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

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Should you visit Brussels or Reykjavik?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Reykjavik. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Brussels

Brussels is a colorful, multicultural, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. 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. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Brussels and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

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


How is Brussels different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Food?

Brussels
Reykjavik

Brussels has a longer list of notable local restaurants than Reykjavik.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

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 Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Brussels
Reykjavik

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brussels and Reykjavik.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

If you're looking for night time activities Reykjavik has a few options to choose from. 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 Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Shopping?

Brussels
Reykjavik

Brussels is generally considered to be a more popular shopping destination.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

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 Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Brussels
Reykjavik

Both Brussels and Reykjavik are family-friendly destinations.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops 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 Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Brussels
Reykjavik

Brussels and Reykjavik both fun destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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.


Is Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels
Reykjavik

Brussels and Reykjavik are comparable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Brussels
Reykjavik

Brussels and Reykjavik are comparable places to visit for students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

It's common for students to 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 Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Public Transit?

Brussels
Reykjavik

Brussels provides more public transit options than Reykjavik.

Brussels has a great public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

While Reykjavik offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Brussels or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Brussels
Reykjavik

Brussels and Reykjavik both are comparable when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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


Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Reykjavik?

In either Brussels or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place.

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


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

One day in Brussels or Reykjavik?

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful city of Reykjavik offers shopping and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brussels or Reykjavik?

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Reykjavik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reykjavik, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Reykjavik?

People visit Brussels 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Reykjavik is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reykjavik, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Reykjavik?

Brussels 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.

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Brussels?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Brussels is €137, 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 Brussels and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brussels €73
    Reykjavik €129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brussels €146
    Reykjavik €258
Compare Hotels in Brussels and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Brussels 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 Brussels


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: Brussels Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brussels €17
    Reykjavik €42
Typical Local Transportation prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:


  • Subway Pass
    €4.50
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    €8.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • private Transfer to Outlet Roermond by luxury car from Brussels Roundtrip: $317
  • private Transfer to Outlet Maasmechelen by luxury car from Brussels Roundtrip: $267
  • VIP Transfer between Brussels Airport (BRU) and Antwerp: $136
  • Transfer from Charleroi Airport (CRL) to Brussels city (any hotel or address): $153
  • Transfer from Charleroi Airport (CRL) to Brussels city (any hotel or address): $186
  • Transfer from Brussels city to BRU Airport with luxury Mercedes e class: $77
  • Transfer from Brussels city (any hotel or address) to Paris: $995
  • Transfer from Brussels city (any hotel or address) to Paris: $829
  • Transfer from Brussels city (any hotel or address) to Luxembourg: $763
  • Transfer from Brussels city (any hotel or address) to Luxembourg: $657
  • Transfer from Brussels city (any hotel or address) to Amsterdam: $657
  • Transfer from Brussels city (any hotel or address) to Amsterdam: $763

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

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

  • 3-Hour Lava Caving Tour Including Transfers from Reykjavik: $84
  • Airport Express Shared Departure Transfer from Reykjavik Hotels to Keflavik Airport: $37
  • Airport Express Shared Departure transfer from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport: $28
  • Airport Transfer: $230
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport One Way: $31
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport with Hotel Pick Up: $43
  • Airport transfer to or from Reykjavik with up to 3 hours stop in Blue Lagoon: $485
  • Blue Lagoon Admission Including Transfer: $229
  • Blue Lagoon Return Bus Transfer from Reykjavik: $33
  • Blue Lagoon with transfer: $217
  • Departure Private Transfer Business Car Reykjavik City to Reykjavik Airport KEF: $112
  • Departure Private Transfer Luxury Van Reykjavik City to Reykjavik Airport KEF: $184

Is it cheaper to fly into Brussels or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Brussels 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
    Brussels €38
    Reykjavik €28
Typical Food prices in Brussels

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brussels:


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    €4.60
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    €4.75
  • Cheese
    €5.60
  • Olives and Snacks
    €6.98
  • Waffle
    €3.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brussels.

  • Classic Belgian cooking class and lunch: $79
  • Your Private Tailored Belgian Food Tour with a Local: $93
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $112
  • Cooking Lesson and Gourmet Belgian-Inspired Meal with a Local in Brussels: $115
  • Private Brussels Food Tour (walking lunch or dinner): $373

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:

  • 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.
    Brussels €23
    Reykjavik €67

Tours and Activities in Brussels

Here are a few actual costs in Brussels for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2-Hours Private Sightseeing Trip in Brussels: $83
  • 3 hours Private walking tour of Brussels with ParisRio Local guide: $345
  • 3-Day Rail Tour - Brussels to Bruges & Amsterdam (Return): $683
  • 5 Day Rail Tour - Belgium & The Netherlands: $1,000
  • 5-Day Rail Tour - Brussels, Bruges & Amsterdam: $890
  • 7 Day Rail Tour - Belgium & The Netherlands: $1,207
  • 7 Day Rail Tour - Bruges, Antwerp and Amsterdam (Brussels Return): $1,166
  • Amsterdam Private City Tour from Brussels with licensed Guide and Limo Driver: $683
  • Antwerp Private City Tour Half-Day From Brussels +Licensed Guide and Limo Driver: $311
  • Antwerp Private Tour From Brussels: $450
  • Artistic Bruges on a Private Tour with a local: $75
  • BEST Brussels Sightseeing Tour Including View of the City from the Basilica Dome: $386

Typical Entertainment prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Art Museum
    €9.94
  • 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:

  • Admission Ticket to Viking World Museum: $14
  • Aurora Reykjavík, The Northern Lights Center Entrance Ticket: $16
  • Skip the Line: Volcano House Admission Ticket: $17
  • Tales from Iceland Admission Ticket: $18
  • Skip the Line: Admission Ticket - The Culture House Reykjavik: $19
  • Skip the Line: The National Museum of Iceland Ticket: $20
  • Whales of Iceland Exhibition Entrance Ticket: $22
  • Whales Of Iceland Admission Ticket: $26
  • Bryggjan Brugghús Craft Beer Tour: $27
  • Reykjavik Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Reykjavik Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $32
  • Perlan - Wonders of Iceland Tour: $33
  • Perlan Wonders of Iceland - Ice cave & Nature Exhibition Ticket: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brussels €13
    Reykjavik €26
Typical Alcohol prices in Brussels

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


  • Bottle of Wine
    €10
  • Beer
    €6.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl: $14

Typical Alcohol prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Beer
    €8.13

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


When is the best time to visit Brussels 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 Brussels or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Brussels is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The temperature in Brussels is usually 18°C (65°F) in July, and Reykjavik stays around 11°C (52°F).

In the summer, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Brussels 18°C (65°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In the autumn, Brussels is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October are around 12°C (54°F), and Reykjavik is about 5°C (41°F).

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Brussels 12°C (54°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Brussels during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Brussels because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the winter. The weather in Brussels can be very cold. In January, Brussels is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Reykjavik stays around -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Brussels 3°C (38°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Reykjavik. The activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. Brussels is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The temperature in Brussels is usually 10°C (49°F) in April, and Reykjavik stays around 3°C (38°F).

Brussels usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives around the same amount of rain as Reykjavik. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Brussels 10°C (49°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Brussels

Brussels Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)


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Brussels vs. Reykjavik Travel Comparison

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