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

Should you visit Istanbul or Reykjavik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Reykjavik, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a diverse, beautiful, and high-energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a clean, green, and safe city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Istanbul and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Reykjavik, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Istanbul is more touristy than Reykjavik and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Reykjavik is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Istanbul different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Istanbul from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Istanbul 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, Istanbul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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 Istanbul or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Istanbul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

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 Istanbul or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Istanbul or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Reykjavik draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Reykjavik?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Istanbul. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

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 Istanbul or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Istanbul and Reykjavik are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Istanbul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Reykjavik is very family-friendly. 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 Istanbul or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Reykjavik are both superb to visit as a couple.

Istanbul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

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 Istanbul or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Istanbul. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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.

Is Istanbul or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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

Istanbul 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 Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

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 Istanbul or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Reykjavik both are superb when exploring on foot.

Istanbul is very walkable. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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 Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Reykjavik?

In either Istanbul or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Reykjavik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

One day in Istanbul or Reykjavik?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. 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.

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 Istanbul or Reykjavik?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. 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 Istanbul or Reykjavik?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. 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 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 Istanbul or Reykjavik?

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Istanbul, one week is sufficent for most. 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 The Best Budget Tours to Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Iceland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Reykjavik?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

Istanbul is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Reykjavik. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Reykjavik. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. In the autumn, Istanbul is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Reykjavik. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. Istanbul is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Istanbul