Visiting Reykjavik

How much time should you dedicate to visiting Reykjavik?

View from Hallgrímskirkja - Pixabay

You can stay 3 days as easily as skip it altogether. If you hate cities, it's unlikely that Reykjavik will change your mind even though it's a "small capital" with a certain charm. Activities are similar to visiting most capitals: museums, parks, downtown, restaurants/bars, monuments and walks. Still, we recommend dedicating at least half a day to gently start/end your trip. For others, we suggest staying just one day to devote more time to the rest of the island.

Good deal

The Reykjavík City Card offers free access to major museums, pools and many discounts. Valid for 24 hours, 3900 ISK. Admission to 4 municipal museums. There is also a 48-hour and 72-hour version. buy the card.

• Admission to Museum and National Gallery

• Admission to 4 municipal galleries

• Access to ferry to Viðey Island

• Admission to Reykjavik Zoo

• Access to 7 geothermal pools in Reykjavik

• Access to bus network

• Discount on tickets for 12 independent activities and museums

• Discounts at 12 restaurants downtown

• Discounts at 2 craft shops

• Discounts on excursions from 6 different operators

• Discounts on admission to 7 pools in suburbs

Downtown Reykjavik

120,000 inhabitants. Reykjavik is a small metropolis on a human scale. Its modest size compared to other capitals gives it an advantage: everything is concentrated in a small area identified by postal code 101 (Reykjavik Downtown): Reykjavik can be visited on foot.

Downtown Reykjavik Map

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Located in downtown Reykjavík, at the top of one of its prettiest and most popular shopping streets, it is somewhat the symbol of Reykjavik. Built between 1945 and 1986, its atypical architecture reminds of the cliffs of Vik or the basalt waterfall of Svitofoss. Indeed its architectural ornaments are designed to imitate the natural characteristics of Iceland, such as glaciers and basalt columns. You can visit the interior of the church for free where you can see its enormous pipe organ composed of more than 5000 pipes. Climb to the top via an elevator to admire the panoramic view of the capital.

Old Harbor of Reykjavik

Built between 1913 and 1917, it has recently been transformed into an activity zone. You will find the Maritime Museum and some of the best cafes and restaurants in the city. Starting point for boat excursions for whale and puffin watching, the old harbor is a must-see. The sculpture of the Sun Voyager is about ten minutes walk away.

Austurvöllur Park

No matter the weather, Icelanders gather in Austurvöllur Park opposite the parliament before going to explore the lively Laugavegur street. Trendy cafes, restaurants, bars and shops are located around this street. Go there during happy hours. Besides toasting with the locals, you might witness impromptu concerts.

The Museums

Just a few steps from the center, the Reykjavík Art Museum and the National Gallery showcase works by Icelandic artists. Check opening days before planning a visit.

National Museum of Iceland

If there's one museum to see, it's the National Museum. The history of Iceland, from the settlement of the Vikings to today, is remarkably explained there. The National Museum of Iceland has the largest collection of artifacts and archaeological remains from the colonization period to the present day. It's the best museum to give you the clearest overall vision of Icelandic history and, as it is organized chronologically, you literally have the opportunity to travel through time.

Harpa Concert Hall

For lovers of architecture and photography, Harpa Concert Hall is a must-visit. Opened in 2011, it houses the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera. Many concerts and conferences are also held there. Its glass facade was designed by artist Ólafur Elíasson in collaboration with architect Henning Larsen. Harpa has won numerous awards for its design feats. Feel free to go inside to take photos, admission is free.

The Höfði House

The Höfði House hosted a summit in 1986 between American President Ronald Reagan and Russian representative Mikhail Gorbachev. This meeting marked the end of the Cold War between the two superpowers.

Tjörnin Pond

Facing the Town Hall, Tjörnin Pond extends with its colorful houses dating from the last two centuries. The pond is also home to a large number of bird species year-round. In winter, come and admire the locals skating on the frozen pond.

Nightlife

Reykjavik is popular for its nightlife music scene. Nightclubs start to fill up around one in the morning but festivities last all night.

The Sun Voyager

The Sun Voyager is located on the city's waterfront, close to the Harpa concert hall. Created by Jón Gunnar Árnason, The Sun Voyager is a steel sculpture representing a ship facing Faxaflói, the bay surrounding Reykjavík. Without a doubt the most famous work of art, the Sun Voyager is with the Hallgrímskirkja church the symbol of Reykjavik.

Surroundings of Reykjavik

Imagine Peace Tower - Pixabay

Perlan

Perched on five hot water reservoirs at the top of the capital's highest hill, Perlan and its rotating dome overlook Reykjavik. The site regularly hosts exhibitions and has a cafe and restaurant with breathtaking views of the city. The ticket price includes access to Iceland's only planetarium, where you are guaranteed to see the Northern Lights, as well as access to all nature exhibitions, including the exploration of ice caves and glaciers, which includes the world's first indoor ice cave.

Geothermal Pools

Less impressive than the Blue Lagoon but more authentic, outdoor geothermal pools are part of Icelandic culture. In the "pool" section you will find a list of pools: visitreykjavik.is

Videy Island

Visible from Reykjavik, Videy Island is accessible by ferry. If you want to spend an afternoon in peace outside the city, this is the ideal place. Videy is known for its Imagine Peace Tower, a work created by Yoko Ono for her late husband John Lennon. A beam illuminates the sky every evening: - between October 9 and December 8 - between December 21 and December 31 - spring equinox (March 20 or 21)

Seltjarnarnes Lighthouse

In the municipality of Seltjarnarnes west of Reykjavik, there is a lighthouse and old buildings hosting exhibitions on Viking culture.

Mount Esja

Mount Esja, 45 minutes drive from the capital, is a popular destination for those who want to stretch their legs without going too far.

Visiting Reykjavik

How much time should you dedicate to visiting Reykjavik?

Good deal

Downtown Reykjavik

Surroundings of Reykjavik

Did this guide help you?

Share this guide

You might also be interested in...