Don’t Miss These 15 Things To Do in Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik wasn’t the reason I went to Iceland. I was there for the landscapes, the waterfalls, the Northern Lights. The city was just where I slept between adventures. But Reykjavik has a way of making you like it. By the time I left I was already planning to spend at least two or three days there on my next trip. If you’re like me and tempted to only use Reykjavik as a base — don’t. Give it some time. Here’s what’s worth it.

Best Things to do in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is compact enough to explore on foot and easy to navigate by car. If you have a rental, find a public parking lot and just walk. You never know what you’ll find around the next corner.

1. Harpa Concert Hall

One of the most recognizable buildings in Reykjavik is Harpa — a stunning, award-winning concert hall right on the waterfront. The exterior is covered in geometric glass panels that change with the light and the angle you’re standing at. I could have spent all day just snapping photos outside.

The inside is worth exploring too. Harpa hosts the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, the Icelandic Opera and Reykjavík Big Band. If you’re lucky enough to be in town when there’s a concert, you should go. There’s also restaurants and a shop with locally made products. I bought chocolate and the cutest pair of socks there and have zero regrets.

2. Sky Lagoon

I didn’t make it to Sky Lagoon on this trip but it’s at the top of my list for next time. This geothermal spa opened in 2021 and has quickly become one of the most popular experiences near Reykjavik — and it’s easy to see why. The centerpiece is an infinity pool that appears to merge with the ocean, and in winter you might catch the Northern Lights overhead.

They offer several packages including a popular seven-step wellness ritual. Sounds divine. Book in advance — this one fills up.

3. Laugavegur and a Really Good Coffee

Laugavegur is Reykjavik’s main street and the heart of the city — colorful houses, coffee shops, boutiques, record stores and restaurants all within a few blocks of each other. If you’re walking downtown you’re probably already on it. The famous rainbow street painting is here too, though I somehow missed it and cut down toward the waterfront instead. It’s on the list for next time.

Don’t leave Laugavegur without stopping for coffee. I was not expecting Iceland to have exceptional coffee — it’s an island in the middle of the North Atlantic and most things are imported — but I was genuinely surprised. The coffee scene here is serious and the quality is outstanding. I stumbled into Te & Kaffi, a popular local chain and roastery, and left with an espresso cup because the logo is so cute.

Also look for Braud & Co — heavenly croissants and worth seeking out at Laugavegur 180.

4. Perlan

Perlan is worth knowing about, especially if you’re traveling with kids or if the weather turns on you. This futuristic glass dome building has a 360-degree observation deck with panoramic views of Reykjavik and the surrounding mountains and ocean.

The world’s first indoor ice cave made from 350 tons of snow is here too — so if you don’t have time to get to a real glacier or ice cave elsewhere on the island, Perlan gives you a taste of it right in the city. There’s also a restaurant, café and ice cream parlor on site. Good option for a rainy afternoon or a first or last day when you’re not ready to hit the road yet.

5. Visit a Record Store

Iceland has a strong music culture — Björk alone should tell you something — and Reykjavik has a thriving vinyl scene. Record stores are scattered throughout downtown and they’re genuinely fun to wander through, especially with a coffee in hand on a cold afternoon. Lucky Records, Reykjavik Record Shop and Smekkleysa are the most popular. Records aren’t exactly ideal luggage but browsing is free.

6. Hallgrímskirkja

Even if you don’t go inside, Hallgrímskirkja is worth walking up to. This Lutheran church is the tallest building in Iceland at 244 feet and the design — inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns — is unlike anything you’ve seen. I only saw it from the outside but the views from the tower are supposed to be incredible. Check their website for tower hours as they change seasonally.

One more reason to go inside: The church’s organ, which was designed and built by a famous German organ builder and is one of the largest in Iceland and is known for its beautiful sound.

7. Museums

I didn’t make it to any museums on this trip — I was prioritizing outdoor time — but Reykjavik has several worth knowing about, especially if the weather turns on you.

The National Museum of Iceland covers Viking artifacts, medieval manuscripts and the country’s settlement history. Entrance is under $20 and children are free. The Reykjavik Art Museum has three locations showcasing Icelandic and international contemporary art. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the Icelandic Phallological Museum is exactly what it sounds like and apparently quite popular.

And the National Gallery of Iceland has a ticket includes three museums for the price of one.

8. Find the Murals

This is one of my favorite things to do in any city and Reykjavik delivered. The street art here is serious — massive, detailed murals covering entire building facades, tucked into alleyways, unexpected around every corner. I could have spent an entire day just hunting them down.

The good news is Reykjavik is so walkable that you don’t need a plan. Just start walking and they’ll find you. Some of my favorite photos from the whole trip came from wandering around looking up. If you’re driving, fair warning — you will circle the block more than once trying to get the right shot. Totally worth it

9. Shop Thrift Stores

Not the most obvious vacation activity but Reykjavik has a surprisingly good thrift scene. Given the high cost of living, secondhand shopping is popular with locals and that means the quality is actually there. Plus, Icelanders are also known for their commitment to sustainability and reducing waste.

Fatamarkaðurinn has a wide selection of vintage and contemporary clothing and Spúútnik is more curated — 1950s through 1990s pieces. Worth a look if you have time.

10. The Old Harbor

The Old Harbor — Gamla Höfnin — is one of my favorite spots in Reykjavik. It was almost empty the day I was there and I loved it. Just boats, cold air and a completely different side of the city. The Reykjavik Maritime Museum is here if you want to learn about Iceland’s fishing history, but honestly just wandering around the harbor, looking for art, is enough.

11. FlyOver Iceland

FlyOver Iceland is one of those experiences that’s especially good for winter when the weather might not cooperate for outdoor adventures. You hang suspended in front of a massive spherical screen while the film takes you across Iceland with wind, mist and scent effects — all the Iceland scenery without the sideways rain. It’s surprisingly affordable for what it is and people consistently rave about it. On my list for next time.

If something fabricated just isn’t your style, and you’d rather experience a real flyover, then Heleicopter.is is the real deal. With various packages and tours, they offer everything from romance and happy hour packages to volcano tours and waterfall tours.

12. Eat Delicious Fish-n-Chips

Everyone talks about the hot dogs in Iceland and yes, they’re a thing. But for me it was always going to be the fish and chips. I found a spot in the Old Harbor — Icelandic Fish and Chips — and it was crispy, golden and perfect. Served with homemade dipping sauces and honestly one of the best things I ate the whole trip. There are options throughout downtown too but the Old Harbor location felt right. Don’t skip it.

Southerner Says: While you’re in the Old Harbor, the famous hot dog stand Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is worth a stop — it’s been there since 1937 and even Bill Clinton ate there. I was more excited about the fish and chips but I’ll be trying one next time.

13. Heated Swimming Pools

I didn’t make it to any of Reykjavik’s heated swimming pools but you can bet that next time I’m there. It makes sense they have heated pools since Iceland is known for its hot springs — I just didn’t realize how much of a local experience they are — Icelanders use them the way Americans use coffee shops

Laugardalslaug is the largest outdoor pool in the city with hot tubs, a steam bath and a waterslide. Sundhöllin is a historic indoor pool from 1937 with an art deco design. Next time I’m going to live like an Icelander and build some pool time into every day.

14. See the Sun Voyager

The Sun Voyager was one of the things I most wanted to see in Reykjavik and it did not disappoint. This stainless steel sculpture shaped like a Viking ship sits along the waterfront and is more striking in person than any photo conveys. It was designed by Jón Gunnar Árnason and unveiled in 1990 to commemorate the city’s 200th anniversary. It symbolizes the human desire for adventure and exploration — which feels very right for Iceland. Don’t miss it.

15. The Northern Lights

Most people come to Iceland hoping to see the Northern Lights and I got lucky — twice. In Reykjavik, one of the best spots is the near the Grotta Island Lighthouse — close enough to get to easily but dark enough to actually see the Aurora.

The Aurora Forecast app and headed down to the lighthouse when it showed activity. The lights were faint — more of a whitish-gray shimmer than the vivid green you see in photos — but they were real and the whole city seemed to show up. Leave your tripod if you want to enjoy the moment, but bring it if you want photos. I forgot mine and I’m still not over it.

The lighthouse is open 24/7 with free parking outside of summer.

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Reykjavik has accommodation at every price point. I stayed at B14 Hostel on the east side of the city — but you don’t have to stay in a hostel. They also have a second location closer to the city centre with rooms and apartments.

For a mid-range option, Hotel Von and Reykjavik Rainbow Guesthouse are both well located near downtown. For something more upscale, the Iceland Parliament Hotel has a restaurant, spa and sauna and is right in the heart of the city.

When to Go to Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a year-round destination. Summer brings long days — nearly 24 hours of daylight around the solstice — mild weather and the most activity. It’s also the most crowded and expensive time to visit. Winter is dramatic, dark and magical with the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights, but daylight is limited. Low season — September through October and April through May — is the sweet spot. Fewer crowds, reasonable prices and enough daylight to get things done.

Southerner Says: I visited in September and it was perfect. The Northern Lights made an appearance, the city wasn’t overrun and the weather was manageable.

Getting Around Reykjavik

Reykjavik is compact and very walkable — most of what you want to see downtown is within a short walk. Public buses run regularly if you need them. A rental car is worth it if you’re planning to explore beyond the city, which you should. There is no Uber in Iceland and taxis are expensive, so walking is your best friend if you’re on a budget. Your credit card works everywhere including parking meters — no need for cash.

More Reykjavik Tips

Dress for the weather — all of it. Iceland’s weather can change fast even in the city. Dress in layers, bring a rain jacket, a heavier coat, a beanie and gloves. Skip the sneakers — waterproof shoes will serve you much better whether you’re walking Laugavegur or wandering the Old Harbor.

Sort out your phone service before you go. Iceland has good coverage in Reykjavik but you don’t want to be navigating a new city without data. An eSIM is the easiest option — try Airalo — and download it before you leave home.

Download offline maps. Save Google Maps offline before you land. Cell service in the city is generally fine but it’s a good habit regardless and essential if you’re planning to venture outside Reykjavik.

Get travel insurance. Iceland has excellent healthcare but that doesn’t mean you should skip travel insurance. A medical evacuation, a cancelled flight or a rental car incident can turn an expensive trip into a devastating one. It’s one of the things I never skip. Compare policies at travelinsurance.com.

Pick up a guidebook. Reykjavik has a lot of history and context makes it richer. The DK Eyewitness Iceland Guidebook is a good one and comes with an Iceland map.

Leave the cash at home. Your credit card works everywhere in Reykjavik — restaurants, shops, taxis and even parking meters. Iceland is essentially cashless and you won’t need to hunt down an ATM. And good news — tipping is not customary in Iceland. Service is included and nobody expects it. One less thing to think about.

FAQ

How Do You Get to Reykjavik From the International Airport?

The international airport (KEF) is in Keflavík, about 45 minutes from Reykjavik. The most affordable option is the Flybus transfer. A rental car is the most convenient — you can start exploring the minute you land. Taxis exist but are expensive and there is no Uber in Iceland.

How long do you need in Reykjavik?

Two days minimum if you want to do it properly. I had less and wished I had more

Is it easy to get around Reykjavik without a car?

Yes, it is relatively easy to get around Reykjavik without a car. The city is compact and walkable, and many of the main tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a few blocks of each other in the city center. Reykjavik also has an extensive public transportation system, with buses that run regularly throughout the city and surrounding areas. There are also taxis.

Is there Uber in Reykjavik?

No, there isn’t Uber in Reykjavik.

Are taxis easy to get in Reykjavik?

Yes, taxis are easy to get in Reykjavik. There are several taxi companies operating in the city, and taxis can typically be found at designated taxi stands throughout the city center, at major hotels, and at the Keflavik International Airport. They are on the pricier side so walking is best if you are on a budget.

Ready to See Reykjavik and Beyond?

Reykjavik is a great city but Iceland has so much more waiting outside of it. If you’re ready to start planning, I’d love to help you put it together. Fill out this form and I’ll be in touch.

For even more things to do in Reykjavik, consider buying a Reykjavik City Card. This card can be purchased for stays from 24 to 72 hours and includes entrance to oodles of attractions, including thermal pools, museums and the zoo.

One of the perks of the card is discounts to even more places and transportation around town. And it offers really good discounts for seniors, too.

And if you’re still in the research phase, here are a few good places to start:

• The Golden Circle Itinerary: What to See in One Day
• Four Days in Iceland Itinerary
• How Much Does it Cost to Go to Iceland

Takk Fyrir — and Góða Ferð.

See you on the road!