A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Reykjavik for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Annecy or Reykjavik?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Annecy and Reykjavik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a charming, stunning, and breathtaking alpine town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a friendly, clean, and green city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Annecy and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Annecy or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Annecy. Although Annecy and Reykjavik are popular destinations, Annecy has more sights and attractions for tourists. Annecy is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking. Annecy is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also well known for Palais de l'Isle. 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 Annecy different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Annecy is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Annecy is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Annecy is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Reykjavik. 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 Annecy or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Annecy and Reykjavik.

If you're looking for night time activities Annecy has a few options to choose from. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Reykjavik. 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 Annecy or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Annecy offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Annecy or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is renowned for hiking. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking. 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.

Annecy is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Reykjavik?

If you're looking to go shopping, Annecy and Reykjavik both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Annecy. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Many visitors go to Reykjavik to go shopping. 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 Annecy or Reykjavik Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Annecy or Reykjavik.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Reykjavik is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Annecy or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for romance. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Annecy has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Couples visit Reykjavik frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Annecy or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Annecy and Reykjavik are nice places to visit.

Annecy is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

It's common for backpackers to visit Reykjavik. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is Annecy or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Reykjavik. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Annecy and Reykjavik both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Reykjavik has a few public transit options. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Annecy or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Annecy and Reykjavik are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Annecy is a very walkable alpine town. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Reykjavik?

In either Annecy or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Annecy because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Annecy 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 Annecy.

One day in Annecy or Reykjavik?

Even though Annecy is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Annecy or Reykjavik?

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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 alpine town has to offer. This alpine town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Annecy or Reykjavik?

Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Annecy or Reykjavik?

Annecy is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the safe destination of Reykjavik. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Annecy and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Annecy much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Annecy would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Annecy 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 Annecy.

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

Which is Bigger, Annecy or Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Annecy 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 Annecy or Reykjavik?

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 Annecy or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Reykjavik. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Annecy is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 22°C (71°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. Annecy usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Annecy usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Annecy or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the autumn. Annecy is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Annecy often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Annecy in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during winter. Annecy can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Annecy is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Annecy in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Annecy usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Annecy usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Annecy or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Annecy during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In April, Annecy is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 11°C (53°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Annecy often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets more rain in April than Reykjavik. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Annecy