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

Should you visit Beijing 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 Beijing 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.

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a safe, friendly, and clean city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and hiking.

Beijing and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Reykjavik?

You'll generally find more things to do in Beijing than Reykjavik. Beijing is bigger than Reykjavik, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Beijing is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Reykjavik and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Reykjavik is well known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Beijing different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Travelers visit Beijing from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Beijing is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

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 Beijing or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Beijing has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

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 Beijing or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing 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.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Reykjavik?

Beijing 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 Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

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 Beijing or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Reykjavik is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Beijing or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Reykjavik is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

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 Beijing or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Beijing is a great city to visit as a student. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

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

Beijing 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 Beijing. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

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 Beijing or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Reykjavik is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Reykjavik?

In either Beijing or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than Reykjavik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

Couples should spend more time in Reykjavik than Beijing. 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 Beijing 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 Beijing.

One day in Beijing or Reykjavik?

People visit Beijing 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 Beijing or Reykjavik?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This 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 Beijing or Reykjavik?

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

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, 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 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Reykjavik?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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 Beijing 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 Beijing or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Reykjavik. Most visitors come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Beijing is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beijing in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the summer, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Beijing receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Beijing because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. 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 October, Beijing is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Beijing during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. It's quite cold in Beijing in the winter. Beijing is much colder than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the spring for the natural beauty.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Beijing is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Beijing