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30 Actually Cool Things to Do in Reykjavik

Home » Blog » Europe » Iceland » 30 Actually Cool Things to Do in Reykjavik

It may be your jumping off point to explore the rest of Iceland or perhaps just a stop on a layover, but whatever the purpose of your visit, there are some really cool things to do in Reykjavik! We’ve rounded up the very best the city has to offer – from can’t-miss sights to unforgettable foodie experiences as well as insider tips (we’ve been to Reykjavik 3 times!) – so you can plan the perfect trip!

While small in size, Reykjavik, Iceland is packed with spunk, charm, and fun things to do.

Super walkable, extremely safe, and full of Nordic charm, it’s truly one of the best cities to visit in Europe. We’ve visited this city a total of three times, and can tell you from personal experience that there are a ton of cool things to do in Reykjavik.

Not gonna lie, the real reason you come to this country is to chase waterfalls, walk on black sand beaches and gawk at adorable puffins (among other adventurous things to do in Iceland ). 

But it would be a shame to come all the way to this country and totally skip out on Reykjavik. 

Whether you have just a handful of hours or a few days to explore Iceland’s charming capital city, we’ve got you covered with ideas of how to spend your time in Reykjavik. 

In this round-up, you’ll find tons of ideas including:

• Free and cheap things to do
• Reykjavik’s top attractions
• Off-the-beaten-path gems

Let’s jump right in so you can plan a memorable stay in Iceland’s capital city!

Reykjavik Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Reykjavik, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

• How many days do you need
• Reykjavik City Card: Is it worth it?
• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• How to get around
• Tips for visiting
• Where to eat
• Where to stay
• What to pack

Top things to do in Reykjavik

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Reykjavik, here are our top recommendations: 

• Go on a food tour
• Take in the views from Hallgrimskirkja Church
• Free walking tour
• Soak in luxury hot springs
• Stroll down Rainbow Street
• Day trip to the Golden Circle

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Reykjavik.

1. Take a food tour

If you’re like us and you love sampling local flavors on your travels, there’s no better way to experience a huge amount of Icelandic cuisine at one time than by taking a food tour with Reykjavik Food Walk. Along with a local guide and other travelers, you’ll sample dishes all over town and learn a lot about the country’s cuisine.

We don’t want to spoil too much of the tour for you, but you’ll eat at fancy spots as well as hole-in-the-wall

locales, and you’ll get to taste a variety of different dishes.

Sound like it’s up your alley? We’ve got an exclusive discount code just for you. When you make your reservation online , be sure to use the code TWS10 at checkout to get 10% off your tour.

If you don’t want to do an organized tour, we’ve created a list of all the different Icelandic foods to try during your trip so you can do a little DIY tour of your own!

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We’ve traveled to Iceland 3 times now and spent weeks living in a campervan, traveling around the country. We’ve been able to explore a lot of what Iceland has to offer!

We’ve compiled our experience to create the  perfect Iceland itinerary . Our itinerary is for 7-9 days and is meant to be explored while traveling in a campervan. It includes the  highlights of the southern coast of Iceland. 

We’ll send you our complete 7-9 day customizable itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  perfect Iceland itinerary  today!

2. Get the best view in town from the top of Hallgrimskirkja Church

Reykjavik from above is a beautiful sight — with its brightly-colored buildings and oceanside location. Being that it is a relatively flat city, you can’t really get a good glimpse from the ground. 

The best viewpoint in town is from the viewing platform at the top of Hallgrimskirkja Church. Our advice is to use the Vedur app (the most accurate app for Icelandic weather forecasts and one of our top Iceland travel apps ) to see which will be your clearest day in Reykjavik, and use that to plan your visit to the viewing platform.

Good to know:

• Winter (October – April): 10 – 16:30
• Summer (May – September): 10 – 20:30
• The tower is closed on Sundays from 10:30 – 12:15 because there is an 11 a.m. mass.
• Cost: The fee to get up to the viewing platform is 1,000 ISK per person (about $8 USD), and viewing the interior of the church is free. 

In addition to seeing the view from above, be sure to get a good glimpse of the church from the ground, as it is beautiful and one of the most photographed spots in Reykjavik.

Fun Fact: The unique design of this church was inspired by the basalt column rock formations you can see around the country (at places like Reynisfjara black sand beach and Stuðlagil Canyon ). 

3. Take a Free Walking Tour

We love taking free walking tours all around the world, as they are a great way to get acquainted with a new city and have a chance to meet a local and ask questions. We often find they are great resources to get advice for restaurant recommendations and tips on things to do in the area.

We had a great experience on the free walking tour with City Walk. Our guide was funny and shared all sorts of insights of what it was like growing up in Iceland. She was also very open to answering any questions we had – from general wonderings about Icelandic history to where to get the best fish in town.

We learned all sorts of tidbits about the city and Iceland as a whole that we never would have learned on our own.

Make a reservation here . (You can only make a booking a handful of days in advance.)

Good to know: Even though it is called a “free” walking tour, it is expected that you tip your guide for their time. The amount you choose to pay is up to you, but keep in mind that Iceland has a high cost of living, so your contribution should reflect that. 

4. Take a stroll down “Rainbow Street”

The street that leads up to Hallgrimskirkja is famed for its rainbow design. 

While the name of this street is Skólavörðustígur , that’s a mouthful. So let’s just call it the “Rainbow Street” from now on, shall we?

So why the rainbow? 

Iceland is considered by many to be one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world. Reykjavik has hosted a Pride event each year since 1999. In 2019, the street was painted for this festival and the decision was made to keep it a permanent part of the city.

It was no accident that the street leads up to the famed Hallgrimskirkja Church. Not only does it create an utterly beautiful photo opp, but it is also a powerful and symbolic juxtaposition.

Bustling with tourists and locals, this is one of the busiest walking streets in town.

While on Reykjavik’s Rainbow Street, pop into photo galleries to see some spectacular photos of Iceland, and shop to your heart’s content at the cute boutiques that line this street. Or stop in a cafe or restaurant to warm up with a bowl of soup or hot coffee.

Good to know: There’s another “rainbow street” in the small town of Seyðisfjörður in eastern Iceland. Again, it leads up to the community’s small church, and makes a pretty epic photo opportunity.

5. Soak in luxury hot springs

Because of all the geothermal activity in Iceland, there are amazing hot springs all around the country! If you’re a soaking fiend (like we are!), you’ll be happy to know that two of the best hot springs in Iceland are located not far from Reykjavik’s city center, making it possible to enjoy them even if you are on a short stopover.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly the most famous hot spring in the entire country, and for good reason. The milky blue waters surrounded by lava stones are stunning. Plus, with a complimentary beverage (prosecco, please!) and silica face mask, you’ll feel totally pampered soaking here.

The newly-opened Sky Lagoon is another luxurious soaking option near Reykjavik. Famed for its signature 7-step “Ritual”, hot spring goers will feel like they’re at a spa as they rotate between the cold dip, sauna (the coolest one we’ve ever seen!), salt scrub, cold mist, and more.

Neither the Blue Lagoon nor Sky Lagoon are cheap, but they’re both a worthy splurge if your budget allows.

Traveling on a budget? If you’re more of a “ramen noodle traveler” than a “fine Italian dining type”, read #8, as it’s a much more budget-friendly hot spring alternative…

6. Day trip to the Golden Circle

Driving the “Golden Circle” is sort of a rite of passage on most visitors’ first trip to Iceland. The popular driving route loops from Reykjavík past three major attractions and back to Reykjavík, making it the perfect day trip adventure.

Major attractions along the Golden Circle: 

• Thingvellir National Park
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Geysir 

Our guide to the Golden Circle is packed with info on how to make this day trip, including useful tidbits and hidden gems along the way.

Psst! Be sure to check out our guide to getting a rental car in Iceland to find out how to get the best rates and all sorts of tips for driving in Iceland you may want to know before you hit the road!

7. Sample Reykjavik craft beer

If you’re a craft beer fan (hey, us too!), you won’t find a ton of options on tap throughout the far reaches of Iceland. However, Reykjavik has a pretty decent (and growing!) craft brewing scene that is worth checking out while in the city.

Small breweries are still a relatively new thing as beer was actually outlawed until 1989. (Yes, you read that correctly!) 

Here are a few craft breweries to try in Reykjavik:

• Skúli : This dimly-lit haunt has a pretty good selection of beers (we really loved their hazelnut stout), and a dart board for a low key night out.
• BrewDog : Upscale pub atmosphere that seems popular with young locals, this place had a good variety of beer types and a pub food menu. We really enjoyed the “lambstrami” sandwich. 
• Kaldi Bar/Café : We haven’t personally been here but it looks like a cool hole-in-the-wall pub with a good craft beer selection. They also supposedly do a great gin and tonic!

Good to know: Alcohol in general is expensive in Iceland, and craft beer is no exception. Expect to pay somewhere around 1,000 – 1,400 ISK ($7.50 – $10.50) per pint of craft beer.

8. Chat with locals in a public pool

Not into the whole luxury hot spring thing (or just can’t justify the steep price tag!)? We get it, and luckily, there’s a much more budget-friendly alternative.

Instead of going to one of the luxury (and pricey!) hot springs mentioned above, head to a public pool. That’s right, public pools in Iceland are a big thing and are particularly popular with locals. In fact, you may be one of only a few tourists.

While public pools aren’t free, they are typically a very reasonable price (think somewhere between $8 – $10 per person.

Insider Tip: You should plan on bringing your own towel, as they typically are not provided. We like to pack a microfiber towel like this one on our trips because it packs up small and dries quickly.

Traveling on a budget? We’ve got all sorts of money-saving tips for Iceland here that should be helpful!

9. Explore the town by scooter

We’ve seen electric scooter rentals in cities around the world, but it wasn’t until our trip to Reykjavik that we finally tried them out. And I’ve gotta say, it was really freaking fun! 

Reykjavik is a pretty walkable city, but even so, getting from one side to the other can take a long time. Add to that the fact that it may very likely be cold, rainy or windy during your stay in Reykjavik (shocker, I know!), so getting around a little more efficiently can be a huge perk.

Renting electric scooters allowed us to see even more during our stay in Reykjavik, and we still walked a TON. 

Not only are electric scooters convenient and a good way to get around in a city where public transportation is limited and taxis are crazy expensive, but it’s fun too!

So how do you rent an electric scooter?

• All you need to do is download the app of the scooter brand you want to rent. 

Good to know: There are a few companies that have scooter rentals throughout the city. The one we saw the most frequently is Hopp Scooters. 

• Connect to cell signal*.
• Select the scooter you want to rent using your current GPS location. The scooter will be unlocked and you can hop on and head wherever you want to go.
• As soon as you’re done with the scooter, you will park it in a safe space, open the app, and “complete” your ride. It’s as simple as that! 

*How to get Internet in Iceland: In order to start and complete your rental, you will need to have Internet access (either via WiFi or cell signal). The easiest and cheapest way to do this is to pick up a local SIM card at the airport or at a convenience store. It should be a bit more than $20 for 10GB of data. We explain more about how to get connected in our guide to essential Iceland travel apps . 

10. Photograph the Sun Voyager

This statue is one of those things you “have to see” while in Reykjavik, and while it’s not that large or intricate, it is a nice quick stop to add to your time in the city. 

If you can time it right, seeing this sculpture at sunset is quite a sight, and it makes a pretty great photograph.

11. Harpa Concert Hall

Situated at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, this concert hall has won awards for the venue itself as well as for the architecture. 

If you have the budget for it, see if there are any shows playing during your visit. However, even if you’re not going to catch a concert, it’s worth viewing this building in all its glory. 

The architect, Olafur Eliasson, said he was inspired by Iceland’s unique landscape and brought elements of the natural world into his design. You’ll see geometric forms that together create the building’s facade. These were mimicked after the hexagonal basalt columns that are found around the country, in places like Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach .

If you walk by this structure at night, you’ll notice the facade light up in undulating waves, which was inspired by the way the Northern Lights shimmer in Iceland’s sky. It is quote sight to behold.

Good to know: Unless there is an active event, you can typically go inside and see the building from within. Walk up to the top floor for a nice view!

12. Shop antiques at the weekend flea market

Kolaportið flea market is located downtown near the harbor and is worth a stroll if you’re in the area on a weekend. Only open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, this is Iceland’s only flea market.

Inside, you’ll find stands selling typical souvenirs as well as artisan-made goods like jewelry and Icelandic wool sweaters, known as Lopapeysa .

If you go a little further back, you’ll find food items, like dried fish (which you can sample free of charge) and gourmet infused salts (which make a great gift or souvenir). In the very back of the building there is an aisle dedicated to antique and thrifted items.  

Overall, it’s kind of a small venue and the prices are higher than you may expect at a typical flea market, but you might just find some gems.

13. Cozy up in a cute cafe

Reykjavik has a strong coffee house culture. I mean, it’s not to the level of Seattle or Portland (but really, what city is?!). 

Nevertheless, you’ll find plenty of cute cafes to cozy up inside and escape the wind or rain or snow (or all three!).

Just pop into whatever coffee shop looks most inviting, or check out this list of cuties to choose from:

• Reykjavik Roasters : with 3 locations around town, this place is known for excellent coffee
• Kattakaffihúsið Cat Cafe : kitties and coffee. ‘Nuff said.
• Café Babalú : quirky decor and yummy cakes
• Café Rosenberg : our Free Walking Tour guide said this is her go-to coffee shop. We always love local recommendations! (She also said they have a great happy hour!)

14. Go Whale Watching

Iceland is a great destination to spot these gentle giants, so if whale watching is on your bucket list listen up…

Reykjavik and Húsavík are the two most popular places to go on a whale watching tour in Iceland.

If your itinerary doesn’t include Húsavík, you’ll likely want to book a whale watching tour in Reykjavik. Our advice is to look into the different tours and see how they compare. Opt for smaller tours if possible.

Good to know: Iceland has some very strict rules when it comes to this type of tourism. Whale watching boats are not allowed to use sonar to “find” the whales. They must keep their distance, allowing them to go about life in their natural habitats. These strict rules are a huge win in the world of responsible tourism , but just know that this means seeing whales is never guaranteed. We didn’t get super lucky on our whale watching tour, as we saw only one from a pretty far distance. But that makes seeing one up close even more special!

15. Taste the most famous hot dog in Iceland

You can’t leave Reykjavik without trying the city’s most famous hot dog! 

Okay, well, if you’re a vegetarian, then you get a pass. And I should admit that I visited Reykjavik three times before trying this world-renowned street food.

Don’t be like me and miss out, because even as someone who generally just isn’t a huge fan of hot dogs, I have to admit, this one is pretty damn good.

Situated smack dab in downtown Reykjavik, you’ll find a small street stand that would be unassuming if it weren’t for the near-constant line of locals and tourists waiting for their pylsa (aka Icelandic hot dog).

The stand is called Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur , which translates to “the best in town”. And they’ve been serving up one dish, and one dish only, since 1937. 

So what’s unique about an Icelandic hot dog? 

Here’s what your pylsa will come with:

• The hot dog is made with 80% lamb and 20% pork/beef
• Sweet brown mustard called pylsusinnep
• Rémoulade (a mayonnaise-based sauce with herbs and spices)
• Fried, crispy onions
• Icelandic ketchup (made with apples instead of sugar)

Do you love trying local foods on your travels? Make sure you check out our list of Icelandic foods to sample on your trip (and which foods to skip!).

16. Wander the Old Harbour

Head down to the harbor for a fun late afternoon stroll. You’ll first pass through a section known as the Old Harbour where most of the sightseeing boats are moored. And if you keep going, you’ll eventually come to what’s known as the “new harbor”.

This area comes alive at night, with the garage-style doors in a somewhat industrial-looking area opening up to reveal trendy boutiques and cozy cafes. With lots of dining options, we’d recommend coming hungry!

Places worth checking out in the new harbor area:

• Kaffivagninn : oldest restaurant in Iceland, serving up seafood favorites like fish & chips and fish stew
• Grandi Mathöll : indoor food hall
• Omnom Ice Cream Shop : this popular chocolate brand has an ice cream shop at the end of the harbor with soft serve and creative toppings
• Valdis : ice cream shop with two locations in town, known for creative flavors
• Lamb street food : just what it sounds like – street food inspired by dishes from around the world that incorporate lamb
• Flatey Pizza : Neapolitan pizza made with ingredients that are imported from Italy. One local we met said it’s her favorite pizza in the whole city.
• The Coocoo’s Nest : cozy brunch spot with excellent sourdough
• Ægisgarður : craft brewery tucked away at the end of the harbor

Insider Tip: If you’re up for it, rent an electric scooter (#7 on this list) to explore this area, as it’s quite a walk!

17. Walk to the top of Þúfa

Toward the end of the harbor, you’ll spot a perfectly symmetrical grassy mound that seems a bit out of place. As you approach this grassy knoll, you will notice a trail that spirals upward to the top where a small wooden hut sits. 

Good to know: Þúfa is pronounced th-oo-fha as the “Þ” symbol makes a “th” sound.

If you walk to this point and peek inside the locked hut, you’ll see a somewhat startling sight… dried fish hanging from strings. This is to illustrate the traditional way of making harðfiskur, or dried fish, which is a popular Icelandic snack.

Our opinion: Honestly, it’s not worth going too far out of your way to see this (in our opinions), but if you’re already down by the harbor, it is kind of a unique thing to do and offers a pretty unique view of the city.

18. Hike Mount Esja

Once at the top of this little hill, take in the views of the bay and the city. You’ll get a particularly good view of Harpa Concert Hall!

This art installation was created in 2013, and stands 8 meters (25 feet) tall, making it one of the largest artworks ever made in Iceland.

If you’re an avid hiker and are looking for a challenging trek near the capital city, Mount Esja is calling your name. 

Mount Esja Hike

• Distance: 4.8 miles (7.7 km)
• Elevation gain: 2,372 feet (723 m)
• View the trail notes

The 4.8-mile trail is well marked and offers hikers sweeping views of the ocean and city on a clear day. While not technical, expect a steady elevation gain.

At just a 10 km drive from Reykjavik, this hike can be easily done as a day trip from the city. 

19. Treat yo’self to a fancy dinner

If your budget allows, we’d highly recommend planning at least one “splurge meal” while in Reykjavik, as there are so many spectacular restaurants in this city. 

While we can only speak to a couple of fancy-schmancy restaurants, we have a foodie friend who lives in Reykjavik and gave us some pretty killer recommendations:

• Apotek : craft cocktails & elevated dishes; their fresh fish and seafood dishes are particularly good (as is their dessert menu – we loved the “Double Passion”)
• Messinn : popular seafood spot downtown (we loved their take on Arctic Char)
• Sumac Grill + Drink : fine dining with dishes inspired from the Middle East
• Kol : upscale tasting menu & cocktails; they also do brunch

Insider Tip: We’d recommend making a reservation at most of these establishments, as they do get busy.

Fancy dinner won’t fit in your budget? No worries, there are plenty of more affordable options too. Check our recommended restaurants at the bottom of this article for some budget-friendly options.

20. Laugh the night away at a Comedy Show

We love a good comedy show and try to seek them out in big cities on our travels. 

The Secret Cellar hosts regular shows in English that are sure to have you in tears (tears of laughter, that is!). Be sure to check their calendar to see if there are any shows during your stay in Reykjavik and reserve your seats in advance.

21. Scope out the city’s street art scene

Reykjavik is a colorful city. And we’re not just talking about the brightly hued building facades. If you look for it, you’ll find that Reykjavik has a pretty good street art scene, with murals and art installations on just about every block downtown.

22. Eat a many pastries as possible at Braud & Co

Typically on travels, we don’t repeat restaurants because there are so many to explore. But Braud & Co. was an exception. We got pastries here 3 times. THREE times. They’re that good. 

Be sure to stop here at least once during your time in Reykjavik for a super tasty treat. Everything we had there was great, so we’d suggest getting a few to sample. There aren’t signs labeling the pastries, but the staff do a good job of explaining what they are if you ask. Or, just point at whatever looks good!

Alternative: Another good pastry shop in town is Sandholt, though, we’re partial to the baked goods at Braud & Co.

23. Go museum hopping

Let your inner-nerd shine at one of the many, many museums in Reykjavik. For a small city, there sure are lots of options. 

While we haven’t personally visited any of these establishments, here are some of the most popular and famous museums in Reykjavik:

Best overall museums

• National Museum of Iceland : Probably the most comprehensive immersion into Iceland’s history, visitors will see exhibits, artworks and artifacts from the past 1,200+ years. Admission tickets are 2,000 ISK ($15) for adults.
• Perlan Museum (pictured above) : Known as the most popular attraction in Reykjavik, this museum has all sorts of exhibits – from man-made ice caves you can explore to a Northern Lights display and even a planetarium, Perlan focuses on Iceland’s nature and wildlife. Bonus: Perlan is located on a hill overlooking Reykjavik, so you’ll get a good view of the city. Tickets are 4,490 ISK ($35) for adults.

Quirky museums

• Icelandic Phallological Museum : Yep, this is a museum dedicated to penises, and you’ll find more than 200 on display from all sorts of wildlife and sea creatures. To us, this seems like a thing to do to say you “did it”, but hey, it’s probably the only of its kind in the world, so if you wanna check that off your list, go for it!
• The Icelandic Punk Museum : Small museum dedicated to the history of punk in Iceland. You enter by taking stairs down to what looks like a metro station. This used to be an underground public restroom. Take that for quirky! For Iceland, the entrance fee of 1200 ISK ($9) is very cheap. 

Free museum

• The Einar Jónsson Museum : This free sculpture garden is located near Hallgrimskirkja Church, and features pieces made by Iceland’s first sculpture. Many of them represent parts of Icelandic history and Norse mythology.

Other popular Reykjavik museums

• National Museum of Iceland : discover artifacts, art, photography, and temporary exhibitions that date back to when Iceland was first settled to today. 
• Whales of Iceland Museum : life size models and interactive features showcase Iceland’s regional whale populations.
• Saga Museum : this museum recreates key moments of Icelandic history.
• Reykjavik Maritime Museum : former fish factory with historic ships that tells the story of how Iceland’s fishing industry shaped the country.
• Aurora Reykjavik : interactive and educational museum about witnessing the northern lights in Iceland. 
• Arbaer Open Air Museum : highlights the history and folklore of Iceland through relocated houses, objects, and other exhibits.
• Settlement Exhibition : explore remnants of a 10th century viking settlement.

24. Check out Laugavegur Street

The coolest and liveliest spot in Reykjavik is Laugavegur Street.

You can easily spend a day wandering along the road and stopping at everything that catches your eye. From innovative designs to housewares, clothes, and culture, you’ll get a taste of everything that encompasses Iceland’s charm. 

Pop into Spúútnik for the city’s most beloved vintage finds, Kaldi Bar to try one of Iceland’s first craft beers, or Hús Máls og Menningar to browse books among live music.

25. Enjoy the city’s nightlife scene

Outside of Reykjavik, there is little nightlife to speak of. If you want to get your dance, or drink, or freak on while traveling in Iceland, you’ll be happy to know Reykajvik actually has quite a lively nightlife scene. 

3 things to know about nightlife in Reykjavik: 

• The best nightlife is on the weekends , when locals and foreigners alike hit the bars and clubs. On weeknights, things tend to be much more laidback.
• Locals dress up. And they look good , even in cold weather. Some of the nicer places in town have dress codes, but don’t worry if you didn’t pack a smart jacket and heels. There are plenty of places in town that have a more laid back vibe.  
• Alcohol in Iceland isn’t cheap. Aim for happy hour if you’re on a budget. (Most happy hours end by 7 p.m. if not before.)

Best nightlife in Reykjavik:

You could simply wander down Laugavegur, aka the main street in Reykjavik, and pop into any bar or pub that speaks to you. But if you want some unique recommendations, we’ve got you covered.

Local and Laidback Vibes:

• Hidden gem feels: Kaldi Bar/Café
• Local vibe with a good happy hour: Bravó
• Laidback Reykjavik coffeehouse/club with DJs: Kaffibarinn
• Proper Irish pub atmosphere: The Irishman Pub

Unique Nightlife in Reykjavik:

• Bookstore + live music + drinks? Sign us up! Hús máls og menningar has a classy vibe and features live music and cocktails.
• Trivia every Thursday night at 9 p.m., entry is free 
• Happy hour from 4 – 7 p.m.
• Catch live music: Skugga Baldur Bar
• Shameless touristy experience: Magic Ice Bar
• Seriously good cocktails ($$$) with a vibe : Jungle Cocktail Bar

26. Find this hidden box

If you want to go on kind of a fun scavenger hunt, you can look for a geocache box that’s hidden in the city. We’ll give you a couple of clues…

• On the outside of this box, you’ll find this message inscribed: “In a crevice among some large rocks by the Atlantic Ocean in Reykjavik” . It’s a pretty good clue to its location.
• The box is located along a path between two of the city’s most famous landmarks.

If you do find this box (congrats!), try to find our entry (and maybe even our business card, hint, hint! ) we left it in August 2021.

27. Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach

A local favorite just south of the city is this man made beach where you can sunbathe, picnic, sail, swim, and soak right off a small bay.

If the idea of plunging into Iceland’s frigid coast has you weary, there is a geothermal hot tub perfect for relaxing right along the beach!

How to get there : from the city center, head west on Njardargata. Turn left at the roundabout onto Route 49, then make a right onto Nautholsvegur, following it south all the way to the beach. Otherwise, take bus 5 to the HR stop next to Reykjavik University and walk 10-minutes to the beach.

28. Visit Videy Island

Natural beauty and renowned artistic works are trademarks of any visit to Videy Island.

The island is best known internationally for the home of the Imagine Peace Tower designed by Yoko Ono for John Lennon, but other notable sites are the “father of Reykjavik’s” home and famous sculpture titled ‘Milestones’ , which can be found on the west side of the island.

How to get there : the only way to access the island is by ferry. They leave from the Skarfabakki pier at Sundahöfn harbor and it takes 25-minutes to get to Videy. You can buy tickets at the harbor or online . Otherwise the ticket is included if you have the Reykjavik City Card.

29. Glimpse the Grotta lighthouse

Unspoiled and unique nature surrounds this lighthouse on Grotta Island. 

During low tide, wander here to admire and photograph this stunning lighthouse while looking for 106 species of birds and over 140 species of plant life.

How to get there : From downtown Reykjavik, follow Route 49 west, then take the second exit at the roundabout onto Eiðsgrandi. Continue straight until you reach the parking area. It’s about 6 km (3.72 miles) and takes 10-minutes. 

Good to know : access to the lighthouse is closed from May 1st to July 15th for breeding season.

30. Snaefellsnes Peninsula day trip

Just northwest of Reykjavik are giant mountains, remote lakes, and sweeping vistas dotted along this iconic peninsula.

There are boundless highlights to see here, but you definitely don’t want to miss Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall, hiking in Snaefellsjokull National Park, and snapping photos at Arnarstapi and the Budir Black Church. Given that it’s a 3-hour drive from Reykjavik, you’ll want to pack up your rental car early for this day trip.

Brush up on our guide to renting a car in Iceland for all the must-know information for road tripping and day tripping in Iceland.

How many days do you need in Reykjavik?

You could spend as little as a day in Reykjavik and see a majority of the main sites and landmarks around downtown. In fact, many people visit Reykjavik during a stopover so you won’t be disappointed even if you’re working on a time crunch. 

Two to three days will give you more time to explore outside of downtown and many of the activities we’ve rounded up in this list. 

More than three days will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city, join a guided tour, and even make a day trip to the South Coast.

The Reykjavik City Card: Is it worth it?

The Reykjavik City Card works like a city pass where you pay a flat rate and you get entrance and discounts to select entertainment, museums, restaurants, and experiences around the city.

There are three different tiers available for purchase:

• Reykjavik City Card 24 hours . 4.600 ISK ($33.58 USD)
• Reykjavik City Card 48 hours . 6.400 ISK ($46.71 USD)
• Reykjavik City Card 72 hours . 7.890 ISK ($57.59 USD)

No matter which tier you choose, you have the same benefits and discounts around the city. You’ll get free entrance into the main museums in Reykjavik, all swimming pools in the city, and free unlimited bus travel, to name a few. View the entire list here .

We think it’s worth the cost if the activities that you’re doing outweigh the cost of the card. You’ll need to lay out everything you plan to do, what it costs, to weigh if the card is worth it for your specific trip.

You can purchase a Reykjavik City Card online .

Best time to visit Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a year round travel destination where each season has its own draw for visiting. 

Summer is the peak season in Reykjavik, so you can expect expensive car rentals, food, excursions, and accommodation. This season is ideal for experiencing the midnight sun and joining fun day trips from the city, but you’ll need to book your trip far in advance.

Spring and fall bring a happy medium of fair weather, dwindling crowds, and relatively normal daylight hours. This is a good season to visit if you don’t mind working with the weather.

Although the winters in Reykjavik can have unpredictable weather, the lack of crowds, cheaper prices, and opportunity to see the northern lights are enough to draw anyone here in the coldest season.

If you’re planning to visit more than just Reykjavik, we have an in-depth look at regional seasons, weather patterns and other factors, in our complete guide to the best time to visit Iceland . 

How to get to Reykjavik city center from the airport

There are a variety of different options and budgets to get to Reykjavik from the airport.

Given that most people explore Iceland as an epic road trip, driving a rental car to Reykjavik is one of the most common options. Rental cars are best picked up from the airport, so you’ll have your own set of wheels as soon as you arrive.

From the airport, it’s a straight shot into the city center as it follows Route 41 virtually the entire way. It’s a 52 km (32.2 mile) drive and takes roughly 45-minutes.

Flybus airport transfer

This is one of the most efficient ways to get to the city center that won’t break the bank.

The Flybus takes you from the airport to the BSI bus terminal for about 3.500 ISK ($25.68 USD). Expect it to take around 45-minutes.

One of the biggest perks is the unlimited baggage allowance. The other is that the departure times are based on flight schedules. They are scheduled to depart 30-40 minutes after a flight lands and will wait for you in case your flight is delayed.

View the bus schedule on the Flybus website .

If you’re traveling Iceland on a budget and don’t mind a little extra time in transit, Bus 55 is the best option for you.

A one way ticket to Reykjavik costs 1.850 ISK ($13.58 USD) and takes 1 hour, 20 minutes to get to the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik.

These buses run everyday of the week, nearly all day. Check current timetables and routes using the Straeto app .

Rideshare/taxi

Uber and lyft do not operate in Iceland.

Taxis are an option, although they’re the most expensive. Rates start at around 15.000 ISK ($110 USD) depending on what service you use. You’re much better off having your own car rental or taking public transport to Reykjavik.

Transportation in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a small and very walkable city , but there are plenty of additional transport options for you to get around.

You can zoom around the city quickly on an electric scooter using the Hopp Scooter App . These are a super quick, convenient, and affordable way to get across the city if you don’t want to rely on public transport.

Reykjavik’s bus system is another excellent way to get around. The buses are called Straeto and they run to all the major sites and attractions around town. Plan your bus route and pay for your rides using the Straeto App . 

Psst! These are just a few of the useful apps we used while traveling around. Find more in our guide to Iceland Travel Apps . 

There are several 24-hour taxi services in Reykjavik, but note this is the most expensive way to get around the city. That said, Uber and Lyft do not operate so if you’re looking for a driver of any kind, this is your only route.

Tips for visiting Reykjavik

Keep these useful tips in your back pocket as you explore all these amazing things to do in Reykjavik.

• Card is king. Debit and credit is the primary payment method nearly everywhere in Reykjavik. Some cash will be handy, but you won’t need too much.
• You can drink tap water. In fact, you likely won’t catch locals drinking bottled water since Iceland’s tap water is so pure. There are even water fill up stations around the city center.
• International flights arrive outside of the city. Although you’d expect to fly directly into Reykjavik when visiting Iceland, the airport is actually in Keflavik, about 45-minutes outside of the city.
• English is widely spoken. Virtually everyone in Iceland know’s English, so not to worry if you didn’t brush up on some staple Icelandic words before arriving.

Where to eat in Reykjavik

Even for a small city, Reykjavik has an amazing food scene. From world cuisines served in casual settings to some seriously fine dining opportunities, Reykjavik has something for just about every traveler. 

Here are some of our favorite Reykjavik dining options:

• 101 Reykjavik Street Food ($): An excellent place to sample some of Iceland’s more traditional dishes at a reasonable price
• Svarta Kaffið ($): only two dishes on the menu (vegetarian or meat-based soup in a bread bowl), they do soup very well
• Apotek ($$$): craft cocktails and elevated dishes in a posh setting (order the Double Passion for dessert and thank us later!)
• Messinn ($$$): fresh seafood (try the Arctic Char!)
• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur ($): Home to Iceland’s most famous hot dog
• Cafe Loki ($$): popular with tourists, this is a good place to try authentic Icelandic dishes (the rye bread ice cream is excellent!)
• ​​Kröns ($$): an eclectic menu of flatbreads, burgers and tacos
• Hlemmur Mathöll ($$): food hall with lots of dining options
• Garðurinn ($$): If you’re vegan and/or gluten-free, this is your spot! They have a menu that rotates daily.
• Mama Reykjavik ($$): Another fabulous vegan option.

Where to stay in Reykjavik

First off, let’s start with a little advice…

Since taxis in Iceland are hella expensive and public transportation doesn’t run very frequently (you’ll typically have to wait 30 minutes between buses), we’d highly recommend choosing a hotel or Airbnb in a central location.

While you may save a bit of money staying on the outskirts of town, you’ll end up paying more to get around or end up spending tons of time going from place to place. 

We’d recommend staying somewhat close to the area between the Reykjavik Art Museum and Hallgrimskirkja Church (see the teal section on the map above for the general area to which we’re referring). This is where most of the sights you’ll want to see are located.

Hotels in Reykjavik

Budget-friendly stay: Reykjavik Downtown Hotel

This is a pretty bare-bones hotel, but it’s in a great location right in the center of downtown. They offer a range of single, double, triple and quadruple occupancy rooms at various price points so it’s a great option for groups traveling on a budget.

Cute Mid-range B&B: R eykjavik Treasure B&B

I stayed at this B&B with my mom in 2019. It is centrally located and includes a delicious breakfast. The rooms are fitted with comfy beds, modern touches and ensuite bathrooms.

Luxury Stay with all the Amenities: Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik This modern luxury hotel has a great location in downtown R eykjavík. The rooms feature minimalist Icelandic designs with modern touches and high end finishes. The property also includes a fitness center, free Wifi and complimentary breakfast. 

Airbnbs in Reykjavik

Budget stay: Cozy apartment near Reykjavik Harbor

This stylish and modern 1 bedroom apartment comes with everything you will need to make your Iceland stay comfortable. Conveniently located near the Reykjavik Harbor and near the center and a quick walk to downtown. You’ll be right in the center of the action.

Unique stay: Reykjavik Domes Luxury Dome // Standard Dome

Reykjavik Domes is part of a camping resort just east of downtown. They offer private domes – one standard and one luxury – outfitted with a king sized bed, wood burning fireplace and even a private hot tub (for the luxury dome only). The one thing they don’t have is a private bathroom – you’ll have to use the communal bathrooms shared with other campers.

Want more options? Check out our article on the best Airbnbs in Iceland . We have a whole section with Airbnbs in R eykjavík as well as some cool stays just outside of town.

Hostels in Reykjavik

KEX Hostel : Kex is the Icelandic word for biscuit, which may sound like an odd thing to name your hostel, but this highly-rated social hostel in downtown Reykjavik was converted from an old biscuit factory. With an onsite cafe, bar and heated outdoor patio, you’ll have plenty of space to socialize and meet other travelers.

Galaxy Pod Hostel : This quirky pod-themed hostel is just a 10-minute walk from the city center of Reykjavik. Instead of the traditional hostel bunks, Galaxy offers single and double-occupancy pods that may look a bit like you’re sleeping on a spaceship, but at least you’ll have your privacy!

What to pack for traveling to Reykjavik

One of the most frequently asked questions we get from people planning a trip to Reykjavik seems to be what to pack for Iceland and what to wear on your trip. 

Here are some specific items we’d recommend packing for traveling to Reykjavik:

• bug repellant (solids are the way to go)
• insulated water bottle and thermos
• reusable straw & reusable bag ( say no to single-use plastic! )
• gloves, winter hat, scarves (no matter which season!)
• sun protection
• portable charger
• waterproof jacket (the outer layer should be water and windproof)
• travel umbrella
• daypack with rain cover
• “Nicer” outfit to wear to a fancy dinner

Get our complete Iceland packing list , packed with insider tips and valuable information in this downloadable PDF. All you have to do is click below to enter your email and we’ll send it straight to your inbox, completely FREE!

Round up of the best things to do in Reykjavik

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Reykjavik so you can see everything in one place.

• Hallgrimskirkja Church
• Luxury hot springs
• Rainbow Street
• Sample craft beer
• Public pool
• Explore on scooter
• Sun Voyager
• Harpa Concert Hall
• Weekend flea market
• Reykjavik cafes
• Whale watching
• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dogs
• Wander the harbor
• Hike Mount Esja
• Fancy dinner
• Comedy show
• Braud & Co. pastries
• Laugavegur Street
• Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach
• Videy Island
• Grotta lighthouse
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula day trip

Are you planning a trip to Iceland?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Iceland and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our  Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Perfect Iceland Itinerary
• Iceland Trip Cost + Surprising Budget Tips
• Golden Circle Iceland: The Ultimate Guide
• Iceland Campervan Rental Guide (+ Exclusive Discount)

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We want to hear from you!

Are you planning a trip to Reykjavik soon? What’s the one thing you’re most excited about doing there? Do you have more questions about traveling in Reykjavik? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (3) on “ 30 Actually Cool Things to Do in Reykjavik ”

Loved reading this post! Reykjavik has always been on my bucket list, and now I have some great ideas for things to do there. Thanks for sharing 😍

Planning a 3.5 day excursion to Reykjavik Saturday June 8, 2024 leave Tuesday June 11 fly out at 5:00 PM

Trying to create a daily plan without having to rent a car

Saturday Day 1 getting off cruise ship cab to hotel and wander around/play tourist. Look at your ideas on what to see Sunday or Monday take the Golden Circle Trip The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route. It comprises three major attractions: The historic Thingvellir National Park, the highly active Geysir Geothermal Area, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. Which day might be better Sunday or Monday? Should we rent a car for one day or take a tour bus?

Sunday or Monday – please provide thoughts on other must see things Tuesday AM Wander city and take bus from hotel to airport.

Thanks for your assistance.

John Turzer

Hi John, Sunday vs Monday doesn’t really make much of a difference when it comes to exploring the Golden Circle. Both will be equally busy and most things will be open. Be sure to check times for restaurants and such just to make sure they will be open. In our opinion, we loved having a rental car and the flexibility that came with it. Driving in Iceland is super easy and all the signs have English on them so it is easy to navigate. I would recommend leaving early in the morning to get ahead of the tour buses on the Golden Circle. You may want to get your rental car the night before. I like the order you have for sites in the Golden Circle, but you might want to check out our Golden Circle article for more tips and places to eat. Hope this helps and hope you have a wonderful trip!

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Shower before going to the pool and other tips every Reykjavik local wants you to know

May 30, 2022 • 5 min read

Fit in just like a local with our tips on what you need to know before visiting Reykjavik © Arctic-Images / Getty Images

Reykjavik’s most common bird, the joke goes, is the building crane. Construction projects are everywhere, transforming Reykjavik from an oversized fishing village to an international city with all its complications.

To first-time visitors, the capital tends to be warmer than expected (winters are like New York) and spread over a wider area (twice the size of Paris). Here are some key things to know before you go.

Please drink the water

Tap water is always safe to drink. There is absolutely no reason to buy bottled water unless destroying the Earth with plastic waste is your motivation. The government recently launched an online campaign , in English, urging visitors to drink kranavatn – the Icelandic word for ‘tap water.’ Skál !

Cards are king

In Iceland, the three groups of society still using cash are criminals, 5-year-olds and tourists. Credit card payments are the default option in shops and restaurants. In Reykjavík, a small but growing number of businesses are card-only.

Cash can still be useful, such as to pay for a hot dog or a guided walking tour. ATMs are widely found. Cash-to-cash currency exchange is possible at most banks in the city center. (Given international transaction fees, cash can also be cheaper for small purchases.)

Etiquette at the public pools

Here are ways to culturally offend an Icelander: Refer to the petit Icelandic horse as a "pony". Visit a local church dressed in mountain gear. Enter a private home without removing shoes. Haggle with a shopkeeper. Read "Independent people" and publicly dislike it.

All these acts are mild, and some might not even consider them offensive. But the one thing Icelanders universally agree to be grossly inappropriate behavior, practiced by a shocking number of first-time visitors, is poor hygiene at the public pool.

The outdoor geothermal pools, known as sundlaugar, can be found in every Reykjavík neighborhood. Men and women, young and old, tourists and locals, frequent the baths to soak in hot water and catch up with friends.

Before entering – I repeat, before – visitors must shower, head to toe. Thanks to the abundance of hot water, the pools are low on chlorine and most people like to keep it that way. Another rookie mistake is leaving the towel in the locker, and then wet the entire room on the way out. So, use the towel racks by the shower and have a good day.

International flights arrive outside of Reykjavík

Keflavík International Airport is the point of entry for all commercial arrivals to southern Iceland and at touchdown the pilots tend to say: “Welcome to Reykjavík.” In reality, the airport is 50-kilometers (31mi) away. Almost welcome but not quite.

The distance is good to keep in mind when renting a car. Check if the company is based at the airport or the town of Keflavík, to avoid a bus trip into the city. Airport buses are costly, but relatively smooth. The three main companies, running a 24-hour service, are Fly Bus , Airport Direct and Grayline , with prices ranging from 3000 - 3500 Krona (US$23-27).

Meanwhile, Reykjavík City Airport (RKV) is absurdly close to the city center.

The ‘Capital Region’ is not the same as Reykjavík

When hotels and Airbnb listings claim to be in "the Capital Region" it usually suggests a location in one of five municipalities surrounding the City of Reykjavík.

To outsiders, cruising the capital sprawl home to some 65 percent of Iceland’s population, the borders of these neighboring towns are hard to notice and meaningless. But be careful not to tell residents in Kópavogur, Hafnarfjörður, Garðabær, Seltjarnarnes or Mosfellsbær that they live in Reykjavík!

Reykjavik is balmy, except when it is not

On a Celcius scale, monthly temperatures in Reykjavík are surprisingly steady throughout the year – from 3° in January to 14° in July – thanks to the warm Gulf Stream. But look closer, at the wind strength, for the full picture. A strong breeze can easily make the mid-temperature days feel freezing.

Another tip worth considering when weighing the forecast ahead of arrival, is that Reykjavík weather is a poor representation of Iceland in general: this southern corner tends to be the warmest, but also the wettest (wind almost always follows rain, so umbrellas are rarely usable).

How many days are perfect in Reykjavik?

One day in Reykjavik is enough to trek the entire downtown – from the Old Harbour to the Hlemmur food hall – covering most shops and landmarks along the way. Two days can include indoor visits like the Hallgrímskrikja tower and the National Gallery . Three days gives you time to venture beyond the center, to any of the eighteen sundlaugar public pools and the vista at Perlan . Day number four is all about recovering from a night out.

The average tourist spends three nights in Reykjavík, based on industry data. Yet, the number is inflated by the volume of people using the city as a hub for day-tours around southern Iceland, such as the famous Golden Circle . In comparison, the overall average length of stay during summer is ten nights.

Health and safety in Reykjavik

Reykjavík is among the world’s safest capital cities when it comes to crime and violence. Police patrols are unarmed and no neighborhood is considered unsafe, or less safe for that matter. Pickpocketing is very rare but petty theft is by some measures a growing problem – it would be unwise to leave a bike or a car unlocked.

As elsewhere in Iceland, nature poses the largest risk and the southwestern region covering Reykjavik is hit by an earthquake every few years. The last one was in 2021, when a magnitude-5.6 earthquake reached the city from nearby but left no damage. Avalanches remain Iceland’s most lethal natural disasters and those trekking Esjan, the "mountain of Reykjavík", should follow local advice in heavy snow.

The local emergency number is 112 (which is the Nordic version of 911).

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One day in Reykjavik, Iceland: 24-hour Reykjavik itinerary

Posted on Last updated: July 24, 2023

How to spend one day in Reykjavik, Iceland – discover quirky design, street art, museums and modern architecture in the Icelandic capital with this guide to things to do in Reykjavik in just 24 hours.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

In the 15 years since I first visited Iceland, the country’s popularity has exploded, with its spectacular landscapes and fascinating culture taking it from hidden gem to hotspot – helped by its handy position on flight routes between Europe and North America.

Whether you’re planning an epic adventure or just stopping over for a day or two, you’re likely to be passing through Iceland’s capital Reykjavik. Which is a great excuse to spend some time in this cool and compact Nordic city, with its mix of small-town friendliness and quirky design, Viking history and striking contemporary architecture.

This itinerary shows you how to spend one day in Reykjavik, covering its top landmarks and the vibrant food, drink and shopping scene that’s made the city so popular.

How to spend one day in Reykjavik

Climb to the top of Hallgrímskirkja

Reykjavik’s not a high-rise city, but there’s one building that towers over the rest – Hallgrímskirkja . At 74.5 metres high, this dramatic looking church is the second-tallest building in Iceland and one of the most popular things to do in Reykjavik. The unusual design was created by Icelandic state architect Guðjón Samúelsson in the 1940s.

It was built from white concrete and inspired by Iceland’s geology, with columns on each side based on the rock formations you get when lava cools. The design was controversial at the time and it took 38 years to complete, so Samúelsson never got to see it finished.

The church is free to visit as long as there isn’t a service taking place. It’s fairly minimalist on the inside, but for ISK 1300 (€9/£7.50/$10) you can take the compact lift up to the top of the tower for great views over Reykjavik’s brightly coloured rooftops.

Hallgrímskirkja is open from 9am from May–August and from 10am the rest of the year. So if you have some free time before visiting, start your day in Reykjavik with a coffee or breakfast at nearby Cafe Babalú , a couple of minutes’ walk away on Skólavörðustígur. This warm and cosy café does a great breakfast crêpe or grilled cheese sandwich.

Spot street art

Icelanders are known for their creativity, and Reykjavik has a big focus on design. Many buildings in the city are built of concrete so have become a blank canvas for street art. You’ll find artworks all around the city – from tiny hidden sketches to colourful murals which cover the whole side of a building, often commissioned by the buildings’ owners.

Reykjavik’s street art boomed after 2015 thanks to a project called Wall Poetry, which was a collaboration between the Icelandic Airwaves music festival and Urban Nation from Berlin. It connected artists and musicians to create wall art inspired by music.

You can see a big concentration of murals from the project around Laugavegur, Grettisgata and Skólavörðustígur streets. Skólavörðustígur is also the ‘Rainbow Street’, where the road has been painted in bright rainbow stripes to celebrate Reykjavik Pride.

Stroll and shop the old town

The old town of Reykjavik is just north of Hallgrímskirkja and is a bright and busy area that’s great for shopping, with not many chains and lots of unique boutiques. Laugavegur is the city’s oldest shopping street – its name translates as ‘the Water Road’ as it was originally the route women would take to wash their laundry in hot springs.

It’s still a popular shopping spot, with everything from vintage finds to modern concept stores. Look out for Hús Máls og Menningar for books, Aftur Clothing for eco-friendly designs, Lucky Records for music and Spúútnik for second-hand clothes.

Top gifts to take home include lopapeysa (cosy woollen jumpers), chocolate-covered liquorice, lava rock jewellery, sea salt and the tasty mustard used in Icelandic hotdogs.

On the subject of which – if you get hungry, grab a hotdog to take away. Iceland’s hotdogs are an institution and come served with fried and raw onions, mustard, ketchup and remoulade. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is Reykjavik’s most famous hotdog stand and has been in operation since 1937 – you can find it on Tryggvagata on the way to our next stop.

Visit Harpa Concert Hall

More geological inspiration is on show at Reykjavik’s modern Harpa Concert Hall . This dramatic building on the city waterfront opened in 2011 and is is made up of three-dimensional glass panels which use the same hexagonal shape as Iceland’s basalt rocks.

It sparkles with light reflected from the sea and sky by day, and is lit by colourful lights by night. The concert hall is home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra but even if you can’t get to a performance it’s worth wandering around and checking out the architecture.

If you want to find out more about the building, you can take a guided tour – they’re available at 11am and 1pm but not every day so check their website. Tours take 45 minutes to an hour and cost ISK 4900 (€33/£29/$37). Otherwise you can admire the views of the harbour and Mount Esja from the top floor or visit one of the restaurants.

Explore Reykjavik’s museums

Reykjavik has a diverse selection of museums, covering everything from geology to genitalia! So choose one or two to explore to finish off your afternoon.

The National Museum of Iceland takes you through the country’s history and culture. Reykjavik Maritime Museum focuses on the Icelandic people’s relationship with the sea. The Saga Museum explores Icelandic stories and folklore. And Whales of Iceland * is dedicated to the 23 species of whale living in the waters surrounding the country.

Alternatively, the new, state-of-the-art FlyOver Iceland * attraction lets you see the island’s natural beauty from a bird’s eye view, on a ride that feels like you’re flying. Or for something a bit different, the Icelandic Phallological Museum is dedicated to the penis, featuring a diverse collection of specimens from creatures large and small.

Or you could head out of the city centre to Perlan Wonders of Iceland ,* an interactive museum of geology, which features a planetarium with a Northern Lights show and a real ice tunnel. It’s located on top of a hill a couple of miles outside the centre of Reykjavik so is easiest to get to if you have a hire car – or otherwise you could take a taxi.

Watch sunset at the Sun Voyager

The waterfront Sun Voyager – or Sólfar in Icelandic – statue was designed by sculptor Jón Gunnar Árnason as a dream boat, an ode to sun and light (though there’s a certain resemblance to a Viking longboat too). It’s made of stainless steel on a base of polished granite, and on a clear day you get a backdrop of Mount Esja across the bay.

It’s striking at any time of day. But if you get there just before sunset it makes a great silhouette against the changing colours of the sky. Sunset times vary hugely throughout the year in Iceland though – from around 4pm in January to midnight in July – so you’ll need to adjust your itinerary depending on what time of year you’re visiting.

Eat and drink

Finally, finish off your one day in Reykjavik itinerary with dinner and drinks. Reykjavik isn’t the most obvious place you’d expect to find a bar that’s dedicated to cult Coen Brother film The Big Lebowski , but that’s exactly what you’ve got at Lebowski Bar .

If you’ve seen the film, you’ll know there’s only really one drink you can order – a White Russians (made with vodka, coffee liqueur and cream). The menu features a whole selection of variations on the classic White Russian as well as plenty of other cocktails.

Then head to the harbour for dinner. Icelandic cuisine focuses heavily on fish, taking full advantage of the cod, haddock, herring and salmon which are found in the island’s rivers and seas. Saegreifinn (Sea Baron) restaurant is famous for its rich, sweet lobster soup, served in a cosy restaurant where diners share tables and sit on fish barrels.

Map of things to do in Reykjavik

More time in Reykjavik?

If you’ve got another day in Iceland, then there are lots of great day trips from Reykjavik . One of the top things to do is to soak in the steaming blue waters of a geothermal pool. Best known is the Blue Lagoon , which is 45 minutes from Reykjavik, but there’s also the newer Sky Lagoon which is only 10 minutes from the city centre on the oceanfront.

If you don’t have your own transport you can book combined tickets which include bus transfers to either the Blue Lagoon * or Sky Lagoon *. The Blue Lagoon’s location close to Keflavik Airport also makes its a popular stop on the way to or from the airport.

Further afield there are the stunning landscapes of Þingvellir National Park, with plenty of walking routes, as well as snorkelling at Silfra in the freezing waters between two tectonic plates if you’re feeling brave. The Golden Circle * is a popular day trip which covers 300km and takes in Þingvellir, Gullfoss waterfall and the original erupting Geyser.

The details

When to visit reykjavik.

Despite its name, Iceland has a cool, temperate maritime climate thanks to the Gulf Stream, which keeps temperatures fairly mild in winter. But expect four seasons in one day whenever you visit, and pack for showers and a range of temperatures.

July and August in Reykjavik see average high temperatures of 14ºC (57ºF) and the lowest rainfall levels. Days are at their longest, with the sun setting around midnight and rising again at 4am around the longest day. Summer is Iceland’s busiest time though so expect crowds and more expensive accommodation – book well ahead if possible.

Spring and autumn are showery with temperatures around 7–10ºC (45–50ºF). But you have the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights in March and September when geomagnetic activity peaks around the spring and autumn equinoxes.

Snow is possible in Reykjavik from October to April. Winter can be cold and dark, with average daytime highs of 2ºC (36ºF) and nighttime lows of -2ºC (28ºF) in January, when the sun rises at 11am and sets at 4pm. But it’s quiet and a cheaper time to visit.

How to get to Reykjavik

International flights arrive into Reykjavik’s Keflavik Airport, 50km west of the city on the Reykjanes Peninsula (Reykjavik Airport in the city centre only has domestic flights).

To reach the city centre you can take a shuttle bus, public bus or taxi. Flybus * and Airport Direct * buses run from the airport to Reykjavik bus terminal, or you can pay extra to be dropped off at your hotel or nearest bus stop. Buses take 45 minutes and meet arriving flights so you don’t have to wait long, and tickets can be used for any departure.

A cheaper option is the no 55 public bus, which takes just over an hour but only runs once an hour. Taxis are the most expensive option at around €200 – better value for groups is a private transfer * for €155 which can carry up to four people.

Where to stay in Reykjavik

The Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina * is located in a historic harbour building, 10 minutes’ walk to the city centre. It’s bright and modern with quirky coastal decor touches, like knot-print wallpaper and vintage ship photos, and some rooms have harbour views. There’s also the Slippbarinn cocktail bar and restaurant, a gym and a mini cinema.

Or the Kex Hostel * is a good budget option in a former biscuit factory on the waterfront close to Laugavegur. It’s a friendly, social place with a mix of dorms and private rooms with shared/en suite bathrooms, and has a bar, restaurant, laundry and guest kitchen.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Reykjavik?*

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Travel Guide To Reykjavik

No country has produced more Miss Worlds (three) nor more conquerors of Everest (four). None so small can boast a Nobel laureate for literature, and no other country can boast the oldest parliament in existence. So, although Reykjavik essentially remains a quaint small town clinging to one corner of a largely uninhabitable island in the middle of nowhere, the skyline is now dominated by dramatic structures that trumpet its transformation from a down-at-heel, hick backwater into a very hip capital - albeit one that lingers on the brink of bankruptcy after the economic crash of 2008, which somehow has made Reykjavik more popular than ever.

Where to stay in Reykjavik

Hverfisgata 10, Reykjavik (00 354 580 0101; www.101hotel.is ). 101 Hotel is a boutique hotel that scores highly on location and cool. Have a drink in the bar to sample the buzzy atmosphere, but don't bother eating there: the district is packed with restaurants. £££

Posthusstraeti 11, Reykjavik (00 354 551 1440; www.hotelborg.is ). Hotel Borg in Reykjavik was once the vortex of the city's social life, and the location is excellent, on a grassy square right beside Reykjavik's cathedral and the Icelandic parliament. Built in 1930 in the highly fashionable Art Deco style, Borg was the dream project of champion wrestler Johannes Josepsson. This is a Scandinavian take on Art Deco, with muted colour schemes and minimalist restraint. Read more about Hotel Borg in our story on Art Deco hotels. £££

Where to eat out in Reykjavik

Bankastræti 5, Reykjavik (00 354 552 9600). B5 has a (possibly ironic) disco-ball hanging from the ceiling - about the only item in the place that isn't taupe and made of leather. Relax in the deepest seats ever and enjoy an excellent hot chocolate, just what you need after you've been trawling the shops.

KAFFI SOLON

Bankastræti 7a, Reykjavik (00 354 562 3232; www.solon.is ). Buzzy, stylish Kaffi Sólon will take you through the day, from brunch to the early hours (hence the sound system in the corner).

Geirsgata 8, Reykjavik (00 354 553 1500; www.saegreifinn.is ). For a purely Icelandic experience, have lunch at what can only be described as a shack down at the old port. Sægreifinn specialises in lobster soup and fish kebabs. The soup, made to a secret recipe using a sort of local crayfish, is sensational. You can also try a brochette of very fresh scallops or, if you are feeling brave, whale meat. (Whale-watching and whale-catching ships sit incongruously side by side here.)

GRAI KOTTURINN

Hverfisgata 16a, Reykjavik (00 354 551 1544). 'The Grey Cat' is a cosy, dimly lit, book-lined café in an old townhouse. It only starts filling up with the breakfast crowd after 10am or so. Sit and read the Reykjavik Grapevine, the lively, English-language paper with entertainment listings, while you eat eggs, pancakes or bagels and drink good coffee (Icelanders take the latter very seriously).

RESTAURANTS

HUMARHUSID RESTAURANT

Amtmansstíg 1, Reykjavik (00 354 561 3303; www.humarhusid.is ). Humarhúsid Restaurant strives for '90 per cent Icelandic cuisine' (including local lobster, horse, duck and smoked eel) and is highly rated.

LA PRIMAVERA

Austurstræti 9, Reykjavik (00 354 561 8555; www.laprimavera.is). La Primavera is Italian and very grown-up. The Italian-Icelandic fusion dish of tagliatelle with saffron, chorizo, pine nuts and salt cod (that's the Icelandic bit) worked beautifully. The chef trained with Jamie Oliver, who has eaten here and raved about it.

What to see in Reykjavik

Reykjavik has a wealth of public and private art spaces. Check the Reykjavik Grapevine ( www.grapevine.is ) for details of exhibitions.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

Sudurgata 41, Reykjavik (00 354 530 2200; www.natmus.is ). The National Museum of Iceland has a lively and imaginative permanent exhibition, 'Making of a Nation', which traces the country's history from the first settlement to the present.

THE CULTURE HOUSE

Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavik (00 354 545 1400; www.thjodmenning.is ). In the 101 district is Þjóðmenning ('The Culture House'), a magical showcase for some of the splendour of Iceland's ancient past - sagas, Edda poems and other manuscripts - displayed in a series of dimly lit rooms.

Things to do in Reykjavik

THERMAL BATHS The unique culture surrounding the hot, bubbling, pure waters of Iceland is worth visiting. The website www.visitreykjavik.is provides a handy guide to Icelandic bath etiquette and lists 16 thermal baths in Reykjavik alone. BLUE LAGOON 240 Grindavík, Reykjavik (00 354 420 8800; www.bluelagoon.com ). The tourists' favourite is the recently spruced-up Blue Lagoon, best visited on the way to or from the airport. The Blue Lagoon featured in the Spa Awards 2009 LAUGARDALSLAUG Sundlaugarvegur, Reykjavik (00 354 411 5100). Laugardalslaug has the most extensive facilities, and the locals say it's the best.

Where to shop in Reykjavik

Shopping malls on the outskirts of the city have many of the chain stores familiar to the UK visitor; there are also plenty of shops selling cuddly toy puffins. For cutting-edge style - jewellery, homewear, new and vintage clothes - head for the main street, Laugavegur (which turns into Bankastræti).

Bakastræti 5, Reykjavik ( www.66north.com ). Local company 66º North sells Icelandic outerwear, including 'animal-friendly' (or acrylic, to you and me) fleece clothing.

Bankastræti 4, Reykjavik (00 354 551 2770; www.aurum.is). Aurum sells funky earrings made from plastic animals as well as more 'designer' jewellery.

Laugavegi 7, Reykjavik (00 354 561 6262; www.kisan.is ). Kisan has a glorious, ever-changing collection of clothes and household items from around the world.

Sudurgata 41, Reykjavik (00 354 530 2200; www.natmus.is ). The shop in the National Museum of Iceland (see What to See) is well worth a visit, for 'Dress-Up Viking Warrior' fridge magnets and exquisite hand-embroidered mittens and Icelandic knitwear.

The best things to do near Reykjavik

There are plenty of adventures to be found in Iceland:

Whether you are an experienced fisherman or a novice, the excitement of catching a fish will make sea angling in the cold waters off Iceland a rewarding activity. The most commonly caught fish on tours are cod, haddock, pollock and catfish, though if you're lucky you might land a giant halibut. All equipment is provided and the guides will help you reel in your catch. Regent Holidays (0845 277 3381; www.regent-iceland.com ) organises three-hour sea-angling tours from Reykjavik.

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli , CN Traveller

GLACIER HIKING

Unsurprisingly, glaciers are a common feature of the country and Activities Abroad (01670 789991; www.activitiesaboard.com ) offers hiking expeditions on the Sólheimajökull glacier in the south-west of Iceland. There's an ice wall on the glacier where you can try your hand at ice climbing, using axes and crampons.

There are numerious treks that explore some of Iceland's most impressive landscapes, from the rugged coast to dramatic volcanic highlands. Exodus (0845 863 9600; www.exodus.co.uk ) offers a week-long Iceland Volcano Hike, which passes through the southern region of Fjallabak. The route follows the Eldgjá volcanic fissure between Vatnajökull and Mýrdalsjökull icecaps, past craters, lava flows, lakes and canyons.

MIDNIGHT GOLF

For a surreal golfing experience, head to Akureyri Golf Club in the north of the island when the Arctic Open - a 36-hole international event - takes place. It is the only tournament in which play continues well after midnight: made possible by the fact that, in June and July, Iceland enjoys 24 hours of daylight every year. For more information visit www.arcticopen.is .

Saddle up for a trek across Iceland's epic landscape and discover a new wild west from the back of the pony-sized Icelandic horses. 'Geysir and Gluffoss Special' is one of several riding holidays arranged by Discover The World (01737 218800; www.discover-the-world.co.uk ). It lasts for five nights. To protect livestock from outside diseases, you cannot take riding equipment into Iceland, including boots and half-chaps, unless it has been sterilised, with a vet's certificate to prove it. to get round this you could buy a new pair of wellingtons for the trip which will be perfectly practical for riding through rivers.

RIVER RAFTING

Southern Iceland's rivers provide a thrilling way to explore the landscape; river-rafting tours, grades 2 to 3, are available for both experienced rafters and beginners. Discover The World (01737 218800; www.discover-the-world.co.uk ) has a three-hour tour and a five-and-a-half-hour tour.

WALE-WATCHING

Whales favour the cold waters of the North Atlantic surrounding Iceland, making the whale-watching ports great for spotting minke whales and occasionally humpback and orca, as well as white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. Scantours (020 7554 3530; www.scantours.co.uk ) organises a three-hour tour that leaves from Reykjavik harbour. You may find puffins, fulmars and gannets endeavouring to overtake your boat.

How to get to Reykjavik

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

Icelandair (0870 787 4020; www.icelandair.co.uk ) and Iceland Express (01279 665220; www.icelandexpress.com ) both fly to Keflavik, from which there is a cheap bus service that ferries passengers into Reykjavik and drops them at their hotels.

Home » Europe » Iceland » 20 Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

20 Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

By Author Lance Longwell

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

Friendly and cool with a relaxed vibe, Reykjavik, Iceland, begs to be explored. An essential stop on any trip to Iceland, this accessible city is full of great museums and exceptional restaurants. Plus, there’s street art, geothermal pools, entertaining shows, and much more. With so many fun things to do in Reykjavik, you’ll never get bored.

Five visits to Iceland have allowed us to spend quite a lot of time in the capital looking for the best views, trying cocktails and coffee, and generally enjoying all that the city has to offer. Here are our picks for the best Reykjavik attractions and activities.

See related article: The Best Time to Visit Iceland

Visit the Hallgrimskirkja Church

Explore the street art scene, explore perlan, hit up a coffee shop, relax at sky lagoon, see the lava show, try omnom chocolate and ice cream, understand the country’s past at the reykjavik maritime museum, walk around the tjörnin, dive into the culinary scene, stand in awe at the sun voyager, shop for a sweater at the handknitting association of iceland, catch some culture at harpa, see the reykjavik settlement exhibition 871 +/- 2, explore the nightlife, visit the blue lagoon, eat a hot dog at bæjarins beztu pylsur, drive the golden circle, search for the northern lights, take a day trip to greenland.

The Hallgrímskirkja (Hallgríms Church) is the iconic Icelandic landmark in Reykjavik that can been seen atop the hill from everywhere in the city. This building is part church, part monument, and part art. And it’s worth a visit.

Unlike many churches in Europe, it is free to go into the Hallgrímskirkja and look around. And unlike many churches in Europe, the interior of the church is fairly very plain.

The church is designed to invoke elements of Icelandic nature resembling an ice cave. Its long vertical lines mimic the famous basalt columns located at several places in the country, particularly the Svartifoss waterfall. In fact, the organ is the only thing inside the church that isn’t a shade of light gray.

And while the church is beautiful for its simplicity, we were more enthralled by the statue of Leif Ericson out in front of the church. The statue was gift from the people of the United States in 1930 recognizing that Leif Ericson was the true discoverer of America and the New World – not Christopher Columbus. There’s something refreshing about the honesty of the statue.

At the small gift shop inside Hallgrimskirkja, you can purchase tickets to ride the elevator up the tower. When you exit, there are three small flights of stairs leading to a viewing platform. From here, all of downtown Reykjavik lies at your feet.

From the top of the Hallgrimskirkja, you can see all of the colorful buildings in downtown, the harbor, and the mountains beyond. There’s no finer view in the capital, which is why the church is one of the top attractions in the country .

The locals call Reykjavik “Greykjavik.” This is partly due to the drab winter weather, but also some of the construction materials used in the city aren’t very inspiring. This is a far cry from the more traditional Scandinavian colors (red, yellow, and blue) which can be seen in pockets through the city.

However, what the buildings lack, young artists have added.  The real color can be found on the sides of buildings throughout town. The culture of street art in Reykjavik is going strong!

The murals showcase aspects of Icelandic life, culture, nature, or the whims and dreams of Icelandic artists. While initially controversial, these works have come to be beloved by locals and create an ever-changing canvas around the city.

On Reykjavik’s highest hill, you’ll find Perlan , Wonders of Iceland. Once the city’s old water towers, it’s now an educational center full of permanent and temporary exhibits about the things that make Iceland amazing. From puffins to the Northern Lights and whales to volcanoes and forces of nature, it explains lots about this complex place.

One of the coolest features (literally and figuratively) at Perlan is the world’s first indoor ice cave. Built with real snow, it stretches 100 meters in a specially refrigerated area. The glowing lights make it fascinating to explore, and there is even an ice throne if you need a special photo opportunity.

In addition to the fun interactive exhibits, Perlan has a restaurant, cafe, bar, and ice cream parlor that all encourage you to hang out for awhile. The glass-domed ceiling and lush decorations make it feel like you’re spending the afternoon in a luxurious greenhouse.

If your time is short, Perlan is also idea for taking in views of the city. From the building’s elevated vantage point, you can see the Hallgrímskirkja church with the rest of the city and the mountains in the distance. Best of all, it can be done as a quick stop while heading to or from the airport with the reduced cost observation deck-only ticket.

The locals love their coffee. The city has a vibrant coffee culture. Locals and tourists alike gather every morning to socialize, gossip, read the news…and drink a cup of coffee.

The best coffee shop in town is the famous Mokka Kaffi . Get here early to grab a seat with the locals. If you are looking for take away options, Kaffitar is also very popular.

Only 10 minutes from downtown, Sky Lagoon is a luxurious hot spring option for people wanting to stick close to the city. You can lounge in the springs or go all-in on the 7-step circuit they call The Ritual, which includes hot and cold pools, a sauna, a scrub, and more.

The water in the lagoon is a comfortable 100–104° F (38–40°C), and it stays that way year-round, so you can stay warm even if there’s snow. The pools are manmade, but they’re designed to blend into the landscape and provide sweeping ocean views.

Sky Lagoon has a popular swim up bar and a restaurant. We enjoyed our visit and will likely return, but it’s worth noting that the lagoon can be a little louder and more crowded than other hot springs in Iceland because it’s so easy to reach from the city.

Iceland is known for volcanic activity and there has been A LOT near Reykjavik in recent years. If you’re interested in seeing lava up close without the difficulty and unpredictability of hiking to a recent eruption, the Lava Show is the place to go.

In the safety of the studio, you’ll see actual lava from an Icelandic volcano superheated to 2000F. It bubbles and cracks in dramatic fashion as you learn about the volcanic history of the country.

The Lava Show is a great activity for kids and adults since it’s something most people will never have the opportunity to see–certainly not just a few feet in front of you. The presenter answers everyone’s questions both during and after the show, so it’s ideal if you’re particularly curious about this unique aspect of Iceland’s geography. (There is also a Lava Show in Vik, if you’re traveling around the island and don’t have the chance to see it in Reykjavik.)

Known for its colorful packaging and commitment to high-quality ingredients, Omnom Chocolate makes “bean-to-bar” chocolate bars at their factory near the port. Their flavors include combinations ranging from lakkris (licorice) and sea salt to cookies and cream as well as single origin bars. In 2018, Omnom’s Milk of Nicaragua bar was named the best milk chocolate bar in the world.

In addition to the fabulous chocolate, visitors can try their creative ice cream. The toppings, creams, and sauces are made from scratch and often assist in turning a basic ice cream cup into a cute creature. You can choose from things like marshmallow, toasted pretzel crumble, yuzu cream, chocolate curd, and more.

The Reykjavik Maritime Museum is located in the old harbor of the city and focuses on the country’s important nautical history. It’s excellent museum and covers everything from the Vikings to the Icelandic cod wars with Europe.

The museum is housed on land that was reclaimed from the sea and in a building that was once a fish factory. Visiting is a great way to immerse yourself in the most important part of the Icelandic economic.

The Tjornin is the city’s front yard. The lake is a beloved feature of the city and locals call it the Reykjavíkurtjörn   (Reykjavík’s Pond or the Reykjavik City Pond). Once an ocean lagoon, a barrier was erected closing the pond off from the sea and making it a body of fresh water.

In the evenings you’ll see locals strolling around the lake, talking, or sitting on a bench and taking in the view. Reykjavik’s town hall sits at the western end of the Tjornin. It’s not uncommon to see city officials stepping out for fresh Icelandic air.

Walking around the pond and mingling with the locals is one of the best free things to do in Reykjavik.

No, this isn’t a punchline to some long-forgotten joke. The whole idea of a culinary scene in Iceland would have been unthinkable even a decade ago. This was a city that felt more like a culinary wasteland than a true capital of Europe.

Those days are long gone. These days, gourmands flock to the city for the culinary revolution happening here. Yes, there’s still lamb and fish on every menu, but they are being re-imagined for a new generation of Icelanders.

Traditional cuisine is being reshaped into fine art at Icelandic restaurants . And there’s every kind of international cuisine you can possibly imagine. These days, fine dining is one of the new, cool things to do in Reykjavik.

If you’re interested in dining, check out the section on where to eat below or visit our Reykjavik Restaurant Guide .

When it comes to your list of what to see in Reykjavik, the Sun Voyager (or Solfarid) sculpture is probably high on the list. It would seem every visitor to Iceland needs to take a selfie in front of this sculpture.

However, there is a far more moving story here. The work was conceived and built by sculptor Jon Gunnar Arnason to commemorate the 200 th anniversary of the city. He conceived of the sculpture and built it but never saw it installed. He passed away from Leukemia before the work could be completed.

The Sun Voyager resembles a Viking long ship, but wasn’t designed to represent the Vikings. Rather, it is a “dream boat” that is designed to “convey the promise of undiscovered territory, a dream of hope, progress and freedom.”

The Sun Voyager is particularly beautiful at sunset with Mt. Esja in the background or in the early morning with the sun at your back.

In 1977, a group of Icelandic women established the local handknitting association. Their goal was to knit goods (sweaters, shalls, etc.) and sell them to those who didn’t knit or to tourists.

Over 40 years later, the association is still going strong. There are two locations in the capital city, but most people visit the downtown store located on Skólavörðustígur.

In retrospect, the association was a brilliant solution to a common problem: a poor economy in Iceland. After years of cod wars with Europe and high inflation due to the oil crisis, the Icelandic economy was struggling. These enterprising women literally stitched the country’s economic back together.

Other than the Hallgrimskirkja church, the most famous building in Reykjavik is the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center. Occupying prime waterfront real estate at the harbor right downtown, this building is a showpiece for the country.

Designed by the firm of Henning Larsen Architects in partnership with the Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson, this building is truly a work of art and is now one of the top Reykjavik sites to visit.

The geometric building is the permanent home of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, Icelandic Opera, and Reykjavik Big Band, which perform at the venue regularly. You’ll also find everything from jazz to country to classic rock, so it’s worth taking a look at the event schedule if you’re a lover of music.

The Settlement Exhibition – Reykjavik 871 +/-2 is an interesting and unusual exhibit with an even more unusual name. It’s curious partly because this exhibit is in the basement of an ultramodern hotel and partly because the name highlights the question of exactly when Reykjavik was settled some time between 868 and 872 (i.e., +/-2).

During the construction of an earlier building, the remnants of an early Viking building were discovered. When the modern hotel was to be built in 2001, measures were taken to carefully excavate the site and preserve the artifacts.

The exhibits at the Settlement Museum Reykjavik are detailed and allow you to see foundations of the earliest houses up close.

Hold onto your livers! The Reykjavik bar and nightclub scene is legendary. While there’s no shortage of ways to spend your time or money in the city, one of the best things to do in Reykjavik at night is to indulge in some of the city’s famous nightlife. It’s unlike any other city in the world.

The bars and lounges in Reykjavik are perfect for a night out. They stay open really late (like 4:00 or 5:00am late). There are no cover charges. There are no velvet ropes or bouncers or elitism. There’s delicious drinks (albeit pretty expensive). And all of the bars are in a very centralized area so you can go between them easily.

The bar scene changes quickly with places going into and out of fashion quickly. We are big fans of the Jungle Cocktail Bar and their craft mixology. And, for pop culture appeal, don’t miss having a White Russian at the the famous Lebowski Bar .

Even if you aren’t a “club person,” the nightlife in Reykjavik is not to be missed.

No trip would be complete without a visit to the Blue Lagoon. This is the most famous geothermal pool in Iceland (and perhaps the world). Located between the city and the airport, this is an Instagram model’s delight. Or just skip the selfies and enjoy the water for what it is.

If you spend any time in Iceland, you’ll likely end up in the Blue Lagoon. You can drive yourself or take one of the popular Blue Lagoon tours . Check out our Blue Lagoon guide if you plan to go.

Many people consider the hot dog to be the national food of Iceland. Icelanders certainly eat large quantities of them, particularly from the numerous gas stations throughout the country.

And while the hot dog is iconic, the location of the best hot dog in Iceland is not disputed. Most people end up at the Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, the hot dog stand in the heart of downtown. Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur has been serving sausages since 1937 and the long lines at the stand attest to their popularity.

During his Presidential visit, Bill Clinton famously had a hot dog here in August 2004. He ordered his with only mustard, but most people get their hot dogs “with” – meaning with everything.

If you’re wondering what to do in Reykjavik, a visit to the Golden Circle is essential. This full-day outing from the city allows you to see the very best of Iceland in a single day. You’ll get all the waterfalls, lakes, geysers, volcano calderas, and hot springs you would ever want. If you don’t have time to road trip on the Ring Road or explore the rest of the country, you can get a sense of it here.

The Golden Circle takes you to the Þingvellir National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the patriotic “home” of the Icelandic people. It’s also located directly on top of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates intersect. It makes for some very interest geological formations.

Check out our  Golden Circle self-drive tour . Or, you can select one of the Golden Circle tours .

For many people, coming to see the Northern Lights in winter is one of their activities. Since the capital is a fairly large city, it is difficult to see the lights clearly within the city. If you really want to see the dancing green lady in the sky, you’ll need to head outside of the city.

The good news is that the capital makes a decent base to go hunting for the Aurora lights in the winter. If you want to see them, just rent a car and head out into the countryside. Alternatively, there are large numbers of Northern Lights tours that leave from Reykjavik every evening in the winter.

Yes, Greenland. One of the most unique things to do in Reykjavik is to get on a small propeller aircraft and fly to another country. Yes, there’s plenty to see and explore in Iceland, but for visitors looking for a bit more, go to Greenland.

On our very first trip to Iceland, we discovered you can take a day trip to Greenland from Iceland . And we did it. While Greenland is very difficult to visit from North America or Europe, it’s actually surprisingly easy to visit from Iceland.

What’s in Greenland? There are glaciers and icebergs. There’s lots and lots of snow and ice. And while you’re expecting to be awed by the scenery and the nature, the biggest impact could be the cultural aspects. Whatever you expect from Greenland, you will be surprised and challenged.

Where to Eat Sumac Grill + Drinks : Lebanese restaurant on the main drag Austur : Essentially an Indian restaurant (with a few other Asian dishes thrown in) with good vegetarian options Matarkjallarinn – Foodcellar : This is one of the nicest places in town for fine dining with an Icelandic flair Fiskmarkadurinn : Japanese/Icelandic hybrid restaurant that focuses on fish Where to Stay in Reykjavik Baldursbrá Apartments : Private parking with everything you’ll need for an enjoyable visit ( Read reviews and book a room ) 101 Hotel : One of the most central hotels with a sleek, modern design and on-site parking ( Read reviews and book a room )

Lance Longwell is a travel writer and photographer who has published Travel Addicts since 2008, making it one of the oldest travel blogs. He is a life-long traveler, having visited all 50 of the United States by the time he graduated high school. Lance has continued his adventures by visiting 70 countries on 5 continents – all in search of the world’s perfect sausage. He’s a passionate foodie and enjoys hot springs and cultural oddities. When he’s not traveling (or writing about travel), you’ll find him photographing his hometown of Philadelphia.

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One Day in Reykjavik Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is the largest city in Iceland. The capital of the country, this southwestern city sits right on the water. The population of Reykjavik is just over 122,000 individuals but sees a large influx of tourists every year. Reykjavik is the northernmost capital in the world and the status of a cultural hub in which tourists can truly feel the Viking spirit. As a stop on the Ring Road, which can be driven on around the entire country, Reykjavik is a great place to spend an entire trip or a wonderful starting point for longer-term travelers.

GUEST POST BY JESSICA LYNN BLOG: Classic Travel & Tours

What’s the best time to visit Reykjavik?

Tourists will enjoy visiting Reykjavik year round, although the best time to visit depends on what one is looking to do. For travelers looking for slightly warmer weather (50-60F), the summer is the time to go. Summer in Iceland boasts the option to explore under the Midnight Sun ; visitors will experience nearly 24-hours of sunlight. Iceland National Day, Secret Solstice  and other festivals will also take place during the summer. This is also a perfect time to go hiking.

For those who are more interested in hiking, snowmobiling on glaciers, or in seeing the Northern Lights, the months of September through March are much better times to travel. Although the weather will be colder, darker and icier, those who are chasing the beautiful natural phenomena will get their fix at this time.

a Few Facts about Reykjavik

Reykjavik is full of culture and history, so it is a wonderful place to learn about the  Vikings . But if you’re looking for some more quirky things to do, you can check out the museum of phalluses (with over 200 specimens), grab a beer and wonder how it was illegal in Iceland until the end of the 1980s, or examine some of the street art. Just don’t go to Reykjavik expecting to grab a Starbucks coffee or anything from McDonalds – it’s the only Western European capital that doesn’t have either.

One Day in Reykjavik Itinerary

Reykjavik has a multitude of activities you can plan to take on throughout the day without having to travel around much! Reykjavik is an easily walkable city, so you don’t have to stress too much about public transport. It is easy to book a transfer between the airport and city center or hotels/hostels . Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Reykjavik.

Start your day off by grabbing breakfast at The Laundromat Cafe  before heading into Reykjavik to explore. One sight to see is definitely Hallgrimskirkja , a Lutheran church that is one of Iceland’s tallest buildings.

The architecture of the church was modelled on Iceland’s many waterfalls, with the front of the structure seeming to flow downwards towards the ground. For just a few kronas, you can buy a ticket to take the elevator to the top of Hallgrimskirkja for a stunning look at Reykjavik from above.

Afterwards, head to Laugavegur , Iceland’s main shopping street. It boasts a variety of clothing and gift stores, bars, and restaurants. Grab a cup of coffee or some freshly-squeezed juice and take a gander at the colorful street art that decorates many of the buildings.

At lunch, stop by Sægreifinn for fresh seafood. If you’re a fan of lobster, order their lobster bisque – it is a well-known fan favorite. You can also head to Islenski Barinn for a fried langoustine, hardfiskurr, or – if you’re feeling daring – some hákarl, fermented shark. If the flavor leaves a bad taste in your mouth, you can always chase it down with Iceland’s caraway-flavored alcohol, Brennivin.

After lunch, take a break from the ordinary by examining the collection at the Icelandic Phallological Museum (phallus.is), which houses the world’s greatest collection of phalluses.

If that’s too odd for you, you can always check out the National Museum of Iceland , take a photo in the honeycomb shaped windows at Harpa, or even head to the harbor for a whale-watching tour.

Of course, no visit to Reykjavik is complete without a visit to the Blue Lagoon . Buy your tickets ahead of time and be prepared for lines. If you want to take photos, cameras are permitted, so bring along a waterproof phone case. The warmth, beautiful blue water and the stunning terrain surrounding the Blue Lagoon leads to a relaxing and unique experience.

For dinner and drinks at night, head back towards Laugavegur. Reykjavik may not offer a lot of nightclubs, but there are a good number of bars that you can hop between. The nightlife in Reykjavik tends to be perfect for night owls, as many people do not go out until way later in the evening. Natives tend to dress well when out, so remember to bring some nice clothes to go out in!

Where to stay in Reykjavik, Iceland?

Galaxy Pod Hostel

Laugavegur 170, 105 Reykjavík

Located fairly close to the airport, the Galaxy Pod Hostel is unlike anywhere you’ve ever stayed before. The hotel pods , with their bright and colorful lighting, are spacious and clean. The pods feature a shared bathroom, as well as a shared kitchen. The Galaxy Pod Hostel is known as one of the best value hostels in the area and is close to the city center, so you will not be missing out on the action.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Storm Hotel by Keahotels

Thórunnartún 4, 105 Reykjavík

Storm Hotel by Keahotels is a great option as well, especially for couples. Experience stunning views of the sea , private bathrooms, and clean, spacious rooms. Laugavelar, the main shopping street, is less than ¼ mile from this hotel, so travelers will be right in the center of the city.

Day trips from Reykjavik

Iceland is an absolutely incredible country. Fortunately, it’s not that big, so you can see a lot on your day trip from Reykjavik. And you really should set up one of these because the options you have are simply spectacular.

Golden Circle

Water is one of the defining features of Iceland, and this Golden Circle tour will show you why. Prepare to see fantastic hot springs in Geysir , visit the Gullfoss Waterfall and end your day in Þingvellir National Park, a place where two tectonic plates are drifting apart. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was incredibly important to the Vikings, so you can be sure you will have your hands full on this day trip.

Whale watching

Summer is the best time to go and watch whales . These magnificent creatures love the waters around Iceland, so the chances are that you will see them. As a matter of fact, you will probably get tickets for another whale watching trip for free if none of them appear! While this is not exactly a day trip because it only lasts about three hours, the chance to go see whales in their natural habitat should not be missed. Of course, dolphins and other animals are sure to be there, too.

Northern Lights

Not so much a day trip as an evening trip from Reykjavik , going out of the city to watch the Northern Lights is just about the best trip you can make. Seeing this awe-inspiring sight on the sky above you really puts things in perspective. Unlike the whales, though, this incredible show is best seen in winter months. Mind you, there is also a museum dedicated to this phenomenon in the city, so go to Aurora Museum if you want to learn what exactly is going on above you while the lights are dancing.

Snorkel in Silfra

Yes, Iceland’s water and nature are quite incredible, and you can see all of that firsthand if you dive into Silfra , the rift formed between American and Eurasian tectonic plates . Just the thought of it seems surreal, but when you get there you will encounter incredibly clear waters and fascinating colors. A unique experience, no doubt about that, and the nature around the diving site is quite fascinating, too. All equipment will be provided.

Southern Iceland

Southern Iceland is where the nature of this country really is at its very finest. Absolutely incredible waterfalls, huge glaciers, the fascinating columns of Reynisfjara , black sand beaches… all absolutely pristine and unspoiled. And the visit to the village of Vik is also something to consider because you get the feeling the whole place is somehow perfectly in tune with the nature around it. If you want to get to know Iceland better, this is where you need to go.

Extra Tips for visiting Reykjavik:

– Reykjavik is an absolutely gorgeous city – but make sure to prepare for adverse weather conditions . Icelandic weather can change on a dime. While it may be sunny one moment, it could be raining the next, then back to sunny, and so on and so forth. Ensure that you pack clothes – some waterproof – to prepare for Icelandic weather.

– Also, while Reykjavik nightlife is extremely fun, drinks can be somewhat expensive . Take advantage of happy hours across the city. You can also buy your alcohol duty-free at the airport for much cheaper.

PIN FOR LATER!

If you have any other propositions for this One day in Reykjavik Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Jessica Lynn

Jessica Lynn hails originally from New Jersey. She currently works as the Marketing Manager at Classic Travel & Tours in Richmond, VA. She is passionate about writing and travel, and has so far been to 8 countries (and counting), most of which were solo trips! She loves new experiences and crazy food (hakarl, anybody?) - and hopes to vacation to Prague, Italy, or Costa Rica in 2018. She loves telling others about her travel experiences in the hopes of enriching their journeys as well.

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I absolutely loved Iceland but have to admit I didn’t spend long in Reykjavik, I should definitely go back! So many fun things to do also in the city!

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Iceland Travel: Best Places to Stay in Reykjavik

Where to stay in reykjavik.

It's time for another accommodation round-up of real travellers' reviews of hotels, hostels, B&Bs and more, and this time it's all about the best places to stay in Reykjavik. If you've read this fantastic itinerary for spending a day in Reykjavik , but actually you are going to have more time in the city so if you now want to know where to stay in Reykjavik, especially in the centre of Reykjavik so you can walk everywhere, this is the post for you.

The Best Places to Stay in Reykjavik - Reviewed!

Below you'll find a list of honest reviews of various types of Reykjavik accommodation to suit all budgets.

All of the places to stay in Reykjavik listed here are centrally-located so you can walk to and from everything you want to see (because Reykjavik is a very small city), and indeed it's arguably the best place to go for shopping and to get your Icelandic souvenirs .

That said, there is one accommodation listing which is about an hour away, BUT I had to include it because it's such a special place to think about staying, especially if you want to see the Northern Lights. But more about that later (it's the last accommodation review on this list if you want to scroll down and start there! I know, I'm a bit of a tease!).

The reviews below for where to stay in Reykjavik have been submitted by other travel bloggers so you can consider them near-enough experts on recommending great value for money places to stay in Reykjavik. They are different types of travellers too - from budget travellers through to those who (like me!) like a little luxury, they're solo travellers, couple travellers and some who travel with kids too - so I hope you will definitely find some of the best Reykjavik hotels, hostels, Airbnbs and more in this list.

DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links. I make a small commission off any purchases made but they don't cost you anything extra, and often I do a lot of research to find you the best possible deal in the link - yay!

The Best Hotels in Reykjavik

Here's the deal with the best hotels in Reykjavik; there aren't that many big hotels in the centre of Reykjavik but there are lots of smaller hotels scattered around the city, and most are still easy walking or rolling distance from the key sights you may want to see. Some of these hotels are more like guesthouses or B&Bs too so that's why you'll see a few of them on this list of the best hotels in Reykjavik.

It's also another reason why I think these honest reviews are so important so you can really get a sense of what to expect from these hotels that are independent and a bit unknown, especially if you're used to staying only in some of the big hotel chains because they are known quantities. That said, there are still some familiar big hotel brands on this list!

Hlemmur Square Hotel by Mostly Amélie

Hlemmur Square is centrally located in the building that used to be Reykjavik's Natural History Museum, on Langavegur street, right by the Hlemmur Square bus terminal.

The beautiful Art Deco building is in a perfect location for exploring most of the city by foot, just a few blocks from the waterfront, yet far enough from the noisy nearby night-life area that goes on until the wee hours of the night at the weekend.

Hlemmur Square is both a fancy hotel and an upscale hostel under one roof. The 18 spacious and elegant hotel rooms are located on the fifth floor, whilst the dorms are on the third and fourth floor with shared bathrooms and kitchens. While I was staying in Reykjavik having somewhere to cook can be a great way to save money or to make something to suit your food preferences, although I did find out that you can enjoy vegan food in Reykjavik!

The ground floor features a vast lobby with several common relaxing areas and lounges, a cocktail bar and a cute restaurant. Perfect for flashpackers!

Find out the best prices for Hlemmur Square on HostelWorld or Booking .

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Radisson Blu Saga by Freedom Not Fate

The Radisson Blu Saga Hotel in Reykjavik is a unique place to stay. This hotel was built in the 1960’s by Icelandic farmers. It’s still owned by the Icelandic Farmer cooperation and each year they have a conference in the hotel.

Located just out of the city center, next to the campus, you can easily walk to Reykjavik Tourism Information (800m), the National Museum of Iceland (300m) and the BSI Terminal bus station is only a 10-minute walk. Rooms at this 4-star hotel start at $150 a night for a standard double or twin. Rooms are spacious and those on higher floors offer a lovely view over Reykjavik.

The beds are very comfortable and after camping for a week during our Iceland winter road trip , having a bathroom with a bath was an absolute delight. The breakfast buffet is extensive and has many options to choose from. There is a bar (Vesturbær), an indoor swimming pool, a spa and wellness center as well as a fitness center.

In the interests of full transparency, it's true that during our stay at the Radisson Blu Saga Hotel we did have some issues with the Wi-Fi, perhaps it was due to the location of our room. The staff was very accommodating and helped us reset the router, which solved the problem. Altogether I loved our stay here and would gladly stay again when in Iceland.

Find more reviews and the best deals on Booking or TripAdvisor.

Follow Lauren on Instagram.

The Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre by Toddling Traveler

The Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre is a newly updated hotel and one of the best accommodations in Reykjavik. The Canopy is located right in the heart of Reykjavik, right off Laugavegur Street. The location makes it easy to access a variety of tour operators and local sights, which is perfect if you only have 3 days in Iceland or less.

The rooms at the Hilton Canopy are cozy and comfortable, with a unique mix of artwork and furnishings sourced locally from Iceland. If you’re not familiar with the Canopy line of hotels by HIlton, they’re known as “lifestyle hotels.” They have a neighborhood feel and really pull from the surrounding neighborhoods, which couldn’t be more evident at this Reykjavik hotel.

As part of the neighborhood feel, the Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik offers a nightly happy hour with complimentary tastings of local foods and drinks for its guests. Another highlight of the hotel is the amazing buffet breakfast at the Geiri Smart Restaurant. It’s filled with locally sourced foods, including Icelandic specialties like Skyre and smoked fish. The breakfast is also complimentary with your stay, which is an awesome perk given how expensive food can be in Reykjavik.

With the location in central Reykjavik, the Canopy by Hilton is a short walk to attractions like the Harpa Concert Hall, Hallgrímskirkja Church, and shopping and nightlife on Laugavegur Street. The Canopy by Hilton in Reykjavik also provides complimentary bikes for guests, which is a great way to experience the city like a local.

See more photos and reviews on Booking and TripAdvisor.

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Hotel Centrum Reykjavik by Gourmand Trotter

Hotel Reykjavik Centrum is a centrally-located hotel in the Icelandic capital that has walking distance to most of the city's attractions. It's a 4-star hotel that is located in an old and very cute house in green color and is found on one of the oldest street's in the city. Guests can choose between hotel rooms or self-service studios and all of them are decorated with modern decor and features fresh bathrooms.

Next door, you have the award winning restaurant Fjalaköttur, which serves traditional food from Iceland. The hotel is just 200 meters away from the Reykjavik art museum and hold a unique Viking exhibition center as well. It was actually built on the site of an ancient Viking longhouse.

Hotel Reykjavik Centrum is one of the best-reviewed hotels in town, and the staff is very friendly and helpful. The cost per night is around 200-300 USD depending on the room type, which is very reasonable for the standard that you get and considering the generally high price-level in Reykjavik. The breakfast is great too and features a big continental buffet that gives you a great start to the day.

Solo travelers can also book single rooms here for about 180-200 USD with breakfast included. I stayed in a studio apartment, which was very nice with plenty of space for two people.

See more reviews and find the best rates on Booking and TripAdvisor.

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Icelandair Hotel Natura by Flashpacking Family

As a travelling family with small kids, there are certain things that we look for in a hotel, but mainly we’re looking for a comfortable family room where the kids don’t have to share our bed. Surprisingly, it’s harder than you might think to find suitable family-friendly accommodation in Iceland and our initial search only threw up a few hotels in Reykjavik with family rooms. Icelandair Hotel Natura was one of the few.

It’s located just out of the city centre next to Reykjavik airport. If you’re renting a car in Iceland which we highly recommend doing, the on-site car park comes in handy, and it was only a 5-minute drive to the city centre. Finding decent, cheap accommodation in Iceland, in general, is not easy, which is why Icelandair Hotel Natura was a nice surprise.

While it could not be classed as cheap, in terms of Iceland accommodation, it was pretty reasonable and would sit comfortably in the mid-range budget despite oozing Scandi chic and appearing high-end. Our room was very spacious and easily accommodated a family of 4 with the seating area along the wall converting into 2 single beds for the kids.

One of the best things about the hotel was their breakfast. They serve a sumptuous buffet breakfast which is just what you need before setting out for a day of sightseeing. Look on their website for special offers. In a city where eating is not cheap either, we love their ISK 2500 credit to spend on food and drink, and that kids between 0-12 years old get free breakfast with a paying adult.

Find more reviews and photos on TripAdvisor or Booking.

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Room with a View by ToSomePlaceNew

For our 3 days in Iceland , we stayed in the downtown Reykjavik area.  The hotel – Room with a View Apartment-Hotel – is perfect for short term as well as long term accommodation in Iceland.

Located in the heart of downtown Reykjavik and close to the Laugavegur-street - the Room with a View is an apartment style living, with spacious rooms, bathroom and a kitchenette. These rooms are perfect if you are carrying gear, tons of luggage or traveling with a baby – there is enough room for everybody. The kitchenette was super handy to cook or warm up meals – and help you save money in Iceland!

Grocery stores and restaurants were located pretty close to the hotel. If you are venturing out with day tours – this hotel can arrange for those, or if you have them pre-booked, this hotel located conveniently for tour pick ups. The highest church in Iceland the Hallgrímskirkja is located in the next lane, from the hotel.

This hotel has free wifi and luggage storage options as well. There is no room service. There are room options with shared bathrooms as well for less than $100 USD in off seasons. 

Read more reviews and see more photos on TripAdvisor and Booking .

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Sandhotel by Champagne on Arrival

Located on Laugavegur, the main street running through the centre of Reykjavik, is the lovely boutique hotel, Sandhotel , where we stayed during our Iceland trip.

Occupying one of a group of refurbished historic buildings, Sandhotel is in great company with a men’s clothing store that has been operating for over 100 years on one side and a fifth generation bakery, rumoured to be one of the best in Iceland, on the other. Laugavegur is one of Reykjavik’s oldest streets and is great for browsing boutique shops, restaurants and cafés and the majority of the city’s main sites are within easy walking distance.

The central location is one of the great things about Sandhotel , with the added bonus of heavily restricted traffic on the road itself, so there is very limited street noise. One of the few luxury hotels in Reykjavik, the décor at Sandhotel is beautiful; very cozy Art Deco in style with a large and welcoming lobby. Floor to ceiling windows on one side and some very comfy sofas will encourage you to spend a pleasant couple of hours curled up with a blanket, hot chocolate and a good book.

The style continues into the bedrooms that also come equipped with modern luxuries such as Marshall bluetooth speakers, flatscreen TV and Nespresso machine. There are also lots of lovely local touches in the form of the art hanging on the walls, Soley Organics toiletries and interesting looking cushion covers, some of which are made from fabric provided from the next door menswear boutique.

The staff is relaxed but can’t do enough for you and are a great source of restaurant and tour recommendations, as well as being happy to arrange any [Icelandic itinerary] you wish. Don’t leave without visiting the in house restaurant, Sand Bar & Bistro for some nordic style tapas and a glass of wine. Grab a seat by the window for one of the top people watching spots in Reykjavik. Rooms from £120 per night, including breakfast.

See more photos and find the best deal on Booking or TripAdvisor .

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Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina by Helen on Her Holidays

The Icelandair Hotel Marina is a welcoming and funky place to base yourself on a trip to Iceland. I stayed here for four nights when I visited Iceland on a 40th birthday trip for my partner and found it a fun, super-convenient and comfortable place to stay.

The location’s great. It’s right on the water in Reykjavik city centre, and as soon as you step out of the door, you’ll see ships in dry dock right in front of you. Almost everything you’d want to visit in Reykjavik is within a few minutes’ walk of the hotel - Ingólfur Square is five minutes away, Harpa is ten, Hallgrimskirkja about 20. We went on several excursions while we were in Reykjavik and for each one we got picked up at the hotel.

The rooms are fairly small but comfortable, and have quirky decor on a maritime theme - ours had a giant mural above the bed of a boy holding a headless fish which was a somewhat interesting design choice! Downstairs in the lobby and restaurant the fun design continues. In the hotel lobby there’s a large open fire which gives the whole place a warm and welcoming vibe. You can also meet one of the permanent residents, a sculpture of a wooden man who sits beside the fire.

The Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina has its own cocktail bar and restaurant Slippbarinn, which is popular with locals as well as residents. There’s live music on Wednesdays and a daily happy hour. We ate in the restaurant a couple of times and had breakfast there each morning - everything was delicious with plenty of choice for two vegetarians. The rooms were a little noisy and the hotel was a little too warm (even though we visited Iceland in February) but I’d definitely recommend Icelandair Hotel Marina for a stay in Reykjavik.

See more reviews and photos on TripAdvisor or Booking.

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Hotel Frón by The Flashpacker

Are you searching for a centrally-located good value for money hotel in Reykjavik? If so, look no further than Hotel Frón .

This hotel really is in the thick of things. Located on Laugavegur, the main shopping street in Reykjavik, its neighbours are restaurants, boutiques and bars. Despite its central location, noise was never an issue when I stayed there. But, just to be sure, request a room towards the rear of the property when booking.

Unusually for Reykjavik, Hotel Frón’s room rates include a decent continental breakfast. In a country as expensive as Iceland, this is a huge bonus. I liked that the room, which was modern and squeaky clean, had a small fridge to store food and drink. The heating was efficient, possibly brutally so at times. However, this is an essential requirement for a winter visit to Reykjavik.

Considering its location and the breakfast-inclusive rate, Hotel Frón is a bargain mid-range hotel by Icelandic standards. Current room rates (2020 prices) are from £90, including taxes and charges. For a small premium, studio apartments with limited cooking facilities are also available. This is worth considering, as the ability to prepare your own food is a great way to save money when visiting Reykjavik as a solo traveller .

Find the best deals on Booking or TripAdvisor .

Follow The Flashpacker on Twitter.

Hotel Holt by FamiliesGo!

If you’d like a hotel that’s centrally located, with some good local character, consider a stay at the Hotel Holt , where we stayed during our Iceland babymoon. The most unique feature of this boutique hotel is the art that’s everywhere: in the lobby, the hallways, the rooms, the restaurant.

The couple who own the hotel also own more than 1,500 pieces of mostly Icelandic art, the biggest private collection in the country. About one third of the collection is on display at the hotel at any given time. Guests who are interested in learning more can ask at the front desk for a tour of the hotel’s art.

The lobby and dining room are a bit dark but the rooms have plenty of windows and daylight (they also have dark curtains for summer nights). Solo travelers can book a single room, which start at about $140 USD winter and can be nearly double that in summer.

Families can choose a junior suite with two bathrooms (one with a bathtub) and a small living room with a pull-out sofa. These start at about $260 and rise to around $375 in peak season. You can choose a rate that includes breakfast, which is a typical European spread of cereals, breads, pastries, cold cuts and boiled eggs. If you prefer not to, you’ll easily find morning coffee nearby.

The Hotel Holt is on a quiet street that’s centrally located halfway between the waterfront and the rambling Hljómskáli Garden park. You’ll find a good shopping street, restaurants, cafés, bakeries, museums and the iconic Hallgrímms Church all within a short walk.

See more photos and read more reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking .

Follow FamiliesGo! on Pinterest.

Ion City Hotel by Fly Stay Luxe

Sister property to the award-winning, insta-famous Ion Adventure Hotel near Selfoss, the Ion City Hotel is an understated boutique city version, located in the heart of downtown Reykjavík. A member of Design Hotels™, the Ion City Hotel is simply stunning.

Much like its sister-property, it takes the cool Nordic luxe design inspiration to the next level. Featuring contemporary designer lighting in the hallways, walls made out of Icelandic birch and a hanging cocoon chair in the lobby covered in Icelandic sheepskin. Even the staff wear uniforms by Icelandic designers!

Ion City Hotel is only small - 18 rooms to be exact. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in other offerings - a gym, private dining room, suites with private sauna and the lively restaurant Sumac, serving North African cuisine made from organic produce.

Ideally located on the main shopping street in Reykjavík, Ion City Hotel is within walking distance to many Reykjavík attractions, such as Hallgrímskirkja church and Harpa Concert Hall. The Ion City Hotel is the perfect place to stay for a city break or to kick off an Iceland itinerary , just like we did!

Read many 9/10 reviews for this hotel on Booking and see more photos on TripAdvisor .

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Eric the Red Guesthouse by The Fearless Foreigner

Reykjavík is known as a very expensive city to visit. If you don’t want to spend a fortune on accommodations consider staying at Eric the Red Guesthouse as recommended by The Fearless Foreigner. Prices range from about $100 - 150 USD a night. The guesthouse is clean and well-kept with both private rooms with ensuite bathrooms and private rooms with a shared bathroom.

Every morning a delicious breakfast is available. The warm, home-made bread was the highlight for me. As everyone sits at a shared table during breakfast, it is a great opportunity to meet other travelers and receive recommendations from the wonderful hosts.

There is a refrigerator in the downstairs hallway next to all of the rooms. If you are not able to make breakfast at the set time, the hosts will prepare a breakfast to go for you and stick it in the refrigerator the night before.

The location is perfect for both exploring Reykjavík and taking day tours. The center of Reykjavík is only about a 15 minute walk away. You can easily reach the museums, restaurants and any of the other main sights of the city by foot. One of them the Hallgrimskirkja (a church) is practically across the street.

If you plan on going on any day trips you will need to be picked up at one of the city’s 14 designated pick-up points. The Hallgrimskirkja church is one of them! Eric the Red Guesthouse offers a great location in Reykjavík with wonderful accommodations at reasonable costs.

Read more reviews and see more photos on TripAdvisor.

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The Best Hostels in Reykjavik

As already mentioned by a few travellers, the best places to stay in Reykjavik can cost a lot of money. The good news, however, is that there are also really great hostels in Reykjavik which offer value for money, plenty of comfort and still fantastic locations from which to explore the city. Below you'll find some great Reykjavik hostel recommendations, again by real travellers - including myself. 

Bus Hostel by Me!

Yes, shock horror! I stayed in a hostel! In fact, staying in this hostel was something of a turning point for me as it opened my eyes to the many benefits of staying in a hostel in an expensive location like Reykjavik, AND I found out that hostels aren't exactly what I expected them to be. 

Because Bus Hostel is a really stylish (with lots of vintage and retro touches), well-thought out and welcoming place. I had my own private room (but not bathroom though I know other Reykjavik hostels will offer this) and there was a great open public space where you could be as sociable - or not! - as you wish.

The location of Bus Hostel - housed in the city's old bus station, hence the name - initially feels a bit out of the way up on the hill behind Hallgrimskirkja but actually after wandering into the city centre a few times I realised that I was less than a five-minute walk from the famous cathedral and the top of Laugavegur which is the main shopping street in Reykjavik.

There were kitchens on every floor, more bathrooms than you needed to queue for, and everything was really well looked after and clean. The international staff (but at the time with Icelandic management) was very friendly and helpful and so I felt very informed about many of the best things to see and do in Reykjavik during my time there. There was also a car hire company directly next door so we could easily get a car to then go and explore places like the Westman Islands.

I have recommended Bus Hostel to a lot of people since that visit to Reykjavik, and will continue to do so!

Find out more and get the best rates on Booking or TripAdvisor.

Student Hostel by World in Paris

Student Hostel is a great accommodation option if you visit Reykjavik during the summer. During the year, this is a student residence set on the University of Iceland’s campus but when students go home for the holidays the residence turns into a hostel for travelers proposing decent prices ( around 100€ for a room in the peak season of July).

Student Hostel has an excellent location in the heart of Reykjavik. Lake Tjörin is just 50 m away and the National Museum of Iceland is next door. We could go everywhere downtown on foot and that was key for us when booking Student Hostel.

The hostel provides simply furnished twin rooms with basin and cupboard inside the room and shared bathrooms on the floor. Apart from the rooms, there’s a well equipped shared kitchen, a beautiful and cozy common room and on the other floors, there are other rooms to relax, play some games or doing yoga lessons.

Student Hostel is beautifully decorated with care for the detail, especially in the common rooms. It is very nice to stay in the common rooms for a while for reading, listening to music or chatting with other travelers. Student Hotel does not provide breakfast but you can prepare it yourself in the kitchen. Alternatively, during the weekdays the cafeteria of the campus offers good breakfast combos for decent prices.

See more photos and get the best deals on TripAdvisor .

Follow World in Paris on Facebook.

Loft HI Hostel by Live in 10 Countries

What you really want from a great hostel is a relaxed sociable vibe, good clean rooms and a location right by the action. Oh and super fast WiFi, that's critical. Loft Hostel honestly has all of that. It's very central in the Icelandic capital - close to a few bars and cheap supermarkets for those food runs.

It feels pretty chic inside with trendy rooms (immaculately clean) and a bar that's popular even with people who aren't staying there - which was perhaps my fave thing about it. It even has a terrace where you can watch the stars or catch some sun in summer.

The local Couchsurfing meet-ups happen here. It's worth knowing that you can even rent a budget car from the staff at Loft HI Hostel too ! Don't buy too much food either as lots of guests leave staples like rice and pasta behind in the communal kitchen when they check out. Accommodation is definitely pricey in Reykjavik - it's no secret!

This is a mid range hostel, pricier than camping but much, much cheaper than a hotel or guest house would be. You can juggle things a bit by choosing between a basic room with lots if room mates and a private room.

See more photos and find the best rates on HostelWorld or TripAdvisor .

Read about Schengen Visas on the Live in 10 Countries blog , and follow them on Twitter.

Reykjavik Downtown HI Hostel by Ilive4travel

When I visited Iceland to see the northern lights , I stayed in Reykjavik Downtown HI Hostel . It’s a great hostel and in an amazing location just a few minutes walk from downtown. It is very close to the Reykjavik Museum of Photography and the Reykjavik Art Museum and just a few minutes walk to Ingolfur Square where you can find many restaurants and bars.

Depending on the night you can always walk down to the harbour to see the northern lights. It is not the cheapest hostel as beds start from around 31 Euro a night, but many of the other hostels are located further out of the the centre and I liked that I could walk to everything in the centre of Reykjavik from here.

I stayed in the 10 bed female dorm when I was there though there is also the option of private rooms. The room had a private bathroom inside. There are are lockers that you can use in the rooms but you will need a big padlock because of the size of the locks and not a small padlock like I use to lock my backpack.

Bed linen is included but not towels though you can rent one. Breakfast is not included but is available at an extra 10 Euro. The hostel also has kitchen and living area for guest use, which is great as eating out in Reykjavik is very expensive.

The hostel is very clean and the staff can help you plan your trips or advise you how best to get to places yourself. I really enjoyed staying at Reykjavik Downtown HI Hostel .

Find the best prices and see more photos on HostelWorld and TripAdvisor.

Follow ilive4travel on Facebook.

The Best Airbnbs and Self-Catering Apartments in Reykjavik

On my second trip to Iceland I was returning with my partner and our 18-month-old son so we opted for a self-catering apartment to get us more space, two bedrooms and a kitchen we could cook in if we wanted. That place is no longer listed, but there are still lots of great Reykjavik Airbnbs that you can choose from.

And if you want an extra piece of reassurance that the place you'll be staying at is worth the investment, here are some real reviews of Reykjavik Airbnb self-catering apartments worth checking out.

Reykjavík Cosy Apartment by Meandering Wild

Reykjavik Cosy Apartment on AirBnB popped up when we were looking for somewhere central to stay in Reykjavík with my two teenage children.

Needing free WiFi and easy access to facilities as well as our own space to prepare meals this two bedroom apartment ticked all the boxes. It had the added bonus of a washing machine, essential when travelling with a family and an outdoor space which meant we could enjoy the long summer evenings and relax after walking the city.

The apartment is in the mid to low range of prices for Reykjavík, but was very clean and had everything that we needed for our stay. Before we even arrived Elísa and Brooks had been in contact and given us information about parking at the apartment (its street parking but their tips helped us avoid parking tickets!) and how to navigate the city to find them. When we arrived Brooks was there to show us around and gave us a 10 minute introduction to his city and country which was invaluable on our Iceland road trip.

It is located right behind Hallgrímskirkja, the iconic church in the center of the city. Just by wandering down the steps at the rear of the church and crossing the road you are at the apartment. It really couldn’t be much closer. It is also just a two minute walk from the open air and indoor swimming pools at Sundhöllin and a local Budget supermarket for supplies. This small apartment was one of the best value places we found in Iceland and really was cosy even in the middle of summer.

Follow Meandering Wild on Instagram.

Castle House Luxury Apartments by Our Passion For Travel

Castle House Luxury Apartments Reykjavik is a perfect option for a stay in Iceland’s capital. We stayed only for the evening, but would have happily stayed for longer. Located next to the National Gallery of Finland and directly across from Lake Tjornin, it’s an easy spot to find. It’s approximately 10 minutes walk to Halgrimskirkja church and a 5 minute walk to downtown where you can find a quality array of restaurants to eat at.

Icelandic Street Food offers a friendly atmosphere and very good value soup dishes (and that’s good value not even by Icelandic standards). For those driving, off street parking is plentiful in the side streets near to the apartments and makes it easier for packing and unpacking.

If you have a car, I would recommend avoiding attempting to park on Laekjargata however which is about as busy as a road gets in Reykjavik. If you are without a vehicle, don’t despair. The Airport shuttle stops at the bus stop directly in front of the apartments. So whether you’re driving or not, these apartments are easy to find.

Arriving later in the evening, the simple self check in process with clear instructions was incredibly helpful. Do not despair if you arrive late, it’s an easy location to find and enter at any hour. The room itself was quite spacious despite being in a central location.

The bed was very comfortable and the room warm and toasty. The apartment represents great value for Reykjavik, however the name ‘luxury’ may be slightly stretching it so let that be a gentle warning to have a bit of caution about the name! The apartment is a well run, clean and useful location but there wasn’t much in the way that I would consider luxury about it. Our stay for one evening of $US130 represented a great deal. On our next trip to Reykjavik, we’ll happily return to these apartments.

See more photos and find the best deals on TripAdvisor or Booking .

Follow Our Passion for Travel on Instagram .

The Best Hotel NOT in Reykjavik

As hinted at above, there is one place a fellow travel blogger offered to write a hotel review of although the hotel itself is not in central Reykjavik, or even on the outskirts of Reykjavik. It's actually quite a distance away 

The Bubble Hotel by Once in a Lifetime Journey

Located about 100km from Reykjavik in the middle of dense forest near the town of Reyholt with almost no light pollution, lies one of the most magical and romantic hotels. The Bubble Hotel is set in an undisclosed location which enjoys tranquil settings in six calming clear plastic bubbles that are scattered around the forest.

Even though the accommodation is see through, the surrounding trees and bushes cover your little pod so you have complete seclusion. And when you turn off the lights and snuggle up to your partner in the dead of winter, all you can see are the glistening stars and Aurora Borealis floating magically above.

The hotel, also known as the 5 Million Star Buubble Hotel , was conceptualised by Danish entrepreneur Robert Robertsson as an off the beaten path and unique hotel in Iceland. There is a service house with a toilet and shower, but this is shared with other guests, so each room does not have en suites.

Those staying at the hotel will have to be guided by Golden Circle who will take you to other sites like Gullfoss waterfall. Even though it may sound gimmicky, the hotel far exceeded my expectations, to the point that I forgot I even had a phone as I lay watching the Milky Way.

It is pretty barebones with only a heater, wooden deck, double bed and lamp. And yes, there is wifi in the service room, but you won’t need it as you drift into the dreamy surrounding landscapes. The perfect stay for a digital detox. Expect to pay around $600 per person for a night in the Bubble with the tour.

See more real traveller photos of the Buubble here and read more reviews and find the best deals .

Read more of this review of the Bubble Hotel Iceland here , and follow Once in a Lifetime Journey on Instagram.

And that's a wrap! If you have your own Reykjavik accommodation recommendation or Reykjavik hotel or hostel tip, please do share in the comments. For more reading about Iceland, please do check out this itinerary for one day in Reykjavik , this post about a winter's day in Reykjavik , some more photos of Hallgrimskirkja , my write up of a tour of the Westman Islands , and a post about visiting East Iceland . You can read my other travel content here!

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Frances M. Thompson

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Home » Europe » Iceland » Reykjavik

EPIC 3-DAY REYKJAVIK ITINERARY (2024)

Reykjavik is the world’s most northern capital city, found on the small island nation of Iceland. It is cosmopolitan, loaded with rich art, and allows you to explore some of the nation’s most epic landscapes!

You’re traveling to the cultural epicenter of Iceland. History-wise, it is one of the most important cities in the country, and it’s packed with fun things to do.

Whether you’re aiming for a museum-crawl, an adventure outdoors, or just grabbing a few pints at the local bar, our guide is going to give you the tools to craft the perfect 3 day itinerary in Reykjavik.

You can continue onwards from here, exploring this beautiful country, or go home and dream of round two. But one thing is for sure, your first time in Reykjavik will be unforgettable…

Let’s not waste any more time here — we’re off to explore Reykjavik!

A Little Bit about this 3 Day Reykjavik Itinerary

Where to stay in reykjavik, reykjavik itinerary day 1: i’m in iceland, baby, reykjavik itinerary day 2: all gold everything, reykjavik itinerary day 3: show me something weird, what to do with more than 3 days in reykjavik, best time to visit reykjavik, how to get around reykjavik, plan a trip to reykjavik – what to prepare, faq on reykjavik itinerary, final thoughts.

Iceland is one of a kind. It’s a nature lover’s paradise and there is just so much to experience here!

Reykjavik is a great starting point if you’re planning a backpacking trip in Iceland , because it packs a lot of awesome things to do. The city has plenty of places to visit and also offers you the chance to go on little trips to visit some of the epic Icelandic landscapes.

The city is relatively easy to get around. You can walk to most places within the city, and buses run frequently to other locations. Despite that, renting a car is very much advisable if you plan on venturing out into the wild.

If you’re wondering what to see in Reykjavik in 3 days, we hope our guide helps you cut through the noise and design the perfect itinerary for you.

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3 Day Reykjavik Itinerary Overview

• Day 1 in Reykjavik:  Hallgrimskirkja , Sun Voyager , Harpa Concert Hall , Whale Watching , The Icelandic Punk Museum
• Day 2 in Reykjavik : Thingvellir National Park , Gulfoss Falls , Blue Lagoon
• Day 3 in Reykjavik :  Icelandic Phallological Museum , Laugavegur , National Museum of Iceland , Perlan , Aurora Borealis
• More Places to See in Reykjavik :  Videy Island , Grotta Lighthouse , Árbær Open Air Museum

With a Reykjavík City Pass , you can experience the best of Reykjavík at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Alrighty. First, let’s figure out where you should stay in Reykjavik .

The compact downtown area is the heart and soul of Reykjavik. It’s called Midborg, or 101 among the locals, and you’ll find plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars in the area. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be surrounded by historical landmarks.

Vesturbær has a nice vibe to it, and it’s one of the best neighborhoods to stay in the city as well. It’s located near the old harbor in the north part of town, and there’s plenty of chic cafes and trendy bars if you’re into that. It’s a great place for foodies!

If your budget is low, Hlidar in the east is where you will find some of Reykjavik’s coolest hostels and budget hotels. It is popular with students and is home to the Reykjavik Museum of Art and the Icelandic Phallological Museum (we’ll get into that one later).

Best Hostel in Reykjavik – Galaxy Pod

Galaxy Pod Hostel is our pick for the best place to stay in Reykjavik. The hostel is located in Hlidar, just a short walk from downtown, and is close to tons of bars and restaurants. It comes fully equipped with a movie room, a bar,  a social lounge, and a self-service kitchen.

Best Airbnb in Reykjavik – Charming downtown apartment

This one is as central as it gets. One street away from the main shopping, bar and restaurant zone, Laugavegur, it is walking distance from anything you might need in town.

It is also 5 minutes away from Hlemmur, the main bus station where every bus in Reykjavik departs. The balcony is a great place to relax and the sea view is incredible!

Best Budget Hotel in Reykjavik – Heida’s Home

This modern guesthouse is situated in the center of town, conveniently located to explore Reykjavik. It’s only 12 rooms in total, each fully-ready with Wi-Fi, heating, and a lot of great amenities.

Best Luxury Hotel in Reykjavik – Tower Suites Reykjavik

Tower Suites Reykjavik offers stylish penthouse suites in central Reykjavik. Set on the 20th floor of a contemporary glass tower and fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, these luxury suites have unrivaled panoramic views of the city and harbor.

If you want to treat yo’ self, this is our recommendation!

Your first day of exploring Reykjavik. We hope you’re as excited as us! We’re starting off with some of the city’s most iconic sights and then move on to some wilder things. Snooze away, get your coffee fix, and let’s do this…

9:00 am – Hallgrimskirkja

Your Reykjavik itinerary starts with a visit to the largest church in Iceland. Hallgrimskirkja rises above Reykjavik with its 240 ft-high tower, offering spectacular 360° views of the city.

The exterior of the church is said to mimic the Icelandic landscape with its staggered concrete facade. Hallgrimskirkja is a working Evangelical-Lutheran church, so everyone is welcome to join services and concerts. At times, it may be restricted to public access because of masses, weddings, etc.

The building itself is pretty cool, but make sure you go up so you can gaze at where the ocean meets the sky.

• How long should I stay here?  1 hour tops.
• Getting there  – Many bus routes stop close to the church. If you’re staying downtown, you can walk there!

10:30 am – Sun Voyager

The Sólfarið, or Sun Voyager, is a huge stainless-steel artwork on the northern shore of Reykjavik.

It is a dreamboat, an ode to the sun. It symbolizes the promise of undiscovered territory, a dream of hope and freedom.

Designed by Jón Gunnar Árnason, it is a product of a competition to celebrate the city’s 200-year anniversary in 1986.

The concept of the statue itself is quite crazy: Jón says he experienced an uncanny feeling that he’d been in Iceland before, many centuries ago, and the design is inspired by those same memories.

Come gaze at the sun reflecting in the stainless steel and learn more about this remarkable monument!

• Cost:  Free
• How long should I stay here?  Half an hour.
• Getting there  – From your last stop, follow the street Frakkastígur straight into the sea.

11:15 am – Harpa Concert Hall

Reykjavik’s Concert Hall and Conference Centre is a multi-purpose architectural work of art. It’s nestled in a modern glass honeycomb structure and has won the prestigious Mies van der Rohe Award, given by the EU to reward quality architectural production in Europe.

The building itself is a beauty to look at, and it also offers great views of the city and its surroundings!

Harpa is a state-of-the-art conference center, and one of the best ones in Northern Europe. It is home to The Iceland Symphonic Orchestra, The Icelandic Opera, and The Reykjavik Big Band.

There are a number of shops inside to pick up an Icelandic gift and various stages and screens for music and theatre performances. You can  check their schedule online .

• Cost:  Free
• How long should I stay here?  Half an hour to 1 hour.
• Getting there  – A short seaside walk from the Sun Voyager.

1:00 pm – Whale Watching

For this next bit, we’re setting off into the Atlantic Ocean to spot some of its most magnificent mammals. The waters here are rich with aquatic life, and it’s easy to spot creatures like minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and even humpback whales.

Whale watching is a fantastic thing to do if you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik, and there are a number of companies operating tours from the harbor — prices vary.

Some tours operate in a way that, if you don’t see a whale, you go on another for free! And if you start getting seasick, or can’t handle the cold, you always take cover in their inside deck.

The idea is to instill guests with a fascination and respect for the whales and there is nothing better than seeing them in their natural habitat. You are guaranteed to gain a new level of appreciation for these majestic animals.

If you don’t feel ready for the real thing yet, you can always visit the  Whales of Iceland exhibition  to learn about these giants of the sea.

• Cost:  Depending on the company you choose, 90 to $100.
• How long should I stay here?  3 hours.
• Getting there  – The tour starts from Reykjavik’s old harbor.

4:30 pm – The Icelandic Punk Museum

Down below Bankastræti, not far from the harbor docks, this tiny museum chronicles the rise of Icelandic punk music in the 1980s. It was started by John Lydon (aka Johnny Rotten of The Sex Pistols) in 2016.

The Icelandic Punk Museum is located in a former public toilet in downtown Reykjavik. It’s small, gritty, and we love it!

Despite its size, this place is jam-packed with photos and posters, instruments, streaming videos of classic club shows, and all the memorabilia you can think of.

Get chatting with the owner, and a quick visit can turn into a fully-immersive history lesson. His passion for the place and the music is contagious, and it resonates around every little corner of the museum.

Punk’s not dead.

• How long should I stay here?  Around 1 hour.
• Getting there  – The museum is downtown, not too big of a walk from the harbor.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Today, we’re getting a taste of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle . In order to see all of it, it’s really advisable you get a car. Otherwise, your best bet is to book an all-inclusive tour and be free from all the planning hassle. Let’s go!

8:30 am – Thingvellir National Park

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular routes in Iceland and it’s filled with incredible scenery to explore. Thingvellir is one of its main attractions and it’s only a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik!

The geological processes which shaped it are as remarkable as the great historical events which took place in this location. Thingvellir was listed on UNESCO‘s World Heritage List in 2004 for its geological uniqueness and historical significance.

It is a beautiful site with a wealth of things to do, and where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The perfect chance to explore an epic Icelandic landscape on a trip to Reykjavik.

The park is virtually impossible to access by public transportation. If you rent a car, drive the ring road north out of Reykjavik and pass the town Mosfellsbaer, then take the first exit to the right at a roundabout onto road 36, which leads you to Thingvellir.

• Cost:  Free to enter, $4 parking fee.
• How long should I stay here?  2 hours.
• Getting there  – You can drive, or take one of the many tour buses available.

12:00 pm – Gulfoss Falls

Along with Skógafoss, Gulfoss is right there at the top of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The name roughly translates to “Golden Falls” and it really is a place to witness the power of the elements.

This dramatic waterfall is over 100 feet deep and consists of two enormous cascades. It’s located right at the start of the Hvita canyon, carved by a river with the same name. The black gorge is around 1.2 miles long and, together with the waterfall, creates an amazing natural spectacle.

Even though it’s quite popular, its remote location still allows you to make sense of the ineffable forces of nature that have worked this landscape for years and years. When it’s sunny, the light and the mist create some really sexy rainbows at Gulfoss; during winter, the falls glitter with ice.

Above the falls there’s a tourist information center, shop, and cafe, plus bathrooms (the ones inside are free to use).

• How long should I stay here?  1 hour.
• Getting there  – An hour drive from Thingvellir National Park.

5:00 pm – Blue Lagoon

A visit to the Blue Lagoon is a must for anyone traveling to Iceland. It’s a beautiful geothermal spa and a wonderful place to restore your energy after a long day exploring the Icelandic landscapes.

The official website describes it as “an otherworldly wonder in the heart of a volcanic landscape”, and it really feels like something extraordinaire.

The water in the lagoon is rich in silica and sulphur, giving it the notable regenerative qualities that it is so famous for. There is also an R&D facility on-site that finds cures and remedies for skin ailments. Silica mud is available for free by the pool for you to enjoy.

If you didn’t rent a car, you’ll need to book a transfer with a tour company. This place has become really popular (for obvious reasons), so you’ll need to book your ticket a few days in advance.

The experience comes at a hefty price, but you can save a TON of money if you book it within an all-inclusive Golden Circle tour.

• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours.
• Getting there  – A 2-hour drive from Gulfoss. There is an official shuttle as well, but no official public transport from Reykjavik.

Reykjavik can be quirky. If you’re in the city for 3 days, we’ve got a couple more things you should add to your itinerary. We’re crossing off a few more essentials, but we’re also starting with something unusual. Get weird.

10:00 am – Icelandic Phallological Museum

Yap, this is a weird one.

Aside from, you know, all the epic landscapes you’ve seen the day before, one of Reykjavik’s most unique attractions is this rather odd museum.

As the name suggests, the Icelandic Phallological Museum is essentially a museum full of penises. In fact, over 200 of them. And they come from all the land and sea animals that are found in and around the country.

Specimens from all kinds of whales, polar bears… and even extinct animals! Even though it may sound weird at first, the museum is actually a very interesting biology lesson.

Be sure to check out all the unique and bizarre items in the museum shop. They are sure to provide a laugh or two and maybe even make for a cool gift to bring back home.

• How long should I stay here?  How much do you like dicks?
• Getting there  – A short walk from the city center.

11:00 am – Laugavegur

Laugavegur is one of the oldest shopping streets in downtown Reykjavik and a popular place to look for local gifts, grab a quick bite to eat, or just browse through some specialty stores. You can walk here from the last stop.

The same road formerly led to the hot springs in Laugardalur, where generations of women took their laundry for washing. A walk down this quaint street is a great way to experience contemporary culture and interact with locals.

Pop into a local bakery, indulge in delicious pastries and doughnuts, and grab some fresh coffee from the local coffeehouses. On Friday and Saturday nights, the street is packed with activity well into the early hours.

• How long should I stay here?  As long as you wish. Plenty of lunch opportunities as well.
• Getting there  – From your last stop, walk 20 minutes south on Hverfisgata street.

2:00 pm – National Museum of Iceland

After some well-deserved lunch, it’s time for another museum — we promise we left the weirdness for the morning time.

A visit to the National Museum is the perfect way to learn about the history and culture of Iceland and its people. If you have time, you should definitely add it to your itinerary.

From the early days of Viking settlers to its modern-day culture, the museum has a permanent exhibition neatly illustrating the most interesting and peculiar stories of the country.

You’ll find other temporary displays rotate on a yearly basis yearly and are also worth looking into. Among the museum’s many precious raw materials is the Valthjófsstadur door, an extremely rare and valuable find featuring elaborate medieval engravings from a 12th-century tale.

• Getting there  – Catch bus 12 from Hlemmur station, near Laugavegur.

4:00 pm – Perlan

Situated on the top of Öskjuhlíð hill, Perlan was originally built in 1991 as a cluster of hot water tanks. It was later converted into a building open to the public, hosting exhibitions, a planetarium, an observation deck, and a fine-dining restaurant.

If you are interested in the Earth’s natural forces, then you’ll surely enjoy it here. Iceland was born from fire and ice, and to fully appreciate the power of these elements, Perlan brings them to life with interactive exhibitions by talented artists and cutting-edge technology.

Perland is the largest nature exhibition in all of Iceland. It’s a great way to learn about Iceland’s natural forces. Plus, there’s a fantastic deck with 360º views over the city!

• Cost:  Tickets start at $30.
• Getting there  – Bus routes 1, 3, 6, and 55.

11:00 pm – Aurora Borealis

This is how you end your trip with a bang.

The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is perhaps the number one thing that draws visitors to Iceland in the winter. It’s one of the best countries in the world for it, and watching the stars dance across the sky changes people’s lives.

Iceland is located at a high latitude, meaning there is no darkness from mid-April to mid-August (long live the midnight sun). In this period, you cannot see the Northern Lights, but their season runs from late August to mid-April — September to late March being the absolute best time for it .

Once darkness falls, the Aurora can be visible at any time of day. The optimum time seems to be around 9:30 pm to 1 am and that is when a lot of the “hunts” begin. There are numerous tour operators offering late-night sightseeing excursions.

The only problem is that, as a natural phenomenon, they’re elusive and unpredictable. If you have a rental car, you have a bit more freedom to get out of town and look for them, but booking a tour is recommended if you don’t.

Some hotels in Reykjavik may offer a special Northern Lights wake-up service as well, so if the sky mysteriously lights up, they will let you know.

• Cost:  Free if you’ve rented a car, $90 for a small-group tour.
• Getting there  – Find a way to escape the city lights or join a tour.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Reykjavik

Midborg is the heart, soul and centre of Reykjavik. It is the small and compact downtown area where you’ll find many of the best shops, restaurants, bars and attractions. It’s hands down the best place to stay in Reykjavic for first-time visitors.

• See the spectacular Hallgrimskirkja church that towers above the city. Climb to the top for an unbeatable view of colourful and quaint Reykjavik.
• Wander amongst the statues at Einar Jónsson Outdoor Sculpture Garden.
• Take a swim at Nauthólsvík, a geothermal beach where the ocean water is warm and comfortable for swimming.

Staying longer? No problem! Check out some of our extra suggestions to make sure you make the most out of your first time in Reykjavik.

Videy Island

Just a quick ferry away from Reykjavik, on a short stretch of water, lies the tranquil Videy Island. It’s a historic location with ancient ruins and evidence of settlement as early as the 10th century.

There are a couple of interesting buildings on the island, including the first stone building in the country, and one of the oldest churches too.

Mostly, it is the natural landscape, flora, and birdlife that draws people to Videy. There also sculptures by Yoko Ono and Richard Serra to explore, and you can enjoy a hot coffee in a little cafe while taking in the scenery.

It will only take you a couple of hours to see the whole thing on foot. The views are beautiful, with Reykjavik’s skyline and surrounding mountains at a distance, and it’s a great way to feel a world away from city life.

Ferries run frequently from multiple locations, be sure to  check in advance .

• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours.
• Getting there  – You can take the ferry from the harbor.

Grotta Lighthouse

Grotta Lighthouse is located on the Seltjarnarnes peninsula, the most north-western point of Reykjavik. It is a small lighthouse that dates back to 1947, but it’s not the lighthouse itself that is the main attraction in the area.

The Seltjarnarnes peninsula is a reserve and home to abundant birdlife, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors, go for a walk, or do some bird watching. At night it is one of the most beautiful spots in Reykjavik — when the moon is out, the reflection on the water is breathtaking!

If you time it right, this is a great spot to see the Aurora Borealis.

Getting there is fairly easy: it’s only a short drive from downtown, and buses stop nearby. The lighthouse itself is not usually open to visitors.

• How long should I stay here?  45min.
• Getting there  – Take bus 11 to Lindargotu road.

Árbær Open Air Museum

Take a step back in time with a trip to the Árbær Open Air Museum. A visit here will give you a glimpse into the life of the Reykjavik people during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

This living museum is an authentic journey through time. You’ll encounter restored old dwellings, costumed guides, farm animals, and traditional crafts. The grounds are extensive, so there are lots of opportunities to run around and explore.

Most of the buildings have been relocated from central Reykjavik, and each of them is a different exhibition revealing how a few scattered farms on the South-East coast came to be the site of a modern-day capital city.

It is open only in the summer, but in December they open their doors on weekends for Christmas!

• Getting there  – Take bus 16 heading to Árbær/Hraunsás.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

You’ll find plenty of activities to fill your 3 day itinerary in Reykjavik, no matter the season. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide when to visit Reykjavik:

Summer (June-August): the most popular time to travel. The weather is fair and the days are VERY long.  

Fall (September-November): a good time to come if you enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Winter (December-February): a good time to see the Northern Lights, however, it’s very dark during this time. Temperatures are low but not so low, thanks to the Jet Stream.

Spring (March-May): it’s a nice alternative as well. It’s not too crowded, but it does get rainy.

Public transportation in Reykjavik works great. It’s both accessible and affordable, with regular services to and from all the city’s main towns and sights. There are regular transfers from the airport to the city as well.

The city’s compact size also means that everything is fairly accessible within walking distance. If this is your preferred method of exploring, then you’re in good luck — and for longer distances, buses work great too.

If you plan on using the bus much, though, consider getting a Reykjavik City Card . Apart from the discounted fares, you get free entries on a great selection of museums, as well a free ferry trip to Videy island! Perfect if you’re staying 3 days in Reykjavik or more.

But for any Iceland itinerary, the best way to get around is by renting a car.

There are some great places outside of Reykjavik, and having a car will give you the most flexibility. Hell, the nature is insane here and you have to see it! SAD Cars and Car Rental Iceland are a great place to start if you want to compare prices — and get a 4×4 if you plan to do some off-roading.

If you’re feeling adventurous, and plan to visit more of the country, renting a van in Reykjavik is a damn good idea. It will cost you more than a car, but you cut on accommodation and make room for some epic travel stories!

The weather is unpredictable and conditions can easily turn hazardous. Your Iceland packing list will vary throughout the year, but if you’re traveling in the rainy season, definitely pack a good jacket, a blanket or two, and some good solid shoes.

Similarly, it is a good idea to be aware of natural hazards. Iceland is home to many active volcanoes, hot springs, and glaciers, so it’s smart to be aware of the conditions in each place you’re visiting.

Iceland is one of the safest places you can visit, and Reykjavik itself has an extremely low crime rate. It is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, though, and to never leave yourself vulnerable to any misdoings.

Your biggest concern will probably be around road safety, the weather, and Iceland’s unique geological conditions.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Reykjavik

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Reykjavik itinerary.

How many days do you need in Reykjavik?

2-4 days in Reykjavik are enough to explore the best of what it has to offer.

What should you include on a Reykjavik 3 day itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these Reykjavik highlights: – Hallgrimskirkja – Gulfoss Falls – Blue Lagoon – Laugavegur

Where should you stay for a weekend in Reykjavik?

Midborg’s central location makes it a great base for sightseeing if you’re short on time. For nightlife and bars, check out accommodation in Vesturbær.

What are the best day trips from Reykjavik?

If you’ve got the time, driving the Golden Circle is a must. Whale watching and Northern Lights Tours are also very popular.

We hope our guide helped you get a sense of what this city has on offer.

With 3 days in Reykjavik, you can get a perfect idea of the city’s history and culture, but also visit some of the country’s most epic sights.

Iceland really is a magical place, and Reykjavik is a great starting point to explore it. So, whether you’re in town for a short break or as the first stop in a longer Icelandic journey, you’re bound to have an awesome time here.

Use our itinerary to cook up your personal trip, choose the activities that you love the most, and then hop on a cheap flight !

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Christina Grayt

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• Short layover in ...

Short layover in Reykjavík

We're flying from NY to Paris with Icelandair, and looks like we'll have a layover in Reykjavík. All the flight choices we have give us a layover of 55 minutes to an hour and 15. That doesn't seem like enough time to make our next flight, but this is the standard, and I imagine they wouldn't do this unless it was feasible. I'd love to hear from others who have flown through this airport and can attest to the possibility, or who will confirm my suspicions that this just won't work. Thank you!

We've been through there six times. On two or three occasions we never even sat down - just went through passport check and strait onto the next plane. Nothing to worry about. The airport is small, modern, easy to navigate, and most importantly, Iceland Air is just about the only airline that operates there. So if a flight arriving from the US was a little late, people on the ground there would know the situation - know that it could cause difficulty with a half-dozen different connections in Europe - and hold those planes until you were on board. However, none of our flights have been more than 5 minutes late. They are a very well-run airline.

Thank you, Randy. This was exactly what I wanted to hear! (Bonus: we get to "see" Iceland.)

I'll second everything Randy said. I've flown through there more than once on Icelandair and was just there three weeks ago. On the outbound flight, I landed at KEF around 6:30 am and had about an hour to kill before boarding my connection. Got off the plane, went through immigration (fast), and headed to my gate. It's a very small and efficient airport, so you'll find there is plenty of time to get out of the gate area and into the main terminal area where there are lots of shops and several café options. Grab a cup of coffee and a snack, take a look at some of the Blue Lagoon stuff for sale, check out 66 Degrees North outwear (excellent gear but expensive), hit the WC, check out another shop or two, and head back to the gate area. It's only a couple hundred paces from gates to this area, so you'll have plenty of time. One problem with the gate area, however, is that there is a serious lack of seating, and it's a little cramped. You'll probably have to stand for a bit. On the way home, my connection was a little bit tighter, so I really only had time to head to my connecting gate. Once there, I stood around for 10 minutes before we started boarding. One of the other incoming flights from Europe was late, so we ended up on the plane for about 20 minutes waiting for passengers. That's actually a good thing – you know if your flight is late, they're not going to leave for the U.S. without you. Icelandair dominates this airfield, and their model is such that all flights from US arrive at about same time...then connections all leave for Europe. Same thing on the turnaround. Oh, and just ignore that other post over on "To the West" that screams out something about not taking Icelandair (a rather uninformed commentary). BTW, I have done a stay-over in Reykjavik before...incredible...don't miss it. Happy travels!

The only reason the other person gives for not taking Icelandair is that they do not provide free meals in economy class. A trivial complaint, in my view. But now you know, so if you are flying economy, either bring your own food, or check out the menus on their website and bring some money to buy what you like. Everyone I know who has flown Icelandair (a popular choice from Seattle) says it was great---reliable, good service, on time.

Andrea; You're welcome. It IS interesting to see a bit of Iceland from the plane and from the airport. But don't expect that small part of the country to be pretty. The ground is almost featureless and barren, plus there is a strong likelihood that the weather will be bleak, misty and wet - or at least it has been every time we were there. However, if you ever get the chance to do an extended layover, Reykjavik is interesting, the Blue Lagoon is unique, and there are numerous day-trips you can sign up for that will take you to some pretty stunning natural scenery. So don't judge Iceland by what you see from the airport. It gets much better.

Andrea, to make you feel better, I'll tell you that my 1 hr turnaround in Reykjavik turned into a 25 min turnaround time due to uncontrollable issues (weather related, in the States) and we still were able to get from our plane to the other one with minutes to spare - I think the planes were 3 gates apart and the airport is small and manageable. I liked Iceland Air a lot, just remember to bring your own food and headphones or be prepared to buy them.

Actually, the view on approach is quite spectacular, because you'll come in low (a few thousand feet) over the ocean as you approach the airfield. The land might remind you of Ireland at that point. But, yes, the land in the vicinity of KEF is flat, rocky, and barren. The airfield itself is in the middle of nowhere. You don't have to get far from the city to experience some breathtaking natural beauty, however. We have local friends there, and they were able to take us to several spots no more than an hour outside of Reykjavik where we experienced snow-capped mountains & glaciers, mossy valleys, sheep grazing near the sea that looked exactly like Ireland, cliffs with shear drops to the sea, lighthouses, a spot where Vikings met and established the world's first republican form of government, a spot where we could straddle two continents, the Blue Lagoon...I could go on and on, and we did all of this in just 1 day. Take a day tour...there are several options by bus, van, etc. that will take you out to several of the most popular sites. BTW, there are whale-watching tours, puffin/seabird-watching tours, and other tours of various types, too, so you're bound to find one you like. As for being wet, misty, and bleak, my experience was opposite of that in June. It was partly cloudy, dry, and the sun didn't set. A few weeks ago, however, it was cold (upper 30s – mid 40s), cloudy, rainy, and windy. Timing is everything!

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Top 12 Things to Do in Reykjavik

What Is There To Do in Reykjavik?

How to get to reykjavik, the top 12 best things to do in reykjavik.

• 12. Visit Reykjavik's Geothermal Swimming Pools

11. See Stunning Landscapes at FlyOver Iceland

10. enjoy a soak at the sky lagoon, 9. visit hallgrimskirkja church, 8. explore reykjavik by foot, 7. book local reykjavik activities to fill your day.

• 6. Experience Reykjavik's Nightlife

5. Try the Local Cuisine in Reykjavik

4. visit the harpa concert hall and old harbor, 3. immerse yourself in icelandic art and culture, 2. explore the public gardens and parks, 1. a reykjavik must-see: the northern lights, faqs about things to do in reykjavik, what are the best tourist attractions in reykjavik, what are some outdoor activities to do in reykjavik, is it possible to see the northern lights in reykjavik, what are some family-friendly activities to do in reykjavik, is it possible to visit reykjavik on a budget, what is the best time to visit reykjavik, what is the nightlife like in reykjavik, what are some popular cultural attractions in reykjavik, what are some unique experiences to have in reykjavik, are there any day trips from reykjavik worth taking, what are some must-try foods in reykjavik, what are some activities to do in reykjavik in the winter, what are some popular shopping destinations in reykjavik, is it possible to take a tour of reykjavik on foot, learn about more reykjavik attractions.

Discover the best things to do in Reykjavik. Iceland's capital city has endless opportunities for adventure, from a vibrant art scene to world-renowned cultural attractions. Read on to learn about Reykjavik's top things to do and must-see places.

Reykjavik , which directly translates to "Smokey Bay," is the northernmost national capital city in the world. It also has one of the smallest populations of any capital city. Home to just under 137,000 inhabitants, Reykjavik has a wealth of sights and activities that will appeal to culture, nature, and nightlife enthusiasts alike.

When visiting Iceland's capital, be sure to book your Reykjavik accommodation on Iceland's largest marketplace for the best prices. You can also find the largest selection of day trips from Reykjavik  or rent a car and start your own adventure.

Although Reykjavik is a great place to do some incredible day trips, like going inside a volcano or visiting the Golden Circle , this article will focus on the top things you can do within Reykjavik city itself. Continue reading to learn more.

• See also:  The Best Things to Do Near Reykjavik

Top Reykjavik Tours

Inside the volcano thrihnukagigur tour with transfer from reykjavik, small group tour of snaefellsnes national park with transfer from reykjavik, 2 day ice cave tour with south coast waterfalls & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

For a small city, there are many reasons to visit Reykjavik. One of the best reasons to visit is that the city is easy to explore on foot, and its small size means you don't have to worry about getting around. You should look into booking a Reykjavik walking tour to learn about the city from a local guide, especially as they're themed around the city's history, culture, and other fun topics.

There are plenty of Reykjavik attractions to occupy your time, from Icelandic wildlife experiences to admiring unique architecture to dining on world-class cuisine to hunting for street art across the city. For English speakers, Reykjavik is easy to navigate as almost everything is accessible in English, and most people also speak English.

Top Reykjavik Walking Tours

Top-value 24-hour reykjavik city card with free entry to museums, galleries, & geothermal pools, flexible 48-hour reykjavik city card with free entry to museums, galleries, and geothermal pools, unbeatable 72-hour reykjavik city card with free entry to museums, galleries, and geothermal pools.

The international airport is 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Reykjavik, but you can easily travel between locations by booking an airport transfer , renting an affordable car , or ordering a taxi.

• Learn all about  Airport Transfers Between Keflavik and Reykjavik: The Complete Guide
• See also:  Best Hotels Near Keflavik Airport

Top Cheap Rental Cars in Iceland

There are lots of fun things to do in Reykjavik. It wasn't easy to narrow it down, but we've put together this list of the best things to do, places to visit, and must-see tourist attractions in Reykjavik for you to enjoy during your stay.

12. Visit Reykjavik's Geothermal Swimming Pools

From the mighty glaciers to the rolling waves of the Atlantic Ocean to the steaming geothermal pots, Iceland is a land that, in many ways, is defined by water. So, it makes sense that one of the top things to do in Reykjavik involves water.

What better way to connect to Icelandic culture than emulating the locals and visiting some of the  best swimming pools in Reykjavik ?

Thanks to Iceland's renewable energy policies, the use of water in large capacities (i.e., for swimming pools and saunas) is very affordable, making it a favorite pastime among Icelanders. It's also one of the best things to do in Reykjavik in winter, as many have heated water, making them accessible year-round.

There are 18 swimming pools located in the greater Reykjavik area alone. Check out the map below to find your nearest swimming pool.

Some of these locations have indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna, and at least one hot tub (some even have as many as seven or eight). Think of Icelandic swimming pools as more like a luxury spa than your everyday communal pool at home.

For the entry price of only around 9-10 USD, this might be the cheapest spa you've ever come across.

If you're looking for something even more natural, there's the geothermally-heated water by Reykjavik's beach, Nautholsvik , and a small foot bath by the  Grotta  nature reserve called Kvika. These small pools are great examples of free things to do in Reykjavik.

If your Iceland accommodation is centrally located, the obvious choice would be to attend Sundholl Reykjavikur, Iceland's oldest public bath, situated only a few hundred meters behind the mighty Hallgrimskirkja  church.

This swimming pool is housed in a building that dates to 1937 and was renovated in 2017. Previously, it only had an indoor pool and two outdoor hot tubs, but now it has an indoor and outdoor pool, two saunas, three hot tubs, one children's pool, and a cold tub.

Another popular pool in central Reykjavik is Vesturbaejarlaug , a swimming pool in the city's western area. Vesturbaejarlaug is an outdoor pool with a few hot tubs and a couple of saunas and is a popular hangout spot for locals and travelers alike.

The largest pool in Reykjavik is the Laugardalslaug pool . This pool sits within Reykjavik's recreational center, Laugardalur , where you can also find all of the following:

Laugardalsholl Sports Center

Reykjavik Botanical Garden

Reykjavik Family Park and Zoo

Asmundarsafn Sculpture Museum

A World Class Gym

The Laugar Spa

Skautahollin Ice Skating Rink

Given the range of attractions offered here, Laugardalslaug is the perfect place to bring the whole family.

• Read more about  What to Do With Young Kids in the Reykjavik Area

The Reykjavik Botanical Garden is close to the Laugardalslaug swimming pool.

Something to be aware of is that you'll be required to get naked before entering the pools. This is not some peculiar ritual but is strictly hygiene-related. Showers are separated by sex, but as the chlorine levels in the swimming pools are very low, everyone must wash thoroughly before taking a dip. If you try to avoid it, you'll likely be reprimanded by a local or one of the bathing guards. 

Perhaps the best thing about Reykjavik's swimming pools is that you can enjoy them year-round and in every type of weather. You can easily relax with a soak in an outdoor hot tub, even if it's 23 F (-5 C) outside and snowing. This is one of the fun things to do in Reykjavik for visitors of all ages.

• Learn about  When and Where to (Not) Get Naked in Iceland

Top Hot Spring Tours in Iceland

Landmannalaugar super jeep tour with pickup from reykjavik, quick blue lagoon shuttle bus transfer from reykjavik, blue lagoon comfort ticket.

One of the newer attractions in Reykjavik that should be on your list of Reykjavik things to do, especially during bad weather, is booking a ticket to FlyOver Iceland . In this immersive experience, visitors get a chance to take a flight over Iceland without needing to hop on a plane.

Located in the Grandi area in central Reykjavik, FlyOver Iceland combines storytelling, technology, and cinema to give visitors an exhilarating experience. When you arrive, you'll see two pre-shows before taking the flight.

The first is called the Longhouse, where you'll see a house reminiscent of the early settler's dwellings here in Iceland. This settlement exhibition is a truly unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of Iceland.

You'll then move into a multi-projection experience that transports you from the formation of this island right through to today.

Then, it's time to take flight. You sit in front of a 65-foot (20-meter) spherical screen in a comfortable seat. The high-definition film visuals, mixed with the movements of your seat, will give you the sensation of soaring above the land of fire and ice. It's a beautiful way to see Icelandic nature and perfect for those who don't have much time to explore the countryside.

Top Nature Tours in Iceland

Best ice cave tour in vatnajokull glacier starting from jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

You can either choose to visit the spa with the cheapest Sky Lagoon admission ticket . The most popular admission ticket to the Sky Lagoon includes their ritual where you can visit the glass sauna, cold mist area, steam bath, and take a cold bath after to rejuvenate. If you want a private shower, you can also book the Premium admission ticket to the Sky Lagoon .

• Learn more:  Blue Lagoon vs. Sky Lagoon: Which One Should You Visit?

The Sky Lagoon is especially beautiful for watching the sunset or for enjoying the midnight sun. If you're lucky during a winter visit, you may even spot the northern lights as they make sure to keep lighting dim during the darker months.

Towering over the center of Reykjavik is Hallgrimskirkja church, which is visible from almost every angle of the city, making it very easy to find. Of the many places to visit, this is one of the most famous landmarks in Iceland .

At the top of this 244-foot (75-meter) tall expressionist-style building is a viewing platform boasting 360-degree views of the entire city. Along with the view from Perlan on Oskjuhlid hill , this is probably the best view you'll get of the city.

The tower is open daily, except when there are mass services and events. Entry to the top is approximately 10 USD for adults but less than 2 USD for children aged 7-16. Traveling to the top is free for younger children.

The largest in Iceland, this church is named after minister and poet Hallgrímur Pétursson (1614-1674), the author of the famed Passion Hymns or "Passíusálmarnir," as they're known in Icelandic.

The building was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, one of Iceland's most well-known architects. Work on the projects started in 1945, and the church wasn't fully ready until 1986 when it was opened to the public.

The beautiful basalt columns at Svartifoss  waterfall on the South Coast of Iceland inspired the church's architecture. It also houses the largest concert organ in Iceland at 50 feet (15 meters) tall with 5,275 pipes and a weight of 25 tons.

Also, take note of the beautiful entrance door and glass art designed by artist Leifur Breiðfjörð. 

In front of the church is a statue of Icelandic voyager Leifur Eiríksson, the first European to set foot in North America, more than 500 years before Christopher Columbus.

Top Culture Tours

To truly soak up the culture, you'll want to make sure to visit the main shopping streets, Laugavegur , Bankastraeti, Austurstraeti , Laekjargata , and Skolavordustigur . These are all easily accessible in the central area of the city and are home to some great Iceland hotels .

We heartily recommend the many outdoor clothing chains selling extreme wear and outdoor gear if shopping is your thing. You can find iconic companies such as 66° North in this area. You'll also find many small boutiques selling goods with fashionable Icelandic designs.

• Learn about the  Best Shops in Reykjavik | A Local Guide to the City's Originals
• See also:  The History of 66°North: Keeping Icelanders Warm for a Century

There, you can find the "Neighborhood of the Gods," where the names of the streets derive from the Old Norse religion. You can find Odin's Street (Odinsgata), Thor's Street (Thorsgata), Loki's Path (Lokastigur), Freya's Street (Freyjugata), and several others.

You'll also find colorful houses, beautiful gardens, and plenty of street art, and you will most likely bump into one of the resident cats, as they're very common pets in central Reykjavik. You can even do a special  cat walking tour in Reykjavik to spot some of the city's most famous feline residents!

The lovely cat Ófelía is a common sight in Reykjavik stores.

Reykjavik's city lake (Reykjavikurtjorn, or Tjornin for short) is popular with travelers, especially bird enthusiasts. The area is home to a bevy of swans and a raft of ducks.

In winter, the lake sometimes freezes, allowing people to cross on foot, ice skate, or even make a slippery football field. The lake is framed by beautiful old houses, behind which lies Holavallakirkjugardur, the oldest cemetery in Reykjavik.

The Nordic House was designed by an internationally famous architect, Finnish-born Alvar Aalto. You'll often find exhibitions and live music at The Nordic House, as well as a cozy restaurant with views of the nearby lake.

Further south, you'll reach the sea, where you can walk along Aegissida street and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean with Bessastadir , the presidential residence, seen from across the bay. Sunsets are particularly spectacular from here.

Traveling east, you'll pass the Reykjavik Domestic Airport, the starting point of most helicopter tours . Continuing this way, you'll head towards Nautholsvik  beach and the forested Oskjuhlid hill. From here, there's an excellent vantage point of the city from the top of the Perlan Museum viewing platform. You can access it when visiting  the Wonders of Iceland exhibition , one of the best places to visit in Reykjavik.

Alternatively, you could head further west towards the Grotta nature reserve. This area boasts a lighthouse, beach, and scenic foot bath called Kvika.

When people are upset about political events, they also come to Austurvollur Square to protest the Icelandic parliament, located just by the square.

Cafes and shops line one side of the square, and just behind the parliament building is Reykjavik's oldest church, Domkirkjan .

If you're staying in Reykjavik over a weekend, you could also visit the city's flea market, Kolaportid . This is an eclectic marketplace where you can buy an authentic Icelandic lopapeysa , a hand-knitted wool sweater that makes for a great souvenir.

The flea market is located by Reykjavik harbor and has many interesting items for sale, including several local delicacies. The atmosphere is lively, and you can find good bargains between 11 AM and 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

A little further along in the Old Harbor, you can find Grandi , Reykjavik's fish-packing district. Old fishing factories and boat repair shacks have been turned into trendy shops, cafes, start-up companies, museums, restaurants, and breweries.

Grandi is an example of the city's ever-changing face. While here, stop at Valdis for one of the best ice creams in town or have a locally brewed beer at Bryggjan Brewery.

If you'd rather have a little help exploring Reykjavik, go on  a 3-hour guided walking tour to explore this colorful and quirky city.

Top Whale Watching & Puffin Tours

The reykjavik whale watching tour, family-run husavík whale watching tour, whale watching tour with transfer from akureyri.

Reykjavik is a city of pleasant surprises. You can discover many of its hidden treasures on your own, or you can take advantage of it as the starting point for several guided tours.

In addition to everything in the city, there are many things to do near the capital on fun Reykjavik day trips , which can take half-day or full-day.

If exploring by foot isn't for you, take a scenic helicopter ride over the city where you make a sightseeing stop on top of one of its surrounding mountains, Mt. Esjan , for unparalleled views.

Other popular tours in and around the city include whale watching and puffin tours or horseback riding tours . The most commonly sighted whales in the Faxafloi Bay next to Reykjavik are minke whales, humpbacks, porpoises, and dolphins.

Another option is to visit Videy , the most famous island off the Reykjavik shore. Videy is home to the Yoko Ono Imagine Peace Tower , a memorial to John Lennon.

Various seabirds also frequent the shore and the islands, such as gannets, gulls, cormorants, the arctic tern, and of course, the puffins (though only in summertime).​​​​​​ There's no shortage of things to do around Reykjavik!

• Learn more with the  Best Guide to Whale Watching in Iceland

6. Experience Reykjavik's Nightlife

When looking for what to do in Reykjavik, don't forget to add activities after nightfall. Depending on who you ask, Reykjavik's nightlife is either famous or infamous.

People party into the early hours, and after the bars and clubs close, the streets will still be full of party people, either trying to find their way home, have a quick bite, or look for an after-party.

When looking for things to do in Reykjavik at night, keep in mind several bars and cafes offer live music at night. The city bustles with all sorts of other live entertainment, be it stand-up comedy, theatre, opera, jazz, drag shows, cabaret performances, or musicals.

From Sunday to Thursday, many venues are open until 1 AM, but on Friday and Saturday nights, many stay open until 5 AM. The craft beer scene in Iceland is also pretty big, so make sure to visit some of the best craft beer bars in Reykjavik .

• Check out:  Happy Hour | Reykjavik's Cheapest Bars ​​​

Photo from  Guided 2.5 Hour Reykjavik Beer & Schnapps Walking Tour .

Tjarnarbio, located next to City Hall, is an excellent venue for theatre, music, and dance performances.

Bio Paradis is the city's art cinema, often screening new Icelandic and European films with English subtitles and weekly party screenings of international classics.

There is one film festival held in Reykjavik every year, the Reykjavik International Film Festival (September/October). It's one of the top festivals in Iceland ! Besides these regular events, there are endless amounts of one-off nights out.

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Reykjavik has some genuinely outstanding local and international cuisine. Why not make one of your activities in Reykjavik exploring some of the best restaurants in Reykjavik ?

Icelandic food culture focuses heavily on seafood and lamb. You can never go wrong by ordering the fish of the day in one of Reykjavik's restaurants.

You can find some fantastic  seafood restaurants  or steakhouses that celebrate using local ingredients. Besides Icelandic cuisine, there are also plenty of excellent Italian restaurants , along with Thai, Indian, Mexican, and Japanese places to be found within the city.

To taste the best of Icelandic cuisine, go on a Reykjavik food walk  and savor some of the country's most delicious delicacies.

If you're into trying unusual foods, why not check out some traditional Icelandic cuisines such as sour ram's testicles or sheep's head?

The most notorious food in Iceland is probably the fermented shark. You'll want to wash the shark down with a shot of Brennivin, Iceland's "black death" schnapps. This combination is often seen as a rite of passage or proof of strength and is a popular dare for Icelanders with foreign visitors.

You can find some fermented shark meat in the flea market Kolaportid, which is open every weekend.

Most people you'll meet on your travels in Reykjavik will recommend having an Icelandic hot dog.

The hot dog stand Baejarins Beztu ("The Town's Best"), near Reykjavik harbor, has a reputation for selling the most delicious hot dogs in Iceland.

There's usually a long line there, particularly in the afternoon and on weekends, but most foreign visitors claim these sausages to be the best in the world. Just ask President Bill Clinton or Kim Kardashian, two of the stand's best-known guests.

The classic option is to get "eina med ollu" or "one with everything." This order includes a remoulade (a mayonnaise-based sauce), sweet mustard, ketchup, and a mix of crunchy and raw onions.

Whatever your preferences, this is the place to go if you like a good hot dog, and it won't break the bank.

• Check out the  Ultimate Guide to the Famous Icelandic Hot Dog
• See also: Top 10 Best Value Places to Eat in Reykjavik

The famous buns from Braud & Co are a must-try.

As for the  best cafes in Iceland , it's truly difficult to list them all. A few to check out include Cafe Loki for traditional Icelandic food, Grái Kötturinn for a cozy atmosphere, Kaffibrennslan for people-watching, and Babalú for a drink on the balcony.

For some of the best brunch in Reykjavik , enjoy a feast at the Bastard Brew & Food  or relax in the diner-like atmosphere of the Laundromat Café . 

Your trip wouldn't be complete without trying fresh cinnamon buns from Braud & Co. bakery, which is one of the best bakeries in Reykjavik .

Harpa Concert and Conference Hall is an impressive glass building near the old harbor of Reykjavik.

It's worth visiting this iconic building for its architecture alone, as you'll be able to admire it both from the outside and inside and get some great pictures.

Several multicultural celebrations occur in the building, and at night, it's lit up with moving LED artwork by Ólafur Elíasson.

The lights on the facade of the building are sometimes used interactively. At different times, people have been able to control the lights by playing a light organ, splashing the color of their choice on the hall through their phone, or playing the computer game Pong using the building as a monitor.

It's not just in Harpa and the local live performances that you can find Reykjavik's art scene. Take your pick of museums, galleries, outdoor sculptures, and street art, which are all widely available.

The sculpture, Sun Voyager (pictured above), is a popular attraction nestled along the seaside. It's close to Harpa Concert Hall and has a fantastic view of Mt Esja.

If you keep your eyes peeled, you'll likely be able to spot several other sculptures around town.

The two largest sculpture museums are the Einar Jonsson Museum , next to Hallgrimskirkja Church, and the Asmundarsafn Museum in the Laugardalur recreational area.

You can find a few smaller sculpture museums around town as well.

You could also take a stroll down Grandi and visit the outdoor sculpture Thufa. This is a green circular hill that you can walk to the top of and get great views facing Harpa Concert Hall.

There are dozens of art museums and smaller art galleries. The largest ones are the Reykjavik Art Museum , the  Kjarvalsstadir Museum , and the National Gallery of Iceland .

• See also: Top 12 Art Museums and Galleries in Reykjavik

The newest member of this institutional family is the Marshall House. Smaller venues include Mengi, Berg Contemporary, i8, Art Gallery 101, ART67 Gallery, Gallery Fold, and Gallery List, just to name a few.

Fantastic street art has been blossoming in recent years, with mesmerizing artwork adorning buildings all over town.

Whether it's the history and culture you're looking for or simply knowledge about Iceland's rich nature and wildlife, you can choose between several historical museums. The Saga Museum , the National Museum of Iceland , and the Arbaer Open Air Museum are popular.

• See also:  Top 10 Museums in Reykjavik

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Szilas .

There are some green areas and  parks in Reykjavik  that are worth a visit. While most people know of the natural sites outside the city, these parks are an excellent example of lesser-known Reykjavik tourist attractions.

Public gardens in the city include Hallargardur and Hljomskalagardur, by lake Tjornin, and Klambratun , which surrounds the Kjarvalsstadir Art Museum. These are popular areas for outdoor games throughout the summertime, and in winter, they can even be good locations for northern lights spotting in Reykjavik .

You can even find an artificial thermal foot bath, Kvika, among the rocks by the seashore, making this the perfect spot to keep your feet warm while watching the northern lights.

If you want to submerge yourself in water inside the city limits but still maintain a view of the ocean, head towards Nautholsvik beach.

There's a warm wading pool by the sand and a warm tub by the sea. If you're brave enough, you can go for a swim in the ocean. The heat at Nautholsvik beach comes from Iceland's hot springs, the most famous of which is at the Geyser geothermal area on the  Golden Circle  route. Changing facilities and a cafe serving light snacks and drinks are on-site.

Next to Nautholsvik is Oskjuhlid hill, where you can walk among the remains of old World War Two bunkers found between two forest trails.

Then there's  Ellidaardalur , in the middle of the city, where you can fish or have a picnic by a small waterfall. Ellidaardalur is popular with locals who go jogging or cycling through this inner-city paradise.

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by TommyBee .

Venture a little further out of town into Reykjavik's outskirts, and you'll find Raudholar  or "the Red Hills" which are a part of the Heidmork nature reserve. The red and black hills of Raudholar have beautiful color contrasts, and you can go on a  volcanic landscape horse riding tour  through this beautiful area all year round.

Heidmork is a nature reserve filled with greenery, caves, and secluded picnic areas, complete with public grilling facilities.

Reaching Heidmork or Raudholar is most convenient if you have a Reykjavik rental car , but you can also explore the area with this excellent 2.5-hour Raudholar horse-riding tour . It's a fantastic way to discover the nature reserve, as you'll get to ride Icelandic horses, and it includes a transfer from Reykjavik!

• Learn more: The Icelandic Horse | A Comprehensive Guide

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Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights, and they're certainly one of the things to see in Iceland that everyone wants to experience. Take a northern lights tour to hunt this natural phenomenon with the help of an experienced guide, or embark on your own adventure with an affordable rental car .

You may be able to spot them from downtown Reykjavik, but the best place to see them within the city limits is by the seaside at Seltjarnarnes , a township just outside Reykjavik.

There, you'll be away from the street lights and be able to take in the full majesty of the experience.

For the best chance to see the northern lights in Iceland, get as far away as possible from the city's light pollution and look to the north.

You can only see the northern lights between late August and early May, so if you are here in the summertime, enjoy a midnight sun experience in Iceland  instead.

• Discover the  Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

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The five most popular tourist attractions in Reykjavik are Hallgrimskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall, the Sun Voyager, the National Museum of Iceland, and the Perlan Museum.

Reykjavik offers several outdoor activities, such as whale watching and puffin tours , glacier hiking , horseback riding , and hiking day trips .

Yes, it is possible to see the northern lights in Reykjavik , but it's best to get away from the city lights and find a dark spot with clear skies.

Some family-friendly activities in Reykjavik include visiting the Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park, going to the Laugardalslaug swimming pool, and taking a whale-watching tour.

Yes, it is possible to visit Reykjavik on a budget . There are several free or low-cost activities, such as walking tours, visiting museums on specific days, and enjoying the city's public parks and outdoor spaces.

The best time to visit Reykjavik largely depends on what you want to do while you are there. Summer is a popular time to visit, with mild temperatures and long days. Winter is great for experiencing the northern lights and winter sports. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and lower prices.

Reykjavik is known for its vibrant nightlife, with several bars, clubs, and music venues. The city also offers several cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Some popular cultural attractions in Reykjavik include the Reykjavik Art Museum, the National Gallery of Iceland, the Saga Museum, and the Settlement Exhibition.

Some unique experiences to have in Reykjavik include soaking in the geothermal swimming pools , visiting the Icelandic Phallogical Museum, and doing a helicopter tour to see Reykjavik's stunning natural beauty from above.

Yes, there are several day trips from Reykjavik worth taking, such as visiting the Golden Circle to see the  Geysir  geothermal area,  Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park , exploring the South Coast to see Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, and taking a tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula .

Some must-try foods in Reykjavik include Icelandic lamb, seafood, skyr (a type of yogurt), and the famous Icelandic hot dog. If you're an adventurer you can also try whale and puffin, as well as sheep's head.

Some activity day trips to do from Reykjavik in the winter include taking a snowmobiling tour , enjoying the festive decorations around the city, and experiencing the northern lights.

Popular shopping destinations in downtown Reykjavik include the Laugavegur shopping street, the Skolavordustigur shopping street, and Kolaportid Flea Market, which is open on weekends. Kringlan , Reykjavik's largest shopping mall, is a 9-minute drive from the downtown area.

Yes, there are several walking tours of Reykjavik available, which offer visitors a chance to see the city's historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and hidden gems on foot.

We hope you enjoyed this list of the best things to do in Reykjavik. Let us know in the comments what you're hoping to do in Reykjavik, and if you've already been, what do you recommend travelers check out?

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11 Best Things To Do in Reykjavik

Updated December 30, 2022

Reykjavik is filled with things to do that range from the usual suspects (museums like the National Museum of Iceland  and The Settlement Exhibition ) to more uncommon attractions like geothermal spas at the nearby Blue Lagoon . There's also

• All Things To Do

Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) free

The aurora borealis (or northern lights ) can be an almost eerie sight: Picture emerald green swirls coloring the otherwise darkened sky. But scientists have a boring explanation for this phenomenal natural light show – "collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun that enter the Earth's atmosphere," according to the Northern Lights Centre. Still, it's a pretty breathtaking sight, and if you're visiting Reykjavik in winter, you might want to stake out some time for northern lights gazing.

Although you can see the lights from Reykjavik, you'll increase your chances of viewing them outside of the city. Previous travelers recommend taking a tour with local companies like BusTravel Iceland  or  Reykjavik Excursions  – some of the best Iceland tours . (But keep in mind that the aurora borealis requires a perfect cocktail of climate conditions in order to show – so you're not guaranteed to see the elusive display of lights even if you book a tour.) If you'd rather hunt for this natural phenomenon on your own, time your visit between September and mid-April.

Golden Circle Golden Circle free

The Golden Circle is a very popular, 190-mile-long tourist route that runs by Thingvellir National Park; the 105-foot dual cascading waterfall Gullfoss (Golden Falls); and the geothermal Haukadalur valley's Strokkur, a geyser that gushes water 60 to 100 feet into the air every five minutes; among other attractions.

According to recent visitors, the Golden Circle, which sits in South Iceland about 25 miles away from Reykjavik, is a can't-miss part of Iceland, even on a rainy day. But public transportation does not travel to the region, so plan on hiring a car or joining an organized tour. Past travelers recommend companies like GeoIceland and Reykjavik Excursions, which are featured on our list of the best Iceland tours . 

Sun Voyager (Sólfar) Sun Voyager (Sólfar) free

You'll find many sculptures scattered throughout Reykjavik, but for panoramic vistas and a look at one of the city's most iconic pieces, walk along the waterfront to the Sun Voyager (known locally as Sólfar). This steel sculpture, which was designed by Jon Gunnar Arnason, mimics a Viking ship and pays homage to the sun. Its location also boasts picturesque views of Mount Esja, a sprawling mountain filled with hiking trails.

Though you'll likely spend more time walking to and from the Sun Voyager (located about a mile from the city center) than snapping photos of it, recent visitors said the sculpture is a must see, especially on a clear day at sunrise or sunset. Harpa is also situated nearby, making this a great attraction to visit before or after wandering around the concert venue.

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South Iceland South Iceland free

If you have a limited itinerary, you'll want to prioritize seeing the Golden Circle . But if you're staying in Iceland for multiple days, a trek throughout South Iceland is a must, according to recent travelers. This region, which is south and east of Reykjavik, boasts towering volcanoes, expansive glaciers, gushing waterfalls, ample farmland and a black-sand beach. You may even pass Icelandic horses or spot puffins while traveling around the area.

Besides touring Golden Circle sights like Gullfoss and Strokkur, previous visitors suggested heading to Vík, where the black-sand Reynisfjara and its gigantic cave reside. Snapping photos of Skógafoss and walking behind Seljalandsfoss, two of South Iceland's most well-known waterfalls, are also worthwhile. If you don't want to drive to the region, consider joining an organized tour (many of the best Iceland tours include stops here). Nine- or 10-hour excursions to Iceland's south coast start at 12,781 Icelandic króna (about $123.50) per person and include roundtrip Reykjavik transfers and the services of a guide.

Blue Lagoon Blue Lagoon

About 30 miles southwest of Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland's most popular tourist attractions. This geothermal mineral spa gives off an almost otherworldly look with azure-colored water and steam rising from its surface. The lagoon receives more than 700,000 annual visitors. For a little perspective, that's double the country's entire population.

When you arrive at the property, you're given a locker key, in which you can deposit your valuables and superfluous clothing. Next, you can shower and help yourself to the buckets of silica mud, which is said to condition and exfoliate the skin. And then you can hop into the about 100-degree lagoon to soak. Spa treatments cost extra.

Hallgrímur's Church (Hallgrímskirkja) Hallgrímur's Church (Hallgrímskirkja) free

Iceland's tallest and largest church is also its most photographed site. Named after 17th-century hymn writer and church scholar Reverend Hallgrímur Pétursson, this church took nearly 50 years to complete, with construction on it starting in 1945. The shape of the futuristic structure is a cross between a glacier and a rocket ship.

Recent travelers recommended visiting Hallgr í mur's Church to snap photos of the gorgeous structure and listen to the organ playing during free lunchtime concerts on Thursdays and Saturdays. Many also suggest paying 900 Icelandic k róna ($9) to ride an elevator up to the top of the church. There, you'll find 360-degree views of Reykjavik.

Laugavegur Laugavegur free

For open-air shopping, stroll along Laugavegur. This shopping-centric street is filled with boutiques selling souvenirs, clothing and specialty foods like local cheeses and meats. Additionally, you'll find an array of restaurants that serve everything from Icelandic to Italian to sushi.

Recent travelers described the street as lively and were impressed with the variety of shops and eateries, though some cautioned that prices here are generally higher than what you'd find in American stores. If you do decide to shop here, remember that most stores close by 6 p.m. on weekdays (and even earlier on weekends).

Harpa Harpa free

One of Reykjavik's easiest structures to recognize is its concert hall and conference center, Harpa. Situated at the western end of the Sculpture and Shore Walk, Harpa's modern design regularly woos vacationers and architecture buffs alike. In fact, the window-centric building has won numerous design accolades, including the 2013 European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture – Mies van der Rohe Award and the Gramophone Magazine World Architecture Award 2010. The performing arts venue also hosts an array of events, from symphony shows and comedic acts to the Reykjavik Jazz Festival.

First-time visitors love exploring this impressive structure. However, some past travelers who initially visited before 2017 were a bit disappointed to see that the building now limits where you can wander. The lobby, its shops and its restaurants are still free to visit, but checking out Harpa's performance areas and using its bathrooms will now cost you a small fee.

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National Museum of Iceland National Museum of Iceland

This interactive museum tells the history of Iceland, beginning with its pagan rituals and ending with contemporary fashion. Along the way, you'll "meet" a medieval chief and a 14th-century nun, among others, and you can hear about their life experiences via a one-way telephone conversation.

Most recent travelers praised this museum's detailed look into Iceland's past. Some also recommend stopping by the museum's in-house restaurant and gift shops.

The Settlement Exhibition The Settlement Exhibition

As its name implies, The Settlement Exhibition gives visitors a chance to learn more about Reykjavik's first settlers. The museum's main exhibit is an excavation site, which features the remains of a hall inhabited between A.D. 930 and 1000. Travelers can also learn more about how early Icelandic homes were constructed and see Viking artifacts found throughout Reykjavik and on the island of Videy.

Budding archaeologists, history lovers and Viking enthusiasts will love wandering around The Settlement Exhibition. To gain a complete understanding of the museum's collections, recent visitors recommend joining a free guided tour, offered on weekdays in June, July and August at 11 a.m. Complimentary audio guides are also available year-round.

Árbaer Open Air Museum Árbaer Open Air Museum

For a glimpse at what life was like in 19th- and 20th-century Iceland, visit the Árbaer Open Air Museum. This open-air attraction features more than 20 buildings that were originally located in central Reykjavik, plus exhibits about toys, the history of painting houses, early building techniques and more.

Past travelers said this museum offers something for visitors of all ages, though some felt its exhibits did not justify paying an entrance fee of 1,600 Icelandic króna ($15.50) per person. However, waived admissions are available for seniors, disabled visitors and children 17 and younger. Museum fees are also covered for anyone with a Reykjavík City Card.

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My Actual Iceland Trip Cost: Detailed Budget Breakdown

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

How much does an Iceland trip cost? A LOT OF MONEY! Ha. This is a famously expensive destination. But in all seriousness, Iceland gives you quite a bit of value for that money.

Recently my friend Amanda from A Dangerous Business and I took a 13-day road trip to Iceland in August 2022. This is one of the best trips I’ve taken in a very long time — but holy hell, was it expensive!

We were traveling at peak season, plus it was the biggest travel summer in three years, making it a popular time for travelers (and expensive time for both rental cars and gas).

I know it can be helpful to see what other people paid for trips to Iceland, so here’s a detailed Iceland trip budget. I hope this is helpful for you to plan your own Iceland trip!

Table of Contents

Is Iceland Expensive?

Yes, Iceland is very expensive. It’s one of the most expensive countries of the 80+ I’ve visited, up there with Sweden and Australia, though I think Norway and Switzerland are a TINY BIT more expensive than Iceland.

There are reasons for this. Iceland is an isolated island, and they have to import the vast majority of supplies. Most fresh produce is grown outside Iceland and shipped in.

And like all of the Nordic countries, Iceland has a high cost of living. It’s not as jarring for locals, who earn high salaries — thanks in part to more than 90% of Icelandic workers being part of a labor union — and having their taxes pay for healthcare, education, infrastructure, and an excellent quality of life.

The time of year has a huge impact on your costs, too. Summer travel — considered mid-May through August — is much more expensive, and for good reason. Summer is the best time to travel Iceland, as everything is open, weather is at its best, tons of tours are running, and the roads are in much better condition.

Winter can be much cheaper and far less crowded, but keep in mind it can be very cold, very dark, and you may have to deal with winter storms and road closures.

Your Iceland trip cost can be as low as $100-150 USD per day if you hitchhike and camp or stay in hostel dorms. More realistically, I think $250+ USD per day will land you a much nicer trip .

In August 2022 we spent around $400 USD for gas to drive the Ring Road in its entirety, plus a few detours like Snaefellsnes and Húsavík.

We found the cheapest non-terrible hotel rooms with shared bath to be around $82 per night , but in expensive areas like Lake Myvatn, that could be as high as $300+.

The cheapest item on restaurant or gas station menus is a hot dog, usually for around $6 USD . An entree in a restaurant is often $25-30. But the best way to save money is to buy groceries.

How I Budgeted My Iceland Trip

Tracking travel expenses is a relatively new thing for me. People have often asked me for budget breakdowns, but I haven’t kept close track until I started using YNAB (You Need a Budget) software in 2020.

Guys, YNAB is the best thing I have ever done for my finances. It literally changed my life. My finances are so much better than they used to be, and I have a much better system of budgeting for trips and saving up over time!

If you want to try YNAB, you can get a free monthlong trial through my link . (If you sign up, they’ll give me a free month of YNAB.)

During your free monthlong trial, join in YNAB’s live Zoom tutorial sessions — they have several each week. They’re super helpful. And join the YNAB Facebook group and/or subreddit. It takes a bit of time to wrap your head around, so make the effort. I promise you it’s so, so worth it.

Since I started YNAB, along with Profit First, I allocate 30% of my travel blogging revenue to operating expenses — 20% to admin and 10% to travel costs. (You can do the same by budgeting a set amount for travel per month or per paycheck.)

Over time I automatically transferred that money directly into my “General Travel” category, then the “Iceland Trip 8/22” category, and as I made expenses before and during the trip, automatically deducted from money set aside for that trip.

As soon as Amanda and I decided to do this trip, we booked flights, our rental car, all accommodation, and several activities. We kept track of Iceland costs on a Google Docs spreadsheet. After arriving in Iceland, we took turns paying for mutual expenses on the road, like gas, but paid other expenses separately, like food. We used credit cards for every single purchase.

After the trip, we went through our credit card bills and added our mutual expenses to the spreadsheet, saw who had paid more, and Venmo’d the difference. Easy!

We kept track of everything in USD, as it was easier for us to just go by our actual credit card statements than go through and convert lots of receipts.

Our Travel Style

In an expensive destination like Iceland, it’s smart to drop down a travel level . I usually stay in mid-range hotels with occasional high-end splurges, as does Amanda, but on this trip we stayed in the cheapest budget hotels with non-terrible ratings, often with shared bathrooms.

Food-wise, we mainly ate in restaurants and cafes. A few hotels included breakfast. We bought groceries for breakfast in Akureyri.

Additionally, many accommodation prices were actually charged in Euros, not Icelandic Kroner, and the Euro dropped significantly against the US dollar between when we initially booked (June 2022) and when we traveled (August 2022).

For example, our Akureyri Airbnb was set to charge us in two payments of 334.39 euros. They ended up charging us $359.17 for the first payment and $342.88 for the second payment thanks to the euro dropping.

Finally — if you’re traveling with a friend, I can’t overstate the importance of being on the same financial page. Have conversations early and often about how you want to spend your money, with specific numbers, before booking anything.

Luckily, Amanda and I were in agreement on our priorities. We cared about spending lots of money on activities and didn’t care as much about food or accommodation (save a few cool spots).

Amanda published a post about a 10-day Iceland itinerary that is definitely worth checking out!

Total Cost of Iceland Trip: $4303.11 each or $8606.21 for two

This is for two people sharing accommodation, car rental, and gas, and paying for their own activities and food.

I tracked every expense except Amanda’s airfare and food, but for cost-for-two purposes, let’s assume she spent the same amount as me on those two categories.

• Airfare: $548.20 for Kate (approximately $1096.40 for two)
• Car Rental and Ground Transportation: $2608.04 for two or $1304.02 each

Accommodation: $2371.80 for two or $1185.90 each

Food: $690.60 for kate (approximately $1381.20 for two), activities: $1,141.81 for two or $570.91 each, restrooms: $6.96 for two or $3.48 each, souvenirs: $0.

Airfare: $548.20 for me

• Flixbus, Prague Florenc to Vienna Airport: $50.98
• Vienna to Reykjavík on WizzAir: $260.14
• Reykjavík to Prague on Play: $237.08

Airfare can depend on a million different factors; this is simply what I spent flying from my home in Prague. Amanda flew from her home in Cleveland via a layover in Boston. These flight prices include checked luggage; I didn’t end up using checked luggage, so they could have been cheaper.

There are direct flights from Prague to Reykjavík on Play, but they get in at 12:30 AM and I didn’t want to deal with that (especially since that would be 2:30 AM to my Prague body — and then you have to rent a car, drive 45 minutes to Reykjavík, check into the hotel…)

Prague’s bus station is an 8-minute walk from my apartment, so sometimes I just book a flight from Vienna and take a 4.5-hour bus directly to the Vienna airport. Vienna’s WizzAir flight to Reykjavík gets in at a much more reasonable 6:30 PM, so that worked for me.

How to Make it Cheaper: It’s hard to siphon down airfare costs, but you can save by flying carry-on only or planning a trip during the winter. For cheap flights from North America, I recommend booking 3-6 months in advance as soon as you spot a good fare.

Car Rental and Ground Transportation: $2615.30 for two or $1307.65

• Car rental, 12 days: $1991.32
• Extra driver fee: $25.65
• Gas: $400.71
• Tunnels: $54.30
• Parking: $40.77
• Ferry: $102.55

Car Rental: This was our biggest expense of the trip, not least because there has been a car rental shortage since COVID began. This was the price for an automatic sedan (we got a Toyota Corolla) for 13 days. Our rental was at Europcar, right in the airport terminal; this was a priority for me, as I wanted to get out quickly and many rental companies are located a 15-20-minute drive from the airport.

Gas: We filled up gas most days and tried to fill up frequently, as gas stations are often far apart.

Tunnels: There is only one paid tunnel in Iceland, just east of Akureyri. Many people driving the Ring Road only pass through the tunnel once, but our schedule and itinerary had us going through it five times total for an average of $10.86 each time.

Parking: While free in most locations, we ultimately paid for parking at Fagradalsfjall Volcano ($7.33), Kirkjufellsfoss ($5.13), Hverir ($5.05), Skaftafell for Svartifoss ($7.26), Kvernufoss ($5.33) and Seljalandsfoss/Gljúfrabúi ($10.67).

Ferry: We took the Westman Islands ferry round-trip with our car for $102.55. We could have done it without the car for cheaper, but we both enormously appreciated how much easier having a car made things.

How To Make it Cheaper: Renting a manual car is cheaper than an automatic car, but you need to be willing to drive a manual car. Renting from an off-site car rental spot is a good option for saving a bit more. You can also plan an itinerary that doesn’t go through the tunnel five times!

• 201 Hotel in Kópavogur, near Reykjavík (1 night): $177.34
• Hamralid 9 Guesthouse in Grundarfjördur (2 nights): $185.94 for two nights or $92.97 per night
• Hvammur 2 Guesthouse near Blönduós (1 night): $82.05
• Airbnb rental in Akureyri (3 nights): $702.05 for three nights or $234.02 per night
• Sel Hotel in Myvatn (1 night): $347.06
• Lyngas Guesthouse in Egilsstadir (1 night): $146.79
• Hotel Smyrlabjörg near Jökulsárlón (1 night): $213.12
• Puffin Hotel in Vík (1 night): $277.21
• Glamping and Camping in the Westman Islands, plus linens (1 night): $93.40
• Asahraun Guesthouse near Selfoss (1 night): $146.84

As you can see, our search for budget stays led to an enormous range of accommodation costs — from $82.05 to $347.06 per night! Our average cost of accommodation was $182.45 per night.

All of our hotels offered private rooms; some had shared bathrooms. We shared a single room everywhere except the Airbnb apartment in Akureyri, which had two bedrooms.

In terms of value for money, I think that we enjoyed immense value at Asahraun Guesthouse near Selfoss, with our adorable little hobbit house, hot tub on site, and lots of cozy amenities. The shower was shared with two other houses but we had our own toilet and sink, which was great.

And Hvammur 2 Guesthouse near Blönduós was a cheap and cozy place that reminded me how hostels used to be: people hanging out, watching TV together or cooking in the kitchen. We never even got formally checked in; we just got an email with our room number and were told to enjoy ourselves!

The worst value? Sel Hotel in Myvatn, by far, at $347.06 per night for a basic twin hotel room with private bathroom and breakfast included. Yikes!

Lake Myvatn in general was shockingly expensive and super-crowded. I’ve heard you can save money by staying in Húsavík instead; it’s an hour’s drive away.

How to Make it Cheaper: These were the cheapest non-terrible hotels we could find during the peak summer months, two months before our trip. You can also stay in hostel dorms or camp for less.

Hiring a camper van sometimes ends up a bit cheaper than a budget hotel, but the difference isn’t usually significant. Don’t get a camper van to save money; only get a camper van if you want that style of trip.

• Groceries: $20.32
• Lunch Kate bought for 2 at Godafoss: $11.24
• Kate’s restaurant expenses: $674.82

Iceland is not a place you go to for the food. The food isn’t terrible, but it isn’t special, either, and I don’t think there’s much of a need to splurge.

We mainly ate at restaurants and cafes throughout our trip. Though we generally kept things cheap, we did have the occasional splurge (Gott in the Westman Islands was lovely, as was Naustið in Húsavík, and we enjoyed langoustine sandwiches at Z Bistro in Höfn). We only had a few alcoholic beverages throughout the trip: a fancy cocktail each at Gott, and I sampled a few local craft beers throughout the trip.

We bought groceries to cover our three breakfasts in Akureyri (yogurt, fruit, bread and butter).

How to Make it Cheaper: Self-cater all the way. Shopping at the grocery store is one of the easiest ways to save money in Iceland. If you do eat out, usually the cheapest thing on the menu is a hot dog, whether at a restaurant or gas station.

Activities are where we went nuts. Keep in mind that this trip was for work reasons, though. We had a lot we wanted to write about!

Paid Activities

• Thermal Baths: $427.04 for two or $213.52 each
• Tours and Activities: $541.20 for two or $270.60 each
• Museums: $155 for two or $77.50 each
• Outdoor Attractions: $18.57 for two or $9.29 each

Thermal baths included Krauma in Reykholt ($71.82 for two or $35.91 each), the Forest Lagoon in Akureyri ($87.17 for two or $43.59 each), GeoSea in Húsavík ($80.04 for two or $40.02 each), Myvatn Nature Baths in Myvatn ($86.62 for two or $43.31 each), Vök Baths in Egilsstadir ($87.17 for two or $43.59 each), and Vestmannaeyjar Swimming Pool in the Westman Islands ($14.22 for two or $7.11 each).

Tours and activities included whale watching in Húsavík ($157.02 for two or $78.51 each), horseback riding in Húsavík ($167.35 for two or $83.68 each), and a RIB boat trip in the Westman Islands ($216.83 for two or $108.42 each).

Museums included the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum in Bjarnarhöfn ($20.52 for two or $10.26 each), Herring Era Museum in Siglufjördur ($32.02 for two or $16.01 each), Whale Museum in Húsavík ($25.34 for two or $12.67 each — included a small discount from our whale watch), Jaja Ding Dong Eurovision Museum in Húsavík ($14.44 for two or $7.22 each), Petra’s Stone Collection in Stöðvarfjörður ($21.46 for two or $10.73 each), and Eldheimar in the Westman Islands ($41.22 for two or $20.61 each).

Outdoor attractions included Stokksnes , including Viking Village ($12.88 for two or $6.33 each), and Kerid Crater ($5.69 for two or $2.85 each).

Free Activities

And a nice thing about Iceland is that lots of outdoor activities are free!

• Hiking to the volcano (paid parking)
• Free waterfalls: Svodufoss, Bjarnarfoss, Glanni, Reykjafoss, Goðafoss, Dettifoss, Gufufoss, Folaldafoss, Nykurhylsfoss (Sveinsstekksfoss), Skógafoss, Hestavadsfoss, Gluggafoss
• Free waterfalls that charged for parking: Kirkjufellsfoss, Hundafoss/Svartifoss, Kvernufoss, Seljalandsfoss/Gljúfrabúi
• Free canyons: Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, Kolugljúfur Canyon, Stuðlagil Canyon, Múlagljúfur Canyon, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
• Free lagoons and beaches: Skarðsvík, Djúpalónssandur, Jökulsárlon, Fjallsárlón, Diamond Beach, Reynisfjara Beach
• Free outdoor sites: Saxhóll Crater, Hvitserkur, Hofsós basalt columns, Skútustaðagígar, Dimmuborgir Lava Field, Grjótagjá Cave, Hverir, Seydisfjördur Rainbow Street, Eggin í Gleðivík
• Free churches: Ingjaldshólskirkja, Búðakirkja, Stykkishólmskirkja Víðimýrikirkja, Grafarkirkja, Hofskirkja
• Free indoor sites: Akureyri Christmas House
• Free viewpoints: TOO MANY TO COUNT.

Comped Activities

As travel bloggers, Amanda and I wanted to pay for things on this trip ourselves and have full editorial freedom, rather than get free stuff and feel indebted to companies.

Still, thanks to our connections, we were kindly offered comped entry for two hot springs that we planned to cover anyway (and one I had previously covered two months earlier): the Sky Lagoon and Hvammsvik.

• Sky Lagoon : $143.82 for two or $71.91 each (Pure Package, which I think is the package most worth it)
• Hvammsvik : $100.24 for two or $50.12 each

Best Activities Overall

Almost everything we did was excellent and I would happily do again. At the same time, I understand that most travelers are going for fun, not work, and need to pick and choose their spending more carefully than we did.

For thermal baths, I absolutely adored the modern, funky Vök Baths in Egilsstadir, with the gorgeous natural facilities of Hvammsvik second. GeoSea is a great place with spectacular views on a nice day, and if you’re basing in Reykjavík, the Sky Lagoon is worth it if you include the Seven-Step Ritual.

For paid activities, one of the best things we did was our RIB boat trip in the Westman Islands . It was so fun, we immediately regretted doing the one-hour trip instead of the two-hour trip!

Also, if you want to go whale watching in Iceland, do it in Húsavík if you can, not Reykjavík. The whale watching is significantly better there, and I know too many people who saw nothing on their Reykjavík whale watches.

And for museums, I LOVED THEM ALL. But I was deeply moved by Eldheimar , which tells the story of the 1973 volcanic eruption in the Westman Islands, and the Herring Era Museum in Siglufjördur is outstanding, especially its final building. Petra’s Stone Collection was an unexpected delight.

What to skip? The only thing I would skip would be the Myvatn Nature Baths ; it felt a bit ramshackle in comparison to the other baths.

How to Make it Cheaper: Go to local swimming pools instead of fancy baths; every town has them and they’re a great option for a cultural experience (especially with kids). Go all in on free outdoor activities; you’ll always have plenty to do.

• Restroom near Hvitserkur: $3.66 (we held the door so we only had to pay once)
• Restroom at Studlagil Canyon: $1.15 each or $3.30 for two

I was going to call this category “miscellaneous,” but literally the only thing left was restrooms.

(Let me add that it’s helpful to have Apple Pay if you have an iPhone — that way you can just scan it and run in if you sprinted to the bathroom from your car and left your wallet behind. Hehehe.)

How to Make it Cheaper: Lose your shame and just pee out in the open, man.

Yes, zero! I had actually been in Iceland in May and bought a small lava sculpture for my living room (around $35) and a gift for my fiancé Charlie (around $15), but I didn’t feel the need to buy anything on this trip.

Spending is purely discretionary, but I know a lot of people who like to buy Icelandic sweaters (they’re called lopapeysa ), yarn, and jewelry.

For me, my photos are my souvenirs. These are what I truly treasure.

Travel Insurance: Already Paid For

I am not buying travel insurance anyore because I get it for free. My bank account in the Czech Republic comes with free travel insurance as long as I deposit a significant amount of cash per month. A great benefit.

If you don’t already have travel insurance — and trust me, you need it — I recommend World Nomads for most travelers , which I used for years before moving to the EU.

How to Save Money in Iceland

In such an expensive country, you want to cut costs wherever you can. Here are my top tips for saving money:

Travel in the winter (October to April). It’s a completely different experience from summer travel, which is high season, but airfare, accommodation, and car rental — three of your biggest expenses — tend to be much lower. Plus, you can see the Northern Lights.

Travel with a friend. As much as I love traveling solo in Iceland, I saved SO much money by splitting accommodation, gas, and car rental with Amanda!

Book your trip super-early. The good accommodation — especially the good CHEAP accommodation — tends to sell out first.

Spend limited or no time in the most expensive destinations. I found the most expensive destinations to be the capital city of Reykjavík, Lake Myvatn, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast. Places like Snaefellsnes and the rural north were much cheaper by comparison.

Book guesthouses with shared bathrooms. These are common in Iceland. Shared bathrooms usually lower the price of an equivalent room with ensuite bathrooms, and most of the time it’s not a nuisance whatsoever.

Consider non-hotels: hostels or Airbnb rentals. Hostels with shared dorms will always save you money; Airbnbs can go either way.

Consider camping. It’s a different kind of trip, but it’s much cheaper than staying in the cheapest hostels or guesthouses! But if you don’t already have equipment, you’ll need to pay to rent it.

Use a credit card that covers car insurance. I haven’t paid for supplemental car rental insurance ANYWHERE since I got my Chase Sapphire Preferred card. This and several other credit cards provide a car insurance benefit.

Rent a car with a manual transmission. ONLY if you can drive one and are willing to drive one in Iceland.

Consider taking the bus. You can take buses along the Ring Road, though keep in mind stops are limited and this won’t get you to most places without supplemental hitchhiking. Many public transportation routes shut down in the winter.

Consider hitchhiking. Iceland is one of VERY few countries where I would ever consider hitchhiking, as it’s extremely safe. Please do your research beforehand.

Don’t take Icelandic króna out at the ATM. In our 13-day trip, we didn’t use cash ONCE. So we always got a good rate with our credit cards, and there was no extra cash at the end of our trip! (You may want to take out a small amount — think under $50 — in case you come across any donation-only attractions.)

Pack carry-on only. It will save you luggage fees. You can book accommodation with on-site laundry halfway through your trip (which we did in Akureyri), or pack fabrics like merino wool that you can wear several times without smelling.

Self-cater your meals. Shopping at grocery stores will save you so much money over going to restaurants. Look for Bónus, the cheap grocery store chain in Iceland.

Eat at gas stations. It’s not THAT gross, I swear. Many gas stations serve decent cheap meals. This is the closest thing you have to McDonald’s in Iceland.

Get into hot dogs. Wherever you go, hot dogs are usually the cheapest thing on the menu. Often even cheaper than a little bowl of soup!

Bring a water bottle and refill it everywhere. Iceland has excellent tap water. There is zero reason to buy bottled water.

Skip the alcohol. Alcoholic drinks tend to be very expensive in Iceland. If you want something nicer to drink than water, I suggest Collab — an Icelandic soda with collagen and caffeine. It comes in several fun fruity flavors and I tried to try them all!

Spend your time visiting free natural attractions. You saw how many waterfalls and canyons and cool outdoor sites we saw, all for free!

Hike, hike, hike. You might occasionally need to pay for parking, but for the most part, you can hike for hours for free.

Go to swimming pools instead of fancy hot springs. They’re a cultural experience and super fun. And if you have kids, THIS is where you should go instead of the fancy spots.

More on Iceland:

• 35 Awesome Things to do in Reykjavík, Iceland
• Things to Know Before You Visit the Blue Lagoon, Iceland
• Why Iceland is Great for First-Time Solo Female Travelers

My Favorite Places in Iceland:

• How to Visit Kvernufoss, My Favorite Iceland Waterfall
• A Look Inside the Sky Lagoon, Iceland
• Sail Through the Sky with FlyOver Iceland
• Snorkeling Silfra: The Cold Neon Waters of Iceland
• How to Visit Studlagil Canyon, Iceland
• Visiting Stokksnes and Vestrahorn Mountain, Iceland
• Guide to the Gorgeous Tröllaskagi Peninsula, North Iceland
• Are the Vök Baths Iceland’s Best Geothermal Spa?

How much did your Iceland trip cost? Share away!