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Reykjavik, Iceland

Destination Guide

Reykjavik

Iceland

Best things to do in Reykjavik

32 curated attractions in Reykjavik, Iceland. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

June - August

Average temp

10°C/50°F

Budget

Expensive

Safety

Very safe

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland's capital and largest city, is the northernmost capital in the world, and it serves as the gateway to the country’s incredible natural scenery. The compact layout is notable, with modern architecture mingling alongside colorful houses and historic sites. The city is a hub for artists, with the Reykjavik Art Museum showcasing contemporary works and the annual Reykjavik International Film Festival attracting film lovers. Nature is always close: the Blue Lagoon is just a short drive away, and the surrounding area offers hiking and landscapes, all while being under the watchful eye of nearby volcanoes that remind residents of their presence. Most visits revolve around these excursions, which often lead to the remarkable sights of geysers, waterfalls, and glaciers, making Reykjavik not just a city to stay in, but a launching pad for outdoor adventures.

Who it's for

Those who enjoy a mix of urban life with quick access to nature will find Reykjavik appealing. It’s ideal for travelers interested in art and culture, but not great for those seeking a metropolis or low prices: accommodation can be steep, and everything tends to be on the smaller side.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • The city center is easily walkable and can be crossed in about twenty minutes on foot
  • Public buses are reliable, covering most areas efficiently, and taxis are available, though they can be costly
  • The nearest airport is Keflavik, about 45 minutes away by car
  • Popular natural attractions are mostly a short drive or tour away
Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon

Hot springs & geothermal areas
Arnarhóll Hill

Arnarhóll Hill

Scenic viewpoints
Ring Road Iceland

Ring Road Iceland

Scenic viewpoints
Hallgrímskirkja Church

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Churches & cathedrals
Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum

Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon

Spas & bathhouses
Tjörnin (The Pond)

Tjörnin (The Pond)

Lakes
Reykjavik Botanical Garden

Reykjavik Botanical Garden

Botanical gardens
Austurvöllur Square

Austurvöllur Square

Squares & plazas
Rainbow Street

Rainbow Street

Urban Attractions
Harpa Concert Hall

Harpa Concert Hall

Concert halls
Laugavegur shopping street

Laugavegur shopping street

Shopping streets & districts
The Settlement Exhibition

The Settlement Exhibition

History museums
The Sun Voyager sculpture

The Sun Voyager sculpture

Fountains, statues & public art
Perlan

Perlan

Observation decks & city views
Reykjavik Farmers Market

Reykjavik Farmers Market

Shopping and Markets
Viðey Island

Viðey Island

Islands
National Museum of Iceland

National Museum of Iceland

History museums
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach

Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach

Beaches
Aurora Basecamp

Aurora Basecamp

Nature
Reykjavik City Hall

Reykjavik City Hall

Modern architecture & skyscrapers
Reykjavik Maritime Museum

Reykjavik Maritime Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
66 North

66 North

Shopping
Reykjavik Art Museum

Reykjavik Art Museum

Art museums & galleries
Whales of Iceland Exhibition

Whales of Iceland Exhibition

Specialty & quirky museums
Reykjavik Old Harbour

Reykjavik Old Harbour

Canals, harbours & waterfronts
Höfði House

Höfði House

Historic houses & mansions
Iceland Phallological Museum

Iceland Phallological Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
National Gallery of Iceland

National Gallery of Iceland

Arts and Entertainment Venues
Imagine Peace Tower

Imagine Peace Tower

Fountains, statues & public art
Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park

Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park

Zoos
Kolaportið Flea Market

Kolaportið Flea Market

Flea & antique markets

Where to eat in Reykjavik

The places worth planning a meal around.

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

★ 4.4 · 9,398 reviews

Sushi Social

Sushi Social

Japanese

★ 4.6 · 1,045 reviews

Valdis

Valdis

Nordic · $$

★ 4.5 · 968 reviews

Old Harbor

Old Harbor

$$

★ 4.4 · 459 reviews

Ráðagerði

Ráðagerði

Icelandic · $$

★ 4.7 · 417 reviews

Brauð & Co

Brauð & Co

Bakery, Artisan Bread · $5–$15

Things to do in Reykjavik

Tours, cruises and experiences, rather than places to visit.

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