Destination Comparison
Mývatn vs Reykjavik
Iceland's most dramatic volcanic region versus the accessible capital — which gives the better aurora experience in Iceland?
✦7/10
Aurora Score
✦7/10
✓$140/day
Daily Budget
$200/day
Moderate 🛤️
Accessibility
✓Easy ✈️
Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Best Months
Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
16h
Dark Hours (Winter)
✓19h
Subarctic
Region
Subarctic
14 types
Activities
✓18 types
Our Verdict
Mývatn wins on aurora reliability (inland, less cloud), geothermal bathing, and volcanic drama; Reykjavik wins on accessibility, city life, and international connections
Choose Mývatn if:
Those who want to soak in natural hot springs under the aurora alongside Iceland's most extraordinary volcanic landscapes
Choose Reykjavik if:
First-timers to Iceland wanting the easiest base with flights, city life, and day tour access to the whole country
Iceland
Mývatn
Travellers wanting to combine geothermal bathing under the aurora with Iceland's most dramatic volcanic scenery
Iceland
Reykjavik
First-time arctic travellers who want to combine northern lights with Iceland's unique landscapes