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

Should you visit Lisbon or Reykjavik?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and hiking.

Lisbon and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Reykjavik?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Reykjavik. Lisbon is bigger than Reykjavik, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lisbon is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Reykjavik is well known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Lisbon different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Travelers visit Lisbon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lisbon 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, Lisbon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or Reykjavik Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is known as a music capital around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Lisbon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

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

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Lisbon or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

People visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Reykjavik?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Lisbon. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Reykjavik.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Reykjavik is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Lisbon or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Reykjavik make for a very good place to visit.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Couples visit Reykjavik frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Lisbon or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Lisbon is a great city to visit as a student. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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 Lisbon or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Reykjavik?

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

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

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

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

One day in Lisbon or Reykjavik?

People visit Lisbon 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Reykjavik?

People visit Lisbon 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Reykjavik?

People visit Lisbon 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Reykjavik?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the friendly destination of Reykjavik. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Reykjavik?

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

Both Reykjavik and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisbon is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. 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, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Reykjavik. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Reykjavik. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. Lisbon is much warmer than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Reykjavik. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. 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, Lisbon is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Reykjavik. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Lisbon