EdinburghvsReykjavik
Can't decide between Edinburgh and Reykjavik? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a dramatic city of medieval spires, volcanic crags, and literary legend. Scotland's capital enchants with its castle-topped skyline, cobblestone Royal Mile, world-famous festivals, and whisky heritage.
Known for
Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital—a colorful city of creative culture, geothermal pools, and gateway to Iceland's otherworldly landscapes. Despite its small size, it punches above its weight in art, music, and nightlife.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Edinburgh offers Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Arthur's Seat
Reykjavik offers Hallgrímskirkja, Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle Day Trip
Food & Dining
Edinburgh is famous for its local dining scene
Reykjavik is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Edinburgh offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Reykjavik has legendary nightlife
Best Time to Visit
May to September, August (Festival)
June to August, September to March (Northern Lights)
Weather
Summer: 19°C, Winter: 5°C
Summer: 13°C, Winter: 1°C
Top Attractions in Edinburgh
- 1Edinburgh Castle
- 2Royal Mile
- 3Arthur's Seat
- 4Holyrood Palace
- 5Scottish National Museum
- 6Calton Hill
Top Attractions in Reykjavik
- 1Hallgrímskirkja
- 2Blue Lagoon
- 3Golden Circle Day Trip
- 4Northern Lights
- 5Harpa Concert Hall
- 6Old Harbour
Edinburgh is Popular With
Reykjavik is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Edinburgh
- 1
The Vennel Steps & Viewpoint
A steep staircase off the Grassmarket leading up to Heriot Place, offering one of the most photographed (and free) framed views of Edinburgh Castle.
- 2
Dr. Neil's Garden
A secret, tranquil garden created by two doctors on the shores of Duddingston Loch, next to the historic Duddingston Kirk.
Hidden Gems in Reykjavik
- 1
Viðey Island
A small, peaceful island just a 10-minute ferry ride from the Old Harbour, featuring hiking trails, historic buildings, and the Imagine Peace Tower.
- 2
The Icelandic Punk Museum
A quirky, tiny museum located in a former public toilet underground on Laugavegur, dedicated to Iceland's vibrant punk rock history.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Edinburgh
Old Town
The historic heart of Edinburgh, defined by the spine of the Royal Mile running from the Castle to Holyrood.
New Town
A masterpiece of Georgian town planning, offering a stark contrast to the Old Town with its elegant, symmetrical streets, grand squares, and neoclassical facades.
Top Areas in Reykjavik
Miðborg (City Center)
The historic and cultural heart of Reykjavik, centered around Lake Tjörnin.
Old Harbour & Grandi
A formerly industrial port area transformed into a trendy cultural district.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Edinburgh
Budget in Reykjavik
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Edinburgh
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Reykjavik
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Edinburgh
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Edinburgh
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Find cheap transport to Reykjavik
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Reykjavik
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Our Verdict
Both Edinburgh and Reykjavik are incredible destinations. Edinburgh excels in castle and whisky, while Reykjavik stands out for Northern Lights and geothermal pools.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Reykjavik
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