki and Riga