A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tampere vs. Reykjavik for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Tampere 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 Tampere and Reykjavik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Tampere or Reykjavik?

Tampere

Tampere is a city in southern Finland. It sits between Nasijarvi Lake and Pyhajarvi Lake, with the Tammerkoski rapids in between. It is one of the larger Finnish cities, with more than 200,000 inhabitants, but Tampere has managed to keep the small town feel. The city center is compact in size, and the atmosphere is friendly and casual. The city is located on a scenic spot on a narrow isthmus. The Tammerkoski rapids and their riverbanks form the backdrop for the old industrial buildings, and ridges formed thousands of years ago by ancient seas and retreating ice offer fantastic views over the two lakes. Original architecture and innovative urban development blend together to please both viewers and users of the built environment. Enjoy the surrounding lakes on peaceful rowboat trips or on cruises on larger vessels, or concentrate on the urban sights from a sightseeing bus. Regenerated industrial buildings now house quirky museums, enticing shops, pubs, cinemas and cafes. Tampere has a down-to-earth vitality that makes it a favorite for many visitors.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the capital and largest city in the country of Iceland. The city is where the vast majority of the country's population resides and the urban area has about 200,000 residents. The city is sprawling, with a large area covered in suburbs. The the city center is quite compact, with many interesting and colorful houses. There are a lot of things that attract tourists to this city, including an interesting culture and history as well as plenty of shopping and dining opportunities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Finland, The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Tampere?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampere is €172, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is €261. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Tampere and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampere 80
    Reykjavik 136
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampere 160
    Reykjavik 272
Compare Hotels in Tampere and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Tampere or Reykjavik? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Tampere


Hotels in Reykjavik


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Tampere Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampere 59
    Reykjavik 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampere

Also for Tampere, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Tampere Private Transfer from Tampere city centre to Tampere airport: $119

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

Also for Reykjavik, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private 7-hour Airport/Cruise Transfer & Tour: $1,831
  • Landmannalaugar Super Jeep All Year Transfer: $1,702
  • Silver Circle Tour & Roundtrip Airport Transfer: $1,386
  • Private 4-Hour Airport/Cruise Transfer & Tour: $1,221
  • Private 3-Hour Airport/Cruise Transfer & Tour: $977
  • Blue Lagoon with Private Roundtrip Transfer: $613
  • From Skarfabakki: Blue Lagoon Round-Trip Transfer: $524
  • Blue Lagoon Luxury Spa with Private Transfer: $400
  • From ATV Ride and Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer: $395
  • Keflavik Airport (KEF): Transfer to Skarfabakki Cruise Port: $361
  • Hvammsvik Hot Springs: Private Return Transfer with Entrance: $343
  • Premium Private Transfer from Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport!: $295

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampere or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Tampere change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Tampere 57
    Reykjavik 51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampere

For Tampere, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Tampere Food Tour Local Tastings, Meal & Rooftop City Views: $94

Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    173

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Harbor Cruise with 3-Course Dinner: $137
  • Harbor Cruise with Three Course Dinner from Reykjavik: $139
  • Food Tour by locals: $140
  • Authentic Reykjavik Food Tour with Flea Market Delights: $146
  • Icelandic Food Tour: $147
  • The Reykjavik Harbor Food Tour: $147
  • 3-Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour with Guide in Reykjavik: $149
  • Food Tour with 6+ Tastings of Icelandic Classics: $154
  • The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour: $171
  • Christmas Food Tour with Tastings and Drinks: $171
  • Private Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour: $241
  • Private Vegetarian Reykjavik Food Tour: $241

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampere 24
    Reykjavik 70

Tours and Activities in Tampere

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tampere.

  • Tampere Private Walking Tour with a Local: $47
  • Tampere Scenic Bike Tour with Sauna and Local Flavors: $94

Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Reykjavik's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Art Museum
    10
  • Wine and Spa
    28

Tours and Activities in Reykjavik

For Reykjavik, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 1 Hour ATV Quad Tour : Pick up from Reykjavik (2 persons per ATV): $142
  • 1-Hour Helicopter Tour in Iceland: The Geothermal Tour: $553
  • 1-Hour Small Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Vestmannaeyjar: $164
  • 2 Hours Whale Watching Express Adventure: $94
  • 2-Hour Buggy Adventure Tour out off Reykjavik: $264
  • 2-Hour RIB Boat Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik: $195
  • 3-Hour Volcanic Springs ATV Adventure From Reykjavik: $339
  • 4x4 Reykjavik Northern Lights Small-Group Tour with Photographer: $246
  • 9pm Whale Watching Cruise in the Arctic Sun: $99
  • A Self-Guided Thingvellir National Park Walking Tour: $8.99
  • Aurora by Boat Reykjavik Adventure: $85
  • Buggy & Golden Circle Full day adventure from Reykjavik: $309

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampere 10
    Reykjavik 27

Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Reykjavik are as follows:


  • Beer
    8.54

Sample the Local Flavors in Reykjavik

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Reykjavik:

  • Eimverk Distillery Guided Tour with Tasting: $48
  • Craft Beer and Brewery Tour in Iceland: $49
  • Icelandic Bar Crawl Experience: $162


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tampere or Reykjavik?

Tampere has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Tampere 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 Tampere 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 Tampere or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampere and Reykjavik. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tampere is generally a little warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Tampere average around 16°C (61°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Tampere, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampere usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Tampere gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tampere usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Tampere gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tampere 16°C (61°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Tampere or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampere as well as Reykjavik. Also, 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. Tampere is around the same temperature as Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tampere averages around 5°C (42°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Tampere often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik. Tampere gets 81 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Tampere usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Tampere gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampere 5°C (42°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Tampere or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Tampere are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during winter. Tampere can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Tampere is much colder than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tampere in January average around -7°C (19°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Tampere usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Tampere gets 37 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampere usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Tampere gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampere -7°C (19°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Tampere or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Tampere during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. Tampere can be very cold during spring. In April, Tampere is generally around the same temperature as Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Tampere average around 3°C (38°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Tampere often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Tampere gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Tampere usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Tampere gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampere 3°C (38°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Tampere

Tampere Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -7°C (19°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb -7°C (19°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar -3°C (27°F) 25 mm (1 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 3°C (38°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 16°C (61°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 10°C (50°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 5°C (42°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 0°C (32°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec -4°C (24°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)