Reykjavík
Reykjavík is a small, walkable capital of corrugated-iron houses, geothermal pools and a strong music scene, and almost every trip starts here. Two days covers the museums, the Hallgrímskirkja tower and a neighbourhood pool, which is where locals actually spend their evenings. It is also where rental cars and tours are picked up.
How long to stay
June to August for daylight; November to March for northern lights from just outside town.
Typical daily budget
No budget published for this place yet
Best time to go
No seasonal guidance published for Reykjavík yet
Is Reykjavík right for your trip?
Based on what this guide covers, not a score. This is what Reykjavík is known for.
Great for
- Food
- Solo
Less of a focus
- History & culture
- Nightlife
- Nature
- Family
- Couples
Build your Reykjavík trip
Top things to do
Hallgrímskirkja
Entrance ISK 1,400 · VerifiedReykjavík
The concrete basalt-column church above the centre, with a lift to a tower view over the coloured rooftops. Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, the church was inspired by the basalt columns found in Icelandic landscapes. It is one of the tallest buildings in Iceland, and its tower viewpoint looks over Reykjavík's colourful roofs.
Harpa Concert Hall
Free entry · Paid extras availableReykjavík
A glass honeycomb concert hall on the harbour, free to walk through and a landmark of the waterfront.
Sky Lagoon
Entrance fee under reviewReykjavík
A geothermal seawater lagoon on the coast just outside the city, with a seven-step bathing ritual.
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Popular activities
Golden Circle day tour
Þingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss in a single loop from the capital.
Northern lights hunt
Evening drive out of the city light dome between September and March.
Old Harbour whale watching
Boat trip into Faxaflói bay for minke whales, dolphins and puffins in season.