While much of Iceland is about rugged landscapes and rare natural phenomena, Reykjavik is about the history, culture, and future of its people. Home to around one-third of a 366,000-strong national population, the coastal capital city of Iceland is a lively and enigmatic place to be amongst an otherwise muted island.
Despite originally being settled by Vikings, much of Reykjavik has only been developed in the last 100 years. The street murals, gay bars, galleries, and post-modern buildings allow the city's youthfulness to shine with a refreshingly progressive attitude. Yet, the beloved roots and traditions of the Icelandic people have held firm in everything from its crafts to its cuisine.
The top things to do in Reykjavik are a culmination of both its roots as a traditional Icelandic community and its place as one of Europe's hottest northern cities. With that in mind, here's our take on the best things to do in Reykjavik from its top landmarks and museums to its best shops, bars, and restaurants.
Enjoy the views from the Hallgrímskirkja
Hallgrímskirkja, or The Church of Iceland, stands out as one of the most unique churches in the world and has become a symbol of the capital city. Whilst most copy a Gothic design, this 244-foot-tall church was designed to reflect the columnar basalt formations found throughout the country's dramatic natural landscape.
Much like the exterior, the simplistic interior is completely bare. On paper, this makes Hallgrímskirkja seem somewhat characterless, but in reality, it makes the church all the more impressively intimidating. Most impressive of all, however, are the 360-degree views over Reykjavik Hallgrímskirkja offers from the top of its tower.
Go shopping on Laugavegur and Rainbow Street
Hit the shops in Reykjavik city centre to treat yourself to some woolly winter warmers, Icelandic souvenirs, and (let's face it) many other things you didn't know you needed. Lined with everything from big brand stores to off-beat boutiques, Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur are the city's go-to shopping streets.
If you leave Reykjavik with just one new purchase, though, make it a ?lopapeysa'; a cosy traditional Icelandic diamond-patterned wool sweater. Skólavörðustígur (nicknamed ?Rainbow Street' thanks to its rainbow-striped road and colourful street murals) is also the perfect place to get that staple Reykjavik picture.
Immerse in the Reykjavik Art Museum
If you go to just one museum whilst in the capital, make it the Reykjavik Art Museum, the country's leading art institution. Spread across three locations (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn), the museum explores the works of emerging and established contemporary artists (Hafnarhús); the works of Iceland's most recognised and influential artists (Kjarvalsstaðir) and; the life and works of Icelandic sculptor Ásmundar Sveinsson in his former home (Ásmundarsafn).
Between the architectural significance of each extraordinary building and the cultural significance of the museums' collections, you'll get an unparalleled insight into the Icelandic mind.
Visit Iceland's Best Museums
When the weather in Reykjavik is not on your side, there are over 60 museums and exhibitions in the city where you can stay warm, dry, and best of all, entertained. From The House of Collections cultural history museum to The Icelandic Phallological Museum (yes, that means what you think it means), they cover every weird and wonderful aspect of this mysterious country.
Among the best is the National Gallery of Iceland which explores modern Icelandic culture through 19th and 20th-century paintings, sculptures, and photographs. Meanwhile, The Settlement Exhibition immerses you in the life of 10th-century Germanic settlers, and the Whales of Iceland exhibition immerses you in the life of the world's most majestic creatures.
See the Sun Voyager at Sunset
The Sun Voyager is an iconic stainless steel sculpture of a Viking longboat that gleams on the Reykjavik Waterfront. Since its inauguration in 1990, the Sun Voyager has become a symbol of the city. More than that, its creator, Jón Gunnar Árnason, intended it to be a symbol of hope, progress, and freedom.
A symbol that is as relevant to the Vikings that landed here in a longboat thousands of years ago as it is to the people of modern Iceland. Since the steel sculpture reflects the light and colour of its surroundings, it's best visited at sunset. Watch it glow as the sky changes from bright blue to dusky pink.
Soak in the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon
The image of mud-plastered faces floating in the steaming Blue Lagoon before a craggy grey mountainscape is ever-synonymous with Iceland. Some argue that you haven't really been to this nature-rich country unless you've visited it. While many Icelandic attractions allow you to get close to nature, few allow you to get into it, making it a very special experience.
Yes, we know, The Blue Lagoon isn't really situated in Reykjavik but it's close by and well, it's just one of those "must-visits" so we had to include it.
The Blue Lagoon is a very popular tourist attraction, but it is crowd-managed so that you can soak in the naturally heated springs in peace. Alternatively, opt for the lesser-known Sky Lagoon, an infinity pool-style spring on a cliff overhanging the wild Atlantic Ocean. It has a bar, an immersive 7-step ritual which leaves you and your skin feeling new and improved.
Embark on an Icelandic Food Tour
Whether you join one of Reykjavik's popular official food tours like the Icelandic Food Tour or or create your own, the capital city of Iceland is the best place to sample its local cuisine. While Icelandic hot dogs are a must-try food, the more daring and adventurous foodies might be pleased to know the city's more traditional menus serve up dishes like minke whale and fermented shark (don't ask, just eat).
Among Reykjavik's elite restaurants are Matur og Drykkur, DILL, and Ox which serve creative modern and traditional Icelandic dishes using local ingredients. However, the street food stalls across the city can be just as enticing.
Explore Iceland through the Perlan Exhibits
From the outside, Perlan is a rotating glass dome that sits atop six water tanks overlooking the city from Öskjuhlíð Hill. Head inside, however, and you'll discover a state-of-the-art interactive nature exhibition and observation point. Start by walking through a 100-metre-long ice tunnel to simulate a glacier hiking experience in the Glacier Exhibition of Iceland.
Then, see the Northern Lights in the planetarium's immersive show ?Áróra' created by the city's best photographers, writers, and musicians, and discover the many ways that water defines the country in the Water in Icelandic Nature exhibition. Before you leave, be sure to visit the observation deck for exceptional views of the city and harbour.
Check out Reykjavik nightlife
The capital city of Iceland has become one of Europe's go-to destinations for bar scene seekers in recent years and it would be rude not to see what it's all about, right? From its causal cafe-bars and pubs to its swanky speakeasies and sultry clubs, Reykjavik serves up the perfect cocktail for a night out.
Stop at Kaldi Bar to sip some of Iceland's best micro-brews, Kokteilbarinn for some crafty cocktails, and Íslenski Barinn for a fun Icelandic experience. As one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in Europe too, you can bet Reykjavik's gay bars like Kiki Queer Bar and Curious know how to show you a good time too.
Go on day tours from Reykjavik
There are so many activities to keep you endlessly entertained in Reykjavik, but let's not forget this capital sits on one of the worlds most naturally phenomenal islands. With your own car rental in Iceland, not only can you explore the city's history and culture, but you can also explore the mind-blowing landscapes that surround it.
By driving even just a few kilometers outside the city, you can walk through lava tunnels, explore ice caves, hike volcanoes, and so much more. Even the famous Snaefellsnes and Reykjanes peninsulas are doable in a day. This is the perfect option for those who have limited time in Iceland but can't leave without sampling its extraordinary nature.
FAQs for visiting Reykjavik
How far is Reykjavik from Keflavik International Airport?
Reykjavik is 49 km northeast of Keflavík International Airport (KEF). There are shuttles/coaches available that take up to 1.5 hours to reach the capital city from the airport, or you can hire a car at the airport and make your own way in around 45 minutes.
How much time should I spend in Reykjavik?
That depends on how many of the city's museums, exhibits, and landmarks you want to see, but three days is typically enough time to squeeze in the main sights. However, if you are using Reykjavik as a base to explore the rest of Iceland's west coast, we recommend at least five days.
Should I hire a car in Reykjavik?
While there is plenty to keep you entertained in Reykjavik city center from exhibits and landmarks to shops and bars, by having your own car to explore the beautiful natural landscapes surrounding the city too, you will be able to greatly enrich your experience.
Can I see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik?
The Northern Lights can occasionally make an appearance in Reykjavik between September and March, however, the city's light pollution dulls the sky and your experience. The lights are best seen at the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon on the southeastern coast of Iceland which can be visited on group tours or privately by car.
Is Reykjavik a Kid Friendly Option?
Yes, it certainly is. There are for example heated swimming pools that you can visit with slides and great activities for the children. There are also playground situated all around Reykjavik.
Reykjavik Park and Zoo is also a great option to visit with your friends and family. Plenty of animals to see and rides to go on. There is also an option to bring something to grill and condiments as there is a public BBQ that you can use.