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

Should you visit Hvar or Reykjavik?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hvar 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.

Hvar

Hvar is a beautiful, vibrant, and energetic island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a clean, green, and safe city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Hvar and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hvar or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Hvar and Reykjavik are popular destinations, Hvar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hvar is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Hvar is more touristy than Reykjavik and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort. Reykjavik is famous for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Hvar different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Hvar is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Wandering around the old town you'll see many historic buildings such as the Cathedral of St. Stephen. You can also visit the nearby Hvar Fort or explore the Franciscan Monastery.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hvar 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 Hvar. It's an island, so you'll find no shortage of seafood in the restaurants. There's fish, crab, lobster, squid, and octopus on the menus around town. Many dishes are prepared with risotto or pasta and you'll find a lot of olive oil and wine.

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 Hvar or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Hvar has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The island has a reputation as a party island, and it's well earned. Most of the activity is found in Hvar Town, particularly between the months of June and September. Young people flock to the island for the all night parties and wild beach bars and clubs.

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 Hvar or Reykjavik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hvar has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The water is clear and there are snorkeling day trips that leave from town. This is a great way to get out on the water and glimpse the undersea world.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hvar or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Hvar is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hvar. The island has hilly bays and coves that are fun to explore. The best beaches are found to the south and southwest of the island and many are pebbly or gravelly.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Hvar or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Hvar offers some nice hiking trails. There are a number of hikes on the island that cater to every skill level and take you through natural areas or past historic sights.

Is the Shopping Better in Hvar or Reykjavik?

Both Hvar and Reykjavik are nice shopping destinations.

Hvar offers some nice shopping areas. In the town you'll find galleries, boutiques, jewelry shops and other beach stores. It's fun to pop in and look at the different items.

Reykjavik has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Hvar or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Both Hvar and Reykjavik are high quality to visit with kids.

Hvar is a very kid-friendly island. There are adventure parks, water parks, and other fun activities for kids. There are also beaches where everyone can swim and sea kayaking trips. Hvar Observatory is also a unique and fun place to visit as a family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Reykjavik. 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 Hvar or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Both Hvar and Reykjavik are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Hvar is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are some romantic hotels and beautiful beaches that make this a wonderful destination for couples. Anyone who enjoys a coastal setting with clear waters and a variety of water sports will enjoy their time here.

Reykjavik makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Is Hvar or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Hvar. The island has long been a popular stop with backpackers who enjoy the affordable prices, abundance of hostels, and active nightlife scene. You'll have no trouble meeting other travelers, particularly during the peak summer months.

Reykjavik is a good island 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 Hvar or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a city with good options for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for 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.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Both Hvar and Reykjavik offer nice public transit options.

Hvar has a few public transit options. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Reykjavik has some public transit options. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Hvar or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Reykjavik is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Hvar is a somewhat walkable island. Hvar Town can be explored on foot, but you'll need a vehicle to explore other parts of the island.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Hvar?

How long in Hvar or Reykjavik?

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

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

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

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

One day in Hvar or Reykjavik?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Hvar. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Hvar or Reykjavik?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the party-oriented destination of Hvar. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island 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 Hvar or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant island of Hvar. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the safe 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 Hvar or Reykjavik?

Hvar is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 in Croatia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hvar and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Hvar much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hvar would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hvar 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 Hvar.

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

Which is Bigger, Hvar or Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Hvar 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 Hvar 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 Hvar or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Hvar during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, 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, Hvar is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Hvar average around 26°C (80°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. In the summer, Hvar often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Hvar gets 345 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Hvar usually gets less rain in July than Reykjavik. Hvar gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hvar or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hvar and Reykjavik. The autumn months attract visitors to Hvar because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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. Hvar is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hvar averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hvar usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Hvar gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hvar usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Hvar gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hvar or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hvar as well as Reykjavik. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hvar this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. In the winter, Hvar is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hvar in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Hvar often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Hvar gets 128 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Hvar usually gets more rain in January than Reykjavik. Hvar gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hvar or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Hvar are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the spring for the natural beauty.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Hvar is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Hvar average around 15°C (59°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. Hvar usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Hvar gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hvar usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Hvar gets 66 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 Hvar