A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. New York City for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cesis or New York City?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and New York City can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a small, authentic, and natural town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Cesis is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

New York City

New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. New York City is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See New York City travel costs.

Cesis and New York City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Statue of Liberty


Is there more to do in Cesis or New York City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in New York City. Although Cesis and New York City are popular destinations, New York City has more sights and attractions for tourists. New York City is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Cesis attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. New York City is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also well known for The Statue of Liberty. Cesis is famous for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City and Cesis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cesis or New York City?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in New York City are among the most recognizable in the world. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Cesis or New York City Better for Theater?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Cesis is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in New York City that are not to be missed. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Cesis is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Cesis or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is renowned for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in New York City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or New York City Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

New York City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.


Is Cesis or New York City Better for Music?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is renowned for its live music scene. However, Cesis is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in New York City Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Cesis is not a live music destination.

Is Cesis or New York City Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
New York City

Cesis is a decent place to visit for its historic old town. However, New York City does not have a historic old town.

Cesis is a good place to visit the old town. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

New York City does not have a historic old town.

Is Cesis or New York City Better for Hiking?

Cesis
New York City

Cesis is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Cesis offers some nice hiking trails. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

New York City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or New York City?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in New York City make it a world-class shopping destination. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or New York City More Beautiful?

Cesis
New York City

Cesis and New York City are somewhat similar when it comes to the nice scenery.

Cesis is a beautiful place to visit, too. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.

New York City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The beauty of the skyline at night or the views from the top of the Empire State Building will take your breath away.

Is Cesis or New York City Better for Families?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

New York City is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.


Is Cesis or New York City Better for Couples?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

New York City is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Is Cesis or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is well known for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

New York City is a great city to visit for backpackers. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Is Cesis or New York City Better for Students?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is renowned for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

New York City is a very popular city for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Cesis is not popular with students.


Is Cesis or New York City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is renowned for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

New York City has a great public transit system. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or New York City a more walkable city?

Cesis
New York City

New York City is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around New York City on foot is easy. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Cesis Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or New York City?

Both Cesis and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Cesis. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Cesis 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 New York City.


  • How many days in Cesis or New York City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    New York City 3-7

One day in Cesis or New York City?

Even though Cesis is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.


A weekend in Cesis or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cesis. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or New York City?

Cesis is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

New York City is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Cesis or New York City?

Cesis is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, New York City or Cesis?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cesis Prices
    Latvia Prices
    New York City Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cesis $162
    New York City $363

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is $162, while the average daily cost in New York City is $363. 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 Cesis and New York City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis $56
    New York City $175
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis $112
    New York City $350
Compare Hotels in Cesis and New York City

Looking for a hotel in Cesis or New York City? 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 Cesis


Hotels in New York City


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: New York City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis $35
    New York City $49

Typical Local Transportation Prices in New York City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:


  • Subway
    $4.50
  • Taxi Ride
    $8.00
  • Subway
    $2.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New York City

Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Limousine Transfer one-way - LaGuardia Airport - Lincoln MKT: $275
  • Airport Transfer: New York to Newark Airport EWR by Business Car: $165
  • Cape Cruise Port to J.F. Kennedy Airport (JFK)-Departure Transfer: $44
  • Cape Cruise Port to LaGuardia Airport (LGA) - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Central Park Private Walking Tour with Transfers : $171
  • Central Park Zoo Skip-the-line Tickets & Private Transfers: $291
  • Departure Transfer: New York to J.F. Kennedy Airport JFK in Sedan: $167
  • Departure Transfer: New York to New York Airport JFK in SUV: $177
  • Departure Transfer: New York to Newark Airport EWR by Luxury SUV: $177
  • EWR, LGA, JFK Private Airport Transfer in NYC with SUV or Sedan: $252
  • Empire State Building NYC Tour, Pre-booked Tickets, Transfer: $300
  • First Class Transfer from Manhattan to NYC Airports (JFK/EWR/LGA): $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or New York City?

Prices for flights to both New York City and Cesis 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
    Cesis $84
    New York City $87
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cesis:


  • Lunch in town for two
    $7.83

Typical Food Prices in New York City

For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Gelato
    $7.50
  • Snacks for Two at Yankees Game
    $34
  • Coffee
    $6.53
  • Smoothie
    $6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New York City

For New York City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • East Village Noho Food Tour: $32
  • The Chinatown, Little Italy, Food Tour: $35
  • The Lower East Side Food Tour: $35
  • Sweets and Slices Greenwich Village Walking Food Tour: $49
  • New York City's Best Pizza tour: $59
  • Made in Brooklyn Food Tour: $65
  • Greenwich Village Pizza Walk: $75
  • Brooklyn Pizza Walk: $75
  • New York's Classic Eats West Village Food Tour: $75
  • New York's Classic Eats Lower East Side Food Tour: $75
  • Union Square Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $75
  • East Village Pizza Walk: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis $19
    New York City $180

Typical Entertainment Prices in New York City

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Comedy Show Tickets
    $56
  • City Map
    $8.00
  • Broadway Musical
    $111
  • Broadway Show Program
    $10
  • Magazine
    $6.99

Tours and Activities in New York City

For New York City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • New York's Hidden Gems: Self-Guided City Tour: $3.56
  • Central Park Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $4.75
  • Self Guided Central Park Bike or Walking Tour Application: $5.00
  • Broadway: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the World's Iconic Theatre District: $5.39
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in New York: $5.94
  • Brooklyn, NY Street Art Puzzle Quest: Self-Guided Tour: $5.94
  • New York City Audio Tour: $6.41
  • Self Guided "Central Park Movie Tour" Solo Walking Tour in New York City: $6.75
  • Private Haunted and Historic Audio Tour in Greenwich Village: $6.95
  • Luxury Horse and Carriage Tours in Central Park: $6.99
  • Central Park Outdoor Escape Adventure: $7.00
  • Movie Magic in Central Park: Self-Guided Puzzle Adventure: $7.09

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Things to do in New York City with Kids, Things to Do in Central Park in NYC, and The Best Museums in New York City.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis $20
    New York City $29

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:

  • Brooklyn Distillery Tour : $22
  • NYC Pub Crawl Experience: $24
  • Distillery Tour and Tasting: $25
  • NYC Pub Crawl Tour: $30
  • NYC Pub Crawl with Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $33
  • Top Shelf Distillery Tour: $33
  • New York Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Cheers to Chinatown Tour and Bar Crawl: $40
  • Brooklyn Literary Pub Crawl: $49
  • Greenwich Village Piano Bar Crawl: $50
  • Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cesis and New York City, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Cesis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Cesis is in Europe and New York City is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Cesis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cesis 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City than you might in Cesis.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cesis Expensive? and Is New York City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cesis or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 440 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis and New York City, 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 Cesis or New York City?

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 Cesis or New York City in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cesis as well as New York City. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New York City for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cesis is generally cooler than New York City. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 17°C (63°F), and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in New York City. Cesis usually gets less rain in July than New York City. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    New York City 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Cesis or New York City in the Autumn?

Both New York City and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cesis for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to New York City in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cesis is much colder than New York City in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and New York City fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In October, Cesis usually receives less rain than New York City. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    New York City 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Cesis or New York City in the Winter?

Both New York City and Cesis during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cesis in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to New York City for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

New York City can be very cold during winter. Cesis can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Cesis is much colder than New York City. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cesis in January average around -5°C (23°F), and New York City averages at about 31°F (-1°C).

Cesis usually gets less rain in January than New York City. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    New York City 31°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Cesis or New York City in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and New York City. Most visitors come to Cesis for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to New York City because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Cesis is generally much colder than New York City. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 5°C (42°F), and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In April, Cesis usually receives less rain than New York City. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    New York City 52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for New York City and Cesis

Cesis New York City
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 31°F (-1°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 42°F (6°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 52°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 72°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 77°F (25°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 76°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 68°F (20°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 47°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 36°F (2°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)