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

Should you visit Leipzig or Reykjavik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Leipzig 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.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a growing, dynamic, and cultural city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. 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.

Leipzig and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Thermal Pools


Is there more to do in Leipzig or Reykjavik?

Both Reykjavik and Leipzig have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Leipzig is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Reykjavik is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Reykjavik is more touristy than Leipzig and is known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Leipzig is popular for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

How is Leipzig different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Leipzig
Reykjavik

Leipzig 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 Leipzig can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Leipzig
Reykjavik

Leipzig 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 Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

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 Leipzig or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Leipzig
Reykjavik

The vibe at night is good in both Leipzig and Reykjavik.

If you're looking for night time activities Leipzig has a few options to choose from. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Reykjavik. 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 Leipzig or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Leipzig
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is terrific for hiking. However, Leipzig 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.

Leipzig is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Leipzig or Reykjavik?

Leipzig
Reykjavik

Leipzig 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 Leipzig. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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 Leipzig or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Leipzig
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Leipzig 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.

Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Leipzig or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Leipzig
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is great for romance. Also, Leipzig 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.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.


Is Leipzig or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Leipzig
Reykjavik

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

It's common for backpackers to visit Leipzig. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

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 Leipzig or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Leipzig
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Reykjavik. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

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

Leipzig
Reykjavik

Leipzig 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 Leipzig. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

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 Leipzig or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Leipzig
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is great for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Leipzig?

How long in Leipzig or Reykjavik?

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

Families should spend more time in Reykjavik than Leipzig. 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.

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

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


  • How many days in Leipzig or Reykjavik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Leipzig 1-3 
    Reykjavik 1-5

One day in Leipzig or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Leipzig. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Leipzig has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Reykjavik, you'll find nightlife and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Leipzig or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Leipzig. 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.

In Reykjavik, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reykjavik has to offer.


Five days in Leipzig or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the growing city of Leipzig. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reykjavik has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Leipzig or Reykjavik?

Leipzig 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Reykjavik. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Leipzig?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Leipzig is €166, 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 Leipzig and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Leipzig 91
    Reykjavik 129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Leipzig 182
    Reykjavik 258
Compare Hotels in Leipzig and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Leipzig 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 Leipzig


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: Leipzig Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Leipzig 27
    Reykjavik 42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

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

  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93

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 Leipzig or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Leipzig 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
    Leipzig 53
    Reykjavik 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

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.
    Leipzig 36
    Reykjavik 67

Tours and Activities in Leipzig

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

  • 1.5-Hour Historical Tour of Leipzig with Costumed Guide: $21
  • 2 hours Leipzig exclusive: Private city tour with Panorama Tower: $217
  • Big city tour Leipzig Hop on hop off: $20
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig Südvorstadt - independent discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig city center - independent city tour: $44
  • City tour on foot, by S-Bahn and tram: $24
  • Combo Tour in Guided City Tour & City Sightseeing: $21
  • Corpses, Leprosy, Lucifer 75-minute Tour at the Old Cemetery: $19
  • From Day Tour to the Green Belt: $631
  • From Markkleeberg: Full-Day Guided Cycling Tour by the Lakes: $48
  • Gruseltour Leipzig 90-minute walking tour about the Dark Secrets of Leipzig: $19
  • Gruseltour A Haunted Guided Tour: $18

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
    Leipzig 26
    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 Leipzig and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Leipzig much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Leipzig would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Leipzig 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 Leipzig.

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


Which is Bigger, Leipzig or Reykjavik?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Leipzig 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Leipzig and Reykjavik. The summer months attract visitors to Leipzig because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

Leipzig is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Leipzig averages around 19°C (67°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Leipzig, it's very sunny this time of the year. Leipzig usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Leipzig gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Leipzig usually receives around the same amount of rain as Reykjavik. Leipzig gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Leipzig as well as Reykjavik. The shopping scene are the main draw to Leipzig 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, Leipzig is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Leipzig in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Leipzig often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Leipzig gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Leipzig gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Leipzig are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Leipzig 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. Be prepared for some very cold days in Leipzig. In January, Leipzig is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Leipzig average around 1°C (33°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Leipzig usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Leipzig gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Leipzig gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Leipzig or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Leipzig during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. Leipzig is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Leipzig averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Leipzig often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik. Leipzig gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Leipzig 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
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Leipzig

Leipzig Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)