As of November 12, 2026, the cheaper of the two for travelers is Switzerland: a mid-range day costs about $239 there, against $266 in the other (Iceland), a gap of 11.4%. Over the past year the one that moved more in the US-dollar traveler's favor is Switzerland (+6.9% after inflation, against −4.4%). Both sit at US advisory Level 1. The easier of the two to travel: Switzerland.
| Measure | Iceland | Switzerland |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-range day | $266 | $239 |
| Lean day | $122 | $109 |
| Comfortable day | $554 | $517 |
| Real change, 12 months | −4.4% | +6.9% |
| Exchange rate alone, 12 months | −2.6% | +4.0% |
| Versus 5-year average | −14.0% | +1.4% |
| US advisory | Level 1 · Normal precautions | Level 1 · Normal precautions |
| Ease of travel | 4.5 · Effortless | 5.0 · Effortless |
| Index score | 44 | 55 |
| Best months | Jun, Jul, Aug | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Shoulder months | May, Sep | May, Oct |
The better figure in each row is in bold. Costs are modeled estimates per person, excluding international flights.
Volcanoes, glaciers and waterfalls on one ring road, at some of the highest prices on earth.
The catchA burger costs $25 and a rental car $100 a day in summer. Weather closes roads without notice, and popular sites now charge for parking.
The most expensive country in Europe to travel, and one of the most dependable.
The catchA plain restaurant meal runs $30 or more and a basic hotel $180. Supermarket picnics and a rail pass are how budgets survive.
Source: Trip Arbitrage (triparbitrage.com), reading of November 12, 2026. How this is calculated.