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

Should you visit Riga or Seattle?

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

Should I visit Riga or Seattle? 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. 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Riga travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and laid-back city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Seattle travel costs.

Riga and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Riga or Seattle?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Seattle than Riga. While Riga is larger than Seattle, Seattle has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Seattle is more popular for its theatre productions, music, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Riga is known for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Seattle is more touristy than Riga and is known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle. Riga is popular for its vibrant nightlife scene, busy old town, and beautiful architecture.

How is Riga different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Riga and Seattle.

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 Seattle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Riga or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Riga is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Riga is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Riga and Seattle offer a number of very good 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.

Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Riga or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Riga is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

Seattle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Riga or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is notable for its live music scene. However, Riga is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Riga is not a live music destination.

Is Riga or Seattle Better for Beaches?

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

Seattle is a good option for a beach vacation. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Riga is not a beach destination.

Is Riga or Seattle Better for its Old Town?

Riga is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Riga to see the historical old town. 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.

Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Is Riga or Seattle Better for Hiking?

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

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Riga is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Riga or Seattle?

Riga is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Riga or Seattle More Beautiful?

Riga is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and 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.

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Is Riga or Seattle Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Riga or Seattle.

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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Riga or Seattle Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Riga and Seattle 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.

Seattle is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Riga or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Riga is renowned for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Riga is a very popular city to visit 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Riga or Seattle Better for Students?

Riga and Seattle are both very good 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.

Seattle is very popular with students. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Riga is notable for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Riga offers a very effecient public transportation network. Transportation options include buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Riga or Seattle a more walkable city?

Riga and Seattle both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Seattle is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Riga?

How long in Riga or Seattle?

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

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

In Riga, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Seattle is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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 Seattle?

In Riga, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Riga has to offer.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Seattle?

Riga is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find live music and food around the progressive big city of Seattle. This city 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 Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Riga. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Riga. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 laid-back city of Seattle offers food and shopping. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Riga or Seattle?

Riga has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of Riga and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Riga or Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Riga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Riga for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Riga is cooler than Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Riga in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In July, Riga usually receives more rain than Seattle. Riga gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Riga or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Riga during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Riga in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Riga is generally much colder than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Riga average around 7°C (45°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Riga usually gets less rain in October than Seattle. Riga gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Riga or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Riga and Seattle. Most visitors come to Riga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Seattle because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Riga can be very cold during winter. Riga is much colder than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Riga averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Riga usually receives less rain than Seattle. Riga gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Riga or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Riga as well as Seattle. The spring months attract visitors to Riga because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In the spring, Riga is much colder than Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Riga in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Riga usually gets less rain in April than Seattle. Riga gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Riga