Things To Do
in Reykjavík
Nestled among striking landscapes of mountains and water, this city is the capital and largest city of Iceland, known for its modernist architecture, vibrant art scene, and rich Viking history. It serves as a gateway to the rugged adventure opportunities that the country is celebrated for, including geothermal hot springs, glaciers, and impressive natural parks.
Despite its northern latitude, it boasts a surprisingly mild climate and an endless supply of cultural experiences, from the iconic Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre to the whimsical streets of its old town, all illuminated by either the midnight sun in summer or the northern lights in winter.
- "Halló" - Hello
- "Takk fyrir" - Thank you
- "Góða ferð" - Safe travels
- "Afsakið" - Excuse me
- "Hvernig hefurðu það?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $60
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $8
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $6
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting Þingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visit the Geysir Geothermal Area and witness the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes. Afterward, head to Gullfoss waterfall to marvel at its double cascade and take plenty of pictures.
Return to Reykjavík and enjoy a traditional Icelandic meal at a local restaurant. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront to soak in the views of the Harpa Concert Hall.
Travel along the South Coast to visit Seljalandsfoss, a picturesque waterfall you can walk behind. Continue to Skógafoss, one of Iceland's largest and most impressive waterfalls.
Discover the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara with its famous basalt columns and unique rock formations. Keep an eye out for puffins nesting in the cliffs during the summer months.
Head back to Reykjavík and relax at a local café with a cozy atmosphere. Consider ending the day with a warm soak in one of the city’s geothermal pools.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with unique landscapes, including geysers, waterfalls, and the Northern Lights.
- Vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals, art galleries, and music events.
- High quality of life and low crime rates, making it a safe city to live in.
- Strong emphasis on sustainability and renewable energy, particularly geothermal energy.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, whale watching, and hot springs.
- High cost of living, including expensive housing and goods.
- Long and harsh winters with limited daylight, creating challenges for some residents.
- Geographic isolation can make travel to and from Reykjavík more expensive and time-consuming.
- Limited job opportunities in certain fields due to the small population and economy.
- Rapid tourism growth can lead to overcrowding and strain on local resources.
Best Activities in Reykjavík
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore some of Iceland's most famous natural landmarks, including geysers, waterfalls, and the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Discover stunning landscapes and historical significance in the UNESCO-listed national park, home to the site of Iceland's ancient parliament.
Embark on a boat tour from Reykjavík's harbor to catch sight of magnificent humpback and minke whales, along with other marine wildlife.
Indulge in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, a luxurious spa located just outside Reykjavík, offering soothing hot springs and rejuvenating silica mud masks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Reykjavík with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Reykjavík
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic church offering a panoramic view of Reykjavík from its tower.
Glass-domed building with an observation deck providing stunning city views.
Modern concert hall with a unique glass facade overlooking the harbor and city skyline.
Revolving restaurant and observation deck offering 360-degree views of Reykjavík.
Food in Reykjavík
Reykjavík Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Icelandic fish stew often made with cod or haddock, potatoes, onions, and béchamel sauce. Best enjoyed at local restaurants such as Kaffivagninn and Sea Baron.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup made with tender Icelandic lamb, root vegetables, and herbs. It's a staple in Icelandic cuisine and can be savored at places like Cafe Loki and Svarta Kaffið.
Icelandic strained yogurt known for its creamy texture and high protein content. Available in most grocery stores, and recommended with fresh berries or as part of desserts at bakeries like Sandholt.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Reykjavík better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A modern food hall showcasing diverse culinary offerings, from Icelandic specialties to international street food. Visitors can sample a variety of dishes, including vegan options from vendors like The Currý and Nonnabiti.
A popular spot for traditional Icelandic street food such as lamb meat soup, fish stew, and kleinur (twisted donuts). Perfect for a quick, authentic dining experience in the heart of the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Reykjavík, it is important to respect people's privacy and personal space. Avoid asking personal questions or being too intrusive.
Icelanders value punctuality, so it's important to be on time for meetings and appointments in Reykjavík.
Icelanders have a deep respect for nature, so it's important to follow environmental guidelines and show appreciation for the country's natural beauty.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Reykjavík with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Reykjavík
Ensure a smooth experience
In Reykjavík, Iceland, tipping is not expected. It is not a common practice in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries. Good service is generally included in the price, and there is no need to leave an additional tip.
In Reykjavík, Iceland, electronic payment methods such as credit and debit cards are widely accepted and preferred. Cash is also accepted, but it is not the primary form of payment. Contactless payment methods are also common, making transactions fast and convenient.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Reykjavík.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with long days, mild temperatures, and vibrant festivals. Ideal for exploring the natural attractions and taking part in outdoor activities.
Beautiful autumn foliage, fewer crowds, and opportunities for Northern Lights viewing towards the end of the season. Mild temperatures but be prepared for some rainy and windy days.
Ideal for experiencing the magic of the Northern Lights, winter sports, and enjoying the cozy atmosphere of the city. Cold temperatures and short daylight hours are characteristic of this season.
The landscape starts to come to life with the arrival of spring, and it's a great time for birdwatching. The weather can be quite unpredictable with a mix of sunny and snowy days.
Reykjavík at Night
Hiking in Reykjavík
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Þingvellir offers panoramic views and hiking trails along the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
A popular mountain located just north of Reykjavík, Esjan has various trails with stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Iceland's second-highest waterfall is located in Hvalfjörður, and the hike to Glymur features beautiful scenery and a picturesque canyon.
A scenic hike through Reykjadalur valley leads to natural hot springs where hikers can bathe and relax after their trek.
A challenging hike between the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, it offers spectacular views of waterfalls and volcanic landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Reykjavík through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Reykjavík by plane.
The main international airport serving Reykjavík and the surrounding areas, located approximately 50 km southwest of the city.
A major international airport in Denmark, approximately 2,200 km from Reykjavík, often used for connecting flights.
One of the largest international airports in the UK, located approximately 2,300 km from Reykjavík.
Another significant airport in London, located about 2,300 km from Reykjavík.
One of the busiest international airports in Europe, located approximately 2,700 km from Reykjavík.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Reykjavík's population, ethnic Icelanders who identify with the Nordic culture and heritage.
A significant immigrant group in Reykjavík, primarily due to labor migration in recent years.
Another notable immigrant community, with many members working in various sectors.
A growing community, often involved in the service and healthcare industries.
A smaller demographic group, contributing to Reykjavík's diverse workforce.
A historical expatriate community in Iceland, including students and professionals.
An emerging community, with increasing representation in the multicultural landscape of the city.
Includes various ethnicities and nationalities making up the multicultural fabric of Reykjavík.
The Soul of Reykjavík
Discover the essence of Reykjavík through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Reykjavík, with a strong following for both local clubs and the national team.
Handball enjoys immense popularity in Iceland, with Reykjavík having several clubs and a successful national team.
Basketball has been growing in popularity, especially among the youth, with local leagues and clubs throughout Reykjavík.
Swimming is a staple activity in Reykjavík, supported by numerous swimming pools and a strong culture of competitive swimming.
Volleyball is popular among recreational players and has a growing presence in schools and local competitions.
Athletics, including running and track events, are popular with a variety of local competitions held throughout the year.
With cold winters, various winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding are favored, especially in nearby areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Reykjavík.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Reykjavík has a growing number of restaurants and cafes offering diverse vegetarian and vegan dishes, from plant-based burgers at Veganæs to creative vegan cuisine at Kaffi Vinyl.
Many establishments in Reykjavík provide gluten-free alternatives, such as gluten-free pizzas at Eldsmiðjan and gluten-free bakery items at Sandholt bakery.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Reykjavík with these cultural adventures.
