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

Should you visit Riga or Windsor?

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

Should I visit Riga or Windsor? 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Windsor

Windsor is a beautiful, royal, and traditional town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Riga and Windsor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Windsor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Riga than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Riga is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Riga and is known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. 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 Windsor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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

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

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Riga or Windsor Better for Nightlife?

Riga is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Riga or Windsor Better for its Old Town?

Riga is well known for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Windsor?

Riga is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Riga or Windsor Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Riga or Windsor.

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.

Windsor is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Riga or Windsor Better for Couples?

Windsor is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Windsor is a very popular place to visit for couples. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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 Windsor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Riga or Windsor Better for Students?

Riga is well known for students. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Riga is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Riga or Windsor a more walkable city?

Riga and Windsor both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Windsor or Riga?

How long in Riga or Windsor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Riga or Windsor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Riga than Windsor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Riga, and 1-2 days is enough time in Windsor.

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

In Riga, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Riga or Windsor?

In Riga, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Riga has to offer.

Windsor 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 Windsor?

Riga is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Riga or Windsor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Riga. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Riga. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.

Because Windsor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 United Kingdom, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Windsor?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Windsor, 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 Windsor?

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 Windsor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Windsor. The summer months attract visitors to Riga because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor this time of year.

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

In July, Riga usually receives more rain than Windsor. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Riga or Windsor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Riga as well as Windsor. 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. Additionally, many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Riga is much colder than Windsor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Windsor averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Riga usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Windsor. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Windsor in the Winter?

Both Windsor and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Riga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Windsor in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Windsor can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Riga. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Windsor. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Windsor fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Windsor. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Riga or Windsor in the Spring?

Both Windsor and Riga during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Riga in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Riga is much colder than Windsor in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Windsor fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in April than Windsor. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Windsor and Riga