A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Loch Lomond National Park vs. Reykjavik for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Loch Lomond National Park 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 Loch Lomond National Park 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.

Loch Lomond National Park

Loch Lomond National Park is a relaxing, scenic, and serene national park. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a friendly, clean, and green city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and hiking.

Loch Lomond National Park and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Thermal Pools


Is there more to do in Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Reykjavik than Loch Lomond National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Reykjavik is more touristy than Loch Lomond National Park and is known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Also, Reykjavik is famous for The Thermal Pools. Loch Lomond National Park is well known for becoming the first designated national park in Scotland in 2002.

How is Loch Lomond National Park different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Loch Lomond National Park
Reykjavik

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Loch Lomond National Park and Reykjavik can be difficult as they are each respectable in their own way.

Loch Lomond National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find some traditional Scottish food to sample but in general for the best food, head to one of the nicer hotels in the area.

Reykjavik offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Loch Lomond National Park
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Reykjavik has a few options to choose from. 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Loch Lomond National Park
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is an amazing city to visit for hiking. Also, Loch Lomond National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Loch Lomond National Park offers some nice hiking trails. You can choose from relaxing walks or more strenuous hikes and options run along the shoreline or into the surrounding hills and forests. Some of the more popular hikes in the area include Ben Lomond, Conic Hill, and Callander Crags.

Is the Shopping Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik?

Loch Lomond National Park
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Loch Lomond National Park
Reykjavik

Both Loch Lomond National Park and Reykjavik are high quality to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Loch Lomond National Park. You'll find a wide range of diverse activities for kids around the park. They can explore the maze at the Lodge Forest Visitor Center, get up close with animals at Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, or Loch Lomond Pony Trekking, or have an adventure at Doune Castle. Other highlights for the kids include Wellsfield Farm and the Maid of the Loch Paddle Steamer.

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 Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Loch Lomond National Park
Reykjavik

Both Loch Lomond National Park and Reykjavik are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Loch Lomond National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. There are many waterfront accommodation options that make for a beautiful and peaceful couples retreat. The nature and serenity is perfect for couples who want to get away from it all.

Reykjavik is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Loch Lomond National Park
Reykjavik

For backpackers, both Loch Lomond National Park and Reykjavik are notable places to visit.

Loch Lomond National Park is a good national park to visit for backpackers. There are some camping options available for backpackers and those who want to experience nature in its fullest.

Plenty of backpackers 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Loch Lomond National Park
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Loch Lomond National Park 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not popular with students.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Loch Lomond National Park
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Reykjavik offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Loch Lomond National Park. You can reach the park by train, but transportation option within the area are generally limited.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Loch Lomond National Park
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Loch Lomond National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Loch Lomond National Park?

How long in Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik?

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

Families should spend more time in Reykjavik than Loch Lomond National Park. 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 Loch Lomond National Park. 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 Reykjavik than Loch Lomond National Park 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 Reykjavik.


  • How many days in Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Loch Lomond National Park 2-4 
    Reykjavik 1-5

One day in Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik?

You'll find around the national park of Loch Lomond National Park. 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 nightlife and shopping when visiting the friendly city of Reykjavik. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik?

You'll find around the serene destination of Loch Lomond National Park. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reykjavik. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Most people visit for the hiking. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the relaxing national park of Loch Lomond National Park. 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 place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.


A week in Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik?

Loch Lomond National Park 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 popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


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


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Loch Lomond National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Loch Lomond National Park is £61, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is £196. 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 Loch Lomond National Park and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Loch Lomond National Park £31
    Reykjavik £111
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Loch Lomond National Park £62
    Reykjavik £222
Compare Hotels in Loch Lomond National Park and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Loch Lomond National Park 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 Loch Lomond National Park


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: Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Loch Lomond National Park £20
    Reykjavik £36

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 Loch Lomond National Park or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Loch Lomond National Park 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
    Loch Lomond National Park £15
    Reykjavik £24

Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    £142

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.
    Loch Lomond National Park £16
    Reykjavik £57

Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Art Museum
    £8.57
  • Wine and Spa
    £23

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
    Loch Lomond National Park £3.93
    Reykjavik £22

Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Beer
    £7.01

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

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