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

Should you visit Rhodes 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 Rhodes 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.

Rhodes

Rhodes is a world famous, ancient, and beautiful island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a safe, friendly, and clean city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Rhodes and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rhodes than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rhodes is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also well known for Rhodes Old Town. 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 Rhodes different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Travelers visit Rhodes from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Many of the villages feel like outdoor museums, with churches and archaeological sites throughout. Some of the most well known sites include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Hospital of the Knights, Süleyman Mosque, and Roloi Clock Tower.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Rhodes is an amazing island to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Rhodes is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The island offers Greek classics with a local flair. Common ingredients include wheat, olives, legumes, wine, and cheese. Many dishes are flavored with cumin, which is more heavily used here than elsewhere in Greece. Popular local dishes include matsi (a pasta cooked in meat broth and prepared with cheese, butter, and legumes), tsouka (a veal and pasta casserole), and lakani (veal, goat, or lamb meat that is slow-cooked in tomato sauce).

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 Rhodes or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Rhodes has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's not the most party-oriented island, but you'll find plenty to do at night. Most of the clubs are found in Rhodes Town near Hippocrates Square, along Menekleous Street, or near Orfanidou Street. Faliraki has long been a popular nightlife area that brings in the British crowd, but it's not as lively as it once was. Some resorts offer more of a nightlife scene than others so if that's a priority, do your research before you book.

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 Rhodes or Reykjavik Better for Resorts?

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

Rhodes offers an unforgettable resort vacation. It is a large and diverse island with a variety of resorts and towns to choose from. There are quiet areas like those around Kallithea Beach, Kolymbia, and Kalathos, as well as more lively areas like Faliraki. There are a number of all-inclusive resorts around the island but there are also boutique hotels and apartments if that's more your style.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Reykjavik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes 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 Rhodes to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The island has many snorkeling and dive spots where you can enjoy the underwater world. There are plenty of snorkeling or scuba diving trips that you can organize in advance as well. Because of the island's large size, there's a diversity of vendors and areas to pick between.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Rhodes are among the best in the world. The island has spectacular beaches with crystal blue waters. Many of the beaches are sandy with swimming or snorkeling opportunities. The island is also known for its watersports and several beaches are great windsurfing or kite surfing locations. There are countless beaches to choose from but some of the favorites are Tsambika, Saint Paul's Bay, Ladiko, and Kallithea.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

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

Rhodes is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The breathtaking landscapes, sweeping views, and beautiful waters make this an amazing hiking island. There are a wide range of trails to choose from with easy, moderate, and challenging options available. The many quaint villages and unique archaeological sites all make this a fantastic place to hike.

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 Rhodes or Reykjavik?

Rhodes is an amazing island 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 Rhodes. For a unique shopping experience head to Nea Agora (The New Market), which has a mix of shops and restaurants. You can also pick up fresh produce or pastries there. Sprinkled around the island you'll find many local artisan shops where you can buy ceramics, jewelry, soaps, leather goods, and more.

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 Rhodes or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Both Rhodes and Reykjavik are great family-friendly destinations.

Rhodes is a very kid-friendly island. It's large size, varied activities, and wonderful outdoor setting makes this one of the most kid-friendly islands in Greece. There are many local villages that everyone will enjoy as well as beautiful walks and stunning beaches. Kids will appreciate the diversity of water activities that are available and the family-friendly restaurants ensure everyone can eat out comfortably.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Reykjavik. 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 Rhodes or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

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

Rhodes has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The larger size and diversity of activities make this island a great option for a honeymoon. The beaches are breathtaking, but there are also a number of water sports that couples will enjoy. The hiking, archaeological sites, and amazing restaurants will make for an unforgettable honeymoon.

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 Rhodes or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Rhodes is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The island has something for everyone, and because it's one of the larger islands, there are more hostels and budget restaurants to choose from. You'll find all kinds of travelers on the island and there really is something that everyone can enjoy.

Reykjavik is a good island 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 Rhodes or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a good destination for students. However, Rhodes 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.

Rhodes is not popular with students.

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

Rhodes 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 Rhodes. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

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 Rhodes or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Reykjavik is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Rhodes is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Rhodes is generally not a very walkable island. The island is large so unless you're interested in hiking, most places are best reached with a vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Reykjavik?

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

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

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

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

One day in Rhodes or Reykjavik?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Rhodes. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Rhodes or Reykjavik?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the active destination of Rhodes. 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 island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Rhodes or Reykjavik?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the beautiful island of Rhodes. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Rhodes or Reykjavik?

Rhodes 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the green destination of Reykjavik. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Greece, The Best Bicycle Tours in Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Reykjavik?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes 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.