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

Should you visit Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Baden-Baden 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.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a peaceful, historic, and relaxing spa town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a clean, green, and safe city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Baden-Baden and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Thermal Pools
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Baden-Baden than Reykjavik. While Reykjavik is larger than Baden-Baden, Baden-Baden has more sights and attractions for tourists. Baden-Baden is very popular for its museums and food, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Reykjavik is more touristy than Baden-Baden and is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Baden-Baden is famous for its many thermal baths, spas and wellness centers, as well as its cultural venues and festivals. It is also well known for The Thermal Baths.

How is Baden-Baden different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

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

Baden-Baden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The spa town has many places worth visiting including the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths, the Museum Frieder Burda, and Altes Schloss Hohenbaden.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

Baden-Baden is an amazing spa town to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Baden-Baden is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are Michelin starred restaurants and many opportunities to sip wine and sample local cuisine. Many consider the Baden cuisine to be among the best in Germany. You'll find wine, sausages, game meat, poultry, and more. Make sure you try the Rehrücken Baden-Baden (Roe Deer), Käsespätzle (cheese spatzle), and Schäufele (pig's shoulder).

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 Baden-Baden or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

Both Baden-Baden and Reykjavik are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Baden-Baden. There are trendy, upscale bars and many fine dining opportunities. There's also a casino and a club in town.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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 Baden-Baden or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Baden-Baden. Located near the Black Forest, you'll find a number of great hikes and walking trails just outside of town.


Is the Shopping Better in Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

Both Baden-Baden and Reykjavik are nice shopping destinations.

Baden-Baden offers some nice shopping areas. The city is filled with boutiques that sell jewelry, chocolate, designer fashion, and fine wine. There are several pedestrian shopping streets including the popular Lange-Strasse.

Reykjavik has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Baden-Baden or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

Baden-Baden and Reykjavik are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Baden-Baden is a very kid-friendly spa town. There are plenty of opportunities to get into nature with hikes and wildlife reserves. There's also a funicular and castles to explore as well as several kid-friendly museums.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Reykjavik. 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 Baden-Baden or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

Baden-Baden and Reykjavik are both superb to visit as a couple.

Baden-Baden is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a spa town, so there are thermal baths that couples can enjoy. There are also many gardens and walks through the countryside. The old town is picturesque and the castles are fun to explore.

Reykjavik makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Baden-Baden or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Baden-Baden is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find a hostel or two in town, but most of the tourists aren't backpackers so you may have trouble meeting other like-minded travelers.

Is Baden-Baden or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

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

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for 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.

Baden-Baden is not popular with students.

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

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Baden-Baden. There are a number of bus lines that run around town.


Is Baden-Baden or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Baden-Baden
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit 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.

Baden-Baden is a somewhat walkable spa town. It's possible to walk around parts of town, but it's easier to explore with a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Baden-Baden?

How long in Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Baden-Baden or Reykjavik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baden-Baden 1-3 
    Reykjavik 1-5

One day in Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the spa town of Baden-Baden. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Baden-Baden has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the friendly city of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the nature-oriented destination of Baden-Baden. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this spa town has to offer. This spa town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the friendly destination of Reykjavik. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the nature-oriented spa town of Baden-Baden. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the green city of Reykjavik. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

Baden-Baden is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Reykjavik. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany, The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Baden-Baden?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Baden-Baden is €154, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is €228. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Baden-Baden and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baden-Baden 87
    Reykjavik 129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baden-Baden 174
    Reykjavik 258
Compare Hotels in Baden-Baden and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Baden-Baden or Reykjavik? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Baden-Baden


Hotels in Reykjavik


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Baden-Baden Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baden-Baden 33
    Reykjavik 42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

Also for Reykjavik, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Reykjavik Airport (RKV) to Skálafell - Arrival Private Transfer: $22
  • Keflavik Airport & Reykjavik Hotels: Economy Bus Transfer: $27
  • Keflavik Airport (KEF): Bus Transfer to/from Reykjavik: $27
  • Iceland: Airport Transfer Between Reykjavík Center and Keflavík : $28
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport One Way: $28
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik City one way: $28
  • Keflavík Airport (KEF): Bus Transfer to/from Reykjavik: $29
  • Airport Express Shared Departure transfer from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport: $29
  • Iceland: Airport Transfers between Keflavík and Reykjavik Center: $30
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport with Hotel Pick Up: $36
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik City With Hotel Drop Off: $36
  • Airport Express Shared Departure Transfer from Reykjavik Hotels to Keflavik Airport: $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Baden-Baden change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Baden-Baden 41
    Reykjavik 28

Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    165

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Icelandic Food Tour: $123
  • Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market: $125
  • The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour: $127
  • 3 Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour with Guide in Reykjavik: $129
  • Reykjavik Market & Lunch Food Tour - BitesizedIceland.com: $142
  • Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour - BitesizedIceland.com: $144
  • Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour: $145
  • Icelandic Cooking Class in Downtown Reykjavik with Musical Hosts: $296

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baden-Baden 34
    Reykjavik 67

Tours and Activities in Baden-Baden

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Baden-Baden are as follows:

  • Baden-Baden Private walking tour: $374
  • Baden-Baden Yuletide Stroll: Experience the Festive Charm: $359
  • Christmas Market Walking Tour: $254
  • Powerful Women Themed Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Private Guided KNUMO e-Scooter Tour VIP: $138
  • Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $248
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $232
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $252
  • Private Walking Tour in Baden Neuweirs Vineyard: $653
  • Romance in Baden-Baden – Private Walking Tour: $252
  • Scenic Baden-Baden Walking Tour: Discovering Historic Charm: $373

Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Reykjavik's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Museum
    9.97
  • Wine and Spa
    27

Tours and Activities in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Reykjavík: City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Reykjavik Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Reykjavik Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $8.02
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Explore Reykjavik's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Citywalk Tour - Audioguide in English & German: $11
  • Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll Admission Ticket: $11
  • Skip the Line: Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll Admission Ticket: $11
  • Geothermal Energy Exhibition Entry Ticket: $17
  • Reykjavík: National Museum of Iceland Entry Ticket: $18
  • Skip the Line: The National Museum of Iceland Ticket: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baden-Baden 12
    Reykjavik 26

Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Reykjavik are as follows:


  • Beer
    8.15

Sample the Local Flavors in Reykjavik

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Reykjavik:

  • Gin Distillery tour and tasting: $25
  • Eimverk Distillery Tour with Tasting: $32


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

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


Which is Bigger, Baden-Baden or Reykjavik?

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

Both Reykjavik and Baden-Baden during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Baden-Baden because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

In July, Baden-Baden is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Baden-Baden average around 20°C (67°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Baden-Baden. In the summer, Baden-Baden often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Baden-Baden gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Baden-Baden usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. Baden-Baden gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baden-Baden 20°C (67°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Baden-Baden and Reykjavik. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Baden-Baden this time of year. Furthermore, 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. Baden-Baden is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baden-Baden averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Baden-Baden usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Baden-Baden gets 91 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Baden-Baden usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Baden-Baden gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baden-Baden 11°C (52°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Baden-Baden as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Baden-Baden for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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 Baden-Baden. In the winter, Baden-Baden is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baden-Baden in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Baden-Baden often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Baden-Baden gets 35 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Baden-Baden usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Baden-Baden gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baden-Baden 2°C (35°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Baden-Baden are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Baden-Baden in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. In April, Baden-Baden is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Baden-Baden average around 10°C (50°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Baden-Baden usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Baden-Baden gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Baden-Baden usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Baden-Baden gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baden-Baden 10°C (50°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 102 mm (4 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 109 mm (4.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 20°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 75 mm (3 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)