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

Should you visit Nice 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 Nice 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.

Nice

Nice is a trendy, chic, and glamourous seaside destination. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a clean, green, and safe city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Nice and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nice than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nice is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking. Nice is more touristy than Reykjavik and is popular for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. It is also well known for The Promenade des Anglais. 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 Nice different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nice is an amazing seaside destination to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nice is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

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 Nice or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Nice has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice or Reykjavik Better for Resorts?

Nice is an amazing seaside destination to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Nice offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Reykjavik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Nice has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Nice is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nice. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Nice or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Nice to see the historical old town. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Nice or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Nice is not a hiking destination.

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.

Nice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Reykjavik?

Nice 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 Nice. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

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 Nice or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Reykjavik is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Nice is a family-friendly seaside destination. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Nice or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

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

Nice has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

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 Nice or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Nice and Reykjavik are nice destinations for backpackers.

Nice is a good seaside destination to visit for backpackers. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

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 Nice or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a city with good options for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

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.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Nice 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 Nice. There are both buses and trams.

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 Nice or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Nice is an amazing seaside destination 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 Nice. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Nice?

How long in Nice or Reykjavik?

In either Nice or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Nice has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Nice than Reykjavik. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Nice, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

One day in Nice or Reykjavik?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the quaint seaside destination of Nice. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reykjavik. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Nice or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the trendy destination of Nice. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This seaside destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Reykjavik is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nice or Reykjavik?

You'll find nightlife and food around the glamourous seaside destination of Nice. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this seaside destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside destination has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the green destination of Reykjavik. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Nice or Reykjavik?

Nice is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

The green city of Reykjavik offers nightlife and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nice or Reykjavik?

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

Both Reykjavik and Nice during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nice for the beaches, snorkeling, 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, Nice is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 23°C (73°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Nice usually gets less rain in July than Reykjavik. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Reykjavik. The autumn months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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. Nice is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Nice gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nice usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nice or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nice as well as Reykjavik. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. In the winter, Nice is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nice in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Nice usually gets more rain in January than Reykjavik. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nice for the beaches 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, Nice is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 13°C (56°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In April, Nice usually receives around the same amount of rain as Reykjavik. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Nice