Top things to do in Reykjavik

Last Updated on November 3, 2023 by

When I planned my trip to Reykjavik, I didn’t know what exactly to expect from the city. Is there nightlife? It’s very expensive? How are the people? I wanted to visit Iceland since a long time but I never deeply thought about Reykjavik as a highlight of the trip. This city pleasantly surprised me. After a couple of days spent wandering around its colourful streets, I suddenly got why you can’t visit Iceland without a stop in Reykjavik. Therefore, if you are thinking to visit the world’s most northerly capital and don’t know what to do, this blog will guide you to discover the top things to do in Reykjavik. Not before giving you some practical information for your trip and a little bit of history for a nice background.

Table of Contents

A short history of Reykjavik

The smoky bay

The earliest Icelandic history is narrated in the Landnámabók (the Book of Settlements ). Written between 11^th and 12^th centuries this recounts about Arnarson, one of the first Icelandic settlers. The legend says that he threw the symbol of his family power, seven high-seat pillars, into the sea to determine in which place he and his the family would set. These pillars fortuitously landed in a region characterised by a multitude of geothermal spots, which Ingólfur named Reykjavik, meaning “smoky bay.” While historians may consider this source unreliable, it nonetheless paints a vivid picture of what Iceland was and continues to be, from a certain perspective.

The legendary medieval geothermal pools are no longer visible, but if you pay attention, you can still detect the scent of sulfur permeating the entire city. This serves as a reminder that a smoky bay lies hidden beneath the colourful houses and charming cafes.

Reykjavik typically serves as the first destination for most tourists embarking on an extensive tour of Iceland. Whether you are visiting for a short stopover or a comprehensive exploration of the country, a visit to this northernmost and vibrant European capital is a must.

My husband and I included Reykjavik in our journey along the Ring Road (alias Route 1), spending a total of 3 days there. 2 days at the beginning of the trip and 1 at the end.

Things to know before visiting Iceland

It is likely that Reykjavik will be only the first stop of a longer trip to Iceland. Therefore, before introducing you the top things to do in Reykjavik, is essential to know some information about the Icelandic country that will help you planning your trip.

How expensive is Iceland?

Travel on a budget to Iceland can be challenging but not impossible. I strongly suggest you to book flights and accommodations as early as possible because the prices can be very expensive especially during the high season (May-August).

Shopping and eating is pricey. Expect to pay 25£ for a burger and 10/15£ for a fridge magnet. Traditional Icelandic clothing, in particular, is very very expensive although the quality is fabulous.

One of the cheapest supermarkets you can find all around the country is Netto.

What is the Icelandic currency?

Iceland currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). However, Iceland is famous for being a cashless country as you can pay always by card or phone with contact less payments. Despite Iceland being physically within Europe, Euro currency is not accepted.

Shopping, eating and nightlife

Shops and restaurants close relatively early compared to other European countries. In this regard, we discovered that most restaurants in Reykjavik closed around 9-10 pm with an hour pause between 14-16 pm.

Reykjavik, however, have a fervid nightlife so you may find clubs open till late night. Nevertheless, we didn’t visit any of them preferring to spend most nights hunting the Northern Lights. You should also take in account that during winter the hours of light are very limited.

Renting a car in Iceland

If you are planning to rent a car, do this in advance. Prices are expensive and there is a compulsory “ash and gravel” insurance you have to do once there. It doesn’t matter if you have already a full cover insurance, this won’t likely cover the “ash and gravel” and they explained us that damages made by this can go up to 12k. When we asked “how often this happens?” the lady replied: “last week it happen twice”. Of course we paid that damn extra 200£.

Fuel stops in Iceland

When you fuel up the car, pay attention! If you push the button for a full refill the pump station will charge automatically £250 on your card. These, minus the fuel sum, will be accredited again in your card within 5 working days. However, it can be annoying if you have a credit card limit and have to refill more than once! You can avoid this by specifying a certain sum on the fuel machine e.g. £50.

Weather conditions in Iceland

Come prepared for any weather. Meteorological conditions are known to change very quickly in Iceland and I confirm this is true. With “very quickly” I mean in the space of a few metres distance. We witnessed a storm, snow, wind and sunshine all in the space of 10 minutes.

Visiting Reykjavik. Essential things to know

Reykjavik is for most visitors the first of multiple stops around Iceland. This can include just a tour of the Golden Circle or an entire road trip of Route 1. Whether you are staying for 5 days or two weeks, Reykjavik is worth a stop. Therefore, is better to come prepared to your visit and plan your first day in Iceland in the better way.

How many days should I spend in Reykjavik?

Most of Reykjavik attractions are visitable in one day. This is particularly good if you have a strict and full itinerary and not much time. However, for a more relaxed experience and possibility of enjoying the local atmosphere, I would recommend 2 or 3 days.

Getting around Reykjavik

Navigating Reykjavik is a breeze compared to other European capitals. Indeed, the city’s small size, allows you to explore its primary attractions on foot. This makes exploration much easier to plan. A good starting point of your Reykjavik tour is Hallgrímskirkja church. From there, you can simply go down from Rainbow Street (of which real name is Skólavörðustígur). This street connects the area of the church to the city centre.

Parking in Reykjavik

Parking in Reykjavik can be both challenging and costly, especially during peak times and weekends when parking rates can range from 275 to 150 Icelandic Krona. To help you save some money, I recommend parking behind the Hallgrímskirkja church, where free parking is available for its visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, starting your city sightseeing adventure from this point is a convenient way to begin your exploration of Reykjavik.

The Hallgrímskirkja Church

The Hallgrímskirkja Church is the tallest building in Reykjavik, dating back to 1974 and designed by the architect Guðjón Samúelsson. Its facade is reminiscent of the basaltic columns that are characteristic of the Icelandic landscape. The architecture of the church is divided into 3 parts: the tower, the nave and the sanctuary. In the square, you can also admire the statue of Leifur Erikson, a proud European explorer who is credited with discovering North America, which he named Vinland, around 999-1010.

From the church, it’s easy to explore the rest of the city, as the building is situated at the top of the hill leading to Reykjavik’s main streets. From this vantage point, you’ll encounter numerous colorful houses and shops adorned with vibrant street art by some of Iceland’s finest artists.

Both streets that lead from the Cathedral towards the city center will guide you to Reykjavik’s harbor, where you’ll find some of the city’s most exceptional architectural examples.

Visiting the Tower

If you want to visit the tower, you have to buy a separate ticket at the entrance of the church. Don’t worry about climbing the stairs; there’s an elevator that takes you to the top floor. I highly recommend this experience as the cityscape view is truly breathtaking, and it provides a unique perspective of the clock tower.

Indeed, while entrance to the church is entirely free, if you wish to enjoy the panoramic view of Reykjavik from a height of 74.5 meters, you’ll need to purchase a ticket for the tower, which costs approximately 1300 Icelandic Krona (around £7.5).

Harpa Concert Hall

The Harpa Concert Hall is a significant part of a project aimed at the redevelopment of Reykjavik’s harbour. The building, which stands as the only completed structure of this ambitious project, was inaugurated in 2011. The design of Harpa can be attributed to the Danish firm Hanning Larsen Architects in collaboration with the Danish artist Olafur Eliasson, known for his work on “Your rainbow panorama” in Aarhus. The Harpa Concert Hall serves as a splendid example of contemporary architecture and design.

The construction of Harpa showcases a steel framework and an array of coloured glass panels, which dynamically interact with the natural light, producing a captivating visual spectacle that evolves throughout the day.

How to visit the Harpa Concert Hall

It’s worth noting that the entrance to Harpa is entirely free, making it a must-visit attraction. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this exceptional building, particularly on a sunny day when the rainbow-like light filters through the glass, adding to the enchantment of the experience. However, if you want to attend one of the shows, this is of course chargeable. You can see a list of events here.

Sun Voyager

Just at a short walk from the promenade near Harpa, you will find the iconic sculpture called “the sun voyager” or Solfar. Don’t be tricked by the shape of this sculpture. Indeed, many tourists think this resembles a Viking ship that remembers the connection of Reykjavik with its historical past. A of land of sailors, explorers and Viking realm. Nevertheless, its artist, Jon Gunnar Arnason, has specified numerous times this wasn’t his original intention. Indeed, the artist stressed that this is “a dream boat and an ode to the sun. It represents the promise of undiscovered territory and a dream of hope, progress and freedom”. However, I think it’s easy to misunderstand his intention given the shape of the boat. Nevertheless, the sculpture is a symbol of the city and Reykjavik wouldn’t be the same without it.

Perlan Museum

Another well-known landmark in Reykjavik is the Perlan Museum.

This is situated atop Öskjuhlíð Hill and features a distinctive geodesic dome structure. Indeed, it is renowned for its unique observation deck provides an excellent opportunity to take in panoramic views of Reykjavik and its surrounding natural beauty. From here, you can witness the cityscape, the ocean, and even the distant mountains, all from a unique vantage point.

The museum itself is a treasure trove of information about Iceland’s natural wonders, history, and culture. Its exhibitions cover topics such as glaciers, volcanoes, and Iceland’s unique ecosystems, offering a deep dive into the island’s geological and environmental significance.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have the chance to visit Perlan due to time constraints, but we certainly hope to explore it in the future.

Practical information

The entrance fee of the museum is 4900 ISK (30 £ circa). This will include access to all the following attractions.

Access to Perlan
Access to the Observation deck
Access to Áróra Northern Lights Show in Planetarium
Access to all Wonders of Iceland exhibitions (including ice-cave)

Grótta Lighthouse

If you’re interested in a brief excursion just outside the central area of Reykjavik, I recommend visiting the Grótta Lighthouse. Located on the Seltjarnarnes peninsula, a mere ten-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik, Grótta Lighthouse offers an ideal setting for various activities. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll, bird-watching, or an opportunity to witness the Northern Lights without the need for expensive tours and navigating unfamiliar Icelandic routes at night, Grótta Lighthouse has you covered.

We personally had the chance to visit both in the morning and at night to witness the mesmerizing aurora borealis, and we were truly captivated by the experience. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable and cost-effective way to enjoy the Northern Lights near Reykjavik.

Note for visiting Grótta Lighthouse

Before visiting Grótta Lighthouse please note a few essential information. The Lighthouse is located on a small island connected to Reykjavik by a tiny strip of land. The passage from the mainland to the island is subjected to the tide. Indeed, in case of high tide you might remain stranded in the island until the next low tide. Generally, the high tide arrives during the afternoon. However, if you want to check the precise time you can check the tidal arrival here.

Seeing the Northern Lights at Grótta Lighthouse

Grótta Lighthouse is one of the most popular spots in the capital area to view the Northern Lights in the winter. If you want to try this experience too please plan accordingly. Here below, you’ll find some tips based on our experience with this location.

Forecasts and Darkness

Check the Aurora forecasts. The forecasts can predict an activity that goes from 0 to 9 (with 9 being the strongest activity). Most tours don’t go out with a 2 forecast. This because without a clear dark sky you might not see the Aurora with naked eyes. However, the photos above have been shot with a 2 forecast! Indeed, the activity wasn’t very strong but our camera was able to catch it!

If the sky is cloudy don’t waste your time. You’ll need a very dark and clear sky to catch the aurora. The above was just our first attempt (there were some clouds and it wasn’t too dark). Consider that we travelled in April so the darkest sky was around 2-3 am. The photos above were shot around midnight.

Tips for seeing the Northern Lights at Grótta Lighthouse

You don’t need a tour to see the aurora from Grótta Lighthouse. The area is very close to the city and there is a free parking you can use. Just pay attention when arriving at the main beach as it’s very dark and you’ll likely need a torch to see a safe spot for the equipment.

Grótta Lighthouse is one of the most famous places where to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik. This means that many people will flock there every single night for photographing the Aurora. This means the beach can be very crowded and with only a few spots left.

Prepare to survive a long and cold night. Dress appropriately and maybe bring a thermos with a warm drink with you because the cold might be unbearable. I remember I thought I was loosing my fingers because the pain I had for the cold was awful. I couldn’t wear gloves all the times because I was using my camera and this didn’t help.

Explore the vibrant Reykjavik Street Art

Something I didn’t know prior to my visit is how fantastic is the street art scene in Reykjavik. I am a very big fan of graffiti and street art so I was very happy to discover how much the city cares about this wonderful works of art. There are hundreds of colourful murals around the capital that you can literally spend an entire day try to find them all.

Some of my favourite street art pieces are:

Ode To Mother (Óður til Móður) by Caratoes at Laugavegur (second picture above)
Wall Poetry by Elle at Laugavegur 35
Days of Gray attributed to Nellivanelli at Bankstraeti 4
Heavy Stones Fear No Weather by Wes21 and Onur. This mural is on Ægisgata Street at Nylendugata Street (fourth picture above).

Map of Attractions in Reykjavik

The map above includes all the locations mentioned in this blog and also all the restaurant locations suggested. In this way it will be easier to plan your stay in Reykjavik.

Best day trips from Reykjavik

If you have some additional time and want to check some nearby places, Reykjavik is a good base for day trips in Iceland. Find below some of the best day trips from Reykjavik we personally did on our Iceland trip.

Bath in the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon

High on my bucket list of things to do in Iceland was visiting the Blue Lagoon. This iconic geothermal spa is built around the structures of the Svartsengi geothermal power plant. It was established in 1992 and has been promoting the incredible benefits and healing properties of its seawater ever since. In 2012, the Blue Lagoon received the honor of being named one of the “25 wonders of the world” by National Geographic, solidifying its status as one of the most visited places in the entire nation.

The Blue Lagoon is conveniently located just under an hour’s drive from Reykjavik, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a relaxing afternoon of rejuvenation.

What to expect from your visit to the Blue Lagoon

One of the first things to keep in mind if you’re considering a visit to the Blue Lagoon is that it can be quite expensive. Prices typically range from £60 to £500, depending on the type of experience you’d like to book. The lower end of the price spectrum generally covers basic entrance to the site, while the highest price grants enhanced access to various parts of the spa, including the newest addition, the “Retreat Lagoon” (which wasn’t open when I visited).

For our visit, we opted for a more basic option that included just a drink, a mask, and a towel. I recognized that we would spend a couple of hours there but didn’t want to splurge for just one afternoon.

Another crucial thing to keep in mind is that part of the Blue Lagoon experience involves being semi-naked in freezing temperatures. Despite the geothermal pools having temperatures of about 35 degrees Celsius or even higher, not many people mention the less glamorous aspects, such as moving from the changing rooms to the actual pool or from the pool to the sauna, all while wearing a wet swimsuit. This can be especially challenging, given that you’re exposed to below-zero temperatures. I distinctly remember feeling the coldest I have ever been in my life while walking from the pool to the indoor bar in -10 degrees Celsius, wearing just my red swimsuit.

Overall it was a fantastic experience which I 100% recommend if you are committed to pay the price for just a few hours.

Standing in between two continents

Have you ever thought about standing in two continents at the same time or walking from Europe to North America within seconds? Well, in Iceland, you can make this fascinating experience a reality. In the Reykjanes region, at a short drive from Reykjavik, you’ll discover a place known as Miðlína, often referred to as the “Bridge between Continents.” This unique location features a 15-meter-long bridge that connects the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

The location is a remarkable geological wonder that allows you to literally straddle the divide between two continents. Indeed, geologically, the entire Reykjanes peninsula stands on the Mid Atlantic Ridge. Here, the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are in a continuous state of drifting apart due to powerful forces operating beneath the gaping rifts. As these plates diverge, linear fractures, known as fissures, are created due to the stresses that build up as the plates move away from each other a few centimetres every year.

Tips for visiting

The bridge that connects the two continents is situated approximately one hour from Reykjavik. You can easily find the location on Google Maps, and I would recommend saving an offline map in case of signal loss. It’s also essential to check the weather conditions before venturing further than the bridge for exploration. The surrounding area mostly consists of a lava field with a few small craters. However, in the event of adverse weather conditions, it’s not advisable to go off the designated path.

To round off your unique experience of walking from Europe to North America, you can obtain a certificate from the Reykjanes Information Center, serving as official documentation of your memorable journey.

Shopping in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a hidden shopping paradise that not many are aware of. The vibrant city center is teeming with hundreds of boutiques, stores, and even prominent brand names. The primary shopping hub in Reykjavik is Laugavegur, which roughly translates to “the water road.” This street also happens to be the oldest in Reykjavik. It’s a treasure trove for those seeking high-end boutique shops, restaurants, and souvenir stores.

Another street I loved for shopping and dining while in Reykjavik is Bankstraeti. While smaller in size compared to the nearby Laugavegur, this street is adorned with charming, cozy cafes and quaint shops. What makes it even more appealing is its vibrant and colourful atmosphere, which adds an extra layer of charm to the shopping experience.

Where to eat in Reykjavik

As previously mentioned, being a tourist in Iceland can indeed be relatively expensive. If you’re traveling on a budget, it’s a wise strategy to prepare your own meals rather than dining out for every meal of the day.

For our trip, we opted for a combination of approaches. We did dine at restaurants on some occasions, but we also brought food from home to cook, and we prepared meals with ingredients purchased from local supermarkets when staying overnight in a guesthouse equipped with a kitchen. However, during our time in Reykjavik, because we lodged in a hotel, we didn’t have the opportunity to cook. Nonetheless, we took advantage of the situation to explore the local dining establishments and savour the culinary delights of the city. This approach allowed us to balance our budget while still enjoying the unique flavours of Icelandic cuisine.

Taste the famous Icelandic Hot dog

On our first night, we didn’t have much luck with dining options. Everything closed around 9:30 pm, but we were fortunate to find a KFC near our hotel, which stayed open until 10 and saved us from going hungry after a long flight.

The following day, we were eager to try the famous and traditional Icelandic Hot Dog, known as “Pylsur.” So, we made a stop at the Hot Dog House, previously known as Pylsuhíd and now called Pítubarinn, located on Hafnarstraeti, 101. However, with a change in management, I’m no longer certain if this is the best place to enjoy this Icelandic delicacy. The hot dogs here are quite tasty, and they won’t break the bank (costing around 1500 ISK). However, if you’re looking for places that specialize exclusively in hot dogs, I’d recommend trying Víkinga Pylsur or Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur.

It’s essential to note that Icelandic hot dogs, similar to Danish ones, tend to be on the smaller side. So, if you have a hearty appetite, one may not be sufficient to satisfy your hunger.

Cafe Rosenberg

We chose to round off our lunch with coffee and dessert at a nearby café known as Cafe Rosenberg. I was so impressed with this establishment that we decided to return for a second visit on our last day in Iceland. The cafe’s ambiance is designed to make you feel right at home, featuring vintage furniture and exquisite old maps that add to its charm. In the evenings, Cafe Rosenberg is renowned as one of the city’s most popular live music venues, hosting a different event every night. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy the vibrant music scene of Reykjavik and immerse yourself in the city’s cultural offerings.

Other dining suggestions in Reykjavik

A few places we tried while in Reykjavik unfortunately closed during the pandemic. Therefore I removed them from the list of suggestions in this blog. Nevertheless, I can suggest you similar places to dine that have a very good reputation in the city. Reykjavik boasts a growing culinary scene with a variety of restaurants offering a wide range of international and Icelandic cuisine. One thing I noted is that that the restaurant scene in Reykjavik evolves very often, so it’s always a good idea to check recent reviews and if something is changed in the management of a certain restaurant. Moreover, It’s often a good idea to make reservations, especially at fine dining establishments that have limited space, particularly during high season.

Best restaurants in Reykjavik

Dill is known for its innovative Nordic cuisine and was even awarded a Michelin star. The restaurant focuses on using local and seasonal ingredients to create unique and exciting dishes.

Matur og Drykkur is situated in a former salt fish factory and offers a modern take on traditional Icelandic cuisine. It’s a great place to experience local flavours with a contemporary twist.

Grillmarkaðurinn (The Grill Market) is a popular choice for those seeking a high-end dining experience in Reykjavik. It’s renowned for its use of Icelandic ingredients and offers a diverse menu of grilled dishes.

Kol Restaurant offers a diverse menu with international influences, and it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It’s known for its great atmosphere and delicious food.

Lastly, if you like us like a nice pizza night on your trips, Flatey Pizza is known for its fresh ingredients, affordability and 24h sourdough leavening. Flatey Pizza provides a relaxed and casual dining experience. It’s a great place to grab a quick meal, whether you’re dining in or getting your pizza to go. It’s also a family-friendly place.

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Budget stay in Reykjavik – Norðurey Hotel

For our stay in Reykjavik, we opted for a place that would provide quick access to the motorway, offer breakfast and be reasonably priced (and clean). The Norðurey Hotel chain met all of our requirements. Unfortunately, the particular hotel where we stayed, slightly outside Reykjavik in Hafnarfjörður, permanently closed during the pandemic but the Norðurey chain has still a few other hotels around Reykjavik and the twin hotel of the one we stayed is Norðurey Hotel City Garden. This still offer similar interior design and prices to the one we stayed during our trip. For your reference, we paid around £166 for two nights. Now the prices are circa £250 for two nights (including breakfast).

Luxury hotels in Reykjavik

Top things to do in Reykjavik – Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre. Photo Credits: Booking.com

If you’re in the mood for a luxurious stay in the northernmost European capital, you’ll find numerous places with elegant Scandinavian design to enhance your journey’s comfort. One of my personal favorites is The Reykjavik EDITION. This hotel not only boasts sleek design but also offers unparalleled views of Mt. Esja and the Snæfellsjökull glacier. It is conveniently situated in the heart of Reykjavik, within walking distance of the city’s main attractions. Rates start at £327 per night for a double room.

Another one of my top picks is the Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre. Housed in a historic building that was once a furniture factory, this hotel is situated just off the main shopping street, Laugavegur, making it exceptionally convenient. The hotel’s design is a testament to Nordic aesthetics, featuring a recurring theme inspired by volcanoes and the sea, which adds a unique and regional touch to the ambiance.

Conclusions

We truly enjoyed our stay in Reykjavik! My only regret is that we didn’t visit more cafes. The city is brimming with delightful places where you can savour a good coffee and simply relax, immersing yourself in the best of Icelandic life. Reykjavik isn’t one of those hectic cities where you need to rush around like a maniac to see as much as possible in a few days.

Instead, is one of those destinations where you can genuinely embrace a different culture. In other words, you can live life at a slower pace, enjoying a meal without the pressure of having timed tickets for “attractions” that require standing in long queues. The chilly weather outside makes it the y place to seek refuge in a cozy cafe, where you can read a book while sipping on a hot chocolate.

I hope to return soon and relish more of what Reykjavik has to offer!

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