Reykjavík
Travel Guide
Everything you need to explore Iceland's capital city — from iconic landmarks and world-class museums to hidden gems, geothermal pools and unforgettable day trips.
405+
Attractions
17+
Pools & Spas
2–4
Days Recommended
~350k
Population
Quick Facts
Population
~350,000 (metro)
Currency
Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Language
Icelandic · English
Time Zone
GMT/UTC+0 (year-round)
Summer Temperature
12–15°C (June–Aug)
Must See
Top Attractions in Reykjavík
The essential experiences — pulled directly from our Sanity CMS
Off the Beaten Path
Hidden Gems
Places most tourists miss — but locals love
Geothermal
Hot Springs & Swimming Pools
Reykjavík's geothermal culture — swim like a local
Accommodation
Where to Stay in Reykjavík
Hand-picked hotels across all budgets — book with our affiliate partners
Luxury Hotels
Budget Hotels & Guesthouses
Dining
Where to Eat in Reykjavík
From traditional Icelandic cuisine to international flavours
Restaurants
101 Bistro
101 Bistro is a restaurant in Capital Region, Iceland serving mediterranean. Icelandic cuisine has evolved dramatically in recent decades, moving from traditional fish and lamb dishes to world-class dining experiences. Many restaurants now showcase local ingredients — fresh fish, lamb, skyr, and Arctic char — with modern culinary techniques.
27 Mathús & Bar
27 Mathús & Bar is a restaurant in Capital Region, Iceland. Icelandic cuisine has evolved dramatically in recent decades, moving from traditional fish and lamb dishes to world-class dining experiences. Many restaurants now showcase local ingredients — fresh fish, lamb, skyr, and Arctic char — with modern culinary techniques.
Planning
Suggested Itineraries
Expertly crafted routes using real Reykjavík attractions
Half Day
- ✓Hallgrímskirkja
- ✓Laugavegur
- ✓Old Harbour
- ✓Hot dog at Bæjarins Beztu
1 Day
- ✓Hallgrímskirkja
- ✓National Museum
- ✓Harpa Concert Hall
- ✓Sun Voyager
- ✓Sundhöllin pool
2 Days
- ✓Day 1: City centre + museums
- ✓Day 2: Golden Circle day trip
- ✓Laugardalslaug pool
- Kolaportið flea market
Explore Beyond
Day Trips from Reykjavík
Iceland's greatest highlights — all reachable in a day
Aurora Borealis
Best Northern Lights Spots Near Reykjavík
Escape the city lights — the aurora is just minutes away
Grótta Lighthouse
📍 10 min from centre
The closest dark-sky spot. Beautiful with reflections on the shore.
Öskjuhlíð Hill
📍 5 min from centre
Perlan observatory area — elevated views over the city and sea.
Seltjarnarnes Peninsula
📍 15 min drive
Open peninsula with 180° sea views and little light pollution.
Reykjanes Peninsula
📍 40 min drive
Dark, dramatic lava landscapes — combine with Blue Lagoon visit.
Þingvellir National Park
📍 50 min drive
UNESCO site with stunning stargazing and aurora conditions.
Mount Esja
📍 20 min drive
Photography
Best Photo Spots in Reykjavík
Instagram-worthy locations — from iconic to undiscovered
Hallgrímskirkja
Climb the tower for 360° city views
Harpa Concert Hall
Geometric glass facade at sunset
Sun Voyager
Best at blue hour with Esja behind
Rainbow Street
Painted crosswalk on Skólavörðustígur
Old Harbour
Colourful fishing boats and Esja mountain
Grótta Lighthouse
Arctic terns in summer, aurora in winter
Climate
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Iceland's weather is famously unpredictable — here is what to expect
Spring
Mar – May
2–8°C
Longer days return, snow is rare in the city. Fewer tourists. Good for hiking.
Best for: Budget travelSummer
Jun – Aug
10–15°C
Midnight sun, warmest weather, all attractions open, very busy. Book ahead.
Best for: Midnight sunAutumn
Sep – Nov
3–9°C
Northern Lights season begins. Waterfalls at peak flow. Dramatic colours.
Best for: Northern LightsWinter
Dec – Feb
0–4°C
Long dark nights perfect for aurora hunting. Ice caves open. Cozy city vibe.
Best for: Ice caves & auroraEssentials
Travel Tips for Reykjavík
Practical advice from experienced Iceland travellers
💳 Money & Payments
Cards accepted everywhere — even for small purchases. ISK is the currency but euros are widely accepted. Avoid exchanging money at the airport.
🅿️ Parking in Reykjavík
Paid parking zones (P1–P4) cover the city centre. Use the EasyPark app. Free parking is available at Laugardalur park and outer suburbs.
🚌 Public Transport
Strætó buses cover all city districts. Download the Strætó app for real-time schedules and mobile tickets. Night buses run on weekends.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything travellers ask about visiting Reykjavík
How many days do you need in Reykjavík?+
Most visitors spend 2–3 days exploring Reykjavík before heading out on day trips or around the Ring Road. The city is compact and walkable, so 2 full days cover the top attractions.
Is Reykjavík expensive?+
Yes — Iceland's capital is one of Europe's pricier cities. Budget around €60–100/day for accommodation, food and activities. Eating at lunch restaurants (set menus) and using thermal pools instead of spas saves significant money.
What is the best time to visit Reykjavík?+
June–August offer the midnight sun and warmest weather (10–15°C). September–March is best for Northern Lights. The city is lively year-round — there is no truly bad season.
Can you walk around Reykjavík?
Also plan ahead
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