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

Should you visit Windsor or Reykjavik?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a royal, traditional, and touristy town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a safe, friendly, and clean city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Windsor and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
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 Windsor or Reykjavik?

Both Reykjavik and Windsor have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Windsor is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and shopping. Windsor is famous for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Reykjavik is famous for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Windsor different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Windsor
Reykjavik

Windsor 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 Windsor can be an interesting and educational experience. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Windsor
Reykjavik

Windsor 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 Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

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 Windsor or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Reykjavik

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Windsor and Reykjavik.

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

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.

Is Windsor or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Reykjavik

Windsor is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Windsor is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.


Is Windsor or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Windsor
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Reykjavik?

Windsor
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Windsor
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.


Is Windsor or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Windsor
Reykjavik

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

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Reykjavik is a great town if you're traveling as 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 Windsor or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Windsor
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a popular place for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

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.

Windsor is not popular with students.


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

Windsor
Reykjavik

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Windsor and Reykjavik.

You'll find some public transit in Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

While Reykjavik offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Windsor
Reykjavik

Windsor and Reykjavik both are very good when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Reykjavik?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Reykjavik than Windsor 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 Windsor or Reykjavik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Reykjavik 1-5

One day in Windsor or Reykjavik?

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Windsor has to offer. 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 Windsor or Reykjavik?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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.

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 Windsor or Reykjavik?

Windsor 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. 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 Windsor or Reykjavik?

Windsor 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.

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 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 2-Week Tours from London, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is £198. 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 Windsor and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Reykjavik £112
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Reykjavik £224
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Reykjavik £37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

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

  • Hveragerdi to Keflavik Airport (KEF) - Deparure Private Transfer: $68
  • Airport Transfer (One way) between Keflavik and Reykjavik: $200
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik City With Hotel Drop Off: $36
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik City one way: $29
  • Airport Transfer in Iceland from Reykjavik City to Keflavik Airport One Way: $29
  • Arrival in Iceland - Private airport transfer from KEF Airport: $116
  • Blue Lagoon Admission Including Transfer: $271
  • Blue Lagoon with Private Roundtrip Transfer: $481
  • Blue Lagoon: Return Private Transfer: $250
  • Door to Door Private Blue Lagoon Transfer: $311
  • From KEF Airport: Private Transfer to Reykjavik in Iceland: $147
  • From Reykjavik to KEF Airport: Private Transfer in Iceland: $155

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Reykjavik £24
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    £143

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: $125
  • Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market: $127
  • The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour: $129
  • Reykjavik Market Visit & Lunch Food Tour - Tastes of Iceland: $145
  • Reykjavik Old Harbor Food Tour - Tastes of Iceland: $147
  • Private Reykjavik Food Tour: $198
  • Icelandic Cooking Class in Downtown Reykjavik with Musical Hosts: $296

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Reykjavik £58

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $192
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $67
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $318
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $148
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $2,015
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $127
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Windsor Castle and Town, Private Walking Tour: $282
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $35

Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Art Museum
    £8.64
  • Wine and Spa
    £24

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: $3.26
  • Reykjavík: City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Reykjavik Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Reykjavik Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $8.14
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Audioguide Reykjavik - Citywalk Tour (English / German): $11
  • Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll Admission Ticket: $11
  • Reykjavík: National Museum of Iceland Entry Ticket: $18
  • Tales from Iceland Admission Ticket: $18
  • Saga Museum - Entrance ticket: $27
  • Whales of Iceland Museum Entrance Ticket: $31
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Reykjavik £23

Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Beer
    £7.07

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: $33


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

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Reykjavik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Windsor is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 18°C (64°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the summer, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in July than Reykjavik. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Windsor in the autumn for the small town atmosphere 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. Windsor is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during autumn. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Windsor usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Windsor during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Windsor for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. Windsor can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Windsor is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Windsor in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in January than Reykjavik. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Reykjavik. The spring months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm 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 April, Windsor is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 9°C (48°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Reykjavik during spring. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Windsor usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Windsor

Windsor Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)