A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Outer Hebrides vs. Reykjavik for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Outer Hebrides and Reykjavik. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides is a stunning, spectacular, and natural archipelago. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Outer Hebrides and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Reykjavik. Although Outer Hebrides and Reykjavik are both popular with visitors, Reykjavik has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Reykjavik is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Outer Hebrides is known for its food and beaches. Reykjavik is more touristy than Outer Hebrides and is known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. It is also home to The Thermal Pools. Outer Hebrides is popular for its scenic beauty, fresh seafood, and distilleries.

How is Outer Hebrides different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides. You'll find plenty of seafood, smokehouses, distilleries and crofting produce in the area. Most islands have independent restaurants as well as pubs and other local eateries to choose from.

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 Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Reykjavik is a good destination for nightlife. However, Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Reykjavik. 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.

Outer Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Outer Hebrides. From white sand beaches to hidden coves, you'll enjoy a completely serene beach experience on these islands. You can get lost in the nature and soak up the surprisingly blue waters at any of the remote beaches. Favorite beaches in the area include Vatersay Bay, Coilleag a’Phrionnsa, West Coast Beach, and Crabhadail.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Outer Hebrides and Reykjavik, and they are world-class.

Outer Hebrides is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The islands offer some of the area's best hiking. You'll pass by stunning beaches, see unique wildlife, and enjoy a remote and tranquil setting. Follow the Hebridean Way, which covers the full length of the archipelago. It spans 156 miles and goes through 10 islands with 2 ferry trips.

People visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik?

Reykjavik is a good destination for shopping. However, Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Reykjavik. 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.

Outer Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik Better for Families?

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

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Outer Hebrides. The beautiful outdoor setting is great for kids and adults alike. There are beaches to explore as well as kid-friendly museums. You can also try your hand at digging for cockles or head out on the water to watch for dolphins.

Is Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Outer Hebrides and Reykjavik both great destinations for a couple.

Outer Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Go island hopping and discover the countless beautiful beaches. You can take a boat trip or simply soak up the peaceful coastal setting.

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 Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Outer Hebrides and Reykjavik are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Outer Hebrides. You'll need to take either a plane of ferry to reach the islands but once you're there you can camp and hike and soak up the tranquil setting.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Outer Hebrides is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Reykjavik. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

Outer Hebrides is not popular with students.

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

Reykjavik is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Outer Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Outer Hebrides. There are buses that run doing the day between Monday and Saturday. In Stornoway you may be able to find some evening buses as well.

Is Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Reykjavik is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Outer Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Outer Hebrides?

How long in Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik?

In either Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Outer Hebrides than Reykjavik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-10 days is a good amount of time for Outer Hebrides, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

Families should spend more time in Reykjavik than Outer Hebrides. 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.

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

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

One day in Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik?

You'll find food around the archipelago of Outer Hebrides. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik?

You'll find food around the serene destination of Outer Hebrides. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik?

You'll find food around the remote archipelago of Outer Hebrides. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik?

Outer Hebrides is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Outer Hebrides, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the city of Reykjavik. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples 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 Outer Hebrides and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Outer Hebrides much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Outer Hebrides would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides.

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

When is the best time to visit Outer Hebrides 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 Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Outer Hebrides are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Outer Hebrides in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Outer Hebrides is a little warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Outer Hebrides gets 117 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Outer Hebrides gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Outer Hebrides during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Outer Hebrides for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In the autumn, Outer Hebrides is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Outer Hebrides in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Outer Hebrides often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik. Outer Hebrides gets 83 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 Outer Hebrides. Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in October than Reykjavik. Outer Hebrides gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Outer Hebrides and Reykjavik. The winter months attract visitors to Outer Hebrides because of the cuisine. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the winter. The weather in Outer Hebrides can be very cold. In January, Outer Hebrides is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 4°C (40°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Outer Hebrides gets 33 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

Outer Hebrides gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Outer Hebrides gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Outer Hebrides as well as Reykjavik. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Outer Hebrides this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. Outer Hebrides is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Outer Hebrides averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Outer Hebrides often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik. Outer Hebrides gets 149 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in April than Reykjavik. Outer Hebrides gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Outer Hebrides