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

Should you visit Tallinn or Reykjavik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn 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.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a charming, quaint, and whimsical city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

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

Tallinn and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tallinn or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tallinn than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Tallinn is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking. Tallinn is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. It is also well known for The 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.

The Old Town

How is Tallinn different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tallinn 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 Tallinn can be an interesting and educational experience. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tallinn 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 Tallinn. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

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 Tallinn or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Tallinn has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

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 Tallinn or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Tallinn offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Tallinn or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Tallinn 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.

Tallinn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Reykjavik?

Tallinn 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 Tallinn. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

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 Tallinn or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Reykjavik is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Reykjavik is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Tallinn. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

Is Tallinn or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Tallinn and Reykjavik are both superb to visit as a couple.

Tallinn makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

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 Tallinn or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Tallinn. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

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 Tallinn or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Both Tallinn and Reykjavik are nice destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Tallinn. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

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

Tallinn 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 Tallinn. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

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 Tallinn or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Tallinn is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Tallinn. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Reykjavik?

In either Tallinn or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Tallinn because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

One day in Tallinn or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint city of Tallinn. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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, you'll find nightlife and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Tallinn or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Tallinn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

In Reykjavik, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reykjavik has to offer.

Five days in Tallinn or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint city of Tallinn. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reykjavik has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Tallinn or Reykjavik?

Tallinn is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Reykjavik. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Reykjavik?

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

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

In July, Tallinn is generally a little warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 17°C (62°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallinn. Tallinn usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Tallinn gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tallinn usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tallinn or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Tallinn during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tallinn this time of year. Furthermore, 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. Tallinn is a little warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 7°C (44°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Tallinn often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Tallinn gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tallinn or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Tallinn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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 Tallinn. In the winter, Tallinn is much colder than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tallinn in January average around -5°C (22°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik during winter. Tallinn gets 25 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tallinn or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. Tallinn can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Tallinn is generally a little warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 4°C (39°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Tallinn often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Tallinn gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Tallinn