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

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

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a cute, quintessential, and fairytale-like town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a clean, green, and safe city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Wernigerode and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
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 Wernigerode or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wernigerode. Although Wernigerode and Reykjavik are both popular with visitors, Wernigerode has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wernigerode is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm, while Reykjavik is known for its nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Wernigerode is popular for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. It is also home to The Wernigerode Castle. Reykjavik is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Wernigerode different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

Wernigerode 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 Wernigerode can be an interesting and educational experience. In addition to its beautiful old town, the highlight of a visit to this town is exploring the Wernigerode Castle. Other attractions include the Museum für Luftfahrt und Technik and the Miniaturenpark.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

Wernigerode 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 Wernigerode. As a touristy town, you'll find a number of restaurants that serve traditional food. There are also sausage stands and plenty of ice cream shops.

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 Wernigerode or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is very good for nightlife. However, Wernigerode is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Reykjavik. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Wernigerode. The small town isn't known for its nightlife scene but there are plenty of places where you can grab a beer and have a relaxing night.

Is Wernigerode or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

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

Wernigerode offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. If you're looking for an almost flawless old town with charm and few imperfections, then this is your place.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.


Is Wernigerode or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Wernigerode 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.

Wernigerode is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wernigerode or Reykjavik?

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is very good for shopping. However, Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Reykjavik is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Wernigerode or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

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

Wernigerode is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town feels like you've landed in a fairytale book, which your kids will love. There's a train and a castle to explore. There's also the fun citizen and miniature parks and the fairytale trail. In addition to all of the sights and attractions, there are playgrounds and animal attractions that kids will love.

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.


Is Wernigerode or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

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

Wernigerode is a very popular place to visit for couples. This fairytale town is something special with many beautiful buildings, a castle, and great restaurants that make for a romantic weekend.

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 Wernigerode or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

Both Wernigerode and Reykjavik are good destinations for backpackers.

Wernigerode is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are enough hostels in town to keep prices reasonable. This is also a very touristy town, so you're likely to meet other travelers.

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 Wernigerode or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is very good for students. However, Wernigerode is not popular with students.

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for 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.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.


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

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

Both Wernigerode and Reykjavik offer good public transit options.

Wernigerode has a few public transit options. You can take the bus to town, but once you arrive its best to explore on foot. There's also a charming narrow grade railway that connect the towns of the area.

Reykjavik has some public transit options. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Wernigerode or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Wernigerode
Reykjavik

Wernigerode is an amazing town 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 Wernigerode. You can easily explore the town and the nearby castle on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Wernigerode?

How long in Wernigerode or Reykjavik?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Wernigerode or Reykjavik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wernigerode 1-3 
    Reykjavik 1-5

One day in Wernigerode or Reykjavik?

Even though Wernigerode is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wernigerode has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the green city of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Wernigerode or Reykjavik?

Wernigerode is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the clean destination of Reykjavik. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Wernigerode or Reykjavik?

Wernigerode is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the clean city of Reykjavik. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Wernigerode or Reykjavik?

Wernigerode 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Reykjavik. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Wernigerode?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Wernigerode is €136, 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 Wernigerode and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wernigerode 74
    Reykjavik 129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wernigerode 148
    Reykjavik 258
Compare Hotels in Wernigerode and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Wernigerode 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 Wernigerode


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: Wernigerode Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wernigerode 19
    Reykjavik 42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

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

  • Reykjavik Airport (RKV) to Skálafell - Arrival Private Transfer: $22
  • Keflavik Airport & Reykjavik Hotels: Economy Bus Transfer: $27
  • Keflavik Airport (KEF): Bus Transfer to/from Reykjavik: $27
  • Iceland: Airport Transfer Between Reykjavík Center and Keflavík : $28
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport One Way: $28
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik City one way: $28
  • Keflavík Airport (KEF): Bus Transfer to/from Reykjavik: $29
  • Airport Express Shared Departure transfer from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport: $29
  • Iceland: Airport Transfers between Keflavík and Reykjavik Center: $30
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport with Hotel Pick Up: $36
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik City With Hotel Drop Off: $36
  • Airport Express Shared Departure Transfer from Reykjavik Hotels to Keflavik Airport: $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Wernigerode or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Wernigerode 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
    Wernigerode 45
    Reykjavik 28
Typical Food Prices in Wernigerode

Some typical examples of dining costs in Wernigerode are as follows:


  • Dinner for Two
    22
  • Soda
    1.70

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.
    Wernigerode 28
    Reykjavik 67

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:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Reykjavík: City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Reykjavik Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Reykjavik Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $8.02
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Explore Reykjavik's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Citywalk Tour - Audioguide in English & German: $11
  • Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll Admission Ticket: $11
  • Skip the Line: Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll Admission Ticket: $11
  • Geothermal Energy Exhibition Entry Ticket: $17
  • Reykjavík: National Museum of Iceland Entry Ticket: $18
  • Skip the Line: The National Museum of Iceland Ticket: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wernigerode 21
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wernigerode and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Wernigerode much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Wernigerode would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wernigerode 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 Wernigerode.

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


Which is Bigger, Wernigerode or Reykjavik?

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

Both Reykjavik and Wernigerode during the summer are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Wernigerode is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Wernigerode averages around 19°C (65°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Wernigerode. In the summer, Wernigerode often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Wernigerode gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Reykjavik. Wernigerode gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wernigerode and Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Wernigerode for the small town atmosphere. 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. In the autumn, Wernigerode is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wernigerode in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Wernigerode usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Wernigerode gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Wernigerode usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Wernigerode gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wernigerode as well as Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Wernigerode in the winter for the museums 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. Wernigerode can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Wernigerode is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Wernigerode average around 2°C (35°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Wernigerode often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Wernigerode gets 60 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Wernigerode gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Reykjavik in the Spring?

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

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. Wernigerode is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Wernigerode averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Wernigerode usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik during spring. Wernigerode gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Wernigerode usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Wernigerode gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Wernigerode

Wernigerode Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)