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

Should you visit Riga or Leiden?

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

Should I visit Riga or Leiden? 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 high energy, off-the-beaten-path, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Riga attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Riga travel costs.

Leiden

Leiden is a cultural, scholarly, and historic city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Leiden travel costs.

Riga and Leiden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Leiden?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Riga than Leiden, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Leiden is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its many museums and renowned university. Riga is popular for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture. It is also home to Riga St. Peter's Church.

How is Riga different from Leiden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Riga and Leiden.

Riga offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As a capital city with a diverse history, you'll find a number of museums and landmarks in the area. Visitors frequently visit The Freedom Monument, St. Peters Church, the Riga Cathedral, The House of the Black Heads, and any of the many museums around town.

Many visitors head to Leiden specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a huge number of museums around town. Some are affiliated with the museum, while others are not. Some of the favorites include the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Boerhaave Museum, the Corpus Museum, and the National Ethnological Museum.

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

Both Riga and Leiden offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Riga. The city offers a great opportunity to try many Latvian specialties including rasol (a potato salad), pelmeni (a Latvian dumpling), and karbonade (kind of like schnitzel). The cuisine is hearty and filling with lots of bread, dumpling, and meats. Riga is also where you'll find the largest food market in Europe, which is the perfect place to wander and pick up some local items.

Leiden has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

Is Riga or Leiden Better for Nightlife?

Riga is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Leiden has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The large student population means that there is a good nightlife scene. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink, with options ranging from cozy, intimate spots to larger, more vibrant venues. The Oude Markt area, with its charming historic setting, is a hotspot for nightlife, offering a mix of traditional Dutch bars and international-themed pubs.

Is Riga or Leiden Better for its Old Town?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Leiden 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.

Leiden does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Leiden?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Leiden is a great destination for shopping. There are a mix of unique boutiques, international brands, and charming local stores. The Breestraat and Nieuwe Rijn are popular shopping streets, and they're lined with a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to books, art, and antiques. The city also has several markets, including a weekly Saturday market near the Pieterskerk, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and vintage items.

Is Riga or Leiden More Beautiful?

Riga is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Riga or Leiden Better for Families?

Leiden is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Leiden is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a mix of educational, cultural, and fun activities for all ages. There are many family-friendly museums like Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where kids can explore dinosaurs and wildlife, and the National Museum of Antiquities, which brings history to life. There's also the Corpus Museum, which takes visitors on a unique, interactive journey through the human body.

Riga is a family-friendly city. 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.

Is Riga or Leiden Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Leiden make for a good 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.

Leiden is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy charming towns and world class museums will enjoy their time here. The town also has picturesque canals, historic bridges, and cozy street cafes. Couples can explore places like the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands, or enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic Leidse Hout Park.

Is Riga or Leiden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Riga, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Leiden. The city offers affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as reasonably priced eateries serving Dutch classics and international cuisine. Many of Leiden’s attractions, like its historic canals, charming streets, and open-air markets, can be enjoyed for free.

Is Riga or Leiden Better for Students?

Riga and Leiden are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Leiden is very popular with students. It feels like a university town and it's home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community. The town also has a young atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and cultural events that influence the student life. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike, and the abundance of libraries, study spaces, and museums provides ample resources for learning and inspiration. Housing can be difficult to find though.

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

Riga is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Riga. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

You'll find some public transit in Leiden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Leiden Central Station is the main hub for trains, which connect the city to other towns throughout the country. Around town there are buses that are reliable and convenient.

Is Riga or Leiden a more walkable city?

Riga and Leiden both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Leiden is a very walkable destination. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with many of its attractions, cafes, shops, and historical sites located within walking distance of each other.

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

Should I spend more time in Leiden or Riga?

How long in Riga or Leiden?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Riga than Leiden. 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 Leiden 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 Leiden?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Riga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Leiden. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Riga or Leiden?

Riga is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Leiden is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Riga or Leiden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Riga. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Leiden. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Riga or Leiden?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the off-the-beaten-path destination of Riga. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The scholarly city of Leiden offers nightlife and food. 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 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Riga and Leiden, we can see that Leiden is more expensive. And not only is Riga much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Riga would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Riga and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Leiden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Leiden than you might in Riga.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Leiden?

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

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 Leiden in the Summer?

Both Leiden and Riga during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Leiden for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Riga is around the same temperature as Leiden. Typically, the summer temperatures in Riga in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Leiden averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Riga usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Leiden. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Leiden in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Leiden. Many travelers come to Riga for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Leiden in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Riga is generally cooler than Leiden. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 7°C (45°F), and Leiden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Riga usually receives less rain than Leiden. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Riga or Leiden in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Riga as well as Leiden. Many visitors come to Riga in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Leiden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Leiden can be very cold during winter. Riga can get quite cold in the winter. Riga is much colder than Leiden in the winter. The daily temperature in Riga averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Leiden fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in January than Leiden. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Leiden in the Spring?

Both Leiden and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Riga for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Riga is cooler than Leiden. Typically, the spring temperatures in Riga in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Leiden averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In April, Riga usually receives less rain than Leiden. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Leiden and Riga