A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. Reykjavik for Nightlife, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Reykjavik, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a canal-lined, party-oriented, and laid-back city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include live music, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a safe, friendly, and clean city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking. Amsterdam is more touristy than Reykjavik and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Reykjavik is famous for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Amsterdam different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Reykjavik and Amsterdam. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

Amsterdam is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Amsterdam or Reykjavik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Amsterdam and Reykjavik can be an enjoyable experience.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Amsterdam. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Reykjavik may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional Icelandic food may not have the best reputation, but restaurants these days are pretty good with a variety of dishes to choose from. Popular foods in the area include fish, lamb, and Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt).

Is Amsterdam or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Amsterdam has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Reykjavik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city offers the best nightlife in Iceland and you'll be surprised at the number of clubs, bars, and craft breweries that you can choose from. Almost all of the popular nightlife spots are around Laugavegur, a major shopping street in town.

Is Amsterdam or Reykjavik Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam is known as a music capital around the world. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Amsterdam or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Reykjavik draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city offers easy access to some of the world's most spectacular scenery. There are many hikes that you can easily reach from town. They pass through diverse landscapes that include waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and beaches.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

Amsterdam is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Amsterdam. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Reykjavik offers some nice shopping areas. The city's main shopping street is Laugavegur, which is where you'll find the most activity around town as well as a bustling atmosphere.

Is Amsterdam or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Reykjavik is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Reykjavik is a very kid-friendly city. With its many outdoor activities and hands on museums, the city is great for kids. The cafes and restaurants are family-friendly and their are plenty of entertainment options for the whole family.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Reykjavik are both superb to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Reykjavik is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are museums, outdoor activities, and even the northern lights that make this city very romantic. The cafes are laid-back and the atmosphere is friendly.

Is Amsterdam or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Amsterdam. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is Amsterdam or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Reykjavik is popular with students. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Amsterdam or Reykjavik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Amsterdam is top-notch. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

You'll find some public transit in Reykjavik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Amsterdam or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Amsterdam. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Reykjavik is a very walkable city. The city is small and compact, so it's easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

In either Amsterdam or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than Reykjavik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Reykjavik 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the city of Reykjavik. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reykjavik has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the friendly destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the clean city of Reykjavik. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

Amsterdam is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Reykjavik is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Amsterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Amsterdam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Amsterdam 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 Reykjavik would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Reykjavik than you might in Amsterdam.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Reykjavik, 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 Amsterdam or Reykjavik?

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 Amsterdam or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Reykjavik. The summer months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

In July, Amsterdam is generally a little warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amsterdam this time of the year. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. Amsterdam is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Amsterdam usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Reykjavik in the Winter?

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

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. In the winter, Amsterdam is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Reykjavik in the Spring?

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

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. In April, Amsterdam is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Amsterdam usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Amsterdam