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

Should you visit Delft or Reykjavik?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Delft and Reykjavik can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Delft

Delft is a charming, historic, and quaint town. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Delft travel costs.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. Reykjavik is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and shopping. See Reykjavik travel costs.

Delft and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Thermal Pools


Is there more to do in Delft or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Delft. Although Delft and Reykjavik are both popular with visitors, Delft has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Delft is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and historical sights, while Reykjavik is known for its nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Reykjavik is more touristy than Delft and is known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Delft is popular for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and blue and white ceramic pottery. It is also home to the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk).

How is Delft different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Delft
Reykjavik

Delft is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Delft is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums that highlight the culture and history of the area. The Vermeer Center offers an immersive experience into the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born in the city. The Royal Delft Factory teaches visitors about the city's iconic blue-and-white pottery. The Delft Museum of Technology and the Old Church also provide insight into the city's engineering, cultural, and religious history.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Delft
Reykjavik

Delft 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 Delft. There are several local dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or a frikandel (a Dutch snack). The town has countless casual eateries and cozy cafes where you can enjoy pastries, coffee, and Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken). There's also a selection of international restaurants around town that serve Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Local markets and street food stalls provide affordable options, such as fresh herring or delicious Dutch cheese.

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 Delft or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Delft
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Delft is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Delft is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It has a low-key and relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of cozy pubs, bars, and cafes, many of which are located along the scenic canals.

Is Delft or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Delft
Reykjavik

Delft is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Delft to see the historical old town. The city's old town is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and cobblestone streets. The heart of the old town is centered around the Market Square, where you'll find iconic landmarks such as the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) and the City Hall.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.


Is Delft or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Delft
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Delft is not a hiking destination.

Around Reykjavik visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Delft is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Delft or Reykjavik?

Delft
Reykjavik

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Delft and Reykjavik.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Delft. The city center is home to many unique shops selling local crafts, Dutch design, and traditional Delftware pottery, making it a great place for souvenirs. You'll also find popular international brands and stores along the main shopping streets. For a more local shopping experience, visit the weekly market in the Market Square, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and regional goods.

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 Delft or Reykjavik More Beautiful?

Delft
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Reykjavik is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city offers the perfect gateway to world-renowned natural beauty including waterfalls, hot springs, and active volcanoes.

Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Delft or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Delft
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Delft. There are boat tours on the canals. There's also the Vermeer Center which has an interactive experience where you can learn about the famous artist, Johannes Vermeer, in a way that's engaging and educational. The Royal Delft Factory is another great stop, where children can see traditional blue-and-white pottery being made and even try painting their own ceramics. If your kids need to stretch their legs, there's the Delftse Hout park which has a large playground, nature trails, and even a petting zoo.

Is Delft or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Delft
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a very popular place for romance. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Delft makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities for couples like walking through the picturesque canals and cobblestone streets. There are also quaint cafes and romantic restaurants. You can also take a boat ride along the canals or enjoy a peaceful walk through Delftse Hout park.

Is Delft or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Delft
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Delft is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Delft is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some affordable accommodation options, but many backpackers head to Delft as a day trip from the nearby city of The Hague.


Is Delft or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Delft
Reykjavik

Delft is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Delft is a great town to visit as a student. It is home to Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), which is a well respected technical university. The city has a vibrant student atmosphere, with plenty of student-friendly cafes, bars, and activities.

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

Delft
Reykjavik

Delft 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 Delft. There's a bus network that is reliable and convenient. The city's train station is centrally located and offers direct connections to major cities in the Netherlands, making it a great hub for exploring the region.

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 Delft or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Delft
Reykjavik

Delft 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 Delft. The town's compact size and charming layout mean that most of the main attractions, such as the Old Church, New Church, and Market Square, are within walking distance of each other.

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 Delft Worth Visiting? and Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Delft?

How long in Delft or Reykjavik?

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

Couples should spend more time in Reykjavik than Delft. 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.


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

One day in Delft or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Delft. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Delft has to offer. 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 Delft or Reykjavik?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Delft. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. This town 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 Delft or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint town of Delft. 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.

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 Delft or Reykjavik?

Delft 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.

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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Delft?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Delft is €146, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is €262. 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 Delft and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Delft 76
    Reykjavik 137
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Delft 152
    Reykjavik 274
Compare Hotels in Delft and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Delft 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 Delft


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: Delft Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Delft 7.14
    Reykjavik 45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

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

  • Transfer from Reykjavik - Private airport transfer to KEF Airport: $125
  • Sky Lagoon Ticket with 7-Step Ritual and Transfers from Reykjavik: $143
  • Skarfabakki Cruise Port to Keflavik Airport (KEF) - Departure Private Transfer: $121
  • Skálafell to Reykjavik Airport (RKV) - Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • Private Transfer from/to Blue Lagoon in Iceland: $90
  • Cruise Port Transfer to/from Keflavik Airport: $202
  • Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport (KEF) - Departure Private Transfer: $111
  • Reykjavik Transfer to Blue Lagoon: $164
  • Reykjavik Airport(RKV) to Skálafell - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $124
  • Reykjavik Airport (RKV) to Hveragerdi - Arrival Private Transfer: $246
  • Reykjavik Airport (RKV) to Grindavík - Arrival Private Transfer: $246
  • Reykjavik Airport (RKV) to Bláfjöll - Arrival Private Transfer: $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Delft or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Delft 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
    Delft 64
    Reykjavik 51

Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    174

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Reykjavik

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

  • The Reykjavik Harbor Food Tour: $145
  • 3 Hour Shared Christmas Food Tour with Guide in Reykjavik: $149
  • Private Vegetarian Reykjavik Food Tour: $195
  • Private Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour: $215

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Delft 11
    Reykjavik 71

Tours and Activities in Delft

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

  • Delft - Private Historic Walking Tour: $456
  • Delft - Step/scootertour in and around the city: $29
  • Delft Private Walking Tour: $294
  • Canal Cruise with Guided Commentary: $16
  • Canal House Museum 'Paul Tetar van Elven' Ticket: $14
  • City Center Walking Tour: $22
  • City Tour with Dutch Food and Drink: $93
  • Entrance Ticket for the Old and New Churches: $11
  • Guided Walking Tour: $199
  • Half-Day Vermeer Tour with Church and Museum Visit: $223
  • Hugo de Groot Walking Tour: $14
  • Open Boat Canal Cruise with Skipper: $112

Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Art Museum
    11
  • Wine and Spa
    29

Tours and Activities in Reykjavik

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

  • 3 Days Tour in South Coast and Golden Circle with Chinese Guide: $163
  • Private Reykjavík Tuk Tuk Tour: $255
  • Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour: $89
  • 1 Hour ATV Quad Tour : Pick up from Reykjavik (2 persons per ATV): $130
  • 1 hour Buggy adventure - From Reykjavik: $219
  • 1+ hour Private Horse riding tour from Reykjavík/Mosfellsbær: $143
  • 9pm Whale Watching Cruise in the Arctic Sun: $99
  • ATV Reykjavik Adventure: $165
  • Adventure in Landmannalaugar and Hot Springs - Reykjavík & Hella: $215
  • Black Beach ATV - QUAD Tour: $131
  • Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour Including Admission : $231
  • Cold & Hot: Adventure Spa Tour Combo: Silfra & Sky Lagoon Self-Drive: $285

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Delft 16
    Reykjavik 27

Sample the Local Flavors in Delft

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Delft:

  • Craft Beer Tasting in Medieval Brewery with Snacks: $19

Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Beer
    8.60

Sample the Local Flavors in Reykjavik

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Reykjavik:

  • Flóki Whisky Distillery Tour & Tasting in Reykjavík: $49


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

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


Which is Bigger, Delft or Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Delft. When comparing the sizes of Delft 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 Delft 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 Delft or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Delft are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Delft for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Delft is a little warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Delft averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Delft. Delft usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Delft gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Delft usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Delft gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Delft 17°C (62°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Delft or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Delft during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Delft because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the autumn. In the autumn, Delft is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Delft in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Delft often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Delft gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Delft usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Delft gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Delft 11°C (51°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Delft or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Delft and Reykjavik. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Delft this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. It's quite cold in Delft in the winter. In January, Delft is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Delft average around 2°C (36°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Delft usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Delft gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Delft usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Delft gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Delft 2°C (36°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Delft or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Delft as well as Reykjavik. Additionally, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the spring for the natural beauty.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the spring. Delft is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Delft averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Delft often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Delft gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Delft usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Delft gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Delft 8°C (46°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Delft

Delft Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)