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

Should you visit Tokyo or Reykjavik?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Reykjavik? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a vibrant, iconic, and eclectic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a friendly, clean, and green city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and hiking.

Tokyo and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Reykjavik?

You'll generally find more things to do in Tokyo than Reykjavik. Tokyo is bigger than Reykjavik, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tokyo is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Tokyo is well known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Also, Tokyo is famous for The Sensō-ji Temple. Reykjavik is well known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Tokyo different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Travelers visit Tokyo from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tokyo 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, Tokyo is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

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 Tokyo or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Tokyo has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

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 Tokyo or Reykjavik Better for Music?

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

Tokyo is known as a music capital around the world. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is renowned for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

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.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Reykjavik?

Tokyo 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 Tokyo. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

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 Tokyo or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Reykjavik is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Tokyo or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Tokyo and Reykjavik make for a very good place to visit.

Tokyo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Reykjavik is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Tokyo or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tokyo and Reykjavik are notable places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tokyo. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Reykjavik is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is Tokyo or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Tokyo is a great destination for students. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

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

Tokyo 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 Tokyo is top-notch. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

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 Tokyo or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Tokyo 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 Tokyo. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

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 Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Reykjavik?

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

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

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

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

One day in Tokyo or Reykjavik?

People visit Tokyo 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 friendly 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 Tokyo or Reykjavik?

People visit Tokyo 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 Tokyo or Reykjavik?

People visit Tokyo 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 Tokyo or Reykjavik?

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Reykjavik?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo 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 Tokyo 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 Tokyo or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tokyo is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tokyo in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during autumn. In October, Tokyo is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 18°C (64°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than Reykjavik. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. Tokyo is much warmer than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Tokyo 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 Tokyo or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Tokyo during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the spring. In the spring, Tokyo is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tokyo in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Reykjavik. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Tokyo