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

Should you visit Seoul or Reykjavik?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Reykjavik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a bustling, modern, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a clean, green, and safe city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Seoul and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seoul than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seoul is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Reykjavik is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Seoul 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 Seoul can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Seoul 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, Seoul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

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 Seoul or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Seoul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

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 Seoul or Reykjavik Better for Music?

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

Seoul is known as a music capital around the world. K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking. 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.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Reykjavik?

Seoul 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 Seoul. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

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 Seoul or Reykjavik Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Seoul or Reykjavik.

Seoul is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

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 Seoul or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Reykjavik are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Seoul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

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.

Is Seoul or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Reykjavik are nice destinations for backpackers.

Seoul is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Seoul or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Seoul is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

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

Seoul is an amazing city 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.

Public transit in Seoul is top-notch. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

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 Seoul or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Seoul and Reykjavik both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Seoul is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

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 Seoul Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Reykjavik?

In either Seoul or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than Reykjavik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

One day in Seoul or Reykjavik?

People visit Seoul because there is so much to do. 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, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this green destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Seoul or Reykjavik?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Seoul or Reykjavik?

People visit Seoul 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Reykjavik is a fun place to experience. In Reykjavik, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Reykjavik?

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

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the green destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Reykjavik?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Seoul 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 Seoul or Reykjavik?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seoul or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Seoul during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Seoul is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 26°C (78°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Reykjavik. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the autumn. Seoul is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seoul or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Seoul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during winter. Seoul can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Seoul is much colder than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Seoul in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Seoul for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In April, Seoul is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 13°C (55°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Seoul usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Seoul