New York CityvsReykjavik
Can't decide between New York City and Reykjavik? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
New York City
New York City is the ultimate urban experience—a city of towering skyscrapers, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods. The city that never sleeps offers endless energy, iconic landmarks, and unparalleled cultural diversity.
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
New York City offers Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Empire State Building
Reykjavik offers Hallgrímskirkja, Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle Day Trip
Food & Dining
New York City is famous for its local dining scene
Reykjavik is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
New York City offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Reykjavik has legendary nightlife
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
June to August, September to March (Northern Lights)
Weather
Summer: 29°C, Winter: 3°C
Summer: 13°C, Winter: 1°C
Top Attractions in New York City
- 1Statue of Liberty
- 2Central Park
- 3Empire State Building
- 4Times Square
- 5Metropolitan Museum of Art
- 6Brooklyn Bridge
Top Attractions in Reykjavik
- 1Hallgrímskirkja
- 2Blue Lagoon
- 3Golden Circle Day Trip
- 4Northern Lights
- 5Harpa Concert Hall
- 6Old Harbour
New York City is Popular With
Reykjavik is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in New York City
- 1
The Cloisters Museum & Gardens
A branch of the Met dedicated to medieval European art and architecture, located in Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan.
- 2
Roosevelt Island Tramway
A commuter aerial tramway that connects Manhattan to Roosevelt Island, offering a short but spectacular ride over the East River.
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 New York City
Williamsburg, Brooklyn
The epicenter of Brooklyn cool, Williamsburg is a former industrial zone transformed into a hub for artists, musicians, and foodies.
Harlem
Steeped in profound African-American history and cultural renaissance, Harlem pulses with soulful energy.
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 New York City
Budget in Reykjavik
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in New York City
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 New York City
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to New York City
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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 New York City and Reykjavik are incredible destinations. New York City excels in Broadway and pizza, while Reykjavik stands out for Northern Lights and geothermal pools.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Reykjavik
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