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

Should you visit Reykjavik or Honolulu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Reykjavik or Honolulu, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a friendly, clean, and green city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a energetic, vibrant, and multi-cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Reykjavik and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Reykjavik or Honolulu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Honolulu than Reykjavik, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Honolulu is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is known for its impressive beauty. Honolulu is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor. Reykjavik is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Reykjavik different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Honolulu from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Honolulu 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 Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

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 Reykjavik or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

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

Honolulu has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

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 Reykjavik or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

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

Honolulu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Reykjavik or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Honolulu to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Reykjavik or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Honolulu are among the best in the world. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Reykjavik or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik and Honolulu are both places where visitors can find first-rate hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Reykjavik draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Around Honolulu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Is the Shopping Better in Reykjavik or Honolulu?

Honolulu 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 Honolulu. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

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 Reykjavik or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

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.

Is Reykjavik or Honolulu Better for Couples?

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

Honolulu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

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 Reykjavik or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Honolulu is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

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.

Is Reykjavik or Honolulu Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

It's common for students to 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.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Reykjavik and Honolulu.

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

You'll find some public transit in Honolulu, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Reykjavik or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Reykjavik and Honolulu are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Honolulu is a very walkable city. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Reykjavik?

How long in Reykjavik or Honolulu?

Both Reykjavik and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Honolulu than in Reykjavik. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Reykjavik, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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

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

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

One day in Reykjavik or Honolulu?

The beautiful city of Reykjavik offers shopping and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

People visit Honolulu because there is so much to do. 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.

A weekend in Reykjavik or Honolulu?

Reykjavik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

People visit Honolulu because there is so much to do. 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 city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Reykjavik or Honolulu?

Reykjavik is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reykjavik, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Honolulu because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Reykjavik or Honolulu?

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Honolulu, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Reykjavik and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Reykjavik is in Europe and Honolulu is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Reykjavik or Honolulu?

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

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 Reykjavik or Honolulu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Reykjavik and Honolulu. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Honolulu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Reykjavik is much colder than Honolulu in the summer. The daily temperature in Reykjavik averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. Reykjavik usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during summer. Reykjavik gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Reykjavik usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Reykjavik gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Reykjavik or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Reykjavik as well as Honolulu. Many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Honolulu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. In the autumn, Reykjavik is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Reykjavik in October average around 5°C (41°F), and Honolulu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. In the autumn, Reykjavik often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Reykjavik gets 83 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Reykjavik usually gets more rain in October than Honolulu. Reykjavik gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Reykjavik or Honolulu in the Winter?

Both Honolulu and Reykjavik are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Reykjavik in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Honolulu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Reykjavik is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Reykjavik average around -0°C (32°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. Reykjavik usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during winter. Reykjavik gets 27 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Reykjavik usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Reykjavik gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Reykjavik or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Reykjavik during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. Reykjavik is much colder than Honolulu in the spring. The daily temperature in Reykjavik averages around 3°C (38°F) in April, and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Reykjavik often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Reykjavik gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Reykjavik usually gets more rain in April than Honolulu. Reykjavik gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Reykjavik