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

Should you visit Sendai or Reykjavik?

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

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

Sendai

Sendai is a lively, high energy, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Sendai travel costs.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. Reykjavik is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Reykjavik travel costs.

Sendai and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sendai or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sendai than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Sendai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Sendai is famous for the Tanabata Festival, which is the largest of its kind and held every August. It is also well known for the statue of Lord Masamune. 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 Sendai different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sendai is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sendai can be an interesting and educational experience. The city grew up as a castle town, and today the castle ruins are a popular tourist destination. A park surrounds the area, Aobayama Park, and while only the stonewalls remain, you can visit the Sendai City Museum in the park as well. Zuihoden Temple is another landmark worth visiting, as is the AER observation terrace.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sendai 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 Sendai. There are a number of local specialties in the area and if you're an adventurous eater, then this is your place. Many of the dishes are influenced by the city's proximity to the ocean. Make sure you try the harako-meshi (rice with fish eggs), sea squirts, and sashimi. Another local favorite is beef tongue.

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 Sendai or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Sendai has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Head to Kokubuncho for the best nightlife scene in the area. This downtown neighborhood is filled with bars, clubs, and karaoke that come alive in the evening. For live music, check out Rensa, which is one of the city's largest live music venues.

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 Sendai or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Sendai is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Sendai has a beach worth visiting. There are a number of beaches in the area, but for the best options you'll want to head a bit out of town.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Sendai or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Sendai is not a hiking destination.

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.

Sendai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sendai or Reykjavik?

Sendai 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 Sendai. You'll find shopping arcades in the downtown area like Ichibancho, which is one of the most popular shopping districts in the city. If you head out of town towards the suburbs, you'll find malls and other outlet stores.

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 Sendai or Reykjavik More Beautiful?

Reykjavik is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Sendai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Reykjavik is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city offers the perfect gateway to world-renowned natural beauty including waterfalls, hot springs, and active volcanoes.

Sendai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sendai or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Sendai and Reykjavik are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Sendai is very family-friendly. The city has a number of green spaces that kids will enjoy including parks and playgrounds. There are also kid-focused museums like the Anpanman Children's Museum and the 3M Sendai City Science Museum. If the young ones really need a break from the history, you can check out Yagiyama Beny Land.

Reykjavik is known to be 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.

Is Sendai or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Reykjavik is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Reykjavik makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Sendai is a good city for couples to visit. The city boasts beautiful temples as well as nice natural areas, parks, and gardens. If you have time to get out of town, Okama is a volcanic lake that is one of the most beautiful spots in the region, and well worth the excursion.

Is Sendai or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sendai and Reykjavik are both nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sendai. There are a couple of hostels around the town and many of the activities are free as they involve strolling through parks or wandering down shopping streets.

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 Sendai or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Sendai 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.

Sendai is not popular with students.

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

Sendai 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 Sendai. There are two subway lines the north-south Namboku Line and the east-west Tozai Line. These lines cross at Sendai Station.

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 Sendai or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Sendai and Reykjavik are superb when it comes to walkability.

Sendai is a very walkable city. There are many parts of the city that are walkable, especially around Sendai Station as well as in the Chuo-dori arcade and the the Kokubuncho neighborhood.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Sendai?

How long in Sendai or Reykjavik?

In either Sendai or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Sendai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sendai, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

One day in Sendai or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Sendai. 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 Sendai or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Sendai. 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.

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 Sendai or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Sendai. 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.

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 Sendai or Reykjavik?

Sendai 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the friendly 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sendai and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Sendai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Sendai is in Asia and Reykjavik is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Sendai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sendai 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 Sendai.

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

Which is Bigger, Sendai or Reykjavik?

Sendai has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Sendai 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 Sendai 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 Sendai or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Sendai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Sendai because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

In July, Sendai is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Sendai average around 23°C (73°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Sendai usually receives less sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Sendai gets 124 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Sendai. In July, Sendai usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Sendai gets 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sendai or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Sendai during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Sendai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. Sendai is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sendai averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Sendai often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Sendai gets 149 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 Sendai. Sendai usually gets more rain in October than Reykjavik. Sendai gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sendai or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sendai and Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Sendai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Sendai. In the winter, Sendai is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sendai in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Sendai usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Sendai gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sendai usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Sendai gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sendai or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sendai as well as Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Sendai in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. In April, Sendai is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Sendai average around 10°C (51°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Sendai often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Sendai gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Sendai usually gets more rain in April than Reykjavik. Sendai gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Sendai