A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Reykjavik vs. Los Angeles for Food, Nightlife, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Reykjavik or Los Angeles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Reykjavik or Los Angeles, 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 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.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a energetic, dynamic, and glamourous city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Reykjavik and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Reykjavik or Los Angeles?

You'll generally find more things to do in Los Angeles than Reykjavik. Los Angeles is bigger than Reykjavik, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is more popular for its impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood. Reykjavik is well known 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 Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

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

Travelers visit Los Angeles from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Reykjavik or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is an excellent place to visit for theatre. However, Reykjavik is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Reykjavik is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Los Angeles is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Los Angeles has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

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 Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is known as a music capital around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is Reykjavik or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Reykjavik or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Reykjavik or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Reykjavik or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik and Los Angeles are both places where visitors can find world-class 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 Los Angeles visitors will find world-class hiking trails. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Is the Shopping Better in Reykjavik or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Los Angeles. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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 Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Los Angeles Better for Couples?

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

Los Angeles has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date 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.

Is Reykjavik or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Los Angeles is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

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 Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Reykjavik and Los Angeles.

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

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Reykjavik or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Reykjavik is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Reykjavik?

How long in Reykjavik or Los Angeles?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Reykjavik or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the friendly city of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the friendly destination of Reykjavik. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

People visit Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the safe city of Reykjavik. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

People visit Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Reykjavik. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles, 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Reykjavik and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Reykjavik or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Reykjavik and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Reykjavik are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Reykjavik is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Reykjavik average around 11°C (52°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In July, Reykjavik usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Reykjavik gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Reykjavik or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

Both Los Angeles and Reykjavik during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Reykjavik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the autumn. Reykjavik is much colder than Los Angeles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Reykjavik averages around 5°C (41°F) in October, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Reykjavik usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. Reykjavik gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Reykjavik or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Reykjavik and Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Reykjavik can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Reykjavik is much colder than Los Angeles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Reykjavik in January average around -0°C (32°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In January, Reykjavik usually receives around the same amount of rain as Los Angeles. Reykjavik gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Reykjavik or Los Angeles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Reykjavik as well as Los Angeles. The spring months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In April, Reykjavik is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Reykjavik average around 3°C (38°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

Reykjavik usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. Reykjavik gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Reykjavik