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

Should you visit Zurich or Reykjavik?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Reykjavik. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. 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 clean, green, and safe city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Zurich and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zurich than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zurich is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. 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 Zurich different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zurich 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 Zurich can be an interesting and educational experience. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Zurich has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Reykjavik Better for Music?

Zurich is an excellent place to visit for live music. However, Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Zurich has diverse options. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

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

Zurich offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Zurich or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Reykjavik is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Reykjavik?

Zurich 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 Zurich. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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 Zurich or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Reykjavik are great family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Reykjavik. 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 Zurich or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Zurich and Reykjavik both great destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Reykjavik are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

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.

Is Zurich or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Zurich is a great destination for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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

Zurich 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 Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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 Zurich or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Zurich and Reykjavik both are great when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Reykjavik?

In either Zurich or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Zurich has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Zurich than Reykjavik. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

One day in Zurich or Reykjavik?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Zurich. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Reykjavik?

You'll find live music and food around the beautiful destination of Zurich. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Reykjavik?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Zurich. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Reykjavik?

Zurich 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the green destination of Reykjavik. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When comparing the travel costs between Zurich and Reykjavik, we can see that Zurich 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 Zurich Expensive? and Is Reykjavik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Reykjavik?

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

Both Reykjavik and Zurich during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Zurich is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Zurich. In the summer, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Reykjavik. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Reykjavik. Most visitors come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. Zurich is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

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

In October, Zurich usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zurich or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Reykjavik. The winter months attract visitors to Zurich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the winter. The weather in Zurich can be very cold. In the winter, Zurich is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Reykjavik. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Reykjavik in the Spring?

Both Reykjavik and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. In April, Zurich is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

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

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Zurich