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

Should you visit London or Reykjavik?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between London and Reykjavik can help you decide which place is right for you.

London

London is a iconic, global, and international 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 shopping, museums, and theater.

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.

London and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Reykjavik?

You'll generally find more things to do in London than Reykjavik. London is bigger than Reykjavik, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. London is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. London is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. Reykjavik is well known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

Big Ben

How is London different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Travelers visit London from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Is London or Reykjavik Better for Theater?

London is an amazing city to visit for theatre. However, Reykjavik is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in London. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Reykjavik is not a theatre destination.

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

London 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 London. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

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 London or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

London has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

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 London or Reykjavik Better for Music?

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

London is known as a music capital around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is London or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is terrific for hiking. However, London is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking. 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.

London is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Reykjavik?

London 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 London. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

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 London or Reykjavik Better for Christmas?

London is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Reykjavik does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, London draws large crowds. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Reykjavik does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Reykjavik Better for Christmas Markets?

London is an amazing city to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Reykjavik does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit London because of the beautiful Christmas markets. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Reykjavik does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Reykjavik Better for Families?

London is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

London is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

Reykjavik is a very kid-friendly city. 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 London or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

London is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

London has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

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 London or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London 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 London. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

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 London or Reykjavik Better for Students?

London is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

London is a great destination for students. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

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

London 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 London is top-notch. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

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 London or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

London 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 London. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

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 London Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or London?

How long in London or Reykjavik?

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

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

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

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

One day in London or Reykjavik?

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

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

People visit London 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. 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 London or Reykjavik?

London is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in London, 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 safe 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 Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When comparing the travel costs between London and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, London or Reykjavik?

London has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of London 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 London 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 London or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Reykjavik. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to London this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, London is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in London in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).

London usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit London or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to London as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to London for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the autumn. In October, London is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in London average around 12°C (53°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

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

London usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and London are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to London in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during winter. London can get quite cold in the winter. London is much warmer than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in London averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

London usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit London or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and London during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In the spring, London is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in London in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, London often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and London