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

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

Bali

Bali is a tropical, lush, and frequented island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

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.

Bali and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bali than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bali is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking. Bali is more touristy than Reykjavik and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also well known for Pura Lempuyang. 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 Bali different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bali is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

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 Bali or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Bali has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

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 Bali or Reykjavik Better for Resorts?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Bali offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Reykjavik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Bali specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Bali is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Bali are among the best in the world. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Bali. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Reykjavik?

Bali 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 Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

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 Bali or Reykjavik Better for Families?

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

Bali is a very kid-friendly island. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

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 Bali or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

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

Bali has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

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 Bali or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Bali. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Reykjavik is a good island 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 Bali or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is very good for students. However, Bali 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.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Both Bali and Reykjavik offer nice public transit options.

Bali has a few public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

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

Is Bali or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Reykjavik is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island 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.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Bali?

How long in Bali or Reykjavik?

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

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

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

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

One day in Bali or Reykjavik?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Bali. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reykjavik. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bali or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the stunning destination of Bali. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Reykjavik is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Reykjavik?

You'll find nightlife and food around the spiritual island of Bali. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the safe destination of Reykjavik. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bali or Reykjavik?

Bali is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bali, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The safe city of Reykjavik offers nightlife and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Reykjavik?

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

Reykjavik has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bali or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Bali during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bali is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Bali. In the summer, Bali often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets less rain in July than Reykjavik. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. April to September is the dry season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Reykjavik. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Furthermore, 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. Bali is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bali as well as Reykjavik. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, 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, Bali is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Reykjavik. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Bali is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bali or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In April, Bali is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bali usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Bali is April to September.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Bali