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

Should you visit Leiden or Reykjavik?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Leiden and Reykjavik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Leiden

Leiden is a historic, cultural, and scholarly city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Leiden travel costs.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. Reykjavik is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and hiking. See Reykjavik travel costs.

Leiden and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Leiden or Reykjavik?

Both Reykjavik and Leiden have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Leiden is better known for its museums and attractions and food, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Reykjavik is more touristy than Leiden and is known for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals. Leiden is well known for its many museums and renowned university.

How is Leiden different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Leiden 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 Leiden can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a huge number of museums around town. Some are affiliated with the museum, while others are not. Some of the favorites include the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Boerhaave Museum, the Corpus Museum, and the National Ethnological Museum.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Leiden 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 Leiden. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

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 Leiden or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Both Leiden and Reykjavik have notable vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Leiden. The large student population means that there is a good nightlife scene. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink, with options ranging from cozy, intimate spots to larger, more vibrant venues. The Oude Markt area, with its charming historic setting, is a hotspot for nightlife, offering a mix of traditional Dutch bars and international-themed pubs.

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 Leiden or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

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

Many people visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking. The city offers easy access to some of the world's most spectacular scenery. There are many hikes that you can easily reach from town. They pass through diverse landscapes that include waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and beaches.

Leiden is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Leiden or Reykjavik?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Leiden and Reykjavik.

Leiden has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a mix of unique boutiques, international brands, and charming local stores. The Breestraat and Nieuwe Rijn are popular shopping streets, and they're lined with a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to books, art, and antiques. The city also has several markets, including a weekly Saturday market near the Pieterskerk, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and vintage items.

Reykjavik is a great destination for shopping. The city's main shopping street is Laugavegur, which is where you'll find the most activity around town as well as a bustling atmosphere.

Is Leiden or Reykjavik More Beautiful?

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Leiden 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.

Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Leiden or Reykjavik Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Leiden. The town has a mix of educational, cultural, and fun activities for all ages. There are many family-friendly museums like Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where kids can explore dinosaurs and wildlife, and the National Museum of Antiquities, which brings history to life. There's also the Corpus Museum, which takes visitors on a unique, interactive journey through the human body.

Reykjavik is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Leiden or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Reykjavik is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Leiden is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy charming towns and world class museums will enjoy their time here. The town also has picturesque canals, historic bridges, and cozy street cafes. Couples can explore places like the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands, or enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic Leidse Hout Park.

Is Leiden or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Leiden and Reykjavik are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Leiden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city offers affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as reasonably priced eateries serving Dutch classics and international cuisine. Many of Leiden’s attractions, like its historic canals, charming streets, and open-air markets, can be enjoyed for free.

It's common for backpackers to visit Reykjavik. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is Leiden or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Leiden is a great city to visit as a student. It feels like a university town and it's home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community. The town also has a young atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and cultural events that influence the student life. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike, and the abundance of libraries, study spaces, and museums provides ample resources for learning and inspiration. Housing can be difficult to find though.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Leiden and Reykjavik.

Leiden has some public transit options. The Leiden Central Station is the main hub for trains, which connect the city to other towns throughout the country. Around town there are buses that are reliable and convenient.

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 Leiden or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Leiden and Reykjavik are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Leiden is a very walkable destination. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with many of its attractions, cafes, shops, and historical sites located within walking distance of each other.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Leiden?

How long in Leiden or Reykjavik?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Reykjavik than Leiden. 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 Leiden 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 Leiden.

One day in Leiden or Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Leiden. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Leiden has to offer. 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 Leiden or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Leiden. 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 Leiden or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Leiden. 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.

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 Leiden or Reykjavik?

Leiden 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the friendly 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 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Leiden or Reykjavik?

Leiden has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Leiden 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 Leiden 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 Leiden or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Leiden are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Leiden this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Leiden is a little warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Leiden in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Leiden. Leiden usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Leiden gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Leiden or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Leiden during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Leiden for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the autumn. In October, Leiden is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Leiden average around 11°C (51°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Leiden often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Leiden gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Leiden or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Leiden and Reykjavik. Many visitors come to Leiden in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during winter. Leiden can get quite cold in the winter. Leiden is much warmer than Reykjavik in the winter. The daily temperature in Leiden averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Leiden usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Leiden gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Leiden or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Leiden as well as Reykjavik. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In the spring, Leiden is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Leiden in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Leiden often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Leiden gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Leiden