France vs. Iceland

France is easily one of the most visited European destinations frequented by tourists. Those looking for history, culture, the arts, beaches, vineyards and overall, a charming and quaint holiday experience will especially identify with all the country has to offer. 

The Nordic island nation known as the Republic of Iceland is beautifully positioned between the North Atlantic and Arctic Ocean. If you are among the lucky few, you might even spot the Northern Lights here. If this has not urged you enough to book your tickets to Iceland, let me tell you this region is one of the youngest landmasses of the world. The place is highly recommended for solo travellers because of its untouched beauty as it is the most sparsely populated country in Europe.

Let’s look at both these countries a little closely so you decision of where you’re headed- France or  - is a little easier…                                               

France

Paris: Fondly known as the ‘city of love’, plan a holiday to Paris and if you’re not already in love, you definitely will be by the time you leave. A destination for lovebirds, Paris uncovers surprises every step of the way. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the world’s most visited art museum, the Louvre, other notable landmarks in the city include the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile, the Paris Opera and Champs-Élysées.  Take a stroll down the picturesque Canal St-Martin or wander through the city’s gardens including Jardines des Palntes, a botanical garden.

Nice: The heart, soul and capital of the gorgeous French Riviera, Nice lies in thee Côte d'Azur area on the southeast coast of France on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s no surprise then that the city is often called ‘Nice la Belle’, which means Nice the Beautiful. If you can tear yourself from lounging on Nice’s many beaches or strolling on the promenades along the shoreline, art lovers may be interested to explore the Musée Matisse dedicated to the famous French artist, the historic Basilique-Cathédrale Sainte-Marie et Sainte-Réparate de Nice and if time permits, catch a ballet performance, opera or classical concert at the Opéra de Nice.

Read More: Here's Why You Must Visit Nice This Summer

How To Get There

Major international airlines including Air France, Air India, Jet Airways and Etihad Airways operate flights from India to Paris.

Book Your Flight to Paris

Iceland

Iceland boasts of extreme geological contrasts with active volcanoes and hot water geysers on one hand and glaciers on the other. By virtue of this, it stands true to its name, The Land of Fire and Ice. Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland is one of the cleanest, greenest and safest cities in the world. With its colourful rooftops and busy streets, this city also hosts the Icelandic parliament house and an open air museum. While you are here, you will be spoiled for choices when it comes to thermal spas. The three national parks in Iceland, Snæfellsjökull, Vatnajökull and Þingvellir are a treat to the eyes and a nature lover’s delight.

When to go: The weather is quite unpredictable here, but if you want to tick the Northern Lights off your bucket list, pack your bags for February – March or September – October.

Where to Stay: You can choose from a host of budget hotels, bed and breakfasts and guest houses in Iceland. However if you’re an adventure junkie like me, get set to sleep under the stars in a mountain hut.

Read More: 7 Things to Do While You’re in Iceland

Book Your Flight to Keflavik

Destination	Paris, France	Reykjavik, Iceland
Hotels (centrally located)	Rs. 9,441 per night (Standard room at Fertel Etoile Hotel) Rs. 14,385 (Classic room at Normandy Hotel Paris)	Rs. 8,300 (Standard Room at Hotel Gardur) Rs 12,200 (Standard Room at Park Inn, Reykjavik)
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 4,500 per day	Rs 2,000 per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	Rs. 140 per ticket	Rs 190 per bus ticket
Miscellaneous	Rs. 3,800 per day	Rs. 3000 per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.

Both France and Iceland are a traveller’s dream. With unique experiences that can’t be found elsewhere, your choice of deciding where to go is a challenging one. France is most certainly on the beaten path whereas Iceland​ isn’t and that’s what makes it intriguing.