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

Should you visit Riga or Pisa?

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

Should I visit Riga or Pisa? 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. 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.

Pisa

Pisa is a classic, charming, and iconic city. The beauty of Pisa is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Pisa travel costs.

Riga and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Pisa?

You'll generally find more things to do in Riga than Pisa. Riga is bigger than Pisa, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Riga is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Pisa is more popular for its beaches. Pisa is more touristy than Riga and is popular for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. Riga is well known for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture. Also, Riga is famous for Riga St. Peter's Church.

How is Riga different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Riga and Pisa.

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 Pisa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is more than a one hit wonder. In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you'll find many beautiful buildings and museums. Popular places to visit include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Campo Santo (Sacred Field), and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.

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

Both Riga and Pisa offer a number of high quality 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.

Pisa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city's maritime roots. You'll find many seafood dishes as well as local classic recipes that have been passed down through the generations. A quintessential local dish is Bordatino alla Pisana, which is made with beans, cabbage, and cornflour. Also popular are Pasta e Ceci (chickpea pasta), Palette (a local polenta), and Trippa alla Pisana.

Is Riga or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Riga is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Riga is a must-see 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.

Pisa offers plenty to do in the evening. Head out to an aperitivo bar for an early drink, then head to one of the area's best nightlife neighborhoods. For the biggest party scene, go about 10 kilometers out of town to the Versilian coast. This area has the most popular clubs. If you decide to stay in town, there are still plenty of places to catch live music and dance.

Is Riga or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a popular place for the beach. However, Riga is not a beach destination.

Pisa is a good option for a beach vacation. Many people forget that there are beaches near Pisa, but the city is close to the sea. Some of the closest beaches include Marina di Vecchiano and Marina di Pisa.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Riga and Pisa.

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 Pisa. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Pisa?

Both Riga and Pisa are high quality shopping destinations.

Riga is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Pisa. There's a great mix of traditional markets, high end stores, and indoor shopping malls where you can find anything that you might need. Corso Italia is one of the most popular shopping areas, but also worth checking out are Centro Commerciale Pisanova, Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo.

Is Riga or Pisa More Beautiful?

Riga and Pisa are somewhat similar when it comes to the high quality 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, Pisa attracts visitors from all around. While most people think of the city's iconic Leaning Tower, the city itself is filled with its own beauty and charm.

Is Riga or Pisa Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Riga or Pisa.

Riga is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Pisa is a family-friendly city. It's a lively city with beautiful squares and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Kids will enjoy hanging out in the city center, visiting Parco Don Bosco, Giardino Scotto Park, or Marina di Pisa. If you have a car and are willing to venture a bit further away, there's the Piccolo Mondo Amusement Park and Parco Preistorico Peccioli.

Is Riga or Pisa Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Pisa make for a notable 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.

Pisa is a good city for couples to visit. It's an iconic Italian destination that offers so much more than its most famous landmark. The city is filled with charming squares, beautiful architecture, and plenty of fun activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Riga or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Riga is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Pisa is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Most backpackers pass through on their way to other towns, but for those that linger, there are plenty of hostels and a lively social scene.

Is Riga or Pisa Better for Students?

Pisa 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 Pisa. Many study abroad students flock to Italy for its beautiful culture, art, and architecture. Pisa makes a nice base for international students, and it offers easy access to other parts of Italy. It's also home to an internationally acclaimed university, Scuola Normale Superiore, which was founded in 1810.

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 Pisa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

The public transit in Riga can get you around easily. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Pisa has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

Is Riga or Pisa a more walkable city?

Riga and Pisa both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Pisa is a very walkable destination. The city is a great place to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Riga?

How long in Riga or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Riga and Pisa. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Riga than in Pisa. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Riga, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pisa.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Riga. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Pisa. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Riga or Pisa?

Riga is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Pisa is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Pisa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Riga. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the classic destination of Pisa. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Riga or Pisa?

The fun city of Riga offers nightlife and food. 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.

The charming city of Pisa offers nightlife and food. 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 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Riga and Pisa, we can see that Pisa 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 Pisa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pisa 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 Pisa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Riga or Pisa?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Pisa, 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 Pisa?

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 Pisa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Riga as well as Pisa. The summer months attract visitors to Riga because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

Riga is cooler than Pisa in the summer. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Pisa fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Riga usually gets more rain in July than Pisa. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa 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. Also, many travelers come to Pisa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Riga is much colder than Pisa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Riga in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Pisa averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pisa. In October, Riga usually receives less rain than Pisa. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Riga or Pisa in the Winter?

Both Pisa and Riga during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Riga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pisa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Riga. In January, Riga is generally much colder than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Riga average around -5°C (23°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Riga usually gets less rain in January than Pisa. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Pisa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Pisa. Many visitors come to Riga in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pisa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Riga is much colder than Pisa in the spring. The daily temperature in Riga averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Pisa receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Riga usually receives less rain than Pisa. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Riga