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

Should you visit Riga or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Riga or Koh Phi Phi? 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 charming, unique, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Riga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Riga travel costs.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a remote, tropical, and dramatic island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Phi Phi as well. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Phi Phi travel costs.

Riga and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Phi Phi than Riga, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Phi Phi is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Riga is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. Also, Koh Phi Phi is famous for Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Riga is well known for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Riga is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

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

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

Riga has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Riga is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Riga is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Phi Phi has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Riga is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Phi Phi is a great choice. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Riga is not a resort destination.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Phi Phi a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Riga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi Better for its Old Town?

Riga is great for its old town. However, Koh Phi Phi 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.

Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

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

Koh Phi Phi is a popular spot for hiking. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Riga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Koh Phi Phi?

Riga is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Riga is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi More Beautiful?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Phi Phi as well. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.

With stunning beauty, Riga attracts visitors from all around. The city's unique architecture is notable for its wooden buildings, which give the city an interesting historical style.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Riga is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination 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.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Koh Phi Phi makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

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 Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Riga and Koh Phi Phi are first-rate 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 Phi Phi, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi Better for Students?

Riga is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi 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.

Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

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

Riga is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

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

Koh Phi Phi has a few public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Riga or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Riga is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable city. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Riga?

How long in Riga or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Riga and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Riga than in Koh Phi Phi. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Riga, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Riga than Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy city of Riga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Phi Phi. 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 Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fun destination of Riga. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Koh Phi Phi is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Koh Phi Phi?

The off-the-beaten-path city of Riga offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the stunning destination of Koh Phi Phi. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Riga or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Riga. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The tropical island of Koh Phi Phi 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Riga and Koh Phi Phi, we can see that Riga is more expensive. And not only is Koh Phi Phi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Riga is in Europe and Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi.

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 Phi Phi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Riga or Koh Phi Phi?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 740 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Koh Phi Phi, 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 Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Riga or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Riga as well as Koh Phi Phi. The summer months attract visitors to Riga because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

Riga is much colder than Koh Phi Phi in the summer. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Riga usually gets less rain in July than Koh Phi Phi. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the autumn, Riga is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 27°C (81°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. In October, Riga usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Phi Phi is December to March. The rainy season in Koh Phi Phi is May to November.

Should I visit Riga or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Riga during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Riga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Riga. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Riga usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Koh Phi Phi. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Phi Phi.

Should I visit Riga or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Koh Phi Phi. Many visitors come to Riga in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Riga is much colder than Koh Phi Phi in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Koh Phi Phi receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Riga usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Riga