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

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 because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Berlin and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berlin or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Berlin than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Berlin is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Berlin is famous for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. It is also well known for the Brandenburg Gate. 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 Berlin different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Travelers visit Berlin from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Berlin is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Berlin. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

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 Berlin or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Berlin has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

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 Berlin or Reykjavik Better for Music?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Berlin is known as a music capital around the world. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is Berlin or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Berlin 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.

Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or Reykjavik?

Berlin is an amazing 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 Berlin. 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.

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 Berlin or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Berlin and Reykjavik are both superb 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 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.

Is Berlin or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Reykjavik is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Reykjavik is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is Berlin or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Berlin. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

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 Berlin or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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.

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

Berlin is an amazing city 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.

Public transit in Berlin is top-notch. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

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 Berlin or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Reykjavik is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

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

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

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. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Berlin, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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 do most activities.

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.

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.

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Berlin or Reykjavik?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Berlin 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 Berlin or Reykjavik?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Berlin or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Berlin and Reykjavik. The summer months attract visitors to Berlin because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

In July, Berlin is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around 19°C (66°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Berlin, it's very sunny this time of the year. Berlin usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Berlin gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Berlin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Reykjavik. Berlin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Berlin or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Berlin as well as Reykjavik. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Berlin this time of year. Additionally, 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. Berlin is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Berlin often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Berlin gets 106 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Berlin gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berlin or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Berlin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Berlin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Berlin. In the winter, Berlin is cooler than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Berlin in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Berlin usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Berlin gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Berlin usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Berlin or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Berlin during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Berlin in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. In April, Berlin is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around 9°C (47°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Berlin often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Berlin gets 160 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Berlin usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Berlin