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

Should you visit Athens or Reykjavik?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Reykjavik. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

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

Athens and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Reykjavik?

You'll generally find more things to do in Athens than Reykjavik. Athens is bigger than Reykjavik, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Athens is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. Reykjavik is well known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Athens from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Athens is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

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 Athens or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Athens has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

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

Athens offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Athens or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Reykjavik is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Reykjavik?

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

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Reykjavik is a great destination for 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 Athens or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Both Athens and Reykjavik are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Reykjavik is 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 Athens or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Reykjavik is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens 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 Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

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 Athens or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Athens is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Athens is a great city to visit as a student. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

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.

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

Athens is an excellent place 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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 Athens or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Athens and Reykjavik are great when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Athens?

How long in Athens or Reykjavik?

In either Athens or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than Reykjavik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

One day in Athens or Reykjavik?

People visit Athens 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.

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 Athens or Reykjavik?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city 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 Athens or Reykjavik?

People visit Athens 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.

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 Athens or Reykjavik?

Athens 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 Athens, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the friendly 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 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Reykjavik?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Athens is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Reykjavik. Most visitors come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In October, Athens is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the winter. Athens is much warmer than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. In the spring, Athens is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Athens