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

Should you visit Bangkok or Reykjavik?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Reykjavik can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a high energy, cultural, and alluring capital city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Bangkok is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Bangkok travel costs.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a safe, friendly, and clean city. The famous beauty of Reykjavik is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and shopping. See Reykjavik travel costs.

Bangkok and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bangkok than Reykjavik, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bangkok is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Bangkok is popular for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also home to The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. 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 Bangkok different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Travelers visit Bangkok from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bangkok is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

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 Bangkok or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Bangkok has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

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 Bangkok or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Around Reykjavik visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Reykjavik?

Bangkok is an amazing capital city to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Bangkok. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

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 Bangkok or Reykjavik More Beautiful?

Reykjavik is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Reykjavik is one of the main draws. The city offers the perfect gateway to world-renowned natural beauty including waterfalls, hot springs, and active volcanoes.

The beauty of Bangkok is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The temples and energy are what give this impressive city it's own form of beauty.

Is Bangkok or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Both Bangkok and Reykjavik are high quality to visit with kids.

Bangkok is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Reykjavik is very family-friendly. 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 Bangkok or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

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

Bangkok has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

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 Bangkok or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Bangkok. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

Reykjavik is a good capital 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 Bangkok or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a city with good options for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with 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.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

Bangkok 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 Bangkok. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

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 Bangkok or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Reykjavik is a great destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Reykjavik?

In either Bangkok or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than Reykjavik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

One day in Bangkok or Reykjavik?

People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. 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.

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 Bangkok or Reykjavik?

People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this capital city has to offer. This capital city 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 Bangkok or Reykjavik?

People visit Bangkok because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this capital city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this capital city has to offer.

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 Bangkok or Reykjavik?

Bangkok is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Reykjavik?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok 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 Bangkok or Reykjavik?

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

Should I visit Bangkok or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Reykjavik. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Bangkok is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the summer, Bangkok often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Bangkok receives a lot of rain in the summer. Bangkok usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the autumn. In the autumn, Bangkok is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bangkok in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Bangkok. In October, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Bangkok is November to February. The rainy season in Bangkok is May to October.

Should I visit Bangkok or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Bangkok during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. In January, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 27°C (80°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the winter, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Bangkok usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Bangkok.

Should I visit Bangkok or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Reykjavik. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the spring for the natural beauty.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the spring. Bangkok is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 31°C (87°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Bangkok