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

Should you visit Como or Reykjavik?

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

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

Como

Como is a trendy, fun, and vibrant lake area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and hiking.

Como and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Como or Reykjavik?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Como than Reykjavik. While Reykjavik is larger than Como, Como has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Como is better known for its museums, food, beaches, and shopping, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking. Como is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Also, Como is famous for the lakeside setting. Reykjavik is well known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Como different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Como is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Como specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Como is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

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 Como or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Both Como and Reykjavik have notable vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Como. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

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 Como or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Como is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Como has a beach worth visiting. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Como or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Is the Shopping Better in Como or Reykjavik?

Como is an amazing lake area 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 Como. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

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 Como or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Como and Reykjavik are both superb destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Como. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Reykjavik is 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 Como or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for romance. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Como has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Couples visit Reykjavik frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Como or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Como is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Como is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

Reykjavik is a good lake area 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 Como or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Como is not popular with 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.

Como is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Como and Reykjavik.

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

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 Como or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Como and Reykjavik are superb when it comes to walkability.

Como is a very walkable destination. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Como?

How long in Como or Reykjavik?

In either Como or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Como because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Como, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

One day in Como or Reykjavik?

You'll find food and shopping around the lake area of Como. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reykjavik. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Como or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Como. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this lake area has to offer. This lake area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Reykjavik is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Como or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the trendy lake area of Como. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the friendly destination of Reykjavik. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Como or Reykjavik?

Como is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

The green city of Reykjavik offers nightlife and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When comparing the travel costs between Como and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Como or Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Como 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 Como 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 Como or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Como are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Como because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

In the summer, Como is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Como in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Como. Como usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Como gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Como usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Como gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Como or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Como during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Como this time of year. Also, 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. In October, Como is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Como average around 15°C (58°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Como. Como usually gets more rain in October than Reykjavik. Como gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Como or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Como and Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Como 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 Como. Como is much warmer than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in Como averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Como usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Como gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Como usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Como gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Como or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Como as well as Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Como in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Como is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Como in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Como often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Como gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Como usually gets more rain in April than Reykjavik. Como gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Como