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

Should you visit Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a livable, cultural, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a safe, friendly, and clean city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Nottingham and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Thermal Pools


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nottingham than Reykjavik, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Nottingham is more popular for its museums, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Reykjavik is more touristy than Nottingham and is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Nottingham is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also home to Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Nottingham is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Nottingham is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Nottingham is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Nottingham. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in 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 Nottingham or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Reykjavik.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

If you're looking for night time activities Reykjavik has a few options to choose from. 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 Nottingham or Reykjavik Better for Music?

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Nottingham is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Nottingham active and fun. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Reykjavik?

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Nottingham 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 Nottingham. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

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 Nottingham or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Reykjavik is 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.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.


Is Nottingham or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Nottingham or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Nottingham
Reykjavik

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

Nottingham is not popular with students.


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

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Nottingham 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 Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

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 Nottingham or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Reykjavik

Nottingham and Reykjavik both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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 Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Reykjavik?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Reykjavik than Nottingham 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 Reykjavik.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Reykjavik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Reykjavik 1-5

One day in Nottingham or Reykjavik?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Nottingham. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nottingham has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With shopping and nightlife around the green city of Reykjavik, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reykjavik, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Nottingham or Reykjavik?

You'll find live music and food around the livable destination of Nottingham. 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.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Reykjavik, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Nottingham or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural city of Nottingham. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Reykjavik, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Reykjavik?

Nottingham 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.

Reykjavik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Nottingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is £196. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nottingham and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Reykjavik £111
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Reykjavik £222
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Reykjavik? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nottingham


Hotels in Reykjavik


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Reykjavik £36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

Also for Reykjavik, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Hveragerdi to Keflavik Airport (KEF) - Deparure Private Transfer: $68
  • Airport Express Shared Departure Transfer from Reykjavik Hotels to Keflavik Airport: $37
  • Airport Express Shared Departure transfer from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport: $29
  • Airport Transfer (One way) between Keflavik and Reykjavik: $200
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik City With Hotel Drop Off: $36
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik City one way: $28
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport One Way: $28
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport with Hotel Pick Up: $36
  • Blue Lagoon Admission Ticket Including Transfer: $268
  • Blue Lagoon Admission Ticket with Transfer: $254
  • Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket with Optional Private or Shared Transfer: $163
  • Blue Lagoon One Way Transfer: $184

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Nottingham change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nottingham £36
    Reykjavik £24

Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    £142

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Icelandic Food Tour: $123
  • Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market: $125
  • The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour: $127
  • 3 Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour with Guide in Reykjavik: $129
  • Reykjavik Market & Lunch Food Tour - BitesizedIceland.com: $142
  • Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour - BitesizedIceland.com: $144
  • Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour: $145
  • Icelandic Cooking Class in Downtown Reykjavik with Musical Hosts: $296

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Reykjavik £57

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Gems of Boston (UK) – Private Walking Tour for Couples: $222
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Men's Yellow Belly Half-Day Spa Experience: $203
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $279
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $153
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Reykjavik's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Museum
    £8.57
  • Wine and Spa
    £23

Tours and Activities in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Reykjavík: City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Reykjavik Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Reykjavik Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $8.02
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Explore Reykjavik's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Citywalk Tour - Audioguide in English & German: $11
  • Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll Admission Ticket: $11
  • Skip the Line: Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll Admission Ticket: $11
  • Geothermal Energy Exhibition Entry Ticket: $17
  • Reykjavík: National Museum of Iceland Entry Ticket: $18
  • Skip the Line: The National Museum of Iceland Ticket: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Reykjavik £22

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Reykjavik are as follows:


  • Beer
    £7.01

Sample the Local Flavors in Reykjavik

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Reykjavik:

  • Gin Distillery tour and tasting: $25
  • Eimverk Distillery Tour with Tasting: $32


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Reykjavik?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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 Nottingham or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Reykjavik. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Nottingham is a little warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the summer, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Reykjavik. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, 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. In the autumn, Nottingham is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nottingham in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Nottingham during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Furthermore, 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 Nottingham in the winter. In January, Nottingham is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 4°C (39°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the spring for the natural beauty.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the spring. Nottingham is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Nottingham

Nottingham Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)