A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Reykjavik vs. Playa del Carmen for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen, 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 safe, friendly, and clean city. The famous beauty of Reykjavik is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and hiking. See Reykjavik travel costs.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a stunning, vibrant, and picture-perfect town. Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Reykjavik and Playa del Carmen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Playa del Carmen than Reykjavik. While Reykjavik is larger than Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Playa del Carmen is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Reykjavik is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Reykjavik and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Also, Playa del Carmen is famous for La Quinta Avenida. Reykjavik is well known 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 Playa del Carmen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

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 Playa del Carmen Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Playa del Carmen has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

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 Playa del Carmen Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Playa del Carmen offers an unforgettable resort vacation. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Playa del Carmen specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Playa del Carmen are among the best in the world. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is an amazing city to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Is the Shopping Better in Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Reykjavik and Playa del Carmen.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Reykjavik. 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.

Playa del Carmen offers some nice shopping areas. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Is Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen More Beautiful?

Reykjavik is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

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.

Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Is Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

Reykjavik is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Playa del Carmen has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

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 Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Reykjavik and Playa del Carmen are both notable destinations for backpackers.

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.

Playa del Carmen is a good city to visit for backpackers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Is Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a popular place for students. However, Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

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.

Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Reykjavik and Playa del Carmen.

Reykjavik has some public transit options. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

You'll find some public transit in Playa del Carmen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Is Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting? and Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Playa del Carmen or Reykjavik?

How long in Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen.

One day in Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the green destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the town of Playa del Carmen. 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 Playa del Carmen?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the green city of Reykjavik. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Playa del Carmen. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen?

Reykjavik is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic town of Playa del Carmen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen?

Reykjavik is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen, 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, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen?

Reykjavik has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Reykjavik and Playa del Carmen, 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 Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen in the Summer?

Both Playa del Carmen and Reykjavik during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Reykjavik in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Reykjavik is generally much colder than Playa del Carmen. Daily temperatures in Reykjavik average around 11°C (52°F), and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Reykjavik often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmen. Reykjavik gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 223 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Reykjavik usually gets less rain in July than Playa del Carmen. Reykjavik gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Reykjavik and Playa del Carmen. Most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Reykjavik can be very cold during autumn. Reykjavik is much colder than Playa del Carmen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Reykjavik averages around 5°C (41°F) in October, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. Reykjavik usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during autumn. Reykjavik gets 83 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 233 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Reykjavik usually receives less rain than Playa del Carmen. Reykjavik gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Should I visit Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Reykjavik as well as Playa del Carmen. The winter months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In the winter, Reykjavik is much colder than Playa del Carmen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Reykjavik in January average around -0°C (32°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. In the winter, Reykjavik often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmen. Reykjavik gets 27 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 224 hours of full sun.

Reykjavik usually gets more rain in January than Playa del Carmen. Reykjavik gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Reykjavik or Playa del Carmen in the Spring?

Both Playa del Carmen and Reykjavik are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the spring. In April, Reykjavik is generally much colder than Playa del Carmen. Daily temperatures in Reykjavik average around 3°C (38°F), and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. Reykjavik usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during spring. Reykjavik gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Reykjavik usually receives more rain than Playa del Carmen. Reykjavik gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Typical Weather for Playa del Carmen and Reykjavik