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

Should you visit Hannover 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 Hannover 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.

Hannover

Hannover is a cultural, dynamic, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a friendly, clean, and green city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Hannover and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Thermal Pools


Is there more to do in Hannover or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hannover than Reykjavik, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hannover is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Reykjavik is more touristy than Hannover and is known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Hannover is popular for its many parks and gardens as well as its accessibility to the German train system. It is also home to The Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen.

How is Hannover different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hannover
Reykjavik

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

Hannover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll see many of the city's sights along the Red Thread Trail in the city center. Make sure you check out the New Town Hall, the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, and the Lower Saxony State Museum as well.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Hannover
Reykjavik

Hannover is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Hannover. You'll find classic tearooms, food halls, fine dining restaurants, and markets. Try all of the classic German sausages or sample international dishes in this dynamic city.

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 Hannover or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Hannover
Reykjavik

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

Hannover has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are many students who keep the nightlife scene active. From beer halls to jazz venues, you'll find a diversity of options around town.

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 Hannover or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Hannover
Reykjavik

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

Hannover is a good destination for visiting its old town. Check out the half-timbered buildings, the old churches, and the charming streets around old town.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.


Is Hannover or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Hannover
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is very popular for hiking. However, Hannover 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.

Hannover is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hannover or Reykjavik?

Hannover
Reykjavik

If you're looking to go shopping, Hannover and Reykjavik both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hannover. Head to the 14th-century Market Church (Marktkirche) and wander around the nearby streets for some of the city's best shopping. Also make sure you check out the city flea market. In addition to boutiques and independent shops, there are also major department stores and large shopping malls in the area.

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 Hannover or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Hannover
Reykjavik

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

Reykjavik is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hannover is a family-friendly place to visit. Like many German cities, there are a number of activities geared specifically to kids. Check out the Sea Life Center or the Hannover Zoo. If you're willing to get out of town a bit, there's also Serengeti Park Hodenhagen or Rasti-Land theme park, which has rides and games.


Is Hannover or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Hannover
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a great city for romance. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Reykjavik is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Hannover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic settings around town include Herrenhäuser Gärten, Berggarten, and Maschpark.

Is Hannover or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hannover
Reykjavik

For backpackers, both Hannover and Reykjavik are good places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hannover. Some people use the city to split up longer train trips. There are a couple of hostels in town if you decide to stay a night or two.

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

Is Hannover or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Hannover
Reykjavik

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

Hannover is a great city to visit as a student. There are a few great universities in town including Leibniz University, which attract international students. There's also a nice nightlife and easy accessibility to the rest of Germany.

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

Hannover
Reykjavik

Hannover is an excellent place 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Hannover. The city has 12 city trains and 38 bus lines.

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 Hannover or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Hannover
Reykjavik

Hannover and Reykjavik are great when it comes to walkability.

Hannover is very walkable. There are some nice walkable parts to the city.

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 Hannover Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Hannover?

How long in Hannover or Reykjavik?

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

Families should spend more time in Reykjavik than Hannover. 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 Hannover 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 Hannover.


  • How many days in Hannover or Reykjavik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hannover 1-2 
    Reykjavik 1-5

One day in Hannover or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Hannover. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hannover has to offer. 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 Hannover or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Hannover. 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 Hannover or Reykjavik?

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

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 Hannover or Reykjavik?

Hannover 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.

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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Germany, The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Hannover?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hannover is €155, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is €228. 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 Hannover and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hannover 85
    Reykjavik 129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hannover 170
    Reykjavik 258
Compare Hotels in Hannover and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Hannover 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.

Hotels in Hannover


Hotels in Reykjavik


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: Hannover Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hannover 23
    Reykjavik 42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hannover

Also for Hannover, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Hanover City to Bremen City: $94
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $212
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg With Sightseeing Stops: $271
  • Private Direct Transfer From Wolfsburg to Hamburg; English Speaking Driver: $289

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

Also for Reykjavik, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Reykjavík: South Coast Guided Day Trip by Jeep with Transfer: $1,765
  • From Reykjavik Port: Private Blue Lagoon Transfer: $1,050
  • Blue Lagoon with Private Roundtrip Transfer: $473
  • Door to Door Private Blue Lagoon Transfer: $306
  • From ATV Ride and Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer: $287
  • Lava Tunnel Caving & Snorkeling in Silfra with Transfer | Free Photos: $283
  • Lava Tunnel Caving with Transfer | Small Group: $283
  • Private Luxury Airport Transfer Service: $278
  • Private transfer: Reykjavik to Keflavik International Airport (KEF): $277
  • Private Transfer from Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport : $273
  • Private Airport Transfer: $271
  • Private Airport Transfer from Reykjavik: $270

Is it cheaper to fly into Hannover or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Hannover 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hannover 49
    Reykjavik 28

Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    165

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
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hannover 35
    Reykjavik 67

Tours and Activities in Hannover

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hannover.

  • Culinary bike tour: $41
  • Fritz Haarmann murder tour through Hanover's old town: $33
  • Guided tour of the New Town Hall in Hanover: $11
  • Guided tour of the Royal Herrenhausen Gardens: $13
  • Hamelin Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $257
  • Hanno(ver)nascht Culinary city tour: $40
  • Hanover Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $252
  • Hanover: Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $120
  • Hanover: SEA LIFE Entry Ticket: $20
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Hanover in a double-decker bus: $22
  • On the trail of crime - Hannover's Crime Tour: $19
  • Personal Travel & Vacation Photography Walking Tour in Hannover: $186

Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Reykjavik's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Museum
    9.97
  • Wine and Spa
    27

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
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hannover 34
    Reykjavik 26

Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Reykjavik are as follows:


  • Beer
    8.15

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 Hannover and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Hannover much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hannover would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hannover 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 Hannover.

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


Which is Bigger, Hannover or Reykjavik?

Hannover has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Hannover 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 Hannover 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 Hannover or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hannover and Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Hannover in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Hannover is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Hannover averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Hannover usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Hannover gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hannover usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Hannover gets 62 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hannover 18°C (64°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Hannover or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hannover as well as Reykjavik. Most visitors come to Hannover for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, 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, Hannover is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hannover in October average around 10°C (51°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Hannover often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Hannover gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Hannover usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Hannover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hannover 10°C (51°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Hannover or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Hannover are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Hannover 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 Hannover can be very cold. In January, Hannover is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Hannover average around 1°C (33°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Hannover usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Hannover gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hannover usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Hannover gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hannover 1°C (33°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Hannover or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Hannover during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Hannover this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. Hannover is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Hannover averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Hannover often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik. Hannover gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Hannover usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Hannover gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hannover 8°C (47°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Hannover

Hannover Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 1°C (35°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)