Reykjavik

Iceland, Europe

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, is a blend of rich history and modern culture, known for its colorful buildings, stunning architecture, and thriving arts scene. Explore iconic sites like Hallgrímskirkja and the Harpa Concert Hall, unwind in geothermal pools, and dive into nightlife that never sleeps. The nearby Golden Circle showcases breathtaking natural wonders, and you may catch glimpses of the Northern Lights during winter months, making Reykjavik a captivating destination year-round.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Reykjavik

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Hallgrímskirkja

Iconic church with stunning architecture and views.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning concert venue showcasing Icelandic culture.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in the Blue Lagoon

Famous geothermal spa with soothing mineral waters.

Booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the National Museum of Iceland

Learn about Iceland's history and culture through exhibits.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll down Laugavegur Street

Reykjavik’s main shopping street filled with local shops.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a Northern Lights tour

Chase the aurora borealis in the Icelandic wilderness.

Booking required
7

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Sun Voyager

A beautiful sculpture representing a Viking ship.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Reykjavik Art Museum

A collection of contemporary Icelandic art in three venues.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Sample local cuisine at a food market

Taste traditional Icelandic dishes at a vibrant market.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Perlan Museum

Experience the wonders of nature with interactive exhibits.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

10 (#8 globally)

Cost

Very Expensive

Currency

Iceland Krona

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Icelandic

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional dish. (National dish)

Skyr

V

Icelandic yogurt, thick and creamy.

Kjötsúpa

Hearty lamb soup with vegetables.

Pylsur

Icelandic hot dog, served with various toppings.

Rúgbrauð

VE

Dark rye bread, often served with butter.

Phrases to learn

English

Icelandic

Hello

Halló

(Ha-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nei

(Yow / Nay)

Thank you

Takk

(Tack)

Excuse me

Afsakið

(Af-sah-kith)

How much?

Hversu mikið?

(Kwer-soo mee-kith)