Iceland Travel Guide
Capital Region
City life, culture, and nature — all in one place
Did you know? Hafnarfjörður is often called the elf capital of Iceland. Local stories say hidden people live inside lava formations around the town, and roads have even been redirected to avoid disturbing elf rocks such as Álfhóll.
About Capital Region
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Top Things to Do
Explore the best of Reykjavík
Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church
Watch the midnight sun
Experience Harpa Concert Hall
Relax in geothermal pools
See the colorful houses
Visit Perlan Museum
Explore art museums
Go whale watching
Reykjavík City Highlights
Must-see attractions in the capital
Alþingi (Parliament of Iceland)
Alþingi (Parliament of Iceland) is a historic site in Capital Region. This important landmark offers a fascinating window into Iceland's rich past. With roots stretching back to the Viking Age and beyond, the site preserves stories of the people and events that shaped modern Iceland.
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Árbær Open Air Museum
Árbær Open Air Museum is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Aurora Reykjavík
Aurora Reykjavík is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
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Dómkirkjan í Reykjavík (Reykjavík Cathedral)
Dómkirkjan í Reykjavík (Reykjavík Cathedral) is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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FlyOver Iceland
FlyOver Iceland is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík
Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
From $7240
Book NowHafnarfjörður — Viking Village & Elf Capital
Hafnarfjörður — Viking Village & Elf Capital is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Harpan
Harpan is an attraction in capital-region. Discover this unique destination and experience the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit.
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Heiðmörk
Heiðmörk is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
From $7400
Book NowHeiðmörk
Heiðmörk is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Helgufoss
Helgufoss is a stunning waterfall located in Golden Circle. This magnificent cascade showcases the raw power and beauty of Iceland's landscape. Fed by glacial meltwater and rainfall, the waterfall is a spectacular sight in all seasons, surrounded by dramatic lava rock formations.
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Hljómskálinn
Hljómskálinn is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
From $1652.09
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Icelandic Punk Museum
Icelandic Punk Museum is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Kjarvalsstaðir
Kjarvalsstaðir is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Laugavegur
Laugavegur is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
From $386.28
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Menntaskólinn í Reykjavík
Menntaskólinn í Reykjavík is a historic site in Capital Region. This important landmark offers a fascinating window into Iceland's rich past. With roots stretching back to the Viking Age and beyond, the site preserves stories of the people and events that shaped modern Iceland.
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Mosfellsbær
Mosfellsbær is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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National Museum of Iceland
National Museum of Iceland is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Visit the Volcanoes - Half Day Private Tour - up to 9 passengers
From $1200
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Ráðhús Reykjavíkur (City Hall)
Ráðhús Reykjavíkur (City Hall) is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Reykjavik Art Museum
Reykjavik Art Museum is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Reykjavík Maritime Museum
Reykjavík Maritime Museum is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Reykjavík Museum of Photography
Reykjavík Museum of Photography is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Reykjavik Old Harbour
Reykjavik Old Harbour is a vibrant neighborhood and destination in Capital Region. Explore the unique character and charm of this area, with its mix of culture, architecture and local life. From colorful buildings to local cafes and shops, this part of Iceland offers an authentic glimpse into daily Icelandic life.
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The Saga Museum
Saga Museum brings Iceland’s Viking and medieval history to life through realistic figures and immersive storytelling in Reykjavík’s Old Harbour district.
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The Settlement Exhibition – Reykjavík 871±2
Settlement Exhibition is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
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Skólavörðustígur (Rainbow Street)
Skólavörðustígur (Rainbow Street) is a remarkable natural wonder in Capital Region. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
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Sky Lagoon
Sky Lagoon is a geothermal attraction in Capital Region. Experience Iceland's powerful geothermal energy up close at this remarkable natural site. The area features hot springs, steam vents and mineral-rich waters that showcase the raw volcanic forces beneath Iceland's surface.
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Stjórnarráðið
Stjórnarráðið is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Tjörnin Pond – Reykjavík City Lake
Tjörnin Pond – Reykjavík City Lake is a vibrant neighborhood and destination in Capital Region. Explore the unique character and charm of this area, with its mix of culture, architecture and local life. From colorful buildings to local cafes and shops, this part of Iceland offers an authentic glimpse into daily Icelandic life.
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Vesturbær — Reykjavík's West Side
Vesturbær — Reykjavík's West Side is a unique destination and attraction in Capital Region. Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness that make Iceland such a special place to visit. Whether you're seeking adventure, history or simply stunning scenery, this attraction offers something memorable for every visitor.
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Whales of Iceland Exhibition
Whales of Iceland is a cultural attraction in Capital Region. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.
Learn MoreNature & Outdoor Areas
Parks, mountains and natural attractions
Elliðaárdalur
Elliðaárdalur is a vibrant neighborhood and destination in Capital Region. Explore the unique character and charm of this area, with its mix of culture, architecture and local life. From colorful buildings to local cafes and shops, this part of Iceland offers an authentic glimpse into daily Icelandic life.
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Esja
Esja is a remarkable natural wonder in Capital Region. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
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Grótta
Grótta is a stunning beach located in Capital Region. This dramatic coastal area features Iceland's distinctive black volcanic sand, shaped by powerful ocean waves. The beach offers dramatic views of the sea and surrounding landscape, and is home to diverse marine wildlife including seals and seabirds.
Learn MoreHaunted Reykjavík
Explore the darker side of Iceland's capital
The Ghost Ships of Reykjavík Harbor
Reykjavík Harbor
Phantom vessels seen on foggy nights...
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Discover more haunted tales of Iceland
View All Ghost StoriesTop Tours from Reykjavík
Book the best day trips and experiences
Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
Book NowPrivate Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
From $7240
Book NowReykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
From $1652.09
Book NowVisit the Volcanoes - Half Day Private Tour - up to 9 passengers
From $1200
Book NowBest Restaurants in Reykjavík
Top dining experiences in the capital
Top Museums
Explore Iceland's culture and history
Perlan Museum
Interactive museum of Icelandic nature
National Museum
Iceland's cultural heritage
Maritime Museum
History of Icelandic seafaring
Whales of Iceland
Life-size whale exhibition
Árbaer Open Air Museum
Traditional Icelandic life
Reykjavík Art Museum
Contemporary and modern art
Map of Reykjavík
Explore the capital area
Hidden Gems
Discover secret spots in Reykjavík
Árbær Open Air Museum
Step back in time at this authentic open-air museum showcasing traditional Icelandic turf houses, farmsteads, and village buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. Located in Reykjavík's eastern suburbs, Árbær features over 20 historic buildings relocated from around Iceland and reconstructed on-site. Costumed staff demonstrate traditional crafts like weaving, blacksmithing, and baking. In summer, visitors can meet Icelandic horses and sheep, and children can try traditional games. The museum hosts seasonal festivals, including the popular Christmas market where you can experience old Icelandic Yuletide traditions. Entry is affordable (around 2,000 ISK for adults), and the site is peaceful and rarely crowded — a hidden gem for anyone interested in Iceland's rural past.
Reykjavík Thermal Pools
Skip the tourist-packed Blue Lagoon and experience how locals actually relax: at one of Reykjavík's 17 geothermal public swimming pools. The best include Laugardalslaug (the largest, with multiple hot tubs, a sauna, steam room, and waterslide), Sundhöllin (the oldest, built in 1937 with Art Deco interiors), and Vesturbæjarlaug (a local favorite with a view of Mount Esja). Entry costs just 1,050 ISK (~7 USD), and you'll swim alongside Icelanders of all ages. The pools are heated naturally by geothermal water and kept at 28–29°C, while the hot tubs range from 38–42°C. Locals use the pools year-round — even in winter snow. It's one of the most authentic Icelandic cultural experiences you can have.
Viðey Island
Just a 7-minute ferry ride from Reykjavík's Old Harbor, Viðey Island feels like a world away. This peaceful, car-free island is home to Videy House — Iceland's first stone building (1755) — and the Imagine Peace Tower, a light installation created by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon. The tower illuminates from October 9 (Lennon's birthday) to December 8 (the anniversary of his death), projecting a beam of light into the night sky inscribed with the words 'Imagine Peace' in 24 languages. The island has walking and cycling trails, basalt rock formations, ancient ruins, and nesting Arctic terns and puffins in summer. It's a serene escape, perfect for a picnic or meditative walk. The ferry runs year-round, and the island is free to explore.
Grótta Lighthouse
Scenic lighthouse walk
Nautholsvik Beach
Geothermal beach
Street Art
Colorful murals
Café Culture
Cozy cafes
Icelandic Legends
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Hidden People
The elf folk of Iceland
Yule Lads
Thirteen mischievous trolls
Sea Monsters
Creatures of the deep
Photo Gallery
Beautiful moments from Reykjavík
Frequently Asked Questions
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Haunted Places & Hidden People in the Capital Region
Even near Reykjavík, Icelandic folklore remains deeply connected to the landscape. Lava hills, quiet forests and river valleys are traditionally believed to be home to hidden people and wandering spirits.
Helgafell (Hafnarfjörður)
Local tradition says those who walk the hill in silence while making three wishes may see them come true.
Álfhóll — Elf Rock
Roads were once redirected to avoid disturbing this sacred rock — one of the most important hidden-people sites in Iceland.
Öskjuhlíð Forest
Stories describe unexplained lights and figures appearing in the lava hills here, especially during winter evenings.
Elliðaárdalur Valley
This green valley inside Reykjavík has long been associated with guardian spirits believed to protect travelers following the river paths.
🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.
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🚐 Getting Around Iceland
Airport Transfers & Sightseeing Rides
Pre-book a private transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík, or explore Iceland by private sightseeing ride. Fixed prices, professional local drivers, instant confirmation.
⚔️ Viking Heritage
Saga sites and Viking routes in this region
Reykjavík — Ingólfur Arnarson
Settlement of Reykjavík
Reykjavík was founded around the year 874 by Ingólfur Arnarson, considered Iceland's first permanent settler. According to tradition, he threw his high-seat pillars into the ocean and settled where they washed ashore.
💡 Did you know?
The name Reykjavík means "Smoky Bay," referring to steam rising from nearby geothermal hot springs seen by early settlers.