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

Should you visit Riga or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Riga or Koh Pha Ngan? 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. Riga is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Riga travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a beautiful, backpacker-friendly, and tropical party island. The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Riga and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Koh Pha Ngan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Riga and Koh Pha Ngan are popular destinations, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Riga attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Riga and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties. Riga is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Pha Ngan 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 Koh Pha Ngan?

Riga is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Riga or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Riga is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Riga makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are world-class in both Riga and Koh Pha Ngan.

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.

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-see party destination. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place for its resorts. However, Riga is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Riga is not a resort destination.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few good snorkeling spots. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Riga is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Pha Ngan. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan Better for its Old Town?

Riga is well known for its historic old town. However, Koh Pha Ngan does not have a historic old town.

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.

Koh Pha Ngan does not have a historic old town.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Riga is not a hiking destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular spot for hiking. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Riga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Koh Pha Ngan?

Riga is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Riga is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

Riga and Koh Pha Ngan are somewhat similar when it comes to the great scenery.

The beauty of Riga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city's unique architecture is notable for its wooden buildings, which give the city an interesting historical style.

With stunning beauty, Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors from all around. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Riga is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Riga. 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.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Koh Pha Ngan make for a nice 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.

Koh Pha Ngan is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Riga and Koh Pha Ngan are world-class destinations for backpackers.

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.

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Pha Ngan, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Students?

Riga is well known for students. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

Riga is very popular with students. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

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

Riga is well known for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Riga. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Riga or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Riga is well known for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Riga Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Riga?

How long in Riga or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Riga or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Riga because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Riga, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

Families should spend more time in Riga than Koh Pha Ngan. 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 Koh Pha Ngan. 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 Koh Pha Ngan 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 Koh Pha Ngan?

In Riga, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this unique 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 scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Koh Pha Ngan?

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.

Koh Pha Ngan is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Riga or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the party-oriented destination of Koh Pha Ngan. This party island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Koh Pha Ngan?

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 tropical party island of Koh Pha Ngan offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Riga and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Riga is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Riga is in Europe and Koh Pha Ngan is in Asia, 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 Koh Pha Ngan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Pha Ngan 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 Riga would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Riga than you might in Koh Pha Ngan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Riga Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Riga or Koh Pha Ngan?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Koh Pha Ngan, 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 Koh Pha Ngan?

Riga has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Pha Ngan experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Koh Pha Ngan. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In July, Riga is generally cooler than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 17°C (63°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Koh Pha Ngan receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Riga usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Riga or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Riga as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Many travelers come to Riga for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

Riga is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 7°C (45°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Riga usually gets less rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. October and November in Koh Pha Ngan is the rainy season.

Should I visit Riga or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Riga in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Riga can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Riga is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Riga in January average around -5°C (23°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March.

Should I visit Riga or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Riga during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Riga for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In April, Riga is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 5°C (42°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Riga