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

Should you visit Riga or Wurzburg?

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

Should I visit Riga or Wurzburg? 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Wurzburg

Wurzburg is a historical, cultural, and architectural city. 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.

Riga and Wurzburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Riga or Wurzburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Riga than Wurzburg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Riga is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Wurzburg attracts visitors for its museums. Wurzburg is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its wines, gardens, and charming old town. Riga is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture. It is also well known for Riga St. Peter's Church.

How is Riga different from Wurzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Riga
Wurzburg

Wurzburg is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Wurzburg are among the most recognizable in the world. The Franconian city is known for its history and architecture. One of the most well know sights is the 18th-century Residenz palace. Other attractions in town include the Martin von Wagner Museum, the Würzburg Court Gardens, the Marienberg Fortress, and the Würzburg Cathedral & Museum.

Many visitors head to Riga specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.


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

Riga
Wurzburg

Riga is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wurzburg. There are local restaurants that serve up regional specialties like bratwurst, weisswurst (white sausage), and Bavarian cream. There are also fine dining restaurants and cafes that cater specifically to tourists.

Is Riga or Wurzburg Better for Nightlife?

Riga
Wurzburg

Riga is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Wurzburg offers plenty to do in the evening. The town is in the heart of the Franconian wine district, so you'll find many wine bars, cellars, and wineries around town. For something a bit more active, there are some lively clubs and bars to choose from as well.

Is Riga or Wurzburg Better for its Old Town?

Riga
Wurzburg

It's fun to wander around the excellent old towns in both Riga and Wurzburg.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Wurzburg. The old town is best explored on foot and there are walking tours available that take you through many of the historical and architectural landmarks.


Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Wurzburg?

Riga
Wurzburg

Riga is a great city for shopping. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Riga. 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.

Wurzburg offers some nice shopping areas. There are several shopping streets as well as some major department stores and local venues.

Is Riga or Wurzburg Better for Families?

Riga
Wurzburg

Riga is a city with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Wurzburg is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Riga offers lots of family activities. 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.

Wurzburg is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and cultural sights that can sometimes be challenging for young kids. To break up the history, head to some of the town's gardens and main square.

Is Riga or Wurzburg Better for Couples?

Riga
Wurzburg

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

Wurzburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its beautiful architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful gardens, there is lot for a couple to explore together. You can wander through the fortress or soak up the beautiful gardens.

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 Wurzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga
Wurzburg

Riga is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wurzburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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 Wurzburg. There are a couple of hostels in town and it's easily accessible from Frankfurt by public transit. Many people also choose to visit Wurzbug as a day trip.

Is Riga or Wurzburg Better for Students?

Riga
Wurzburg

Riga is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Wurzburg is not popular with students.

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.

Wurzburg is not popular with students.

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

Riga
Wurzburg

Both Riga and Wurzburg offer excellent public transit options.

Riga has some very good public transit options. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

The public transit in Wurzburg can get you to most places easily. The system includes trams and buses, including five tram lines that make loops around the city.


Is Riga or Wurzburg a more walkable city?

Riga
Wurzburg

Riga and Wurzburg both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Wurzburg is a very walkable destination. You can wander around town and take in many of the sights and attractions as part of a walking tour.

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

Should I spend more time in Wurzburg or Riga?

How long in Riga or Wurzburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Riga or Wurzburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Riga than Wurzburg 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 Wurzburg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Riga than Wurzburg 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.


  • How many days in Riga or Wurzburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Riga 2-4 
    Wurzburg 1-2

One day in Riga or Wurzburg?

The beautiful city of Riga offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Wurzburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Riga or Wurzburg?

Riga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Riga, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Wurzburg is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. 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 Wurzburg?

Riga is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the impressive destination of Wurzburg. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Riga or Wurzburg?

Riga is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

The architectural city of Wurzburg offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Germany, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Wurzburg or Riga?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Riga is €104, while the average daily cost in Wurzburg is €120. 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 destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Riga and Wurzburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Riga 53
    Wurzburg 79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Riga 106
    Wurzburg 158
Compare Hotels in Riga and Wurzburg

Looking for a hotel in Riga or Wurzburg? 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.

Hotels in Riga


Hotels in Wurzburg


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 Wurzburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Riga 15
    Wurzburg 7.89

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Riga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Riga:

  • Riga - Tallin: Transfer and Tour through beautiful landmarks: $487
  • From Private Transfer to Tallinn with Sightseeing: $459
  • From Private Transfer to Vilnius with Sightseeing: $427
  • From Private Transfer to Tallinn: $342
  • Transfer from Riga International Airport to Downtown: $267
  • From Transfer to Tallinn with Turaida Museum Reserve: $230
  • From Vilnius: One-Way Private Transfer to Riga: $182
  • From Cesis and Sigulda Day Trip with Hotel Transfers: $150
  • Riga Private Mercedes Benz Airport Transfer: $138
  • Riga Gun Experience: Roundtrip Transfer and 4 Firearms: $131
  • Riga Private Mercedes Benz Airport Transfer: $108
  • Private transfer Riga - Hill of Crosses - Riga: $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Riga or Wurzburg?

Prices for flights to both Wurzburg 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Riga 33
    Wurzburg 35
Typical Food Prices in Riga

Some typical examples of dining costs in Riga are as follows:


  • 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.

  • Central Market Latvian Food Tour: $42
  • Unique Food Tour: $52
  • Medieval Guided Tour & Three-Course Dinner Experience: $96
  • Riga Medieval Dinner: $114
  • Private Cooking Master Class In The Latvian Family : $131
  • Taste Market Tour & Cooking Masterclass: $138
  • Cooking Experience with Chef: Learn & Dine: $139
  • Latvian Food: Cooking Masterclass with a Chef: $152

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Riga 21
    Wurzburg 8.94

Tours and Activities in Riga

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Riga are as follows:

  • The best of Bauska walking tour: $75
  • 1 Day Riga Sightseeing Red Bus Grand Tour: $27
  • 2.5-Hour Riga Cruiser Bike Tour: $41
  • 3-Hour Private Paintball Game Experience in Zīles: $86
  • 5 Hour Shared Tour to Hill of Crosses from Riga: $82
  • ATV Quad Off Road or City Tour in Riga: $142
  • Beer Bike Experience : $36
  • Best of Riga Walking Tour: $181
  • Best of Riga Walking Tour - Highlights and Hidden Gems: $66
  • City:canal:tour: $21
  • Crafted Cocktails: A Masterclass Experience: $80
  • Daily Bike Tour in Riga with Professional Guide: $44

Tours and Activities in Wurzburg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Wurzburg.

  • WÜrzburg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour in Würzburg: $7.63
  • Würzburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Rothenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City tour through Würzburg with the Bimmelbahn: $12
  • Discover Würzburg Walking Tour with Typical Wine Gift: $21
  • Medieval Musical Tour of Rothenburg ob der Tauber: $22
  • Romantic Road Ticket from Würzburg(Main) to Rothenburg/Tauber (SUNDAY): $40
  • Wurzburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $252

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Riga 20
    Wurzburg 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Riga

Also in Riga, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Old town pub & bar crawl, hidden gems, and local party: $25
  • Pub Crawl in Riga: $33
  • Riga Evening Adventure: Pub Crawl & Games Night: $37
  • Riga's Old Town Beer Bike Tour & Guided Pub Crawl: $37
  • Riga Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $54
  • Riga Beer Killer Bar Crawl: $55
  • Latvian Wine Tasting & Monk Show: $75
  • Old Town Sightseeing & Latvian Wine Tasting with Show: $96
  • Riga Pub Crawl & Party Bus Tour: $523
  • Yacht Tour with Medieval Banquet and Wine Tasting: $3,320

Sample the Local Flavors in Wurzburg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wurzburg:

  • Private mulled wine tour in Würzburg: $55
  • Romantic Road Day Trip from Würzburg to Rothenburg/Tauber incl. Wine tasting : $97


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


Which is Bigger, Riga or Wurzburg?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Wurzburg. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Wurzburg, 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 Wurzburg?

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 Wurzburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Riga as well as Wurzburg. Many visitors come to Riga in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Wurzburg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Riga is generally cooler than Wurzburg. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 17°C (63°F), and Wurzburg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Riga usually gets more rain in July than Wurzburg. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Wurzburg receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Riga 17°C (63°F) 
    Wurzburg 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Riga or Wurzburg in the Autumn?

Both Wurzburg and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Wurzburg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Riga is much colder than Wurzburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Wurzburg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In October, Riga usually receives more rain than Wurzburg. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Wurzburg receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Riga 7°C (45°F) 
    Wurzburg 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Riga or Wurzburg in the Winter?

Both Wurzburg and Riga during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Riga because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wurzburg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Wurzburg in the winter. The weather in Riga can be very cold. In the winter, Riga is much colder than Wurzburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Riga in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Wurzburg averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in January than Wurzburg. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Wurzburg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Riga -5°C (23°F) 
    Wurzburg 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Riga or Wurzburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Wurzburg. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Wurzburg for the natural beauty.

In April, Riga is generally much colder than Wurzburg. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 5°C (42°F), and Wurzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In April, Riga usually receives less rain than Wurzburg. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Wurzburg receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Riga 5°C (42°F) 
    Wurzburg 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Wurzburg and Riga

Riga Wurzburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 17°C (62°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)