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

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Should you visit Berlin or Reykjavik?

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

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

Berlin

Berlin is a eclectic, diverse, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a friendly, clean, and green city. Many visitors also come here because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

How is Berlin different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Is Berlin or Reykjavik better for Food?

Foodies will appreciated the dining options available in Berlin a bit more than Reykjavik.

Berlin has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel.

Reykjavik offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Berlin or Reykjavik better for Nightlife?

For nightlife, head to Berlin instead of Reykjavik.

The nightlife in Berlin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

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 Berlin or Reykjavik better for Shopping?

Berlin usually beats out Reykjavik for shopping.

Known for shopping, Berlin draws large crowds to its stores. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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 Berlin or Reykjavik better for Families?

Berlin and Reykjavik are both fun destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Berlin is very family-friendly. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Reykjavik is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Berlin or Reykjavik better for Couples?

Berlin and Reykjavik are both fun to visit as a couple.

Berlin is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus.

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 Berlin or Reykjavik better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Travelers usually think of Berlin as a better destination for backpackers than Reykjavik.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Berlin. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Plenty of backpackers visit Reykjavik. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is Berlin or Reykjavik better for Students?

Berlin is generally a better city for students than Reykjavik.

Berlin is a great destination for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Plenty of students visit Reykjavik. 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 Berlin or Reykjavik better for Public Transit?

Berlin has better public transit to get you around.

Visitors in Berlin can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

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

Is Berlin or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Berlin and Reykjavik are similar when it comes to walkability.

Berlin is a very walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

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


Berlin and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Berlin
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good nightlife
  • Good for shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Reykjavik
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable


Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Berlin?

How long in Berlin or Reykjavik?

In either Berlin or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Berlin than Reykjavik because of the overall number of sights and activities.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Berlin is 2-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Reykjavik is 1-5 days.


  • How many days in Berlin or Reykjavik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Berlin 2-7 
    Reykjavik 1-5

One day in Berlin or Reykjavik?

People visit Berlin 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to spend here.

A weekend in Berlin or Reykjavik?

People visit Berlin 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Berlin or Reykjavik?

People visit Berlin 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Berlin or Reykjavik?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the clean destination of Reykjavik. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Which city is cheaper, Reykjavik or Berlin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Berlin is €110, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is €198. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Berlin and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berlin €51
    Reykjavik €112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berlin €102
    Reykjavik €224

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berlin €14
    Reykjavik €37
Typical Local Transportation prices in Berlin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Berlin:


  • Short Trip Metro Ticket
    €1.40
  • Bahn Ticket
    €3.00
  • Short Taxi Ride
    €20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berlin

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

  • VIP transfer from Berlin to Warsaw - Mercedes E-Class with private driver: $703
  • VIP transfer from Berlin to Munich - Mercedes E-Class with private driver: $1,359
  • Transfer from Berlin to Munich: Private sightseeing daytrip with 2 stops: $355
  • Transfer from Berlin Tegel Airport to Berlin city (any hotel or address): $32
  • Transfer from Berlin Tegel Airport (TXL) to Berlin city Hotels - ROUND TRIP: $63
  • Transfer from Berlin Schönefeld Airport (SXF) to Berlin city Hotels - ROUND TRIP: $83
  • Transfer by Private Vehicle from Hotel in Berlin to Schoenefeld Airport: $125
  • Transfer Berlin-Prague or Prague-Berlin, with optional 2 hours visit to Dresden: $740
  • Round Trip Tegel Airport (TXL) Transfer to Berlin City Center: $48
  • Round Trip Schönefeld Airport (SXF) Transfer to Berlin City Center: $71
  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague with stops at Potsdam + Sanssouci Palace: $266
  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague with Terezin Concentration Camp stop: $266

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

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

  • Luxurious Private Airport Transfer and Blue Lagoon | Included Premium Admission: $1,354
  • Private airport transfer with Blue lagoon stopover and lunar landscapes: $804
  • Luxury Private Transfers Reykjavik - Blue Lagoon - Keflavik Airport: $683
  • Private Blue Lagoon & Airport Transfer: $646
  • Luxury Private Transfers Keflavik Airport - Blue Lagoon - Reykjavik: $641
  • Private Transfer Blue Lagoon - Reykjavik city (with waiting time): $560
  • Airport transfer to or from Reykjavik with up to 3 hours stop in Blue Lagoon: $485
  • Golden Circle Private Tour & Blue Lagoon Private Transfer: $438
  • Private Reykjavík Round Trip Airport Transfer: $429
  • Private One-Way Airport Transfer To or From Keflavik Airport: $352
  • Luxury Private Transfers Reykjavik to Keflavik airport: $343
  • Iceland Private Airport Transfer: $316

Is it cheaper to fly into Berlin or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Berlin 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
    Berlin €41
    Reykjavik €24
Typical Food prices in Berlin

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Berlin:


  • Sandwich and Coffee To Go
    €5.00
  • Turkish Sandwich
    €2.00
  • Currywurst
    €2.00
  • 2 Pho Noodles
    €9.00
  • Restaurant Dinner and Beers (for 2)
    €60
  • Mauer Park (2)
    €11
  • Coffees at Impala
    €7.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berlin

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

  • English Comedy Ticket including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $16
  • English Comedy Showcase Including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $25
  • Bitemojo Self Guided Food Tour New To Berlin: $40
  • Dinner Cruise – “This is the CHEF talking”: $49
  • Berlin Kreuzberg - Food Tour: $53
  • Berlin Mitte - Food Tour: $53
  • Berlin Food Tour: $55
  • Withlocals 10 Tastings: Covid-19 Regulated Private Food Tour: $57
  • Berlin Dinner Cruise.: $61
  • History Bites: The Berlin History and Food Tour: $61
  • Fun Dinner and Dancing by Gaiety in Berlin: $84
  • Vegan Food Tour Experience in Berlin: $87

Typical Food prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    €179

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Reykjavik

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

  • Exclusive dinner with a local family: $112
  • Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market: $123
  • Dinner with an Icelandic Artist in Reykjavik Home: $151
  • Secret Lagoon, Buffet Dinner, and Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik: $159
  • South Coast: Volcanoes, waterfalls & Viking dinner at the Viking house: $179
  • Private Reykjavik Food Tour: $198
  • South Coast: Small group glacier hike, fire & ice with dinner at Viking lodge: $199
  • Cook and Dine Icelandic Cooking Class Gourmet Lunch or Dinner: $204
  • Kopar Fine Dining Dinner and Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik: $229
  • West Iceland Private Food Tour from Reykjavik: $723

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berlin €18
    Reykjavik €58
Typical Entertainment prices in Berlin

For Berlin, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Berlin Zoo (2)
    €20

Tours and Activities in Berlin

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Berlin.

  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour Berlin: $47
  • 2 Hour Berlin Small Group Segway Tour: $65
  • 2 Hours Private Custom Berlin Tour With A Local Guide: $70
  • 2 hour 15 min Berlin Wall Self Drive Trabant Tour: $106
  • 2-Hour Island Landscapes Boattour from Berlin: $20
  • 2-Hour Segway Discovery Tour Berlin: $66
  • 2.5-Hour Berlin Center Boat Cruise on the River Spree: $31
  • 2.5-Hour Berlin City Tour of Famous Attractions by Minibus: $51
  • 2.5-Hour Berlin Wall and Memorial Sites Walking Tour: $23
  • 2h Berlin Discovery Tour in an Vintage Volkswagen Beetle: $81
  • 3 Hours Segway Discovery Tour Berlin: $93
  • 3 hours Berlin 100% Personalized City Tour: $58

Typical Entertainment prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Art Museum
    €11
  • Wine and Spa
    €29

Tours and Activities in Reykjavik

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

  • 'Game of Thrones' Filming Locations Tour From Reykjavik: $126
  • (Private tour) 4 Days South Coast, Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes: $3,388
  • 1.5 Hour Midnight Sun Buggy Tour From Reykjavik: $160
  • 10-day Private tour of Iceland: Geysers & Glaciers: $13,561
  • 1hr ATV & Golden Circle Adventure from Reykjavik: $276
  • 1hr ATV Adventure & Caving from Reykjavik: $254
  • 1hr ATV Adventure & Helicopter Adventure Combination Tour from Reykjavik: $403
  • 1hr ATV Adventure & Rafting Tour from Reykjavik: $287
  • 1hr ATV Adventure & Whale Watching Combination Tour from Reykjavik: $248
  • 1hr ATV Reykjavik Peak Adventure: $143
  • 1hr ATV adventure & Northern lights Hunt from Reykjavik: $238
  • 1hr Buggy & Lava Caving Combination Tour from Reykjavik: $283

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berlin €13
    Reykjavik €23
Typical Alcohol prices in Berlin

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Berlin from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Show
    €14

Sample the Local Flavors in Berlin

Also in Berlin, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Berlin Pub Crawl And Night Life Tour: $15
  • Guided Pub Crawl with Shots: $20
  • Berlin Nightlife: The Original Pub Crawl: $20
  • #1 Berlin Pub Crawl: $25
  • Sean's Wine Tasting Events: $66
  • Showgirls of Burlesque by Gl’Amouresque: $66
  • Welcome to Berlin tour! Sightseeing, souvenirs and visit of a German brewery: $236

Typical Alcohol prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Beer
    €8.86

Sample the Local Flavors in Reykjavik

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Reykjavik:

  • Eimverk Distillery Tour with Tasting: $34
  • Private Reykjavik Pub Crawl: $181
  • Reykjavik Food & Wine Tour: $249

About these numbers

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

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Berlin vs. Reykjavik Travel Comparison

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