Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Gothenburg?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Gothenburg or Reykjavik?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Gothenburg or Reykjavik? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.
Where Should I go: Gothenburg or Reykjavik?
Gothenburg
Gothenburg is the second largest city in Sweden with a population of about 500,000. It is located on the western coast at the edge of the Gota River. It's a very friendly and welcoming city with a great vibe. Part of its energy comes from the Gothenburg University, which, with over 60,000 students, is the largest university in the country. Historically, Gothenburg has working class roots which are still apparent today, particularly in the city's harbour area. Recently there has been a growing number of expensive restaurants and cafes, showing that the demographic continues to evolve.
Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the capital and largest city in the country of Iceland. The city is where the vast majority of the country's population resides and the urban area has about 200,000 residents. The city is sprawling, with a large area covered in suburbs. The the city center is quite compact, with many interesting and colorful houses. There are a lot of things that attract tourists to this city, including an interesting culture and history as well as plenty of shopping and dining opportunities.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Sweden, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Sweden, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayGothenburg $97Reykjavik $243
The average daily cost (per person) in Gothenburg is $97, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is $243. 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 Gothenburg and Reykjavik in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personGothenburg $40Reykjavik $138
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomGothenburg $80Reykjavik $276
Compare Hotels in Gothenburg and Reykjavik
Looking for a hotel in Gothenburg 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.
Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Gothenburg Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Gothenburg $18Reykjavik $45
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Gothenburg
Also for Gothenburg, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Umea Private Transfer from Umea city centre to Umea airport: $145
- Umea Private Transfer from Umea (UME) Airport to City centre: $145
- Transfer From Gothenburg Hotel To Gothenburg Museum of Art: $32
- Private Transfer from Gothenburg city to Goteborg Cruise Port: $64
- Private Transfer Gothenburg Airport GOT to Gothenburg by Sedan: $102
- Private Transfer From Gothenburg To Stockholm: $505
- Private Transfer From Gothenburg To Alingsås: $119
- Private Transfer From Gothenburg Landvetter Airport to Gothenburg Hotels: $95
- Ostersund Private Transfer from Ostersund (OSD) airport to central Ostersund: $174
- Ostersund Private Transfer from Central Ostersund to Ostersund Airport: $174
- Landvetter Airport Bus Transfer Departure: $15
- Landvetter Airport Bus Transfer Arrival: $15
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik
Also for Reykjavik, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- To/from Blue Lagoon Private Transfer in Iceland: $159
- The Lava Tunnel Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik: $103
- The Blue Lagoon Comfort Package Including Transfer from Reykjavik: $167
- Sky Lagoon Entry with 7-Step Ritual and Transfers from Reykjavik: $115
- Skarfabakki Cruise Port to Keflavik Airport (KEF) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
- Skarfabakki Cruise Port Transfers To/From Keflavik Airport.: $161
- Sky Lagoon Admission with Transfer: $124
- Roundtrip Bus Transfer to the Blue Lagoon: $45
- Private Transfer to/from Keflavík Airport: $169
- Private Luxury Airport Transfer Service: $278
- Private Airport Transfer to Keflavik : $165
- Private Airport Transfer - RVK to KEF: $53
Is it cheaper to fly into Gothenburg or Reykjavik?
Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Gothenburg 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.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayGothenburg $38Reykjavik $30
Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik
For Reykjavik, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
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Dinner (Fish Market)$176
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Reykjavik
For Reykjavik, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Icelandic Food Tour: $123
- Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market: $125
- The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour: $127
- 3 Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour with Guide in Reykjavik: $129
- Reykjavik Market & Lunch Food Tour - BitesizedIceland.com: $142
- Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour - BitesizedIceland.com: $144
- Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour: $145
- Icelandic Cooking Class in Downtown Reykjavik with Musical Hosts: $296
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Gothenburg $15Reykjavik $71
Tours and Activities in Gothenburg
For Gothenburg, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- 2-Days Private Tour in Gothenburg: $300
- 24h Gothenburg Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour: $32
- After Dark in A Guided Nightlife Tour: $263
- Archipelago Tour with guide Gothenburg: $40
- Bike Tour Gothenburg, Guided Bicycle Tours: $113
- City Sightseeing Gothenburg Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $32
- Discover Gothenburg - Private Walking Tour: $224
- Egypt Oasis Adventure Package: $918
- Entry Ticket To Gothenburg Museum of art with pickup: $37
- Entry Ticket To Universeum in Gothenburg with pickup: $64
- Fatbike Experience in Sorsele: $113
- Full Day Private Shore Tour in Gothenburg from Gothenburg Port: $283
Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Reykjavik's activities, tours, and tickets:
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Art Museum$11
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Wine and Spa$29
Tours and Activities in Reykjavik
For Reykjavik, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- WWII History Tour with a 1940's British Officer in Reykjavik: $148
- #1 Northern Lights Tour In Iceland from Reykjavik with PRO photos: $145
- 1 hour Reykjavík E-Scooter Adventure: $58
- 1-Hour ATV Quad Tour from Reykjavik: $131
- 1-Hour Helicopter Tour in Iceland: The Geothermal Tour: $435
- 1hr ATV & Golden Circle Adventure from Reykjavik: $276
- 1hr Buggy Adventure from Reykjavik: $172
- 2hr Buggy 'Lava Field Adventure' from Reykjavik: $219
- 3-Hour Private Discover Reykjavik Photography Tour: $172
- 3hr Volcanic Springs ATV Adventure from Reykjavik: $299
- ATV - QUAD Adventure: $174
- Adventure in Landmannalaugar and Hot Springs - Reykjavík & Hella: $174
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayGothenburg $20Reykjavik $28
Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Reykjavik are as follows:
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Beer$8.67
Sample the Local Flavors in Reykjavik
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Reykjavik:
- Gin Distillery tour and tasting: $25
- Eimverk Distillery Tour with Tasting: $32
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Gothenburg and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Gothenburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Gothenburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Gothenburg 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 Gothenburg.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Gothenburg Expensive? and Is Reykjavik Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Gothenburg or Reykjavik?
Gothenburg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Gothenburg 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 Gothenburg 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 Gothenburg or Reykjavik in the Summer?
Both Reykjavik and Gothenburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.
In the summer, Gothenburg is a little warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Gothenburg in July average around 16°C (61°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gothenburg. Gothenburg usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Gothenburg gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Gothenburg usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Gothenburg gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyGothenburg 16°C (61°F)Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)
Should I visit Gothenburg or Reykjavik in the Autumn?
Both Reykjavik and Gothenburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
Reykjavik can be very cold during autumn. In October, Gothenburg is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Gothenburg average around 9°C (47°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).
In the autumn, Gothenburg often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Gothenburg gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.
Gothenburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Reykjavik. Gothenburg gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberGothenburg 9°C (47°F)Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)
Should I visit Gothenburg or Reykjavik in the Winter?
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Gothenburg and Reykjavik. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.
The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. Gothenburg can be very cold during winter. Gothenburg is much colder than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in Gothenburg averages around -2°C (29°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).
Gothenburg usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Gothenburg gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Gothenburg usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Gothenburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryGothenburg -2°C (29°F)Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)
Should I visit Gothenburg or Reykjavik in the Spring?
The spring brings many poeple to Gothenburg as well as Reykjavik. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.
It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the spring. In the spring, Gothenburg is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Gothenburg in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).
In the spring, Gothenburg often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Gothenburg gets 182 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.
Gothenburg usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Gothenburg gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilGothenburg 5°C (41°F)Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)
Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Gothenburg
| Gothenburg | Reykjavik | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | -2°C (29°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) | -0°C (32°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
| Feb | -2°C (29°F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) | 1°C (33°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) |
| Mar | 1°C (34°F) | 50 mm (2 in) | 1°C (34°F) | 82 mm (3.2 in) |
| Apr | 5°C (41°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) | 3°C (38°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) |
| May | 11°C (51°F) | 51 mm (2 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 44 mm (1.7 in) |
| Jun | 15°C (59°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) | 10°C (49°F) | 50 mm (2 in) |
| Jul | 16°C (61°F) | 68 mm (2.7 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 52 mm (2 in) |
| Aug | 16°C (60°F) | 77 mm (3 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) |
| Sep | 12°C (54°F) | 81 mm (3.2 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) |
| Oct | 9°C (47°F) | 84 mm (3.3 in) | 5°C (41°F) | 86 mm (3.4 in) |
| Nov | 4°C (38°F) | 84 mm (3.3 in) | 1°C (35°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
| Dec | 0°C (32°F) | 75 mm (3 in) | 0°C (32°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.