A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Newcastle upon Tyne vs. Reykjavik for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Reykjavik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a livable, cultural, and historical port city. Other reasons to visit include food, 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik?

You'll generally find more things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne than Reykjavik. Newcastle upon Tyne is bigger than Reykjavik, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Newcastle upon Tyne is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Reykjavik is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne and is known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for The Tyne Bridge.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Newcastle upon Tyne to see the historical old town. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is an amazing city to visit for its hiking trails. However, Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Reykjavik is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Reykjavik. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Reykjavik is a very popular place for couples. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Reykjavik makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a nice destination for couples. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Reykjavik are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is an excellent place 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an amazing port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik?

In either Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Newcastle upon Tyne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Newcastle upon Tyne. 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.

In Reykjavik, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Lots of people come for the hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the high energy destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Reykjavik for a weekend. Lots of people come for the hiking. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reykjavik, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the livable port city of Newcastle upon Tyne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Reykjavik, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reykjavik, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Reykjavik. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers something for everyone. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik?

Newcastle upon Tyne has a larger population, and is about 69% larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne is a little warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik during summer. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Newcastle upon Tyne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the shopping scene. Furthermore, 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, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 10°C (49°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Reykjavik. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle upon Tyne. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in October than Reykjavik. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne can get quite cold in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne is much warmer than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Reykjavik. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in April than Reykjavik. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Newcastle upon Tyne