If you’re wondering which city to visit in Iceland, consider Reykjavik. When people travel to Iceland, they often overlook Reykjavik’s beauty and rich offerings and simply use it as a base for the rest of their Icelandic travel. But Reykjavik has a lot to offer on its own. It has breathtaking waterfalls, dramatic mountains, surreal beaches, and more.
While visiting Reykjavik, there are plenty of exciting things to do and see. You could visit Hallgrimskirkja Church, a majestic architectural feat that took 40 years to build and dominates the city’s subdued skyline. Reykjavik is home to several intriguing museums, including Aurora Reykjavik, a science museum dedicated to the Northern Lights, and the Saga Museum, where Icelandic history comes to life.
In addition to its mix of historic and modern architecture, Reykjavik is a vibrant gastronomic destination. Visitors can indulge in unique Icelandic cuisine at a variety of world-class restaurants. Dill, the first Icelandic restaurant to receive a Michelin star, and ÓX, another Michelin-starred establishment, offer exceptional dining experiences.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, The Food Cellar (Matarkjallarinn) is a lounge bar set in a 160-year-old building, where live music accompanies dishes made with Icelandic ingredients. The Grill Market is renowned for its high-quality meats sourced directly from Icelandic farmers, ensuring the freshest local flavors. The Fish Market (Fiskmarkaðurinn) and Kopar Restaurant specialize in exquisite Icelandic seafood. For a taste of traditional Icelandic fare in a casual setting, Reykjavík Street Food offers fast-food versions of local dishes. As the cultural hub of Iceland, Reykjavik offers a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that promise an unforgettable experience.
→ Contact me to help you plan your trip to Iceland and book your stay with PERKS!
Already know where you want to go? Looking to make your own hotel booking?
As a Virtuoso partner, you can receive exclusive perks and amenities using my booking tool.
The Golden Circle offers the opportunity to experience the most iconic things to do in Iceland in one easy day trip. The Golden Circle is the most famous route to discover the island’s raw beauty, including the Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs, and Gullfoss Waterfall. You will also visit the otherworldly Kerid Volcanic Crater, ending the day with a blissful bath inside the Blue Lagoon geothermal springs.
Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket and Kerid Volcanic Crater – BOOK HERE
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience, exploring a Volcanic Cave in Iceland, where you’ll journey to the bottom of the earth. You will descend into the Thrihnukagigur Volcano, the only place in the world where you get to visit a lava chamber. This tour offers a rare opportunity to explore the interior of a dormant volcano and view stunning geological formations and remnants of ancient eruptions frozen in time. You will begin with a moderate hike with breathtaking scenery, around two miles, to reach the entrance before descending 400 feet in a cable lift.
Thrihnukagigur Volcano Guided Hiking Day Trip – Inside The Volcano – BOOK HERE!
This is a unique chance to immerse yourself in the best of the Reykjavik food scene, including several delicacies that can only be found here such as the Icelandic hot dog (Pylsur), Fermented Shark (Hákarl), Icelandic yogurt (Skyr), and chocolate-covered cinnamon rolls (Snúður). Sampling the unique Icelandic cuisine, you will visit several top restaurants and food points within the capital. Along the walking food tour, you can also stop and admire a few of the best landmarks of Reykjavik.
Reykjavik Food Walk – Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland – BOOK HERE!
If you travel to Iceland, there is one thing you absolutely shouldn’t miss: the unforgettable spectacle of the Northern Lights. Some of the best spots to witness this magnificent show are just a few hours from Reykjavik, and you can join a tour that will take you to the most suitable location, depending on the weather and other factors. As only locals know the best destinations and conditions for the Northern Lights, there is a high chance that you will get to experience it and gain lifelong memories.
#1 Northern Lights Tour In Iceland from Reykjavik with PRO photos – BOOK HERE!
There are so many things to do in Iceland that can’t be done anywhere else. The Snorkeling Tour to Silfra is one of them. Silfra is the only place in the world where you can swim between two tectonic plates! It is the place where the Eurasian and North American plates meet. Diving into the crystal clear glacial waters, you get an eerie feeling of experiencing something unique. Located just an hour from Reykjavik, inside the Thingvellir National Park, you will have to make your way to this activity, where the professional guides will give you all the information and snorkeling equipment needed.
Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates – meet on location – BOOK HERE!
Another highlight of any visit to Iceland is the rare chance to watch the giants of the sea, the gentle whales in their natural habitats. A three-hour classic cruise from Reykjavik will take you along the coast to the best whale-watching spots, with high chances for sightings, especially during summer. Along the way, you may also see dolphins or rare sea birds, all while learning more about the ocean and the creatures that visit the coast of Iceland.
The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik – BOOK HERE!
One of Iceland’s most popular destinations and one of the most crowded, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect place to relax and immerse yourself in the island’s spirit. With this activity, you can pre-book an entry ticket and ensure you experience the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket with Optional Private or Shared Transfer – BOOK HERE!
Discover a constantly changing land where the forces of nature are more visible than anywhere else. Following a recent volcanic eruption close to Reykjavik, the most adventurous travelers can now see this unique landscape from the air. You can book a ticket on a short helicopter ride from Reykjavik to the Litli Hrutur Volcano, where you can be in awe of breathtaking and surreal scenery.
From Reykjavik: New Volcanic Area Helicopter Tour – BOOK HERE!
It ultimately depends on what you want to see and do while visiting the capital of Iceland, as each season has its own highlights. The best weather can certainly be enjoyed during the summer (June – September) when the days are longer and you can experience most activities. Summer is also the most crowded period for Reykjavik and there are also some advantages to experiencing Iceland’s winter wonderland of Iceland (the Northern Lights are better in winter).
There are a few ways to get around Reykjavik, beginning with the excellent public transport that can get you anywhere you need to go. The city center is relatively compact, making it easy to explore on foot. For day trips or destinations close to the city, you can rent a car or join an organized tour that offers transportation.
Although Reykjavik is one of the safest cities in the world, standard safety precautions should be applied to all travel destinations. You should also respect the local culture and nature, as Icelandic people are proud of their heritage. When venturing outside the capital, don’t stray off the roads or marked trails, following all the specific regulations for each site.
What you pack for your Reykjavik trip depends on when you travel to Iceland. But, as a general rule, bring warm and waterproof clothes. It is colder than many other places on Earth, and the weather can change quickly, especially in spring or autumn. Another necessary item is a good pair of hiking boots, especially if you plan to join an outdoor tour or visit the wilderness outside of Reykjavik.
Check out my favorite travel essentials here!
Stay warm (and look cute)!
Ready to plan your adventure to Reykjavik? Adventures by Sky will take care of everything!
Follow My Adventures on Social Media Where the Inspiration Never Ends