Planning a trip to Reykjavík is an exciting endeavor. I am convinced that Reykjavik is one of the most underrated cities in the Nordics. It is often a surprising highlight for people traveling to Iceland. Reykjavik is a vibrant capital city and serves as the perfect base for exploring Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes while still enjoying world-class culture, food, and geothermal relaxation. 

But with unpredictable weather, seasonal quirks, and endless adventure options, it can be hard to know where to start when planning a Reykjavik trip. 

That’s exactly why I curated this Reykjavik travel guide. I work as a trip leader & tour guide, visiting Reykjavik multiple times per year, so I am here to simplify every step of your planning process. Spend less time stressing over logistics and more time dreaming about waterfalls, hot springs, and Nordic charm.

From choosing when to visit to deciding how long to stay, organizing day trips, and picking the best local experiences, this guide brings together everything you need to design a truly unforgettable Reykjavík getaway. Whether you’re a first-timer hoping to hit the highlights or a returning traveler ready to dig deeper into Icelandic culture, you’ll find practical tips, expert insights, and honest recommendations woven throughout.

Ultimate Guide for Planning the Perfect Reykjavik Trip

Reykjavik Travel Logistics

Arrival & Departure

In case you’re not aware, Keflavik airport is farrrrr away from Reykjavik. Like an hour away. Thankfully, visitors have several transportation options from the airport to the city center. 

• Flybus: Most popular option. Direct shuttle service that runs from the airport to central Reykjavik. The Flybus departs from the airport approximately 35-40 minutes and stops at the BSÍ Bus Terminal in central Reykjavik, where you will then transfer to a local bus which can take you directly to your hotel. You can reserve tickets ahead of time, or buy it at their ticket stand after you get through immigration and baggage claim. 
• Public Bus: Another transportation option is the public bus, which is a cheaper alternative to the Flybus. The public bus, or Strætó, runs from the airport to central Reykjavik and stops at various transfer points along the way, including at the BSÍ Bus Terminal. Visitors can purchase tickets for the public bus at the airport or using the Strætó app.
• Car/Uber/Taxi: A final option is by car, either in a rental car or with a taxi. This is definitely the most expensive option, but it is also really convenient. If you are renting a car, all of the major rental car companies are available at Keflavik. For taxis, you should expect to pay ~100 euros. Try to share with someone else if you are traveling as a group. Taxis are readily available at the airport and can be hailed at the taxi stand outside the terminal.

Best Time to Visit Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a year-round destination, but your goals will determine the best time to visit. No matter when you go, pack layers because Reykjavik weather changes quickly!

• Summer (June–August) brings long daylight hours, lively festivals, and the best chance for warmer weather. 
• If you’re chasing the Northern Lights or love wintry landscapes, late November through March delivers dark skies and snow-covered scenery. Be aware that the weather can be unpredictable and daylight is limited. 
• Spring and autumn shoulder seasons offer lower prices and fewer crowds, with enough daylight for sightseeing and a good balance of activities. 

How Long to Stay in Reykjavik

Three to five days is a great amount of time for most visitors. This allows you time to explore the city’s colorful streets, museums, and food scene while still fitting in several unforgettable day trips into Iceland’s wild landscapes. Even with a short stopover of 24–48 hours, Reykjavik’s compact size makes it easy to experience a soak in a lagoon or a quick coastal tour before continuing your journey.

Getting Around in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a compact and walkable city, with most shops, restaurants, and sights located near the central harbor and downtown neighborhoods. Public buses (Strætó) cover routes across the city, while rideshare apps and taxis fill the gaps—though they can be pricey. 

Renting a car is the most flexible option if you plan to take day trips on your own. But a car is not necessarily if you're just exploring Reykjavik. Many travelers opt to skip driving entirely and book guided tours that include pickup from downtown hotels. The city also has a well-maintained coastal bike path and plenty of rental options for those who prefer to explore on two wheels.

Museums to Visit in Reykjavik

Perlan

The Perlan Museum is Iceland’s premier natural science and geology museum. It provides a TON of information about all the incredible natural wonders to see in Iceland. If you don’t know much about volcanoes, the Northern Lights or glaciers, this is the perfect place to learn. Plus, it is just a really well done museum with lots of interactive exhibits for all ages. 

Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of exhibits covering different natural phenomena and earth sciences. One of the highlights of the Perlan Museum is the glacier exhibit where you can go inside an actual ice cave. 

The museum also features a planetarium, where you can learn about aurora borealis and see incredible videos of them occurring in Iceland. Located on top of a hill with panoramic views of Reykjavik, make sure you go outside on the viewing platform for excellent 360 degree views. 

Maritime Museum

Located in the harbor, the Reykjavik Maritime Museum traces the history of Iceland's maritime culture. The museum features a number of exhibits that cover the country's long history of fishing and seafaring, including a replica of an old Icelandic fishing vessel. It is a small museum, so you can easily wander through in an hour or two.

Icelandic Phallological Museum

Perhaps the strangest museum in Reykjavik is the Icelandic Phallological Museum, also called the Penis Museum. With an extensive collection of preserved animal genitalia, ranging from the small and discreet to the large and impressive, the Penis museum is certainly an unforgettable experience. The collection includes specimens from a variety of animals, including whales, seals, horses and bulls. Next to all of the genitalia, you can read educational materials about the biology, evolution, reproductive systems and functions of animal genitalia. It’s weird, but will give you a good story to tell people back home. 

Iconic Sightseeing in Reykjavik

Hallgrímskirkja

Reykjavik’s most recognizable building is Hallgrímskirkja church. Standing at 244 feet tall, this church is the tallest building in Iceland. With its distinctive modernist design and towering spire, the architecture is reminiscent of some of Iceland’s unique rock formations. The cylindrical cement columns remind me of the Sea Stacks at Reynisfjara Black Beach or Svartifoss waterfall. 

It is free to enter the church. With a beautiful organ and intricate stained-glass windows, the minimalist theme continues inside. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for a small fee, and are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Reykjavik. You can go behind the scenes of my experience at Hallgrimskirkja on my TikTok video about it. 

Harpa

One of the standout attractions on the waterfront area is the Harpa. You’ll know as soon as you see it, because this stunning concert and conference venue is beautiful. Known for its striking architecture, the Harpa has a glass and steel exterior which is lit up in different colors at night. Inside, black concrete and tile glass panels create optical illusions from all angles. This is a cool place to snap artistic photography. 

Sun Voyager

Another notable attraction in the harbor area is the Sun Voyager, a sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason. The Sun Voyager is a symbolic representation of the journey of discovery, which the original vikings did when they discovered and then colonized the island of Iceland. It is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy the views of the harbor.

Rainbow Road

From Hallgrímskirkja, it is a short 10 minute walk to the Rainbow road. One of Reykjavik’s most Instagrammable spots, the Rainbow Road is a colorful street that, quite literally, has a rainbow painted down the middle. In a tribute to LGBTQI+ people, the whole street has brightly painted houses and a lively atmosphere. It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll. You’ll discover beautiful street art, cozy cafes, and cool boutiques offering hand knit sweaters and Icelandic souvenirs.

Reykjavik Street Art

This might come as a surprise, but Reykjavik is one of the coolest cities in the Nordics for street art! Street art is thriving in Reykjavík like never before. Hunting for street art is one of my passions when I travel to new cities. I find it is an dynamic way to get a feeling for a place. What are the current topics people are interested in? Is there a consensus on political attitudes? What styles are resonating with locals? All of these questions can be answered through the colorful patchwork of street art! I shared 15 of my favorite street art murals in Reykjavik, including titles, locations and artist information, in a separate street art blog post.

Unique Things to Do in Reykjavik

Mink Viking Portraits

A quirky stop to add to your days in Reykjavik is the Mink Viking Portrait. Step into a studio filled with fur cloaks, battle-worn shields, and gleaming axes. Professional photographers will style you as a fierce Norse warrior. They apply detailed costumes, striking lighting, and dramatic posing that transforms you from modern-day tourist into a character straight out of the Sagas. The final portraits are surprisingly cinematic, perfect for Instagram or a unique souvenir that captures Iceland’s Viking heritage.

FlyOver Iceland

Located in the Grandi Harbour district, FlyOver Iceland is an immersive flight-simulation experience that lets you “soar” over Iceland’s glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastlines. Suspended in a moving seat with your feet dangling, you “fly over” iconic landscapes while a wrap-around screen gives a bird’s-eye view of the country. I tried this immersive experience on my last visit, and it’s a little cheesy; but you’ll see corners of Iceland that aren’t normally accessible to travelers. You can buy a combination ticket with the Perlan.  

Lava Show

I’m not going to lie, I had low expectations for the Lava Show in Iceland. I thought it was going to be super gimmicky and family oriented, so I put it off for a few years. But I finally tried it out in March 2025, and I was shocked by how much I enjoyed the Lava Show in Reykjavik. Go behind the scenes on TikTok to see what my experience was like. Where else in the world can you watch real, molten lava flow just a few feet away? 

The Reykjavík Lava Show is one of the city’s most unexpected attractions. Using natural basaltic lava from the Katla Volcano, the lava is heated to over 1000°C and brought into the showroom. I would describe the lava show more like a really engaging science lesson than an eruption recreation. The expert explains how Iceland’s fiery geology is constantly shaping the landscape, shares interesting science about lava, and describes all the cool facts about volcanoes. 

Lagoons & Wellness Activities in Reykjavik

Blue Lagoon

Perhaps the most iconic lagoon IN THE WORLD, nearly everyone knows about the Blue Lagoon outside of Reykjavik. The milky-blue waters have gone mega viral, and it is one of the country’s most iconic attractions. As a spa & wellness girlie myself, I have visited the Blue Lagoon twice. And I’m going to be brutally honest – the Blue Lagoon is not my favorite spa experience I’ve ever had. It doesn’t even break the top 10.

I go into the truth behind visiting the Blue Lagoon in a separate blog post, if you want the full story and explanation as to why I don’t particularly like the Blue Lagoon. 

But I can understand why a first time visitor to Iceland probably has the Blue Lagoon on their bucketlist. Located just 20 minutes from the Keflavík Airport, I would recommend visiting the Blue Lagoon on your way into or out of the country. There are convenient shuttle bus options to the lagoon, and it slots perfectly into your itinerary as a pre-flight or post-flight relaxation.

Sky Lagoon

While I may trash talk the Blue Lagoon a bit, I don’t have a single negative thing to say about Sky Lagoon. In my humble opinion, Sky Lagoon is leaps and bounds better. Located just 15 minutes away from Reykjavik city center by car, this luxurious spa has an outdoor lagoon with an infinity edge overlooking the ocean. It is SO beautiful. Plus, the water is clear and less harsh than at Blue Lagoon. 

Go behind the scenes of my experience at Sky Lagoon on my TikTok video all about it.

The lagoon is fed by the nearby geothermal springs which heat the water to a comfortable temperature. It is the perfect place to relax regardless of the season. Sauna culture is an important part of Icelandic life, and with the Pure Pass at Sky Lagoon, you’ll have access to the 7 step sauna ritual. You can learn about and experience the various steps of this ritual, including a cold plunge, dry sauna, salt scrub, and steam sauna. 

Public Swimming Pools

If you want to experience daily Icelandic life like a local, there’s no better place than one of Reykjavík’s geothermal public pools. These aren’t simple lap pools. They’re an essential part of Icelandic culture, where friends gather, families splash around, and neighbors catch up on the day’s news. Heated naturally by geothermal energy, the water stays warm and inviting even in the middle of winter. Be sure to follow the local etiquette of showering thoroughly before entering the water. It’s strictly enforced.

Reykjavík has more than a dozen pools scattered around the city, but a few stand out for travelers. 

• Laugardalslaug: largest and most famous, this pool offers multiple hot tubs, a seawater pool, and a giant waterslide. 
• Sundhöll Reykjavíkur: Closer to downtown, this is the city’s oldest indoor pool. A beautifully restored 1930s gem with modern rooftop hot tubs perfect for a night soak under the stars.
• Vesturbæjarlaug: cozy, community feel and is a favorite among locals for its laid-back vibe. 

Best Shopping in Reykjavik

This might come as a surprise, but I think Reykjavik has some of the best shopping in the Nordics. I am convinced that Reykjavik’s shopping scene is one of the best-kept secrets about Iceland. Reykjavik’s boutique shopping scene is a treasure trove of creativity, blending heritage crafts with contemporary design. Icelandic designers frequently operate their own shops, creating a unique shopping experience where you can connect with the makers themselves. Check out my comprehensive Reykjavik shopping guide to discover all my favorite stores in Reykjavik.

Day Trips from Reykjavik

If you only have a few days in Iceland, Reykjavik is a great base for exploring. There are a wonderful number of day trips from Reykjavik that show off some of Iceland’s best natural scenery without the hassle of driving or changing hotels. I have curated my favorite Reykjavik day trips in a separate blog post. Whether you crave the soothing warmth of hot springs, the thrill of spotting whales or the northern lights, or the surreal sensation of floating between tectonic plates, there’s a Reykjavik day trip for every mood and every kind of explorer. 

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Reykjavik offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. If you're looking for more upscale options, the neighborhoods of Vesturbær and Grófin are home to a number of luxury hotels and high-end apartments. The city center also has a good selection of boutique hotels and guesthouses for a more intimate and personalized experience.

• Hotel Fron ($$): With an unbeatable location in the middle of Reykjavik's main pedestrian street, this is an affordable option with simple amenities and an included breakfast.
• Skuggi Hotel ($$): Just off the main shopping street. Staff is so hospitable!
• Grandi by Center Hotels ($$$): Slightly off the main tourist drag, but rooms are modern and cozy.
• Sand Hotel by Keahotels ($$$): This 78-room boutique hotel has relaxed atmosphere yet timeless design. Plus, you can wake up next to Sandholt Bakery, one of my favorite spots in town for a morning treat.
• Reykjavik EDITION ($$$$): For a splurge that you won't regret, consider a stay at this 5-year spa & hotel near the Harpa. Recently built, the design is impeccable, setting a standard of modern luxury. It is a Marriott hotel, so you can use points to stay (like I did!)

Where to Eat in Reykjavik

It may be surprising to learn that Reykjavik is home to a thriving food scene that offers something for even the foodiest travelers. From traditional Icelandic dishes made with fresh, local ingredients to international flavors and fusion cuisine, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty meal, a quick bite, or a fancy dining experience, you'll find something to suit your taste in Reykjavik. Because I have a lot of food and restaurant suggestions, I wrote a separate blog post all about my favorite eateries in Reykjavik. It will give you a taste of the many culinary delights that the city has to offer.

Have thoughts or questions about Reykjavik? Tell me in the comments!