If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, chances are you’ll be spending a night or two in Reykjavik, the country’s charming capital. This city offers unique architecture, breathtaking viewpoints, and an unforgettable spa experience that truly became the highlight of our trip. So, in this Reykjavik travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Reykjavik, along with all the essential information you need before you embark on your Icelandic adventure.
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How to Get from the International Airport to Reykjavik
When you fly to Reykjavik, you’ll most likely land at Keflavik Airport, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from the city. If you’re visiting during the summer, renting a car would be a great option as it provides the freedom to explore the sights at your own pace. You can find some of the most affordable rental cars here!
However, if you prefer not to rent a car, we highly recommend using FlyBus by Reykjavik Excursions. They offer a convenient and reliable airport transfer service that we personally used during our stay in Reykjavik. With taxi rides costing as much as 200€ euros one way, FlyBus provides a much more affordable way to reach the city. Book an affordable Reykjavik airport transfer here!
How to Get Around Reykjavik
Reykjavik boasts a well-developed bus system, making it possible to visit most attractions using public transportation. The best part is that bus routes are readily available on Google Maps, allowing you to navigate the bus system with ease, as long as you have mobile data.
We used an Airalo eSim for our mobile data while in Iceland which was easy to install and covered us all around the island. You can save $3 on your Iceland eSim card with code KENDRA8438 here!
While the bus system covers most of the city’s attractions, it’s important to note that the Blue Lagoon, a definite must-see, cannot be accessed by bus. To reach the Blue Lagoon without a rental car, you can book your transfer and Blue Lagoon admission here!
The Best Things to Do in Reykjavik
Reykjavik, though small, is a charming capital city that can be explored in just one day. Alternatively, you can use Reykjavik as a base for 2-3 nights and take day trips to discover the surrounding areas. To get a glimpse of the best of Reykjavik, you can watch our full “Best of Reykjavik” video below!
1. The Sun Voyager
To kick-start your day in Reykjavik, head down to the waterfront and admire the stunning views while visiting the Sun Voyager. This aluminum sculpture pays homage to the Viking arrival in Iceland during the 800s and 900s. The sculpture shines brilliantly against the harbor’s water, providing a truly awe-inspiring view and a peaceful way to begin your time in Reykjavik.
2. Harpa Concert Hall
Harpa Concert Hall is a must-see attraction due to its unique architecture. While it may not appear extraordinary from the outside, as soon as you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the multitude of geometric shapes that make up the windows and ceiling. These intricate details are sure to fascinate you and leave a lasting impression.
3. Thufa
Next on the list is Thufa, a grassy mound offering a fantastic view of the Reykjavik skyline. At the top of this mound, you’ll find a small shack with dried fish hanging inside, paying tribute to Iceland’s tradition of using wind to dry fish. However, the highlight of Thufa is undoubtedly the breathtaking view it offers.
4. Rainbow Street
Another picturesque spot in Reykjavik is Rainbow Street. The view of the Hallgrimskirkja church steeple in the distance adds to the beauty of this location, making it perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy photos. Additionally, this area is filled with charming restaurants and shops, allowing you to indulge in some delightful window shopping.
5. Hallgrimskirkja Church
At the end of Rainbow Street is Hallgrimskirkja which is the largest most iconic church in all of Iceland. Hallgrimskirkja is beautiful both inside and outside. It’s free to enter to see the spacious and modern interior, with lovely organ pipes and impressively high ceilings. For 1000 krona, around $7 USD, you can also take the elevator to the top of the church tower to get an impressive view of Reykjavik’s city center.
Outside you can also admire the church’s unique columns that imitate some of the basalt columns that you will see in Iceland’s landscapes. Additionally, you will see a statue of Lief Ericsson who is the first European to make it to the Americas in the 1000s.
We truly loved seeing the unique and beautiful church while in Reykjavik and believe it’s a true must-see when you come!
6. Perlan
Perlan is an intriguing museum and viewpoint where you can delve deeper into the wonders of Iceland. The interactive and immersive exhibits showcase ice caves, volcanoes, and the ocean, providing an educational and engaging experience. Don’t miss the 360-degree viewpoint, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Reykjavik.
7. The Blue Lagoon
Undoubtedly, our favorite spot in Reykjavik was the Blue Lagoon. This geothermal spa offers warm waters at a blissful temperature of 100°F/38°C, brimming with minerals that provide deep cleansing and rejuvenation for your skin in a truly relaxing environment.
The lagoon’s mesmerizing milky blue color is a result of the abundant silica present in the water. Silica acts as a primary deep cleanser, fortifying your skin’s barrier functions and leaving it radiant and refreshed. However, it’s important to note that silica can be damaging to your hair, so try to avoid getting your hair wet during your visit.
In addition to its skin-nourishing properties, the lagoon features algae, which stimulates collagen production and reduces collagen degradation, further enhancing the benefits for your skin. As an added bonus, the lagoon boasts incredible steam rooms that provide a profound sense of relaxation and revitalization. It’s no exaggeration to say that visiting the Blue Lagoon was the highlight of our time in Reykjavik and an absolute must-see when you visit Iceland.
Just be sure to book your Blue Lagoon entry and transfer in advance because they do sell out! Schedule your Blue Lagoon visit here!
8. Take a Day Trip
Once you’ve explored the main sights of the city, consider booking a day trip to experience the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route showcasing three of the most captivating attractions near Reykjavik. This tour includes a stop at Geysir, where you can witness the awe-inspiring geysers erupting with thermal water every 5-8 minutes. You’ll also encounter the breathtaking Gullfoss Waterfall and have the opportunity to explore the tectonic plates at Þingvellir National Park. This 8-hour tour offers a delightful sampling of Iceland’s remarkable natural wonders and is definitely worth embarking on!
Book your Golden Circle Tour here!
Another highly recommended day-trip option is whale watching, providing a chance to observe a variety of marine life, including minke and humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and whale-beaked dolphins. While these magnificent creatures can be spotted year-round, the best viewing times are from April to October. Although whale sightings cannot be guaranteed, the exhilaration of catching a glimpse of these majestic creatures is truly unforgettable.
Book your whale-watching adventure here.
Affordable Restaurant Options in Reykjavik
Reykjavik is notorious for having some of the most expensive food in the world. Even the budget locations are expensive by U.S. standards. Nonetheless, I wanted to share some of the most affordable food options that we found while in Reykjavik.
Hlemmur Food Hall
Hlemmur Food Hall is a bustling hub with a diverse range of food stalls offering burgers, tacos, pizza, noodle bowls, and more. Simply place your order at any stall, find an available spot in the hall, and when your buzzer rings, collect your food and savor the flavors.
Loving Hut
For a satisfying vegan choice, Loving Hut is a recommended spot. They serve Vietnamese Pho, burgers, and other Western options. It also stands out for its affordable prices, making it a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers.
The Cost of Hotels in Reykjavik
When it comes to accommodations in Reykjavik, hostels with shared bathrooms offer the most affordable option, typically priced between $80 and $100 USD per night. Most other hotels and guesthouses with private bathrooms range from $150 to $280 USD per night, making Reykjavik a destination that leans towards the higher end of the budget spectrum.
During our stay, we opted for Fosshotel Reykjavik, which, despite the higher price tag, provided excellent quality and a delightful breakfast. We highly recommend it for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Nevertheless, you can scan for the most affordable hotel rooms here!
The Best Time to Visit Reykjavik
The ideal time to visit Reykjavik largely depends on your desired experiences in the country. For those seeking stunning waterfalls and picturesque landscapes, the summer months between May and September offer the best conditions. On the other hand, if you wish to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, plan your trip for the winter months between November and January when the longer nights provide an increased chance of catching this unique natural light show.
Is Reykjavik Safe?
Reykjavik is renowned as one of the safest cities in the world. Iceland as a whole ranks highly on the Global Peace Index, and Reykjavik experiences minimal incidents of petty crime. Tourist scams are virtually non-existent, although the high prices might make you think otherwise. Rest assured that locals and tourists alike pay the same elevated costs. This allows you to freely explore Iceland without fear of danger from other individuals.
However, it’s worth noting that the biggest safety concern in Iceland lies in the weather. Particularly during winter, storms and icy road conditions can pose genuine risks. It is advisable to avoid driving when severe weather is forecasted.
Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting?
Despite not being the most budget-friendly destination, Reykjavik offers a remarkable experience with its distinctive architecture, geothermal waters, and breathtaking landscapes. The city left us in awe multiple times, making it undeniably worth a visit.
Now, that you know about Reykjavik, check out these other amazing Iceland destinations!
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