A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Reykjavik vs. San Francisco for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Reykjavik or San Francisco?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Reykjavik or San Francisco, 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. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and hiking. See Reykjavik travel costs.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a scenic, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. San Francisco is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See San Francisco travel costs.

Reykjavik and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Reykjavik or San Francisco?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Francisco than Reykjavik. San Francisco is bigger than Reykjavik, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Francisco is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge. 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 San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Francisco 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 San Francisco?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit San Francisco from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Reykjavik or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Reykjavik is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Reykjavik is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, San Francisco is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Both Reykjavik and San Francisco have notable vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Reykjavik. 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.

San Francisco has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Reykjavik or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep San Francisco active and fun. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Reykjavik is not a live music destination.

Is Reykjavik or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Francisco. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Reykjavik or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik and San Francisco are both places where visitors can find amazing hiking trails.

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.

Around San Francisco visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Is the Shopping Better in Reykjavik or San Francisco?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in San Francisco. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

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 San Francisco More Beautiful?

Reykjavik and San Francisco both are comparable with their amazing scenery and 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.

The famous beauty of San Francisco is one of the main draws. With its dramatic Golden Gate Bridge, and the many beautiful hills with striking views of the city and bay, San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States.

Is Reykjavik or San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

San Francisco is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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 San Francisco Better for Couples?

Reykjavik and San Francisco are both superb 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 San Francisco frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Reykjavik or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

San Francisco is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

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 San Francisco Better for Students?

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

San Francisco is a great coastal city to visit as a student. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

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

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city 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.

Public transit in San Francisco is top-notch. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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 Reykjavik or San Francisco a more walkable city?

Reykjavik and San Francisco are superb when it comes to walkability.

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

San Francisco is a very walkable city. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Reykjavik?

How long in Reykjavik or San Francisco?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco 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 San Francisco.

One day in Reykjavik or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the green destination of Reykjavik. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Reykjavik or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the green destination of Reykjavik. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Reykjavik or San Francisco?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful city of Reykjavik. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, 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 from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Reykjavik or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Reykjavik and San Francisco, 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 San Francisco?

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 Reykjavik or San Francisco in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Reykjavik and San Francisco. The summer months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

In July, Reykjavik is generally much colder than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Reykjavik average around 11°C (52°F), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In July, Reykjavik usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Reykjavik gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Reykjavik or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Reykjavik as well as San Francisco. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Francisco for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the autumn. Reykjavik is much colder than San Francisco in the autumn. The daily temperature in Reykjavik averages around 5°C (41°F) in October, and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Reykjavik usually gets more rain in October than San Francisco. Reykjavik gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Reykjavik or San Francisco in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. In the winter, Reykjavik is much colder than San Francisco. Typically, the winter temperatures in Reykjavik in January average around -0°C (32°F), and San Francisco averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, Reykjavik usually receives less rain than San Francisco. Reykjavik gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Reykjavik or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Reykjavik during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Reykjavik in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Francisco for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Reykjavik is generally much colder than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Reykjavik average around 3°C (38°F), and San Francisco fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Reykjavik usually gets more rain in April than San Francisco. Reykjavik gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Reykjavik