The Best Things to See & Do in Reykjavik Iceland
Reykjavik, though small, is packed with natural attractions, historic landmarks, museums, and local-approved shops and restaurants. To help you make the most of your time in Iceland’s capital, here’s a list of must-see spots!
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Welcome to Reykjavik, the stunning capital of Iceland and gateway to the country. Most visitors to Iceland begin and end their journey here.
While spontaneity has its charm, arriving prepared ensures peace of mind and increases your chances of getting flight deals, booking preferred accommodations, reserving tables at popular restaurants, and securing tickets to local attractions. Don’t miss out on Reykjavik’s top sights!
Take the time to plan what you want to experience, considering costs and the time needed to fit everything in. These steps will help you create unforgettable memories.
Best Things to See & Do
Use this guide to make a list of your top highlights for visiting Reykjavik. From there, you can create a budget and itinerary, turning your dream vacation into reality.
Planning the trip can be as thrilling as the journey itself. All that’s left is to pack your bags and decide where to go first!
1. Hallgrimskirkja Church
Visit the tallest church in Iceland with its impressive tower dominating the Reykjavik skyline. The architecture has been inspired by features from the county’s natural landscape. Exterior pillars resemble basalt columns (volcanic rocks that form as melting lava cools). The colour tone is grey and cold, symbolizing the harsh realities of the northern climate.
Admire the striking front door entrance and stained-glass windows. Enjoy the acoustics while you wander, listening to the pipe organ. You can tour inside the building for free as long as there are no church services taking place. Pay a fee to take the elevator to the top of the tower. View the mountains in the distance and the city below.
2. Sculpture & Shore Walk (Saebraut Street)
Grab a hot cup of coffee and take a peaceful stroll along Reykjavik’s northern coastline. You will enjoy harbour views and snow-capped mountains as your backdrop. If you are visiting in the winter months, this is the perfect location to view the Northern Lights as they reflect off the water.
About an hour walk (one-way) will lead you along a pedestrian friendly, paved path from the Harpa Concert Hall to the Reykjavik Cruise Terminal at Skarfrabakki Harbour. Sights along this route include Solfar Sun Voyager Sculpture, Partnership Sculpture and Hodfi House.
3. Harpa Concert Hall
Reykjvik’s concert hall and conference centre is an impressive structure built along the city’s harbourfront. Admire the coloured glass façade, inspired by Iceland’s natural elements.
Admission to the interior of the building itself is free. From the inside you can appreciate the unique architecture and enjoy scenic views over the water.
4. Laugavegur Street
Visit Reykjavik’s main avenue, Laugavegur Street, to find unique shopping boutiques, cafés, bars and restaurants. Here you will discover local designers, vintage and souvenir shops as well as restaurants serving traditional Icelandic dishes.
Many bars offer game nights, live music and happy hour catering to both locals and visitors from all over the world. There is something here for everyone year-round!
5. Grandi Mathöll
Grandi Mathöll is a street-food hall located in the old harbour district of Reykjavik. Vendors serve unique and local Icelandic dishes and well as international favourites.
Enjoy your lunch with a view out over the waterfront. The hall is open daily from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.
6. Icelandic Food Tour
Join a food tour to visit several local venues and experience traditional Icelandic cuisine. Taste food and flavours unique to the region, including lamb soup, fermented shark, whale steak and of course Icelandic hot dogs.
Learn how the country’s harsh winter climate has made an impact on the nation and their food choices. Special cooking and preserving methods have nourished Vikings and the Icelandic people for centuries.
Tours typically begin at Ingólfstorg Square, an energetic public plaza, filled with lively bars and restaurants. Come share the experience with like-minded travellers on Reykjavik’s tastiest sightseeing tour.
7. Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street (Skolavordustigur Street) is located in the heart of Reykjavik and leads directly to the Hallgrimskirkja Church. It is impossible to miss and you will likely stumble upon it as you meander past the city centre shops and cafes.
Now a permanent installation, Rainbow Street represents Iceland’s love and acceptance for the LGBTQ2S+ community! In the past, locals would take part in painting the street to celebrate pride, demonstrating the country’s commitment towards diversity and inclusion.
You will see many local businesses displaying the rainbow-coloured pride flag in their storefront windows. Be sure to snap a colourful photo on Rainbow Street to show your support as well!
8. Bathe in the Blue Lagoon
A trip to Iceland just wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Blue Lagoon. There is a reason this place is on just about everyone’s bucket list and the county’s top tourist attraction.
Immerse yourself in the milky-blue water and tranquil, dream-like atmosphere. It’s easy to spend a few hours here surrounded by steaming water and volcanic landscapes.
Tickets can sell out, so make sure to pre-book your time-slot early to avoid disappointment.
9. Golden Circle Tour
The Golden Circle is a popular day trip located within close proximity to Reykjavik. Technically the trip can be done in only a few hours, but it’s recommended to set aside a full day to complete the 300km circular route.
Discover geysers, waterfalls, hot springs and volcanic craters. With so many breathtaking sights along the way, you will not want to rush. Self-driving offers the most freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace, however organized tours are available. If you only have time for a few days in Iceland, this road trip will give you an idea of what the country has to offer.
This scenic tour includes Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Area and Pingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park. The route is open year-round, although peak season occurs in the summer months when weather and driving conditions are more favourable.
10. Phallological Museum
The Icelandic Phallological Museum is a one-of-a-kind collection of penises and penile parts representing various types of Icelandic sea and land mammals – whales, walrus, and even humans. Due to its rising popularity, the museum recently relocated to a larger exhibition space in the heart of the city.
Not your average museum, nevertheless a great option if you are looking for a unique but family friendly activity during your trip to Reykjavik.
Open daily from 10:00am to 7:00pm.
Cost: 2750 ISK.
11.Reykjavik Maritime Museum
Reykjavik Maritime Museum, formerly known as the Vikin Museum, is located right on the old harbour in central Reykjavik. There are several permanent exhibitions on display focusing on Icelandic maritime history from the early settlement to the late 20th century.
Learn about sailing, fishing and the lives of Icelandic fishermen during this era. Guided tours of Óðinn, the city’s former Coast Guard and Rescue Vessel, are a popular choice for visitors.
Open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm.
Cost: 2050 ISK. Free admission for children.
12. Whales of Iceland Museum
Learn about Iceland’s wild and extraordinary marine life at the Whales of Iceland Museum. The exhibition includes life-size models of various whale species found in Icelandic waters.
Guided tours (30 minutes in length) are offered daily at 11:00am and 3:00pm at no extra cost for those who have purchased an entrance ticket.
Open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm.
Cost: Adults 3400 ISK, Children 1700 ISK, Family 6800 ISK.
13. Whale Watching Tour
Search for wildlife in their natural habitat during a Whale Watching Tour. Look for humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, dolphins, puffins and more, off the coast of Reykjavik in Faxaflói Bay.
Tours depart year-round, but the best chance of spotting whales is during the summer season (from April to September). Sightings are not guaranteed, so if you are not able to see anything on your tour you will get a complimentary ticket to try again.
14. Perlan (The Pearl)
The Perlan is a museum and rotating glass dome that stands on top of Öskjuhlið Hill in Reykjavik. Browse informative displays on volcanoes, glaciers, northern lights and all things Iceland.
It is famously home to the Glacier Exhibition of Iceland, which contains a 100-meter long ice tunnel that visitors can walk through.
This indoor attraction is a great place to check out when the weather is poor but on a clear day the observation deck provides panoramic views of the city.
Open daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm.
Cost: Adult 4900 ISK, Child 2990 ISK.
15. Aurora Reykjavik
Aurora Reykjavik is an interactive exhibition centre about one of the world’s most stunning natural phenomena, the Aurora Borealis. In Iceland, the northern lights season begins in early September and continues through mid-April.
If you have arrived outside of this window and are unable to catch the real lightshow, visiting Aurora Reykjavik is an excellent alternative. Visitors typically spend 1 hour browsing the exhibition centre.
Open daily from 9:00am to 9:00pm.
Cost: Adult 2900 ISK, Child 1500 ISK.
16. Northern Lights Tour
Join an evening tour in search of the Northern Lights. For the best chances, visit during the winter season, between the months of September and March. It’s recommended to book on the day you arrive in Reykjavik.
Sightings are not guaranteed, so if you are not able to see the lights on the first attempt you will get a complimentary ticket to try again on subsequent nights. Dress in warm layers and prepare for below-freezing temperatures.
17. Hiking & Volcano Tours
Hiking and volcano tours near Reykjavik offer thrilling experiences amidst Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. Just a short drive from the capital, you can explore the rugged terrains of Reykjanes Peninsula, marvel at the geothermal wonders of Hengill, or trek up to the recently active Fagradalsfjall volcano.
These tours provide a unique opportunity to witness Iceland’s volcanic activity up close, walk through lava fields, and enjoy panoramic views of the dramatic scenery, making them a must for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
18. The Sky Lagoon
The Sky Lagoon is a spa located only 15-minutes from Reykjavik city centre. This is the perfect place to spend some time if you love hot springs and swimming pools. Soak in the relaxing thermal water and take part in the 7-step rejuvenating ritual.
Visitors fall in love with the ocean views best enjoyed from the infinity pool. Note that the Sky Lagoon is an adult-oriented space, open to guests ages 12 and up.
19. Local Swimming Pools
Experience Icelandic bathing culture by visiting a local swimming pool. Reykjavik has several outdoor public swimming pools where you can swim laps or just enjoy soaking in the geothermal waters.
If you prefer a more authentic experience surrounded by locals (rather than a touristy experience such as the Blue Lagoon or the Sky Lagoon) this is the activity for you. Some of the best pools include Laugardalslaug, Vesturbaejarlaug and Sundhöll.
Reykjavik offers a vibrant mix of natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination. From exploring geothermal wonders and stunning landscapes to enjoying local cuisine and soaking in the lively arts scene, there is something for everyone in Iceland’s capital.
Whether you’re captivated by the Northern Lights, delving into Viking history, or simply strolling through charming streets, Reykjavik promises unforgettable memories. Plan your adventure thoughtfully, embrace the spirit of discovery, and get ready to fall in love with this extraordinary city.
Start Booking Your Trip
Use the helpful resources below to start booking your trip to Reykjavik, Iceland!
- Reserve your accommodation with Booking.com or Hostelworld.
- Book your rental car with Discover Cars.
- Book activities with Get Your Guide.
- Buy Travel Insurance with SafetyWing.