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

Should you visit Auckland 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 Auckland and Reykjavik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled, thrill-seeking, and cosmopolitan city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Auckland and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Auckland than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Auckland is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Auckland is famous for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also well known for the Sky Tower. 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 Auckland different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Auckland 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 Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Auckland. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

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 Auckland or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Auckland has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

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 Auckland or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Auckland. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Auckland or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Reykjavik?

Auckland 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 Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

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 Auckland or Reykjavik Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Auckland is very family-friendly. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

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 Auckland or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Both Auckland and Reykjavik are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Auckland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

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 Auckland or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Auckland is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

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 Auckland or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Auckland is a great city to visit as a student. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international 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.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Auckland and Reykjavik.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

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 Auckland or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Reykjavik is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Reykjavik?

In either Auckland or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Auckland because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Auckland, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

One day in Auckland or Reykjavik?

People visit Auckland because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

The beautiful city of Reykjavik offers shopping and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Auckland or Reykjavik?

People visit Auckland because there is so much to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Reykjavik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reykjavik, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Auckland or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adrenaline-filled city of Auckland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Reykjavik is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reykjavik, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Auckland or Reykjavik?

Auckland is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Reykjavik?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Auckland 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 Auckland or Reykjavik?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Auckland is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Reykjavik has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Auckland or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Auckland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Auckland is generally much warmer than Reykjavikin July. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 20°C (68°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Auckland. Auckland usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Auckland gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Auckland usually receives more rain than Reykjavikin July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Auckland or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Auckland during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Auckland for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, 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. Auckland is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F)in October.

In the autumn, Auckland often gets more sunshine than Reykjavikin October. Auckland gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Auckland usually gets more rain in April than Reykjavikin October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Auckland or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Auckland 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. In the winter, Auckland is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Auckland in July average around 11°C (52°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F)in January.

Auckland usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Auckland gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

Auckland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Auckland usually receives more rain than Reykjavikin January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Auckland or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Auckland as well as Reykjavik. Most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city 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 October, Auckland is generally much warmer than Reykjavikin April. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 14°C (58°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Auckland often gets more sunshine than Reykjavikin April. Auckland gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Auckland usually gets more rain in October than Reykjavikin April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Auckland