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

Should you visit Budapest or Reykjavik?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Budapest and Reykjavik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a artistic, historic, and authentic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

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.

Budapest and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Budapest than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Budapest is very popular for its museums & sights, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Budapest is famous for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Hungarian Parliament Building. 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 Budapest different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Budapest 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 Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Budapest and Reykjavik.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Budapest. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Reykjavik may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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 Budapest or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Budapest has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

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 Budapest or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Budapest or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is terrific for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking. 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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Budapest or Reykjavik?

Budapest 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 Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

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 Budapest or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Reykjavik is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Budapest or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Both Budapest and Reykjavik are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Budapest is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Reykjavik is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Budapest or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest 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 Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Budapest or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Budapest is a great destination for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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

Budapest 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 Budapest is top-notch. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Budapest or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Budapest is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Budapest. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Reykjavik?

In either Budapest or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Budapest has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Budapest than Reykjavik. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Budapest, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

One day in Budapest or Reykjavik?

People visit Budapest because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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 Budapest or Reykjavik?

People visit Budapest 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 Budapest or Reykjavik?

People visit Budapest 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. 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 Budapest or Reykjavik?

Budapest 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Iceland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Reykjavik?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Budapest 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 Budapest 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 Budapest or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Budapest and Reykjavik. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Budapest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Budapest is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 21°C (70°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Budapest, it's very sunny this time of the year. Budapest usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Budapest gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Budapest usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Budapest or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Budapest as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the autumn. Budapest is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Budapest often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Budapest gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Budapest are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Budapest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during winter. Budapest can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Budapest is much colder than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Budapest in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Budapest usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Budapest gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Budapest usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Budapest or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Budapest during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Budapest for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In April, Budapest is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 12°C (53°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Budapest often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Budapest gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Budapest