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

Should you visit Paros 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 Paros 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.

Paros

Paros is a diverse, stunning, and breathtaking island. Paros is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Paros travel costs.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. Reykjavik is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Reykjavik travel costs.

Paros and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Reykjavik are popular destinations, Paros has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paros is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking. Paros is famous for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also well known for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. 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 Paros different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paros 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 Paros can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Paros is an amazing island to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paros is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

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 Paros or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

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

Paros has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

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 Paros or Reykjavik Better for Resorts?

Paros is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Paros is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Paros or Reykjavik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Paros to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Paros is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Paros are among the best in the world. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is terrific for its hiking trails. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Paros is a good destination for hiking. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Reykjavik?

Paros is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Paros. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

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 Paros or Reykjavik More Beautiful?

Paros and Reykjavik are somewhat similar when it comes to the world-class scenery.

Paros is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The beautiful beaches and striking landscapes make this a perfect destination for those looking for fun or romance.

The famous beauty of Reykjavik is one of the main draws. The city offers the perfect gateway to world-renowned natural beauty including waterfalls, hot springs, and active volcanoes.

Is Paros or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Both Paros and Reykjavik are great family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paros is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

Reykjavik is known to be 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 Paros or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Paros is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Paros has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

Couples visit Reykjavik frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Paros or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Paros is very popular with the backpacker crowd. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

Reykjavik is a good island 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 Paros or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Paros is not popular with students.

Plenty of students 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.

Paros is not popular with students.

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

Paros 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 Paros. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

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 Paros or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Reykjavik is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Paros is a somewhat walkable island. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Paros?

How long in Paros or Reykjavik?

In either Paros or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Paros has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paros than Reykjavik. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paros, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

One day in Paros or Reykjavik?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Paros. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

In Reykjavik, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this clean 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 Paros or Reykjavik?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the stunning destination of Paros. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island 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 Paros or Reykjavik?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the stunning island of Paros. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

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 Paros or Reykjavik?

Paros is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 clean 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 Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Paros or Reykjavik?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros 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.