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

Should you visit Geneva 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 Geneva 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a international, professional, and classy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. 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.

Geneva and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Geneva or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Geneva than Reykjavik, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Geneva is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Reykjavik is more touristy than Geneva and is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Geneva is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also home to The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Geneva different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Geneva 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 Geneva can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Geneva 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 Geneva. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

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 Geneva or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Geneva or Reykjavik has a better nightlife scene.

Geneva has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

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 Geneva or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Geneva is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Geneva is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Geneva or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Geneva 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.

Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Geneva or Reykjavik?

Geneva 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 Geneva. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Reykjavik is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Geneva or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Reykjavik is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Geneva or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Reykjavik is a good destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Reykjavik. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Geneva is a great city to visit as a student. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

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

Geneva 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 Geneva is top-notch. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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 Geneva or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Geneva and Reykjavik both are great when exploring on foot.

Geneva is very walkable. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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 Geneva Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Reykjavik?

In either Geneva or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Geneva because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Geneva, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

Families should spend more time in Reykjavik than Geneva. 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.

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

One day in Geneva or Reykjavik?

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Geneva or Reykjavik?

People visit Geneva because there is so much to do. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Geneva or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse city of Geneva. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Geneva or Reykjavik?

Geneva is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the clean destination of Reykjavik. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When comparing the travel costs between Geneva 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 Geneva Expensive? and Is Reykjavik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Geneva or Reykjavik?

Geneva has a larger population, and is about 62% larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Geneva 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 Geneva 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 Geneva or Reykjavik in the Summer?

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

Geneva is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Geneva this time of the year. In the summer, Geneva often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Geneva or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Geneva for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area 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, Geneva is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Geneva in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Geneva usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Geneva or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Geneva during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Geneva because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Geneva can be very cold. In January, Geneva is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 4°C (39°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Geneva often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Geneva or Reykjavik in the Spring?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. Geneva is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Geneva usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Geneva