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

Should you visit Munich or Reykjavik?

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

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

Munich

Munich is a economically thriving, bustling, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music. See Munich travel costs.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a safe, friendly, and clean city. The famous beauty of Reykjavik is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and hiking. See Reykjavik travel costs.

Munich and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Munich or Reykjavik?

You'll generally find more things to do in Munich than Reykjavik. Munich is bigger than Reykjavik, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Munich is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Munich is well known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. Also, Munich is famous for The Nymphenburg Palace. 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 Munich different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Munich 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 Munich can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Munich 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 Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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 Munich or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Munich has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich or Reykjavik Better for Music?

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

Munich is known as a music capital around the world. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is Munich or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Munich 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.

Munich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Reykjavik?

Munich 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 Munich. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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 Munich or Reykjavik More Beautiful?

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Munich is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Reykjavik is one of the main draws. The city offers the perfect gateway to world-renowned natural beauty including waterfalls, hot springs, and active volcanoes.

Munich is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Munich or Reykjavik Better for Families?

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

Munich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

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.

Is Munich or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

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.

Is Munich or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich 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 Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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 Munich or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Munich is a great destination for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great 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 Munich or Reykjavik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Munich 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 Munich is top-notch. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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 Munich or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Munich and Reykjavik both are superb when exploring on foot.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Munich?

How long in Munich or Reykjavik?

In either Munich or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Munich has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Munich than Reykjavik. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Munich, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

One day in Munich or Reykjavik?

People visit Munich 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 Munich or Reykjavik?

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

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 Munich or Reykjavik?

People visit Munich 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 Munich or Reykjavik?

Munich 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.

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 Historical Tours in Germany, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Munich or Reykjavik?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Munich 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 Munich 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 Munich or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Munich as well as Reykjavik. The summer months attract visitors to Munich because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

In the summer, Munich is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Munich in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Munich this time of the year. In the summer, Munich often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Munich or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Munich 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 October, Munich is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 11°C (52°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Munich usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Munich usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Munich or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Munich during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Munich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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 Munich. Munich is much colder than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in Munich averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Munich often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Munich or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Munich in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Munich is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Munich in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Munich usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Munich usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Munich gets 48 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 Munich