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

Should you visit Riga or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Riga or Montreal? 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 off-the-beaten-path, charming, and unique 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 museums, nightlife, and food. See Riga travel costs.

Montreal

Montreal is a vibrant, colorful, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums. See Montreal travel costs.

Riga and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Montreal?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Montreal than Riga, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Montreal is more popular for its museums and attractions, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Riga is known for its impressive beauty. Montreal is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also home to Notre-Dame Basilica. Riga is popular for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Montreal 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 Montreal are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with world-class museums and historic sites such as Notre-Dame Basilica, St. Joseph's Oratory, the Biosphere, and the Fine Arts 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 Montreal? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Riga and Montreal 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.

Montreal has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are both local and international restaurants that serve up excellent dishes. Some of the local recipes that you should try include tourtiere (a meat pie), a smoked meat sandwich, and, of course, poutine.

Is Riga or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are world-class in both Riga and Montreal.

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.

Montreal is a must-see party destination. The city's nightlife scene is centered around its live music scene, which is excellent. There are also many bars and clubs, as well as a young population that keep evenings lively.

Is Riga or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Riga is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Montreal The music scene is thriving and world class. One of the most unique aspects of the city's music scene is its impromptu nature. You'll find many talented street performers and you'll likely stumble into many high quality performers. There's also a great indie scene as well as hip hop, classical, jazz, and heavy metal at the many live music venues.

Riga is not a live music destination.

Is Riga or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the great old towns in both Riga and Montreal.

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 Montreal. Vieux-Montreal is the historic part of the city, and it's filled with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. This is also where you'll find the Old Port, which has a waterfront promenade.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Montreal?

Montreal is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Montreal make it a world-class shopping destination. It's known for its fashion scene and there are many independent and local vendors around town. Bonsecours Market is both historic and fascinating, but also make sure you check out Mont-Royal Avenue, which is the main shopping and dining street in town.

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.

Is Riga or Montreal More Beautiful?

Riga is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Montreal 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.

Montreal is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Riga or Montreal Better for Families?

Montreal 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.

Montreal is a very kid-friendly city. Kids and teens will love the many science museums, parks and gardens, and the nearby La Ronde Amusement Park. If your kids are music lovers, there are many talented street performers in the city that will entertain the young and old alike.

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 Montreal Better for Couples?

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

Montreal is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city is filled with romance, from the world class music scene to the romantic restaurants and sunset river cruises. If you're in town during the fall months, check out the Botanical Gardens, which come to life with the annual Gardens of Light.

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 Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Montreal. There's a decent number of hostels as well as a great nightlife scene and plenty of younger visitors looking to meet other travelers.

Is Riga or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Riga is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Montreal. It's regularly ranked as one of the top cities in North America for students. There are many students around town, a great nightlife scene, and plenty of opportunities to receive a world-class education.

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.

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

Both Riga and Montreal offer great public transit options.

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

The public transit in Montreal can get you to most places easily. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Is Riga or Montreal a more walkable city?

Riga and Montreal 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.

Montreal is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable, particularly in the areas that are popular with tourists.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Riga?

How long in Riga or Montreal?

In either Riga or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Montreal 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 Montreal.

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

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

One day in Riga or Montreal?

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.

Montreal is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Montreal?

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.

Montreal is a fun place to experience. 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 a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Riga or Montreal?

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.

Montreal is a vibrant big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Montreal?

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 vibrant city of Montreal offers shopping and museums. 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 Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Riga and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. And not only is Riga much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Riga is in Europe and Montreal 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 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 Montreal would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Montreal 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 Montreal Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Riga or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Riga. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Montreal, 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 Montreal?

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 Montreal in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Riga as well as Montreal. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Riga this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Montreal for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Riga is cooler than Montreal. Typically, the summer temperatures in Riga in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Montreal averages at about 21°C (69°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in July than Montreal. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Montreal in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Riga is generally cooler than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 7°C (45°F), and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In October, Riga usually receives less rain than Montreal. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Riga or Montreal in the Winter?

Both Montreal and Riga during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Riga in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Montreal for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Montreal can be very cold during winter. Riga can get quite cold in the winter. Riga is much warmer than Montreal in the winter. The daily temperature in Riga averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in January than Montreal. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Montreal. Most visitors come to Riga for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Montreal because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Riga is around the same temperature as Montreal. Typically, the spring temperatures in Riga in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Montreal averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In April, Riga usually receives less rain than Montreal. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Riga