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

Should you visit Nagano 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 Nagano 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.

Nagano

Nagano is a scenic, historic, and traditional city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

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

Nagano and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagano than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nagano is very popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Nagano is famous for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also well known for Zenko-ji Temple. Reykjavik is famous for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Nagano different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Reykjavik Better for Skiing?

Nagano is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Reykjavik is not a skiing destination.

Nagano offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Reykjavik is not a skiing destination.

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

Nagano 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 Nagano can be an interesting and educational experience. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Nagano 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 Nagano. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

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 Nagano or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Nagano is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Nagano has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

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 Nagano or Reykjavik Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Nagano has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Nagano is a good destination for visiting its old town. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is terrific for hiking. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Nagano is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Reykjavik?

If you're looking to go shopping, Nagano and Reykjavik both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nagano. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Many visitors go to Reykjavik to go shopping. 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 Nagano or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Both Nagano and Reykjavik are high quality to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nagano is very family-friendly. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

Reykjavik is known to be 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 Nagano or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Reykjavik is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Nagano is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Nagano or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nagano and Reykjavik are nice places to visit.

Nagano is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

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 Nagano or Reykjavik Better for Students?

For students, both Nagano and Reykjavik are nice places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Nagano. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for 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 Nagano or Reykjavik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagano and Reykjavik both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Nagano offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Reykjavik has a few public transit options. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Nagano or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

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

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

Nagano is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Reykjavik?

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

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

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

One day in Nagano or Reykjavik?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the city of Nagano. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagano has to offer. 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 Nagano or Reykjavik?

You'll find nightlife and food around the alpine destination of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Nagano or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the alpine city of Nagano. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Nagano or Reykjavik?

Nagano is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nagano and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Nagano much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Nagano is in Asia and Reykjavik is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Nagano would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nagano 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 Nagano.

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

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Reykjavik?

Nagano has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Nagano 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 Nagano 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 Nagano or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Reykjavik. Most visitors come to Nagano for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nagano is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 25°C (77°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Nagano usually receives less sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nagano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nagano usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagano or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Reykjavik. The autumn months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the autumn. Nagano is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nagano usually gets more rain in October than Reykjavik. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Nagano are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. It's quite cold in Nagano in the winter. In the winter, Nagano is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nagano in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. In January, Nagano usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nagano or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Nagano during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nagano for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the spring for the natural beauty.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Nagano is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 11°C (52°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Nagano usually gets more rain in April than Reykjavik. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Nagano