So, you’re heading to Reykjavik? First of all, excellent choice. Iceland’s capital is like that cool, artsy friend who’s always up for an adventure, loves a good story, and somehow manages to make even the simplest things feel magical. It’s a city where colorful houses meet rugged landscapes, where the air smells like the sea, and where you’re never more than a few steps away from a cozy café or a quirky museum. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, Reykjavik has a way of making you feel like you’ve stumbled into a Nordic fairytale.
Let’s dive into some of the best things to do in Reykjavik, shall we? And don’t worry, I’ll keep it real—no overly polished travel brochure vibes here.
1. Stroll Through the City Center
Reykjavik’s downtown area is compact, walkable, and bursting with charm. Start your exploration at Laugavegur, the main shopping street. It’s lined with boutiques, vintage stores, and quirky souvenir shops (pro tip: skip the generic puffin keychains and look for handmade Icelandic wool sweaters instead). As you wander, you’ll notice the colorful houses—Reykjavik’s signature look. Snap a few photos, but don’t forget to actually look at them. Each one has its own personality, like the city itself.
2. Visit Hallgrímskirkja (And Go to the Top)
You can’t miss Hallgrímskirkja—it’s the towering church that dominates Reykjavik’s skyline. Designed to resemble Iceland’s basalt lava flows, it’s as much a work of art as it is a place of worship. Inside, it’s minimalist and serene, but the real magic happens when you take the elevator to the top. The panoramic views of the city, the ocean, and the distant mountains are worth every penny of the small admission fee. On a clear day, you might even see Snæfellsjökull glacier way off in the distance. It’s the kind of view that makes you go, “Yep, I’m definitely in Iceland.”
3. Eat Like a Local
Let’s talk about food, because Reykjavik is a foodie’s paradise. Start your day with a kleina (a twisted doughnut-like pastry) and a cup of coffee at one of the city’s many cafés. Icelanders take their coffee seriously, so you’re in good hands. For lunch, try a bowl of lamb soup or some fresh seafood. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for the plokkfiskur, a comforting fish stew that’s basically Icelandic soul food.
Now, about the hot dogs. Yes, I’m serious. Reykjavik’s most famous hot dog stand, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, is a must-visit. Order one with “everything” (that’s crispy onions, raw onions, ketchup, mustard, and remoulade) and thank me later. It’s cheap, delicious, and a true Icelandic classic.
For dinner, splurge a little. Reykjavik has some incredible restaurants serving everything from traditional Icelandic dishes to modern Nordic cuisine. Try Matur og Drykkur for a taste of Iceland’s culinary heritage, or Dill if you’re in the mood for a Michelin-starred experience.
4. Soak in a Hot Spring
Iceland is famous for its geothermal pools, and Reykjavik has its fair share. The Blue Lagoon is the most famous, but it’s actually outside the city. If you want something closer, head to Sky Lagoon or Laugardalslaug. Sky Lagoon is newer and has a killer infinity pool overlooking the ocean, while Laugardalslaug is a local favorite with multiple pools, hot tubs, and even water slides. Pro tip: Shower thoroughly before getting in. Icelanders take pool hygiene very seriously, and you don’t want to be that tourist.
5. Explore Harpa Concert Hall
Harpa is one of Reykjavik’s most iconic buildings, and it’s worth a visit even if you’re not catching a show. The glass facade reflects the light in the most beautiful way, and the interior is just as stunning. Wander around, take some photos, and maybe grab a coffee at the café inside. If you’re lucky enough to be in town during a concert or event, definitely go—the acoustics are incredible.
6. Learn Something New at a Museum
Reykjavik has some seriously cool museums, and they’re perfect for those days when the weather isn’t cooperating (which, let’s be honest, happens a lot in Iceland). The National Museum of Iceland is a great place to start if you want to learn about the country’s history and culture. For something a little quirkier, check out the Phallological Museum (yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like) or the Saga Museum, where you can see lifelike figures of Vikings and learn about Iceland’s sagas.
If you’re into art, don’t miss the Reykjavik Art Museum or the Einarr Jónsson Museum. And for a truly unique experience, visit the Whales of Iceland exhibition, where you can see life-sized models of these majestic creatures.
7. Chase the Northern Lights (or Midnight Sun)
If you’re visiting in the winter, seeing the Northern Lights is probably at the top of your list. Reykjavik is a great base for aurora hunting, but you’ll need to get out of the city to avoid light pollution. Book a guided tour, or rent a car and drive to a dark spot outside the city. Just remember, the lights are unpredictable, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see them right away.
If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll experience the opposite phenomenon: the Midnight Sun. It’s surreal and magical, and it means you can explore the city at all hours without worrying about it getting dark. Take advantage of the extra daylight and go for a late-night stroll along the waterfront.
8. Take a Day Trip
Reykjavik is amazing, but Iceland’s real magic lies in its nature. Luckily, there are plenty of day trips you can take from the city. The Golden Circle is the most popular, and for good reason. It includes Thingvellir National Park (where you can walk between tectonic plates), Geysir (where, you guessed it, there’s a geyser), and Gullfoss waterfall. If you have more time, consider visiting the South Coast to see black sand beaches, glaciers, and more waterfalls than you can count.
9. Hang Out by the Waterfront
Reykjavik’s waterfront is one of the most picturesque parts of the city. Take a walk along the harbor, watch the boats come and go, and maybe even spot some seals. If you’re interested in marine life, consider booking a whale-watching tour. And don’t miss the Sun Voyager, a sleek steel sculpture that looks like a Viking ship. It’s the perfect spot for a photo op, especially at sunset.
10. Embrace the Nightlife
Reykjavik has a surprisingly vibrant nightlife scene, and it’s a big part of the local culture. The weekend starts on Thursday night, and the bars don’t really get going until after midnight. Start your evening at a cozy pub like Kaldi or Skúli Craft Bar, then head to a club if you’re in the mood to dance. Icelanders are friendly and love to chat, so don’t be shy about striking up a conversation.
Here’s a list of 10 must-have apps for anyone visiting Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Google Maps – Essential for navigating the city and surrounding areas. The app offers detailed maps, directions, and public transport options.
- Strætó – Reykjavik’s public transportation app. It helps you track bus schedules and routes around the city.
- Iceland Road Guide – Perfect for road trips, this app helps travelers find safe routes, road conditions, and nearby points of interest.
- Aurora Forecast – For those hoping to catch the Northern Lights, this app provides real-time updates on aurora activity and the best locations to view it.
- Reykjavik Appy Hour – An essential for budget-conscious travelers, this app shows happy hour deals at Reykjavik’s bars and restaurants.
- Icelandic – English Dictionary – A helpful app for learning key Icelandic phrases and understanding common terms.
- Veður – Iceland’s official weather app, offering up-to-date weather forecasts, including warnings about rapidly changing weather conditions.
- My Aurora Forecast – Another great app for Northern Lights tracking, providing notifications and alerts based on geomagnetic activity.
- EasyPark – A must-have for parking in Reykjavik, this app allows you to find and pay for parking easily.
- TripAdvisor – To find the best restaurants, tours, and attractions in Reykjavik, with reviews and recommendations from other travelers.
Final Thoughts
Reykjavik is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. It’s a city that feels both familiar and otherworldly, where you can spend your days exploring glaciers and your nights sipping craft beer in a cozy bar. It’s a place that reminds you how small we are in the grand scheme of things, but also how connected we all are.
So, pack your warmest clothes, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to fall in love with Reykjavik. Whether you’re soaking in a hot spring, marveling at a waterfall, or just enjoying a hot dog by the harbor, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. And who knows? You might just find yourself planning your next trip before you’ve even left.
Cheers to your Icelandic adventure—skál!