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

Should you visit Versailles or Reykjavik?

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

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

Versailles

Versailles is a historic, extensive, and beautiful palace. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a friendly, clean, and green city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Versailles and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Thermal Pools


Is there more to do in Versailles or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Reykjavik than Versailles, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Reykjavik is more popular for its nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Versailles is known for its museums. Versailles is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for its long running history and its grand architecture. Reykjavik is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. It is also home to The Thermal Pools.

How is Versailles different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Versailles
Reykjavik

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

Travelers visit Versailles from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Versailles
Reykjavik

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Versailles and Reykjavik can be difficult as they are each decent in their own way.

Versailles offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

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 Versailles or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Versailles
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Reykjavik has a few options to choose from. 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.

Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Versailles or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Versailles
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is an amazing city to visit for hiking. However, Versailles 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.

Versailles is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Versailles or Reykjavik?

Versailles
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Reykjavik. 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.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Versailles or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Versailles
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Reykjavik is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.

Is Versailles or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Versailles
Reykjavik

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

Versailles is a great palace if you're traveling as a couple. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.

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 Versailles or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Versailles
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Versailles or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Versailles
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not popular with students.

It's common for students to 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.

Versailles is not popular with students.

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

Versailles
Reykjavik

Versailles 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 Versailles. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.

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 Versailles or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Versailles
Reykjavik

Versailles and Reykjavik are superb when it comes to walkability.

Versailles is very walkable. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Versailles?

How long in Versailles or Reykjavik?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Reykjavik than Versailles 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 Reykjavik.


  • How many days in Versailles or Reykjavik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Versailles 1-2 
    Reykjavik 1-5

One day in Versailles or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums around the palace of Versailles. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Versailles has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With shopping and nightlife around the safe city of Reykjavik, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reykjavik, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Versailles or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums around the grand destination of Versailles. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this palace has to offer. This palace offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Reykjavik, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Versailles or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the grand palace of Versailles. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Reykjavik, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Versailles or Reykjavik?

Versailles 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.

Reykjavik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Versailles?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Versailles is €234, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is €228. 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 Versailles and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Versailles 128
    Reykjavik 129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Versailles 256
    Reykjavik 258
Compare Hotels in Versailles and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Versailles 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 Versailles


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: Versailles Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Versailles 53
    Reykjavik 42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

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

  • Reykjavík: South Coast Guided Day Trip by Jeep with Transfer: $1,765
  • From Reykjavik Port: Private Blue Lagoon Transfer: $1,050
  • Blue Lagoon with Private Roundtrip Transfer: $473
  • Door to Door Private Blue Lagoon Transfer: $306
  • From ATV Ride and Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer: $287
  • Lava Tunnel Caving & Snorkeling in Silfra with Transfer | Free Photos: $283
  • Lava Tunnel Caving with Transfer | Small Group: $283
  • Private Luxury Airport Transfer Service: $278
  • Private transfer: Reykjavik to Keflavik International Airport (KEF): $277
  • Private Transfer from Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport : $273
  • Private Airport Transfer: $271
  • Private Airport Transfer from Reykjavik: $270

Is it cheaper to fly into Versailles or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Versailles 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
    Versailles 67
    Reykjavik 28

Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    165

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Reykjavik

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

  • Icelandic Food Tour: $123
  • Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market: $125
  • The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour: $127
  • 3 Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour with Guide in Reykjavik: $129
  • Reykjavik Market & Lunch Food Tour - BitesizedIceland.com: $142
  • Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour - BitesizedIceland.com: $144
  • Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour: $145
  • Icelandic Cooking Class in Downtown Reykjavik with Musical Hosts: $296

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Versailles 45
    Reykjavik 67

Tours and Activities in Versailles

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

  • Versailles Palace Private Family Tour Designed for Kids: $261
  • Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket: $67
  • Private Guided Tour of the Palace: $261

Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Art Museum
    9.97
  • Wine and Spa
    27

Tours and Activities in Reykjavik

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

  • WWII History Tour with a 1940's British Officer in Reykjavik: $148
  • #1 Northern Lights Tour In Iceland from Reykjavik with PRO photos: $145
  • 1 hour Reykjavík E-Scooter Adventure: $58
  • 1-Hour ATV Quad Tour from Reykjavik: $131
  • 1-Hour Helicopter Tour in Iceland: The Geothermal Tour: $435
  • 1hr ATV & Golden Circle Adventure from Reykjavik: $276
  • 1hr Buggy Adventure from Reykjavik: $172
  • 2hr Buggy 'Lava Field Adventure' from Reykjavik: $219
  • 3-Hour Private Discover Reykjavik Photography Tour: $172
  • 3hr Volcanic Springs ATV Adventure from Reykjavik: $299
  • ATV - QUAD Adventure: $174
  • Adventure in Landmannalaugar and Hot Springs - Reykjavík & Hella: $174

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Versailles 18
    Reykjavik 26

Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Beer
    8.15

Sample the Local Flavors in Reykjavik

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Reykjavik:

  • Gin Distillery tour and tasting: $25
  • Eimverk Distillery Tour with Tasting: $32


When comparing the travel costs between Versailles and Reykjavik, we can see that Versailles is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Versailles or Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Versailles. When comparing the sizes of Versailles 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 Versailles 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 Versailles or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Versailles and Reykjavik. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

Versailles is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Versailles averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Versailles, it's very sunny this time of the year. Versailles usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Versailles gets 239 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Versailles usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Versailles gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Versailles 20°C (68°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Versailles as well as Reykjavik. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Versailles this time of year. Additionally, 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. In the autumn, Versailles is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Versailles in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Versailles often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Versailles gets 126 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Versailles usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Versailles gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Versailles 13°C (56°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Versailles are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Versailles for the museums 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 Versailles. In January, Versailles is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Versailles average around 5°C (40°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Versailles usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Versailles gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Versailles usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Versailles gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Versailles 5°C (40°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Versailles during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Versailles in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. Versailles is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Versailles averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Versailles often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Versailles gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Versailles usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Versailles gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Versailles 11°C (52°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Versailles

Versailles Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)