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

Should you visit Bamberg or Reykjavik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Bamberg 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.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a beautiful, scenic, and storybook town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a clean, green, and safe city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Bamberg and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
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


Is there more to do in Bamberg or Reykjavik?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bamberg than Reykjavik. While Reykjavik is larger than Bamberg, Bamberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bamberg is more popular for its museums, food, and historical sights, while Reykjavik is known for its nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bamberg is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. It is also home to the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Reykjavik is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Bamberg different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bamberg
Reykjavik

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

Bamberg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Bamberg
Reykjavik

Bamberg is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bamberg. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

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 Bamberg or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Bamberg
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Bamberg or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Bamberg
Reykjavik

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

Bamberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.


Is Bamberg or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Bamberg
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

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.

Bamberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bamberg or Reykjavik?

Bamberg
Reykjavik

Both Bamberg and Reykjavik are good shopping destinations.

Bamberg is a great destination for shopping. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Reykjavik. 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 Bamberg or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Bamberg
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Bamberg is a family-friendly town. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.


Is Bamberg or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Bamberg
Reykjavik

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

Bamberg has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

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 Bamberg or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bamberg
Reykjavik

Both Bamberg and Reykjavik are good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Reykjavik is a good town 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 Bamberg or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Bamberg
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for students. However, Bamberg 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.

Bamberg is not popular with students.


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

Bamberg
Reykjavik

Both Bamberg and Reykjavik offer good public transit options.

Bamberg has a few public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

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

Is Bamberg or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Bamberg
Reykjavik

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Bamberg. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Bamberg?

How long in Bamberg or Reykjavik?

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

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

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


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

One day in Bamberg or Reykjavik?

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

In Reykjavik, you'll find nightlife and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Bamberg or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and food around the storybook destination of Bamberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Reykjavik, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reykjavik has to offer.

Five days in Bamberg or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic town of Bamberg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reykjavik has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bamberg or Reykjavik?

Bamberg 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Reykjavik. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Bamberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bamberg is €127, 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 Bamberg and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bamberg 75
    Reykjavik 129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bamberg 150
    Reykjavik 258
Compare Hotels in Bamberg and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Bamberg 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 Bamberg


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: Bamberg Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bamberg 14
    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 Bamberg or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Bamberg 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
    Bamberg 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.
    Bamberg 17
    Reykjavik 67

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

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
    Bamberg 19
    Reykjavik 26

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37

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 Bamberg and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Bamberg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bamberg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bamberg 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 Bamberg.

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


Which is Bigger, Bamberg or Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Bamberg 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 Bamberg 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 Bamberg or Reykjavik in the Summer?

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

Bamberg is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Bamberg averages around 19°C (67°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Bamberg. In the summer, Bamberg often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Bamberg gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Bamberg usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. Bamberg gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bamberg and Reykjavik. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bamberg 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. In the autumn, Bamberg is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bamberg in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Bamberg usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Bamberg gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bamberg usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bamberg as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Bamberg 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 Bamberg. In January, Bamberg is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Bamberg average around 0°C (33°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Bamberg often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Bamberg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Bamberg usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Bamberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Bamberg or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Bamberg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bamberg 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. Bamberg is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Bamberg averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Bamberg usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Bamberg gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bamberg usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Bamberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Bamberg

Bamberg Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)