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

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. See Brussels 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.

Brussels and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Reykjavik, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Reykjavik is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

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.

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

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brussels can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Brussels 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 Brussels. 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?

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 its Old Town?

Brussels is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Brussels to see the historical old town. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Reykjavik is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Reykjavik?

Brussels 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 Brussels. 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.

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 Brussels or Reykjavik More Beautiful?

Reykjavik is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Brussels is not a destination known for its 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.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Reykjavik are great 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 and Reykjavik both great 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 is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Brussels is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

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 Brussels or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

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

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

Brussels 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 Brussels is top-notch. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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 Brussels or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Brussels and Reykjavik both are great 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.

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

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. In our opinion, Brussels has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Brussels than Reykjavik. However, 1-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Reykjavik?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 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 daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates 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.

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 average around 12°C (54°F), and Reykjavik averages at 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.

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. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates 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.

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 daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates 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.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Brussels