The 30 Best Things to Do in Reykjavik, Iceland + Tips 2024

From spewing lava fields to geothermal hot springs calling out your name, there are plenty of reasons to visit the Land of Ice and Fire. Despite all this, nothing calls out to vacationers more than the wealth of activities and things to do in Reykjavik. 

Whether looking to learn about Nordic culture or wanting to dance the night away in a fizzing atmosphere, Iceland’s capital is the place to do it all. So pack those bags, book those flights, and get ready for one of the best getaways for the intrepid traveler.

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The 30 Top Things to Do in Reykjavik, Iceland

Are you looking for all the best things to see in Reykjavik’s city center and beyond? If so, this list will cover all the well-known and lesser-visited attractions in Iceland’s historic capital.

1. Relax at the Blue Lagoon

One of the most sought-after attractions near Reykjavik is the photogenic Blue Lagoon. It is an hour and 20-minute drive from Reykjavik, but floating in this natural steam bath is an experience like no other.

Joining a Blue Lagoon tour from Reykjavik is easily the best way to experience this iconic Icelandic landmark. A tour will ensure you don’t need to worry about driving or organizing your admission ticket, which can be quite a hassle on a busy day.  

While this super busy destination splits opinions, the wispy steam and pale blue waters do create a truly enticing atmosphere. You don’t have to limit your trip to the lagoon either, as the on-site retreat spa and restaurants can provide the perfect reprieve from the crowds of visitors.

2. Admire Hallgrimskirkja Church

While you can visit Hallgrimskirkja on a sightseeing walking tour, after seeing it once, you’ll definitely want to visit it a second time. As the largest place of prayer in Reykjavik, this Evangelical-Lutheran church is an architectural marvel that truly stands out within the cityscape.

You’ll be able to see the church from just about anywhere in the city, with its terraced, fin-shaped facade peaking above its surrounding buildings. The architecture may be what catches your eye, but it’s not the only reason you should visit. 

For a small fee of $10 per adult, you can explore the church towers, which offer unforgettable vistas of the city. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to gaze at Reykjavik’s multi-colored houses and the Atlantic Ocean in the distance.

3. See the Sun Voyager & Waterfront

When one thinks of cultural attractions, one usually envisions old artifacts and landmarks, right? Well, this is where the Sun Voyager blows that out the window, as this contemporary sculpture resembles a Viking longboat. 

It’s important to note this isn’t a sculpture of a Viking longboat but rather an ode to the sun in the form of a longboat. Created by Jón Gunnar Arnason, it was intended to represent progress, hope, and freedom of undiscovered territory. 

The sculpture was made to celebrate Reykjavik’s 200th anniversary and showcase the cultural significance this magical city still holds. This isn’t the only sculpture you can see and photograph, as the waterfront is teeming with historic monuments.

From 6th October to 8th December, the Imagine Peace Tower — which was dedicated to John Lennon — can be seen. Other sites you can see during your shore walk include the Partnership Sculpture and The Shore Piece. 

4. Visit the Harpa Concert Hall

While you could visit the Harpa Concert Hall purely for the architecture alone, why not make the most of your visit? Its distinct colored glass creates the perfect photo opportunity with the basalt background of Iceland’s landscape. 

The facade may be all the rage, but just you wait until you step inside this vast building. From ballet and classic concerts to jazz shows and plays, there’s no shortage of events to enjoy during your time in Reykjavik.

You can even join a guided tour of Harpa, where you can learn even more about this architectural wonder. To make things even better, Harpa is a short walk away from Rainbow Street, so you can easily pair it with some of the other attractions in and around the area.

5. Wander Through Rainbow Street

Possibly one of the most photogenic and Instagram-worthy spots in the city, Rainbow Street has quickly become a must-see in Reykjavik. It’s also known as Skólavörðustígur, but Rainbow Street is much easier to say and remember.

This multi-colored street offers unmissable photo opportunities of Hallgrimskirkja, which is visible at one end of the road. It also hosts the annual Reykjavik Pride Festival in August.

If you’re not visiting in August, there are plenty of other reasons to wander down this color-lit street. From friendly restaurants and cafés to quirky shops and galleries, Rainbow Street is a great space for just about everyone.

It’s also a great idea to keep a lookout for some of the art installations along the street, like Yoko Ono’s Floating Piers or Jón Gunnar Árnason Dreamers.  

6. Enjoy the Ice Bar

It may be a sub-zero experience, but nothing will warm your heart more than a drink at the iconic Ice Bar. This is a mystical place peppered with Icelandic history in every sculpture. And when you consider there are more than 60 tons of finely sculpted works to admire, you know you’re in for a treat. 

An Ice Bar ticket includes a poncho and ice gloves, as well as a complimentary drink to get you into the mood. As you sip on your drink of choice — served in a glass made of ice — you’ll be able to wander through the building, absorbing Iceland’s rich history shown in each sculpture.

Each piece is set to encapsulate the stories of the Norwegian Vikings who sailed across the Atlantic Ocean to this land of Ice and Fire. 

Simply put, it’s the perfect opportunity to browse some stunning artworks and make new memories along the way. And it’s in Downtown Reykjavik, so there’s no need to venture beyond the city to enjoy this unique attraction. >>>Book Your Ticket Here

7. Soak at the Sky Lagoon

Almost everyone knows about the Blue Lagoon, so why not visit the quieter geothermal baths at Sky Lagoon? The lagoon offers a luxurious experience like no other, with its seven-step experience taking center stage. 

Start off soaking in the geothermally heating lagoon before heading over to the pool for some cold plunges. Once you’ve stimulated your senses at the plunge pool, it’s time to soak up the scenery in the sauna. 

Revitalize your senses in the cold mist after experiencing the calming sounds and coastal scents in the sauna. Step out of the cold mist and into the aromatic steam room, but before this, you’ll have the chance to apply the spa’s signature Sky Body Scrub.

Once the steam has opened your pores and allowed your skin to absorb the benefits of the body scrub, it’s time for the last step. You’ll head into the shower, where you can slow down and reminisce over the experience you just had.

So, skip the hotel hot tubs and head to the Sky Lagoon for a day full of pampering. >>>Book Your Ticket Here

8. Send Your Heart Soaring at FlyOver Iceland

If you want to experience the thrills of Iceland’s diverse landscape without leaving Reykjavik, step out of your comfort zone and head to FlyOver Iceland. This is a 4D experience with full-motion seating, a wraparound screen, as well as other immersive techniques.

You’ll feel as if you’re flying over Iceland as the chairs oscillate to reenact the movement of a plane. The wraparound screen makes you feel completely immersed in the action. Lastly, the use of wind, signature scents, and a soft musical score make this the complete experience.

It’s a fairly short 8-minute film, but it’s one of those activities in Reykjavik you won’t forget anytime soon. >>>Book Your Ticket Here 

9. Try Out an Icelandic Hot Dog

It may not be one of the common Reykjavik attractions, but tucking into some Icelandic hot dogs should be overlooked. As such, you may as well go to the best hot dog stand in the entire country to make sure it doesn’t disappoint. 

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is undoubtedly the best you’ll find, and it’s within walking distance of the Phallological Museum — another Reykjavik must-see destination. Traditionally made with Icelandic lamb, pork, and beef, these hot dogs are a great meal to tuck into during one of your days exploring the city.

10. Join a Traditional Icelandic Food Tour

Finding traditional Icelandic cuisine in Reykjavik isn’t that hard, but ensuring you’re tucking into the best of the best is a whole other story. This is why joining a food tour is so important, as you’ll get the best recommendations from a local who knows what’s good.

This guided foodie tour, for example, visits all the top eateries in the city center. You’ll get to tuck into six to eight samples of the local delicacies, all while your guide explains all the subtle flavors of each dish.

From flavor-filled lamb and freshly caught fish to a dessert passed down from generation to generation, you’ll be able to enjoy it all on a food tour. 

11. Be Amazed at the Phallological Museum

The Phallological Museum possibly has one of the most peculiar collections of all the museums in the world. You can’t visit Reykjavik without having a peep inside. It’s quickly become a great resource for scientific study and the showcasing of arts pertaining to all things phallic.

It’s become such a popular attraction that they are actually increasing the size of the exhibition space. You can even tuck into some phallic-inspired treats like waffles, coffees, and craft beers at the on-site Phallus Café & Bistro. And if you want a little souvenir from this unique museum, the gift shop is sure to have something for you.

Note: You’ll need to get an entry ticket either online or at the door for around $24 (ISK3,300).

12. Shop for Wool

When packing for your trip, be sure to leave some space in the bag as Reykjavik is the perfect place to go shopping for some woolen knits. You can head to a boutique apothecary, like the Nordic Store, which has everything from wool pullovers and cardigans to sweaters and shirts.

That said, the Nordic Store is fairly pricey. If you’re traveling on a budget, then head over to the Handprjónasambandið Íslands, a massive store filled to the brim with handmade knitwear. They use only the finest quality Icelandic wool, so you know you’re getting the real deal.

13. Go on a Tour Outside the City

Keep in mind that Iceland is far more than just Reykjavik. Fortunately, the capital is a great starting point for many day trips beyond the city limits. As such, here’s a look at the top tours you should consider adding to your Reykjavik to-do list.

Full-Day Golden Circle Tour 

Starting in Reykjavik, this Golden Circle tour includes stops at four of the region’s most iconic landmarks. After a 40-minute drive, you’ll reach Kerid Crater, where the red and black-walled volcanic crater with an emerald-colored pond offers great photo opportunities.

You’ll then travel along the scenic road to Gullfoss Waterfall, where several viewing platforms offer fantastic views of this two-tiered waterfall. You’ll then go over to Geysir to witness geothermal geysers spewing up to 250 feet in the air in fantastic fashion.

The last stop will be at Thingvellir National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the dramatic effects of the mid-Atlantic Ridge. >>>Book This Tour

South of Iceland Day Trip

If you’re a waterfall hunter at heart, then a tour of South Iceland is a must. This trip kicks off with a one hour and 30-minute drive from Reykjavik to Hvolsvöllur. From there, you’ll get a chance to visit the powerful Skogafoss Waterfall. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, which may be just enough time to visit Hestavaðsfoss — a five-minute walk away. 

You’ll then visit Sólheimajökull Waterfall before heading through to Vik for lunch. After filling up, it’s a quick visit to the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall before heading back to Reykjavik. >>>Book This Tour

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Day Trip 

For those hoping to see the iconic Diamond Beach and Seljalandsfoss Waterfall in one day, consider this Jökulsárlón Glacier tour. Traveling via bus, you’ll stop at Seljalandsfoss and Kirkjubæjarklaustur before reaching Jökulsárlón. 

Once in the park, you’ll have the opportunity to join a boat tour to explore the stunning glacier in all its glory. The tour includes a stop at Diamond Beach before driving back to Vik for dinner and then heading back to Reykjavik. It’s a fairly long day of traveling, but it’s action-packed nonetheless. >>>Book This Tour

Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour

All the tours mentioned so far head south, so why not break away from the crowd and head north to Snæfellsnes Peninsula? During this full-day tour, you’ll stop at all the top landmarks along this coastal part of Iceland. 

From the look at Vatnaleið to the film-famous hill at Kirkjufell, there’s plenty to admire along the way. You’ll also visit spots like Djúpalónssandur Beach, the Londrangar Cliffs, and the Ytri Tunga nature walk before heading back to Reykjavik. >>>Book This Tour

14. Feel the Energy With Reykjavik’s Nightlife 

A buzzing nightlife isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when people think of Reykjavik, but trust me when I say it’s a great city for the avid partier. It’s an especially great town for nightlife in summer, or should we say daylife, as it rarely gets dark outside. 

A friend and I loved Kiki Queer Bar on Laugavegur Street, and we danced for almost the entire night there. Aside from Kiki Queer Bar, here are some other great choices to pick from:

• Paloma — Only open on Friday and Saturday; this is one of the few nightclubs in Reykjavik center and is well-known for dancefloor touching of the aesthetics of a Viking Ship.
• Lebowski Bar — Situated on Laugavegur Street, Lebowski is an all-American-inspired bar with well-priced drinks and a movie-themed quiz every Thursday night.
• Bravo — Located below Kiki Bar, this fun-loving joint offers a great vibe and makes for the perfect stop on any pub crawl.

15. Grab a Drink at Joe and The Juice 

If there was one coffee shop worth visiting during your time in Reykjavik, it has to be Joe and The Juice. It has quickly become a well-loved franchise in the Nordic countries, and it’s not hard to see why with its exciting menu.

From their signature juices and classic coffees to delicious sweet treats and tasty sandwiches, Joe and The Juice is the perfect breakfast stop before a busy day. With three locations across the city, it’s safe to say you’ll be able to pop in for breakfast no matter where you stay.

16. Join a Free Walking Tour of Iceland’s Capital City 

Join a free walking tour of Reykjavik to become truly accustomed to the city. There are plenty of options available, but City Walk definitely has the most comprehensive option out there.

Starting at the city’s Parliament Building (Austurvöllur), you’ll meander through the city, learning about its history, nightlife, and much more. The tour will also take you past several popular attractions, including Lake Tjornin, Alþingi, and Harpa, before ending at the City Hall.

17. Admire the Northern Lights 

Being so far north, Reykjavik is one of the few places in the world where you can encounter the natural phenomenon known as the Aurora Borealis. 

While it is possible to see the Northern Lights from within the city, you are far better off venturing just beyond the city limits. This is primarily due to the fact that the city lights can diminish the pure awe of these magical dancing lights in the sky. 

As such, joining a Northern Lights tour that departs from the city is the best way to enjoy this experience without being disappointed. This natural occurrence is best seen in Iceland between September and April, making this a great activity to enjoy during a winter visit. >>>Book This Tour

18. See Some Icelandic Horses

Icelandic Horses are unlike any other breed, with their thick, bushy coats and short, stocky legs. While you’ll most likely see them wandering the plains along the Golden Circle, you’ll find some fantastic stables and farmlands just outside Reykjavik.

Why not take the experience a bit further and spend some quality time with these majestic animals on a horse-riding tour? On this Red Lava Horse Riding Tour, you’ll be able to saddle up and travel along two possible routes. 

If you’re a novice rider, you’ll be taken along the gentle lava-formed hills of Rauðhólar Park. From the more experienced riders, you’ll ride around the picturesque Raudavatn Lake. No matter your skill level, getting the chance to admire and get up close and personal with these friendly horses is an experience like no other.

19. Join a Whale Watching Tour 

If you’re planning a visit to Iceland in the summer, joining a whale-watching cruise is one of the best Reykjavik activities to join. From watching humpback whales breaching to whale-beaked dolphins hunting, there’s a plethora of marine life to be seen along the capital’s coastline.

Summer is the best time to join these tours, as this is generally when the humpback and minke whales migrate north. That said, there’s always something going on off the coast of Iceland. So, even if you visit in winter, you’ll still be able to see local porpoises, puffins, and orcas, and if you’re lucky, you may even see some Beluga Whales. >>>Book This Tour

20. Visit the Kolaportid Flea Market

Reykjavik may be a fairly expensive city to visit, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find some great deals if you know where to go. And there’s no better place to visit for quality thrifted goods, affordable food, and an amazing atmosphere than Kolaportid Flea Market. 

Open on the weekends from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, this is a great outing to try out after visiting the nearby Reykjavik Art Museum. This is definitely a hidden gem that not many tourists think of visiting, but it’s a stellar opportunity to live the Icelandic life for a little bit.

Note: You’ll find everything from secondhand books and knitwear to quality jewelry, so pack your bags with a bit of space to bring some goodies home with you.

21. Learn About Icelandic Culture at Some More Museums

This small city is packed to the brim with museums showcasing the history and lives of the Icelandic people. While the Phallological Museum draws in the crowds, here are a few more options that you simply have to visit. 

Arbaer Open Air Museum — This settlement exhibition offers a glimpse into the early lives of the Norwegian settlers. The museum is only open during the summer months, and you see the exhibition programme here.

National Museum of Iceland — With over 2,000 artifacts ranging from the first settlers to the present day, the National Museum has a lot to offer. The museum building and its exhibits will offer a deeper dive into Icelandic culture, and what it was like during the days of the Vikings.

Reykjavik Art Museum — For a look into the rich history of the country’s art scene, this museum is the place to be. You can also follow the Reykjavik Art Walk, which is a self-guided tour of around 200 artworks peppered across the city.

Perlan — From experiencing the aurora borealis or a volcanic eruption is a simulation show to exploring a man-made ice cave, Perlan has plenty of hidden gems for you to enjoy. Possibly one of the best reasons to visit Perlan is the panoramic city vistas from the museum’s viewing deck.

22. Taste Some Reykjavik Craft Beer

Consider yourself a hophead or ale aficionado. If so, then, of all the Reykjavik things to do, joining a beer tour may just be on top of your list. The city has a proud brewing tradition, so it only seems right to give their craft beers a taste. >>>Book This Tour

If you don’t want to join a tour, here are some of the top taprooms in Reykjavik:

• Ægir brugghús: They provide a vast range of beers and a taproom to rent upon request. Laugavegur 2, 101 Reykjavik
• RVK Brewing Company: They specialize in IPA, stouts, and lagers. Skipholt 31, 105 Reykjavik
• Gæðingur: You’ll find it all, from stouts and IPAs to pale ales here. Nýbýlavegur 8, 200 Kópavogur 
• Malbygg: Be sure to try out their signature sour ales. Skútuvogu 1H, 104 Reykjavik

23. Visit the Public Thermal Pools 

You don’t have to visit steam baths and hot springs to enjoy Iceland’s geothermal bathing spots. The city has several public swimming pools that are thermally heated, so you can enjoy the splendor of a heated pool without splashing the cash. 

You won’t find that many tourists in these pools either, so you can have a fairly relaxing time. Plus, almost all of these swimming pools have facilities like hot tubs, steam baths, and a children’s pool for a fraction of the price of the Blue or Sky Lagoon.

Three of the best thermal pools you can visit in Reykjavik are Sundhöll, Árbæjarlaug, and Laugardalslaug. If you’re looking for more details on opening times and facilities, it’s best to visit the official Reykjavik website.

24. Walk Along the Old Harbour 

You can’t go wrong by starting one of your days with a gentle stroll along Reykjavik Harbor. From the SunVoyager to the Harpa Concert Hall, you’ll be able to see plenty of the city’s top attractions along the way. As such, it’s best to pair some of these attractions into your walk to ensure you don’t waste any of your valuable time when in Reykjavik.

The Whales of Iceland Museum can also be found along the harbor, and the FlyOver Iceland interactive experience is also here. You may even see Engey Island in the distance on a clear day, which is well known for its puffin spotting opportunities. 

25. Walk to the Top of Þúfa

It may not be a must-do activity, but walking to the top of Þúfa (designed by Ólöf Nordal) definitely has its perks. The large dome-shaped hillock is covered in lush grass and provides a spiraling path up to the top of the hill. 

It’s situated in the heart of Grandi — so it makes for another great stop during your Old Harbor walk — and offers some lovely views. Atop the hill, you’ll find an old fishing shed, which serves as an ode to the country’s long-lasting fishing culture. 

26. Hike Up Mount Esja 

• Mileage: 4.8 miles (loop)
• Elevation Gain: 2,398 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Just a 30-minute drive from Reykjavik, you’ll find the epic Esjurætur Hiking Center. As you might expect, there are several treks worth taking here, but none are as impressive or dramatic as the hike up Mount Esja.

It’s a very challenging route that often gets severe wind warnings, so be sure to keep an eye out on the conditions before trekking. Around one mile into the hike, you’ll reach a fork in the trail, where you can pick to go either left or right. 

If you go left, you’ll take the harder route — also known as the “Risk of Falling Route”. If you don’t feel comfortable with steep scrambles and need chains to assist you up the mountain, I’d highly recommend going right and using the same path on the way back down.

27. Have a Dinner in Downtown Reykjavik

Buying groceries and eating in may be the more affordable way to explore Reykjavik, but you have a lavish night out at least once. You don’t even need to go crazy, as Downtown Reykjavik has some fantastic, budget-friendly options that’ll cater to just about everyone.

Lamb Street Food adds a spin to Icelandic classics, which are sure to fill you up. If you like reminiscing on the past, 2Guys offers 90s aesthetics with smash burgers and more.

There are loads of other options to pick from, though, and walking along the main street is the best way to find a spot that’ll tickle your tastebuds.

28. Enjoy a Hike Along Reykjadalur

• Mileage: 5.7 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation Gain: 1,270 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Roughly 50 minutes away from Reykjavik, you’ll find one of the most rewarding hiking trails in the area. Reykjadalur is far more than a hike, it’s also a thermal river offering hot springs where you bathe in. 

It’s a moderately challenging trek, with most of the elevation gain taking place in the first mile. After this, it’s a fairly gentle stroll alongside a steaming river and lush green hills. Along the way, you’ll pass two small waterfalls, which are great for snapping photos of the family.

The bathing area at the end of the trail is the ultimate reward after trekking through the rugged landscape that’s synonymous with Iceland.

Note: It’s a good idea to take bug repellent in summer. If trekking in winter, it’s best to bring spiked shoes due to the ice buildup along the path.

29. Visit the Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach

In the southern regions of Reykjavik, the golden sand and heated water of Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach can take your trip to a whole new level. The beach is situated within Parco di Dio and is a short 11-minute drive from the city center.

It’s actually a man-made lagoon, with geothermal water pumped into the protected lagoon. Being able to chill on the beach or soak in a thermal lagoon as the midnight sun beats down is something you can only experience during summer in Reykjavik. 

Just note that the beach is an extremely popular spot for locals, so if you plan on visiting the beach, aim to visit during the week. The beach also requires a small entrance fee, but it’s not that much and totally worth the experience.

30. Spend Some Time at Laugavegur Street

Last but certainly not least, we have the bustling Laugavegur Street. Some would say this is the beating heart of Reykjavik, and it’s not hard to see why. From its quaint museums to the pumping bar scene, it’s a street that has it all. 

It’s also laden with street art, turning an otherwise normal street into an outdoor exhibition space. You can relax at one of the many eclectic cafés, do some souvenir shopping in the quirky little stores, or simply explore the street with no set plan.

If you’re looking for fun things to do at night, Laugavegur is a well-established bar-crawling street where live music and good drinks go hand in hand. Be it night or day, Laugavegur is a traveler’s dream, filled with opportunities to make your next Icelandic memory a reality.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Reykjavik?

The ideal time to spend in Reykjavik is between three and four days. You’re not just visiting Iceland for Reykjavik, after all. From the South Coast and the Golden Circle to the Northern regions, there’s a whole world of attractions waiting to be discovered.

As such, it’s best to spend around two to three days in Reykjavik upon arrival. You can then travel across the country before heading back to Reykjavik for a couple more days. This way, you’ll be able to explore the country to its fullest without neglecting the capital city of the attention and time it deserves.

Best Time To Visit Reykjavik, Iceland

It really depends on what you’re hoping to see and do during your time in Iceland, but there are generally two ideal times to visit. If you want to see the Northern Lights, then go during the winter months between November and March. For all the top summer activities, June to August is the best time to visit.

Let’s go into a bit more detail into what each season has in store for your trip to help you plan accordingly. 

Reykjavik in Summer (June – August)

Summer is arguably the peak travel season in Reykjavik. With highs averaging around 57°F (14°C) and lows hitting 44°F (6°C), things will still be a bit cool, but this just gives you an excuse to soak in the hot springs for a bit longer each day. 

Pretty much all of the restaurants and tours will be open during the summer months, making everything very accessible. Things will be very busy during this time, and hotel prices can increase due to demand, so just bear this in mind if planning on visiting during these months.

Reykjavik in Fall/Autumn (September – October)

The shoulder seasons in Reykjavik are fairly short, mainly because it almost feels as if there is no spring or fall. During these two months, the temperatures drop slightly, with lows dropping to 36°F (2°C) and highs reaching 51°F (10°C). 

The tourist crowds begin to drop during these months as the daylight hours quickly fade away. You may have shorter days in the fall than in summer, but most of the hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies will still be operating.

Reykjavik in Winter (November – March)

Winter is the longest-lasting season in Iceland, and that’s not much of a surprise, considering how chilly the summers can be. Highs drop to around 39°F (4°C), and lows plummet below zero, making for a cold, dark season.

That said, there are still loads of amazing Icelandic activities to do in winter. Soaking in a hot spring will never get old, and neither will have the chance to see the Northern Lights. It may be a dark and frigid season, but it offers its own beauty, to say the least.

Reykjavik in Spring (April – May)

Lastly, spring is fairly similar to fall in that it’s a short month with far fewer travelers. With highs hitting around 49°F (9°C) and lows of 33°F (0.5°C), it’s still a bitterly cold time to visit, so be sure to pack accordingly. 

This is one of the driest times of year to visit, though, so at least you’ll have fairly decent weather for outdoor activities.

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Accommodation in central Reykjavik can get super expensive. As such, here is a range of options catering to each budget.

Budget | 101 Guesthouse Hotel 

For an affordable stay within walking distance of Laugavegur Street, look no further than the 101 Guesthouse Hotel. Offering a shared kitchen and living area, you can mingle with fellow travelers during your stay.

The finishings are fairly modest, but this isn’t an issue at all when you have a comfortable bed in one of the vibiest parts of town. You’ll also be able to tuck into a complimentary breakfast each morning and use the free WiFi to your heart’s content. >>>Check Availability

Mid-Range | Hotel Lotus 

If it’s a modern and chic design you seek, then Hotel Lotus will be right up your alley. With each room having a private lounge with a large flat-screen TV, escaping the bustle of the city for some time is very much on the cards.

While they serve up a delicious complimentary breakfast each morning, a Joe and The Juice is just down the road. If you need any more convincing, Hotel Lotus was a Best of the Best Awards winner for 2023/24. >>>Check Availability

Luxury | ION City Hotel 

I stayed at the ION City Hotel for my first visit to Iceland, and let me just say it wasn’t a disappointment. Sure, it’s a bit pricey, but it’s a chic and fancy lodging in one of the liveliest parts of the city. 

From the comforting sauna to the stunning on-site Sumac Restaurant, it’s very difficult to find a flaw in this hotel. Each room also offers eclectic city views with its large windows, adding the allure of this welcoming city. >>>Check Availability

Top Tips To Know When Visiting Reykjavik 

• Avoid exchanging cash for the Krona, as most places accept credit cards. So, if you have a credit card that has no international/foreign exchange fees, you may as well skip exchanging for the Krona.

• Most international flights arrive at the Keflavik International Airport (KEF), which is about a 50-minute drive from Reykjavik. As such, it’s best to get a bus transfer to the capital city rather than a taxi, as buses tend to be much cheaper.

• If you’re looking to save some cash, look to eat in. Restaurants can be very pricey, so buying food from the groceries is the easiest way to save the bucks.

• If renting a campervan or car, don’t go driving off-road. This is illegal and can result in a fine. The same can be said about parking your car or campervan on the side of the road.

• When exploring nature reserves and national parks, only hike on established trails. This is the best way to help preserve the natural ecosystem.

• As a super popular tourist destination, make sure you book all your tours in advance. They can get booked out really fast, especially the tours in and from Reykjavik.

• Make sure you pack the right clothing. Just because you visit in summer doesn’t mean a pretty floral dress is the best item to pack. It stays cold — even in summer — so be sure to check out this list of what to wear in Iceland before booking your trip.

FAQs About What to Do in Reykjavik, Iceland

Before you head off, here are some quick answers you need to know before you travel to Reykjavik, Iceland.

Can You See the Northern Lights in Reykjavik?

If you visit in winter, you’ll have a great chance to see the Northern Lights on a clear night. One of the best spots to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik is at Grotta Lighthouse. There’s also a small geothermal hot pool (Kvika Foot Bath) that can help keep your feet warm as you watch the show.

Is Iceland Expensive to Visit?

Yes, Iceland, and in turn, Reykjavik, can be very pricey to visit. This is especially true during the high tourist season. That said, you can still visit with a fairly affordable budget. The best tip to consider is making food rather than eating out at restaurants each night. 

What Is the Etiquette of Iceland?

Iceland prides itself on its natural landscapes. As such, they value the leave-no-trace principles tremendously. When visiting aim to practice these as close as possible to respect the Icelandic culture and their natural environments.

What Is the Best Way to Get Around Reykjavik?

While the best way to get around Iceland is by campervan (as it’s affordable and convenient) you won’t need a campervan if just visiting Reykjavik. When in the city, using public transportation is a far more economical and environmentally friendly way to travel.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do In/Near Reykjavik

And just like that, you have a complete list of things to do that will make your Reykjavik vacation an unforgettable experience. With such a vast range of options, you can really pick and choose the activities that align with your interests.

Just remember that Reykjavik is a fairly chilly destination, so make sure you pack a fair amount of warm clothes — even for a summer visit. With that in mind, you’re all set to start exploring one of the most rewarding vacation destinations in the world.

Next Read: If you’re planning on renting a campervan and driving through Iceland, check out this road trip essentials checklist.

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