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

Should you visit Ephesus or Reykjavik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ephesus or Reykjavik, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Ephesus

Ephesus is a ancient, world-renowned, and fascinating archeological site. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Ephesus travel costs.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a friendly, clean, and green city. Many visitors also come to Reykjavik because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Reykjavik travel costs.

Ephesus and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 Ephesus or Reykjavik?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Ephesus than Reykjavik. While Reykjavik is larger than Ephesus, Ephesus has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Ephesus is very popular for its museums and attractions and food, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Ephesus is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for its well-preserved ruins and vast size It is also well known for the Library of Celsus. 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 Ephesus different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ephesus
Reykjavik

Ephesus is an amazing archeological site to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Ephesus from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Of course, the iconic site is the ruins of Ephesus. There are also several fascinating museums in the area that offer deeper insights into the region's rich history and culture. The Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selçuk is popular. It has an impressive collection of artifacts excavated from the ancient city, including statues, pottery, and inscriptions. Just outside the museum, the Temple of Artemis section displays remnants of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Selçuk Museum of Ephesus is another excellent spot to explore, with exhibits that highlight both the daily life of ancient Ephesians and their religious practices. A short drive from Ephesus is the House of the Virgin Mary museum, a revered site believed to be the final home of Mary, mother of Jesus, with a chapel and peaceful surroundings. Lastly, the İsa Bey Mosque and Museum in Selçuk adds to the area's historical depth, offering a glimpse into the Seljuk architecture and Islamic heritage of the region.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Ephesus
Reykjavik

Ephesus 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 Ephesus. Most of the food options are found in the nearby town of Selçuk. Popular dishes include kebabs, mezes, and pide (Turkish flatbread pizza). Many restaurants are casual and cater specifically to the tourist crowds.

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 Ephesus or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Ephesus
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Ephesus is not known for its evening party scene.

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.

Most people don't head to Ephesus specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The there are a couple of bars and restaurants with live music in the town of Selçuk, but generally the nightlife is very low key.

Is Ephesus or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Ephesus
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is renowned for hiking. However, Ephesus is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Reykjavik draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city offers easy access to some of the world's most spectacular scenery. There are many hikes that you can easily reach from town. They pass through diverse landscapes that include waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and beaches.

Ephesus is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ephesus or Reykjavik?

Ephesus
Reykjavik

If you're looking to go shopping, Ephesus and Reykjavik both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ephesus. Selçuk has a variety of local shops and markets. Traditional handicrafts such as carpet and kilim weaving, ceramics, and leather goods are popular souvenirs. The Selçuk Market is held on Saturdays and offers fresh produce, spices, and other local products.

Many visitors go to Reykjavik to go 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.

Is Ephesus or Reykjavik More Beautiful?

Ephesus
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Ephesus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Reykjavik because of it's amazing beauty. The city offers the perfect gateway to world-renowned natural beauty including waterfalls, hot springs, and active volcanoes.

Ephesus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ephesus or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Ephesus
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Ephesus is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who are into history or archeology will enjoy a visit to the famed ruins of Ephesus. There's also the Ephesus Archaeological Museum where everyone can learn about ancient Greek and Roman cultures in an interactive setting. The nearby House of the Virgin Mary offers a peaceful stop where kids can learn about its historical and religious significance in a tranquil environment. For an active experience, families can enjoy a short hike to Pamucak Beach, where children can swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.


Is Ephesus or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Ephesus
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for couples.

Reykjavik is a great city 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.

Ephesus is a good archeological site for couples to visit. Many couples stop off at these ruins as part of a bigger tour of Turkey. The ruins are well preserved and impressive, but can get crowded if you visit during the peak times.

Is Ephesus or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ephesus
Reykjavik

For backpackers, both Ephesus and Reykjavik are nice places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ephesus. Many backpackers stay in the nearby town of Selçuk, which has several hostels. This is also where you'll find a number of restaurants and shopping opportunities.

Reykjavik is a good archeological site 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.

Is Ephesus or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Ephesus
Reykjavik

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

It's common for students to visit Reykjavik. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

Ephesus is not popular with students.


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

Ephesus
Reykjavik

Ephesus 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 Ephesus. The town of Selçuk is well-connected by dolmuşes (shared minivans) that run frequently and offer affordable rides to nearby destinations, including Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Pamucak Beach area.

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 Ephesus or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Ephesus
Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its ease of walking around.

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

Ephesus is a somewhat walkable archeological site. The ruins are spread out over a large area, but most of the key sites, like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater, are within walking distance of each other. From Selçuk, it's about a half hour walk to the entrance of the Ephesus ruins, but most visitors prefer to take a short taxi or dolmuş ride to the site. Within Selçuk, many of the sites can be reached on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Ephesus?

How long in Ephesus or Reykjavik?

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

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

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

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

One day in Ephesus or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the archeological site of Ephesus. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ephesus 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 Ephesus or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and food around the ancient destination of Ephesus. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this archeological site has to offer. This archeological site 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 Ephesus or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the world-renowned archeological site of Ephesus. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Reykjavik 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 Ephesus or Reykjavik?

Ephesus 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 Cultural Tours in Turkey, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Turkey, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.


Which place is cheaper, Reykjavik or Ephesus?

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 Ephesus is $131, while the average daily cost in Reykjavik is $307. 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 Ephesus and Reykjavik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ephesus $55
    Reykjavik $160
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ephesus $110
    Reykjavik $320
Compare Hotels in Ephesus and Reykjavik

Looking for a hotel in Ephesus 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 Ephesus


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: Ephesus Hotel Prices and Reykjavik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ephesus $40
    Reykjavik $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ephesus

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

  • Vip Transfer Kusadasi To/From Izmir Airport (Price for ONE WAY): $95
  • Transfer izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to/from Kusadasi Davutlar: $180
  • Transfer: $72
  • Scuba Diving Experience in Kusadasi with Instructor and Transfer: $67
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Airport to/from Kusadasi Town: $131
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Airport to/from Kusadasi Town: $131
  • Private Transfers İzmir City Adnan Menderes Apt to/from Selçuk, Ephesus, Şirince: $131
  • Private Transfer | KUSADASI - IZMIR Airport: $162
  • Private Transfer from Kusadasi hotels to Kusadasi Cruise Port: $55
  • Private Transfer from Kusadasi hotels to Kusadasi Cruise Port: $63
  • Private Transfer from Kusadasi Cruise Port to Kusadasi hotels: $55
  • Private Transfer from Kusadasi Cruise Port to Kusadasi Hotels: $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Reykjavik

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

  • Private Airport Transfer between KEF Airport & Reykjavik: $279
  • Private Transfer from Cruise Ship Port to Keflavik Int. Airport : $270
  • Private Keflavik Airport Transfer (One Way): $270
  • Private Roundtrip Transfer between Blue Lagoon and Reykjavik: $267
  • Private Blue Lagoon Transfer in Iceland: $265
  • Keflavik Airport Premium Transfer to/from Reykjavik: $260
  • Keflavik Airport (KEF) to Skarfabakki Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $242
  • Private Transfer from Reykjavik Hotels to Keflavik Airport: $240
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Blue Lagoon to Reykjavik: $228
  • Private Luxury Transfer from Reykjavik to Blue Lagoon: $228
  • Private Airport Transfer from Reykjavik to Keflavik Int. Airport: $225
  • Keflavik Airport (KEF) to Reykjavik hotel /address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $223

Is it cheaper to fly into Ephesus or Reykjavik?

Prices for flights to both Reykjavik and Ephesus 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
    Ephesus $45
    Reykjavik $60
Typical Food Prices in Ephesus

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Ephesus:


  • Sandwiches
    $0.12
  • Dessert
    $0.13
  • Lunch at Beach (for 2)
    $0.46
  • Snacks
    $0.19

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ephesus

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

  • Cooking Class in Kusadasi Ephesus: $110

Typical Food Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Dinner (Fish Market)
    $204

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Reykjavik

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

  • Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour with a stop at the Reykjavik Flea Market: $143
  • 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.
    Ephesus $46
    Reykjavik $83

Tours and Activities in Ephesus

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

  • Ephesus PrivateTours from Cruise Port Kusadasi Shore Excursions : $40
  • Ephesus Shared Tour from Kuşadası Port: $150
  • Ephesus Tour With Small Group From Kusadasi: $137
  • Ephesus and Virgin Mary House Tour From Kusadasi Port : $16
  • Ephesus private skip line tour from the cruise port: $167
  • Ephesus tours and Virgin Mary's House Temple Artemis tours : $74
  • Private Ephesus And Artemis Temple Tour For Cruise Guest : $16
  • Private Pergamum Tour from Izmir or Kusadasi: $298
  • Small Group Pamukkale Day Tour from Selcuk or Kusadası : $129
  • "Ephesus Tours" Port Kusadasi lunch guide bus shopping Caravanserai artemis : $64
  • "No Better Way to Explore History - Affordable Ephesus Tour": $30
  • "private Ephesus tours "" wholesaler Shop Tours ""from cruise port Kusadasi ": $10

Typical Entertainment Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Art Museum
    $12
  • Wine and Spa
    $34

Tours and Activities in Reykjavik

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

  • Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour: $89
  • Small-Group Tour: Northern Lights with Photos & Hot Chocolate: $138
  • Winter South Coast Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik: $180
  • 1 Hour ATV Quad Tour : Pick up from Reykjavik (2 persons per ATV): $131
  • 1 hour Buggy adventure - From Reykjavik: $219
  • 1-Hour Small Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Vestmannaeyjar: $151
  • 9pm Whale Watching Cruise in the Arctic Sun: $99
  • ATV - QUAD Adventure: $191
  • ATV Reykjavik Adventure: $165
  • Adventure in Landmannalaugar and Hot Springs - Reykjavík & Hella: $215
  • Aurora by Boat Reykjavik Adventure: $93
  • Black Beach ATV - QUAD Tour: $132

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ephesus $12
    Reykjavik $32
Typical Alcohol Prices in Ephesus

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Ephesus from other travelers:


  • Beer
    $0.10

Sample the Local Flavors in Ephesus

Also in Ephesus, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • PRIVATE & GROUP: SKIP-THE-LINE EPHESUS with Wine Tasting & Lunch: $12
  • SKIP-THE-LINE Ephesus & Wine Tasting Tour From Kusadasi Port: $18
  • POTTERY PAINTING & WINE TASTING Tour from Kusadasi Port: $49
  • Wine Tasting-Village Shore Excursion from Kusadasi Port: $50
  • Ephesus Shore Excursion with Wine Tasting and Lunch: $64
  • Kusadasi Shore Excursions Ephesus and Wine Tasting Tours : $70
  • Ephesus & Şirince Village with Lunch& Wine Tasting (Fixed Price): $100
  • Ephesus Tour with Wine Tasting and Traditional Turkish Lunch: $130
  • Private Ephesus Tour & Wine Tasting & Mediterrranean Lunch: $159

Typical Alcohol Prices in Reykjavik

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


  • Beer
    $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Reykjavik

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Reykjavik:

  • Gin Distillery tour and tasting with Master Distiller: $35
  • Flóki Whisky Distillery Tour & Tasting in Reykjavík: $49


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

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


Which is Bigger, Ephesus or Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 80% larger than the population of Ephesus. When comparing the sizes of Ephesus 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 Ephesus 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 Ephesus or Reykjavik in the Summer?

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

In July, Ephesus is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Ephesus average around 27°C (81°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Ephesus, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Ephesus gets 378 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ephesus usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Ephesus gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ephesus 27°C (81°F) 
    Reykjavik 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Ephesus or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ephesus as well as Reykjavik. The shopping scene are the main draw to Ephesus this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. Ephesus is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ephesus averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ephesus this time of the year. In the autumn, Ephesus often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Ephesus gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Ephesus usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Ephesus gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ephesus 19°C (66°F) 
    Reykjavik 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Ephesus or Reykjavik in the Winter?

Both Reykjavik and Ephesus are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ephesus for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Ephesus is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ephesus in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Ephesus gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Ephesus. In January, Ephesus usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Ephesus gets 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ephesus 10°C (50°F) 
    Reykjavik -0°C (32°F)

Should I visit Ephesus or Reykjavik in the Spring?

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

Reykjavik can be very cold during spring. In April, Ephesus is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Ephesus average around 15°C (59°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It's quite sunny in Ephesus. In the spring, Ephesus often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Ephesus gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Ephesus usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Ephesus gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ephesus 15°C (59°F) 
    Reykjavik 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Ephesus

Ephesus Reykjavik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 149 mm (5.9 in) -0°C (32°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 1°C (33°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (53°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 1°C (34°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 15°C (59°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 0°C (32°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)