30YearWeather
Riga
When to avoid visiting Riga, Latvia
Seasonal Comparison

Least Favorable Months in Riga

Based on 30 years of NASA satellite data, Riga enjoys relatively good weather year-round. However, if you're comparing months, January, December, February are the least favorable — though still perfectly visitable.

January60/100December62/100February63/100

Good news: Riga has no truly bad months!

With a score of 60/100, even January(the "worst" month) is still a reasonable time to visit. These months are simply the least favorable compared to other months in Riga, not objectively bad. Many travelers enjoy visiting during these periods and benefit from lower prices and fewer crowds.

Why January is the Least Favorable (But Still Okay) Time to Visit Riga

Is January a Good Time to Visit Riga?

👌Decent conditions for most activities
Short Answer

Riga's January averages 0°C - cold but manageable with proper attire. Lower tourism (27% of peak) means better prices and fewer queues.

Decision Factors

Freezing temperatures

-0.4°C highs - pack warm winter gear

Vaccinations required

Yellow Fever

Wind chill makes it feel colder

Feels like -6°C with 22.8km/h wind

Very high humidity

86% average humidity

Off-peak season - fewer crowds

Only 27% of peak - better deals and quiet crowds

Cold sea - swimming challenging

1.2°C sea temperature - Polar Plunge

Good For

  • 💰
    Budget travelers

    Off-peak pricing with acceptable weather conditions

  • 💼
    Business travelers

    Climate-controlled meetings unaffected by weather

Who Should Avoid

  • 🏖️
    Beach lovers

    Sea temperature only 1.2°C - too cold for comfortable swimming

  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
    Families with children

    -6°C too cold for comfortable family activities

  • 👴
    Elderly travelers

    86% humidity creates difficult conditions

  • 📸
    Photographers

    84% cloud cover limits natural light opportunities

930 observations30-year historical data
Confidence: 99%

Key Challenges During These Months

Extreme Cold

Freezing temperatures require specialized clothing and limit outdoor activities

Months to Avoid: Detailed Breakdown

Worst60

January

Freezing temperatures, Very high humidity

View details
2nd Worst62

December

Very high humidity, Peak tourist season

View details
3rd Worst63

February

Very high humidity

View details

Looking for the Best Time Instead?

Discover the optimal months to visit Riga with ideal weather conditions, fewer crowds, and better prices.

Best Time to Visit Riga

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I avoid visiting Riga?

Based on 30 years of data, the most challenging months are January, December, February. Primary concerns include: freezing temperatures, very high humidity.

What is the worst month to visit Riga?

January is typically the most challenging month, scoring only 60/100 in our travel conditions analysis.

Can I still visit during these months?

Yes, many travelers still visit during challenging months. Come prepared with appropriate gear, flexible bookings, and backup plans. Lower prices and fewer tourists can offset the weather challenges.

Are hotels cheaper during these months?

Often yes. Low season typically means reduced hotel rates, easier reservations, and fewer crowds at popular attractions. Some travelers prefer this trade-off.