Things To Do In Reykjavik

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Things To Do In Reykjavik

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1. Northern Lights

Northern Lights
4.5 /5

6 km
from city center
1 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Views of the Aurora Borealis is one important thing to check out from your bucket list during you visit to Reykjavik. On clear nights you can see the most amazing views of the northern lights dancing in the sky. This can be seen between the months of September and April.

2. Golden Circle

Golden Circle
4.3 /5

1 km
from city center
2 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Golden Circle is a trip around the city exploring the area's geology. There are three primary stops that you can see while on this route Pingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the Haukadalur geothermal field. There are a few minor stops as well, and covers about 300 Km.

3. Hallgrimskirkja

Hallgrimskirkja
3.6 /5

6 km
from city center
3 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Popularly known as the biggest church in Iceland and one of the tallest structures in the country, Hallgrimskirkja is an Evangelical-Lutheran national church located in Reykjavík. The most visited tourist destination in Iceland, 244-foot tall Hallgrimskirkja is famous for its unique curved spire and side wings.

4. Harpa

Harpa
3.4 /5

6 km
from city center
4 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

One of the most stunning architectural structures in the city, The Harpa Reykjavic Concert Hall is a popular tourist attraction and is located at the old harbour. Its aesthetic appeal aside, it is also the performance location for popular artists' concerts, operas, etc.

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5. Sun Voyager

Sun Voyager
4.6 /5

6 km
from city center
5 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Sun Voyager is considered one of the most remarkable sculptures located by the sea. The sculpture is composed entirely of steel and is reflective. Its shape resembles a boat or Viking ship, which was the sculptor's intention. Since it is right by the sea, it is scenic to look at and photograph.

6. Lake Tjornin

Lake Tjornin
4.5 /5

7 km
from city center
6 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Tjornin is a lake or pond in the middle of Reykjavik, the capital city. Tourists often photograph and frequent the lake due to its natural beauty. With the thousands of birds that swim in the lake, feeding the birds is an activity both tourists and locals enjoy thoroughly.

7. Icelandic Horse Riding

Icelandic Horse Riding
4.2 /5

5 km
from city center
7 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Icelandic Horse Riding is a unique and memorable experience that takes you on a breathtaking journey through the landscapes and untouched nature of Iceland. These horses have a distinct breed with unique gaits. Several tours for exploring lava caves or beaches on horse-back are available online.

8. Puffin Express Cruise

Puffin Express Cruise
3.8 /5

7 km
from city center
8 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

If you love bird-watching and adventure, taking a Puffin Express Cruise to the rocky islands of Lundey and Akurey near Reykjavik should definitely be on your itinerary. Just a short 15-minute boat ride from Reykjavik's Old Harbour, the islands have small hills and slopes and are famous for their colourful puffin birds.

9. Reykjanes Peninsula

Reykjanes Peninsula
3.8 /5

55 km
from city center
9 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Reykjanes Peninsula running along the Mid-Atlantic Rift in the southwest corner of Iceland is full of amazing and breathtaking landscapes. The land in the region with different formations emerging from the moss-covered lava fields makes it a truly unique destination.

10. Join a Whale Watching Cruise

Join a Whale Watching Cruise
3.7 /5

7 km
from city center
10 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Whale watching is an experience you should not miss out on, especially if you are visiting Reykjavik during April and September. With up to 24 different species of whales swimming around the island and tour operators offering boat tours all over the country, you have plenty of options.

11. Take a Spa at Blue Lagoon

Take a Spa at Blue Lagoon
3.7 /5

2 km
from city center
11 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

One of the loved destinations in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon offers a refreshing and unique spa experience. This geothermal hot spring, just a thirty-minute drive away from Reykjavik, has an outdoor lagoon surrounded by a lava field where you can immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich, milky-blue waters.

12. Bessastadir

Bessastadir
3.6 /5

9 km
from city center
12 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Bessastadir, located in Alftanes near Reykjavik, is the official residence of the President of Iceland. If you have extra time during your visit to or from Reykjavik, you can add a visit to this modest group of white buildings with red roofs to your itinerary. There is a church nearby that can be combined with this visit.

13. Reykjavik 871 Settlement Exhibition

Reykjavik 871 Settlement Exhibition
3.5 /5

6 km
from city center
13 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Settlement Exhibition in Reykjavik is located at Borgarnes. It is an exhibition to discover the earliest settlement in Iceland. The exhibition utilizes physical and virtual art to help tourists witness the country's history—a perfect place for history buffs.

14. National Museum

National Museum
4.5 /5

7 km
from city center
14 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The National Museum of Iceland gives an overview of Iceland's history through its diverse displays. Located near lake Tjornin, the most famous display would be the Valþjófsstaður Door, a door from medieval times. It is a historically significant piece representing the Lion-Knight story.

15. Aurora Reykjavik

Aurora Reykjavik
4.4 /5

8 km
from city center
15 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Aurora Reykjavik is a museum and exhibition, located in Grandagarður. Tourists best know it for its collection of displays and art about The Northern Lights. The tourists can get an up-close view of multiple displays capturing the breathtaking beauty of this natural phenomenon.

16. Icelandic Phallological Museum

Icelandic Phallological Museum
3.4 /5

5 km
from city center
16 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

A quirky attraction in Reykjavik is this museum hosts phalluses from all kinds of species. The Icelandic Phallological Museum in the capital city boasts its massive collection of penises. It gets its name from the study of penises, i.e., phallology, and showcases penis and penile areas.

17. i8

i8
3.3 /5

7 km
from city center
17 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

While Iceland is widely renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, the i8 Gallery in Reykjavik offers an escape into the artistic realm of exceptional works from both local and international artists. With one of the best art galleries in the Nordic region, i8 houses a dynamic fusion of Icelandic and international contemporary artists.

18. Old Reykjavik

Old Reykjavik
3.3 /5

7 km
from city center
18 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The historical heart of Iceland, Old Reykjavik, is ideal for tourists looking for an escape into charming narrow streets and colourful wooden houses that reflect the city's rich cultural heritage. Located along the southern shore of Faxaflói Bay, it is known for its distinct architectural style.

19. Arbaer Open Air Museum

Arbaer Open Air Museum
4.6 /5

6 km
from city center
19 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Preserving the historical farms of Iceland, the Arbaer Open Air Museum sits in Arbaer, a historical town hardly a drive away from the capital city. The museum is in a vast, town-like space, including many houses and farmhouses. The motive was to capture the early settlements in Reykjavik.

20. Laugardalslaug

Laugardalslaug
4.6 /5

4 km
from city center
20 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Laugardalslaug is the largest public thermal bath in Iceland, located in Laugardalur, Reykjavik. The structure has an outdoor pool, indoor pool, play pool, seawater pool, paddling pool, hot tubs, and a steam bath. It is popular among locals and tourists as a fun place to enjoy swimming.

21. Einar Jonsson Museum

Einar Jonsson Museum
4.7 /5

6 km
from city center
21 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

A museum dedicated to the first sculptor in Iceland, the Einar Jonsson Museum is small but picturesque. It is in the city centre and has a main museum compound with a sculpture garden. Art enthusiasts love visiting the museum to witness the work of the first sculptor in Iceland.

22. Videy Island

Videy Island
4.5 /5

5 km
from city center
22 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Videy Island is situated close to the capital city, full of natural and human-made creations to admire. The island mainly features a hiking trail for visitors to walk through. The sculptures like the Imagine Peace Tower make the island popular among tourists.

23. Grotta Lighthouse

Grotta Lighthouse
4.6 /5

11 km
from city center
23 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Grotta Lighthouse is a popular tourist spot located atop the island with the same name, located northwest of Reykjavik. The lighthouse is famous due to the view of the Northern Lights from here. The Northern Light viewing from the lighthouse is possible as it is farther from the city.

24. Saga Museum

Saga Museum
4.2 /5

7 km
from city center
24 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Saga Museum captures the highlights from the "Saga Age," a period between the 9th and 16th Centuries in Iceland. The museum has exhibitions and artefacts highlighting the people's lives during the period. The highlight of the museum is the audio tour featuring silicone sculptures.

25. The Icelandic Punk Museum

The Icelandic Punk Museum
4.5 /5

6 km
from city center
25 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Icelandic Punk Museum is one of the quirkiest yet tourist-loved museums in Reykjavik. The museum displays the country's punk music and cultural history. In addition, the museum captures the essence of a punk wave that swept over Iceland near the 1980s.

26. Reykjavik Maritime Museum

Reykjavik Maritime Museum
4.3 /5

7 km
from city center
26 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Placed near the Old Harbor in Reykjavik is the Reykjavik Maritime Museum. This tourist spot has an admirable collection of photos, sculptures, and artefacts related to natural and human maritime activities. In the museum, the visitors can access seven exhibitions and seven halls.

27. The Statue of Leif Eiriksson

The Statue of Leif Eiriksson
4.0 /5

6 km
from city center
27 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Statue of Leif Eiriksson is in front of the Hallgrímskirkja church, close to the city centre. It is a point of interest for tourists that visit the church. The statue was a gift from the US government to Iceland, commemorating its parliament's 1000th anniversary.

28. Geothermal Area Krysuvik

Geothermal Area Krysuvik
4.6 /5

28 km
from city center
28 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Krysuvik is considered one of the most-visitor-friendly geothermal areas in Iceland. The location includes vast geothermal fields, lakes, hot springs, mud, and steam vents. The visitors especially enjoy visiting the area due to the defined walkways made for them. Visitor are suggested not to touch water.

29. Whales of Iceland

Whales of Iceland
4.2 /5

7 km
from city center
29 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Also named the Largest Whale Exhibition in Europe, Whales of Iceland is a museum specializing in whales. Its exhibitions are dedicated to preserving and showcasing whale history and information. Iceland has its fair share of whales, the largest sea mammals in the world.

30. Reykjavik City Hall

Reykjavik City Hall
4.3 /5

7 km
from city center
30 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Reykjavik City Hall is a building that serves as a Mayor’s office and exhibition location. It is located in Tjarnargata. It is most well-known among tourists for its use as an exhibition and festival location. Another significant point of attraction in the hall is a 3D map of the country.

31. Hofdi House

Hofdi House
4.3 /5

5 km
from city center
31 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Hofdi House is a legendary building with amazing views and deep history. Visitors enjoy visiting and capturing the house in the photographs due to its aesthetic appeal. An ocean background is splayed behind the white house. The house was once politically significant.

32. Imagine Peace Tower

Imagine Peace Tower
4.2 /5

5 km
from city center
32 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Imagine Peace Tower is a structure located on Videy Island, close to Reykjavik. A tribute to John Lennon by Yoko Ono, the museum's visual appeal and story make it a popular tourist attraction. Yoko Ono is an artist and activist and is also the wife of the late John Lennon.

33. Laugavegur Hiking Trail

Laugavegur Hiking Trail

33 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Laugavegur is possibly Iceland's most popular hiking trail, especially among tourists. The trail captures all the best features of Iceland's natural landscapes. It also got featured in National Geographic as one of the twenty best hiking trails in the world. It is the best offbeat experience.

34. Kolaportid Flea Market

Kolaportid Flea Market
3.9 /5

6 km
from city center
34 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Kolaportid Flea Market comes to life in the old harbour area of Reykjavik. It is one of the most celebrated markets for locals and tourists, offering everyday items at a mind-blowing price. You can find clothes, jewellery, cutlery, decorations, and other everyday items in the market.

35. FlyOver Iceland

FlyOver Iceland
4.8 /5

7 km
from city center
35 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

FlyOver Iceland is one of the newer yet exhilarating attractions in Reykjavik. It features a massive wraparound screen paired with suspended seats to give the visitors a simulation of flying. The screen periodically switches between varying landscapes and showcases the natural beauty of Iceland.

36. Red Sands Beach

Red Sands Beach
Hidden Gem

36 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Red Sands Beach is located on the south coast of Westfjords in western Iceland. It one of a kind 10km long beach with surreal red sand which is unique to Iceland. The hues of sand change according to the weather or different lighting conditions from red to white or yellow and even black during the rainy season.

37. Walk Between Tectonic Plates

Walk Between Tectonic Plates
Instagram Worthy

37 km
from city center
37 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Iceland, the " land of fire and ice", is located in the middle of the North American and Eurasian plate. It stretches over 16000 kilometers and drifts away from each other every year. The position of Iceland is such from where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is visible on land in Pingvellir National Park.

38. Enjoy Glacier Hikes at Skaftafell Park

Enjoy Glacier Hikes at Skaftafell Park

38 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Skaftafell Park is located between Klaustur and Höfn in the south of Iceland. Skaftafell Park has an array of hiking trails and the vast campground has amenities for tents, folding camping trailers and camping vehicles.

39. Camping at Asbyrgi Canyon

Camping at Asbyrgi Canyon

39 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Asbyrgi is a glacial canyon and forest found to the north of Iceland. A certain part of the Diamond Circle is Asbyrgi Canyon. Apart from the usual sightseeing, one can even engage in different adventurous activities such as hiking and camping. It is home to camping grounds called Jökulsárgljúfur.

40. Dynjandi Waterfalls

Dynjandi Waterfalls

121 km
from city center
40 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Dynjandiis a waterfall situated in Arnarfjörður in the Westfjords region of Iceland. It is the largest waterfall in Westfjords. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful waterfalls thus it has acquired the title ‘The Jewel of Westfjords’. The picturesque view of the waterfall has garnered the attention of many tourists.

41. Hike the Glacier at Snaefellsjokull National Park

Hike the Glacier at Snaefellsjokull National Park

143 km
from city center
41 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Snaefellsjokull National Park is situated at the edge of Snaefellsnes in the western part of the country. One of the dominant features of this park is the Snaefellsjokull glacier which enhances the surroundings. Some of the things to do here are glacier hiking and birdwatching.

42. Djupalon Beach

Djupalon Beach

111 km
from city center
42 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Djupalon Beach is one of the most spectacular black lava pearl beaches in Iceland. It is an arched-shaped bay with peculiar rocks, extremely black sand, extraordinary coast rocks and black pebbles. Though it is well-known for its rock formations, one needs to be mindful of its raging waves.

43. Lake Myvatn Geothermal Area

Lake Myvatn Geothermal Area

43 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Lake Myvtain is a beautiful lake in Reykjavik, Iceland. Its surrounding area are often called Myvtan Geothermal Area. The lake and its surrounding wetlands are safeguarded as a natural reserve and are remarkably maintained by the locals. Birdwatching and cave hunting are two main activities to do here.

44. Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park
Instagram Worthy

40 km
from city center
44 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Situated in southwestern Iceland, about 40 kilometers east of Reykjavik is Thingvellir National Park, a perfect combination of nature, history, and geology. A UNESCO heritage site, it comprises magnificent waterfalls, woodlands, and lush greenery making it gram-worthy, especially during summers.

45. Try Glacier Hiking at Langjokull

Try Glacier Hiking at Langjokull
Hidden Gem

81 km
from city center
45 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Located in the western part of Iceland, Langjokull Glacier is the second-largest glacier in the whole country. It is an icy hidden gem of Iceland that every nature lover and adventurer should visit. The most popular activity offered here is snowmobiling and guided glacier hikes.

46. Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss Waterfall

85 km
from city center
46 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Located in the southwest of Iceland, Gullfoss Waterfall is a breathtaking waterfall that captivates visitors with its majestic beauty. Gullfoss Waterfall is a must-visit destination for all nature enthusiasts because of its mesmerizing natural beauty and thunderous cascades.

47. Ring Road Route

Ring Road Route

6 km
from city center
47 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Ring Road Route is an iconic road for the best adventure around the beautiful scenery of Iceland. This famous route spans approximately 1,332 kilometers and encircles the entire island, providing travelers with an unforgettable road trip experience. It covers some of the best attractions.

48. Leidarendi Lava Caves

Leidarendi Lava Caves
Hidden Gem

16 km
from city center
48 out of 48
Things To Do in Reykjavik

Leidarendi Lava Caves are two caves that offer an unforgettable experience for tourists seeking to explore the depths of Iceland's volcanic landscapes. Visitors are offered to explore these tunnels and discover more about the magnificent geological structures and lava formations.

FAQs on Reykjavik

What are the top hotels in Reykjavik?

There are 429 Hotels in Reykjavik which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Reykjavik are Laugavegur Penthouse Apartment, Vaktahouse, Private Grand Villa, Ocean View Luxury Apartment in Central Reykjavik, Greenkey Apartment M14, Hólmgarður 44. You can see all the hotels in Reykjavik here

What are the top activities in Reykjavik?

The top activities in Reykjavik are Golden Circle Tour and Kerid Crater Day Tour, Northern Lights Classic Bus Tour, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and South Coast Day Trip, South Coast and Glacier Hike Day Tour from Reykjavik , Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Full Day Bus Tour , Shared Bus Transfers between Reykjavik/Keflavik Airport (KEF) and Blue Lagoon.

What are the top sightseeing places in Reykjavik?

The top sightseeing places in Reykjavik are Northern Lights , Golden Circle , Vikings Horse Riding, Puffin Express Cruise, Reykjanes Peninsula, Blue Lagoon.

How can I commute within Reykjavik?

Walking in Reykjavik is highly recommended as a lot of tourist attractions are within walking distances. Cycling is also a popular means of getting around the city since Reykjavik has an excellent sidewalk and cycle-lane system that covers the entire city. City Walks Maps are available at Tourist Information Centres for reference. Reykjavik also operates an excellent public transportation system of buses called Straeto that cater to tourist places in and around the city as well as long-distances between 7 AM and 11 PM daily. The bus fare is ISK 350 and you are expected to tender exact change. If you need two buses to reach your destination you should ask the driver for a return ticket that is valid for 75 minutes. A good option for intra-city travel is to buy a Reykjavik City Card that is valid for 24, 36 or 72 hours of unlimited travel (prices range from ISK 3500 - 5500). A great thing about the City Card is that it allows you free entry to a lot of museums, galleries and all pools in Reykjavik. It also gives you a free ferry ride to Videy Island and discounts on other tours. If you plan to use rent a car to travel to visit nearby places expect that to cost ISK 5000 - 12000 per day for rental and fuel expenses depending upon the type of car.
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