Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Copenhagen?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Copenhagen and Reykjavik can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.
Copenhagen is a progressive, friendly, and happy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.
Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.
Tourists will generally find more to do in Copenhagen than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking. Reykjavik is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Copenhagen is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also well known for Tivoli Gardens.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Reykjavik and Copenhagen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many sights and landmarks around town including Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn Harbor, and The Round Tower. Some of the most popular museums are the National Museum of Denmark and the National Gallery of Denmark.
Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.
Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Copenhagen is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. In recent years the celebrity food scene has put this city on the map. There are many Michelin star restaurants around town including the world famous Noma. But there's also a diversity of restaurants to choose from, ranging from elegant, award-winning options to cozy local eateries. Danish food includes a lot of pastries and sandwiches. Make sure you try a rød pølse, or local hot dog from one of the many stands around town.
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).
Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.
Copenhagen has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The nightlife scene stays active until the early morning hours with many bars and clubs staying open until 5 or 6 in the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Istedgade and EnghavePlads in Vesterbro, Sankt Hans Torv in Nørrebro and some areas around Frederiksberg.
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.
Copenhagen is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.
Many visitors go to Copenhagen to see the historical old town. Indre By is the oldest part of the city and where you'll find most of the sights and attractions. This is where most visitors stay and you'll find many great restaurants and activities to enjoy.
Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.
Reykjavik is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.
Around Reykjavik visitors will find world-class hiking 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.
Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.
Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen. Design and style is notorious with Danish culture. You'll find many great local boutique or fashion design shops in town. Købmagergade is one of the busiest and most famous shopping streets in town, but you should also visit the street parallel to it, Pilestræde.
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.
Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.
Copenhagen is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.
Reykjavik is a very kid-friendly city. 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.
Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.
Copenhagen has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.
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.
Copenhagen is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.
Copenhagen is very popular with the backpacker crowd. While the city is expensive, there are still plenty of free things to do like simply wandering the neighborhoods. The city has a relaxed and friendly vibe that will almost make you forget all of the money you're spending.
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.
Copenhagen is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.
Copenhagen is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a reputation as the happiest in the world, and students are no exception. There are plenty of activities for students as well as a relaxed, yet productive, atmosphere. It's easy to explore the town on foot or by bike as well.
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.
Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen is top-notch. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.
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.
Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but there are also plenty of bikes available as well.
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 Copenhagen Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.
In either Copenhagen or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Copenhagen has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Copenhagen than Reykjavik. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.
Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Reykjavik. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Copenhagen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Copenhagen than Reykjavik. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Copenhagen that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen.
You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Copenhagen. 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.
With shopping and nightlife around the friendly city of Reykjavik, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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, one day is sufficent for most.
You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Copenhagen. 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.
With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Reykjavik, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.
You'll find nightlife and food around the happy city of Copenhagen. 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Copenhagen 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Copenhagen is $211, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is $249. 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 Copenhagen and Reykjavik in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen 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.
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.
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Copenhagen:
Also for Copenhagen, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Also for Reykjavik, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Copenhagen 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.
For Copenhagen, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
For Copenhagen, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
For Reykjavik, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
For Reykjavik, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Copenhagen's activities, tours, and tickets:
For Copenhagen, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Reykjavik's activities, tours, and tickets:
For Reykjavik, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
Also in Copenhagen, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Reykjavik are as follows:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Reykjavik:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Copenhagen and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Copenhagen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Copenhagen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Copenhagen Expensive? and Is Reykjavik Expensive?.
Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen 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.
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.
Both Reykjavik and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.
In July, Copenhagen is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 17°C (63°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).
In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.
Both Reykjavik and Copenhagen during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.
It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the autumn. Copenhagen is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).
Copenhagen usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Reykjavik. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine.
Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. It's quite cold in Copenhagen in the winter. In the winter, Copenhagen is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Copenhagen in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).
In January, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.
The spring brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the spring for the natural beauty.
Reykjavik can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Copenhagen is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 7°C (45°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).
Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.
Copenhagen | Reykjavik | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 1°C (33°F) | 51 mm (2 in) | -0°C (32°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
Feb | 1°C (33°F) | 31 mm (1.2 in) | 1°C (33°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) |
Mar | 3°C (37°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) | 1°C (34°F) | 82 mm (3.2 in) |
Apr | 7°C (45°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) | 3°C (38°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) |
May | 12°C (54°F) | 43 mm (1.7 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 44 mm (1.7 in) |
Jun | 16°C (61°F) | 54 mm (2.1 in) | 10°C (49°F) | 50 mm (2 in) |
Jul | 17°C (63°F) | 69 mm (2.7 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 52 mm (2 in) |
Aug | 17°C (63°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) |
Sep | 14°C (57°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) |
Oct | 10°C (50°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) | 5°C (41°F) | 86 mm (3.4 in) |
Nov | 6°C (42°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) | 1°C (35°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
Dec | 2°C (36°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 0°C (32°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) |