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

Should you visit Reykjavik or Cozumel?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Reykjavik or Cozumel, 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.

Reykjavik

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

Cozumel

Cozumel is a active, colorful, and scenic island. Cozumel is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Cozumel travel costs.

Reykjavik and Cozumel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Reykjavik or Cozumel?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cozumel than Reykjavik. While Reykjavik is larger than Cozumel, Cozumel has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cozumel is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Reykjavik is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cozumel is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Reykjavik is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Reykjavik different from Cozumel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Cozumel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cozumel 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 Cozumel. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship 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 Reykjavik or Cozumel Better for Nightlife?

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

Cozumel has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

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 Reykjavik or Cozumel Better for Resorts?

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

Cozumel is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Reykjavik or Cozumel Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Cozumel specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Reykjavik or Cozumel Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Cozumel are among the best in the world. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Reykjavik or Cozumel Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Cozumel 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.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Reykjavik or Cozumel?

Cozumel 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 Cozumel. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

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 Reykjavik or Cozumel More Beautiful?

Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and 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.

Cozumel is a beautiful place to visit, too. The beaches and undersea world are stunningly beautiful.

Is Reykjavik or Cozumel Better for Families?

Reykjavik and Cozumel are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

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.

Cozumel is a very kid-friendly city. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

Is Reykjavik or Cozumel Better for Couples?

Reykjavik and Cozumel are both excellent to visit as a couple.

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.

Couples visit Cozumel frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

Is Reykjavik or Cozumel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Cozumel is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

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.

Is Reykjavik or Cozumel Better for Students?

Reykjavik is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Cozumel 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.

Cozumel is not popular with students.

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

Reykjavik is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cozumel is not known for its public transit.

While Reykjavik offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

Is Reykjavik or Cozumel a more walkable city?

Reykjavik and Cozumel are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Cozumel is a very walkable city. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cozumel or Reykjavik?

How long in Reykjavik or Cozumel?

Both Reykjavik and Cozumel have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cozumel than in Reykjavik. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Reykjavik, and 3-7 days is enough time in Cozumel.

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

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

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

One day in Reykjavik or Cozumel?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Cozumel. 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.

A weekend in Reykjavik or Cozumel?

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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the colorful destination of Cozumel. 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.

Five days in Reykjavik or Cozumel?

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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the vibrant island of Cozumel. 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.

A week in Reykjavik or Cozumel?

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.

Cozumel is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cozumel, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Iceland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, and The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Reykjavik and Cozumel, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Cozumel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Reykjavik is in Europe and Cozumel is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Cozumel would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cozumel 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 Cozumel.

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

Which is Bigger, Reykjavik or Cozumel?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 54% larger than the population of Cozumel. When comparing the sizes of Reykjavik and Cozumel, 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.