capital-region · Iceland
Kringlan — Reykjavík's Main Shopping Mall
About Kringlan — Reykjavík's Main Shopping Mall
Kringlan is Reykjavík's largest and most popular shopping mall, located 3 km east of downtown. The mall has 180+ stores including international brands (H&M, Zara, Pandora), Icelandic fashion, outdoor gear (66°North, Icewear), bookstores (Eymundsson), supermarket (Bónus), food court and cinema. Kringlan is where Reykjavík locals shop for clothing, household goods and groceries — a functional shopping destination rather than tourist attraction, but useful for practical purchases.
History & Background
Kringlan opened 1987 as Iceland's first modern shopping mall. Expanded 1997 and 2010. The name 'Kringlan' means 'the circle' — referring to the roundabout the mall sits beside. Became Reykjavík's main shopping destination and remains so despite competition from newer malls (Smáralind in Kópavogur).
Did You Know?
- ✔Opened 1987 — Iceland's first modern mall
- ✔180+ stores over 3 floors
- ✔66°North, Icewear for Icelandic outdoor gear
- ✔Bónus supermarket for cheap groceries
- ✔Free parking, bus connections from downtown
Tours Near Kringlan — Reykjavík's Main Shopping Mall
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
Kringlan is Reykjavík's largest and most popular shopping mall, located 3 km east of downtown.
Did You Know?
Bónus supermarket (in Kringlan basement) is Iceland's discount grocery chain with the lowest prices in the country — stock up on snacks, bread, cheese and yogurt here before road trips.
Where Icelanders Actually Shop
Tourists buy wool sweaters in downtown boutiques for 30,000 ISK. Locals buy them at Kringlan for 18,000 ISK. Same sweater.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hidden Gems Nearby
Bónus Supermarket for Road Trip Supplies
The Bónus in Kringlan basement is the cheapest place in Reykjavík to stock up on road trip food: skyr, rúgbrauð (rye bread), cheese, dried fish, chocolate, instant coffee.
Eymundsson Bookstore English Section
The Eymundsson bookstore has an excellent English-language section including Icelandic sagas in translation, local crime fiction and Nordic noir.
Practical Information
Best Time
Weekday mornings
Duration
1–3 hours
Access
Kringlunni 4-12 — bus routes 1,3,4,5,6 or drive (free parking)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper than downtown?▾
Yes — especially for outdoor gear, groceries and books. Downtown has tourist markup; Kringlan has local pricing.
Can I buy Icelandic wool sweaters?▾
Yes — 66°North and Icewear both sell lopapeysur (Icelandic wool sweaters) at lower prices than downtown boutiques.
