I first visited Reykjavik in 2016 and instantly fell in love with its charm and natural beauty. Returning in 2024, I was excited to explore even more of this incredible city, especially during the winter and Christmas season. Iceland’s capital offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, geothermal lagoons, and a food scene that will leave you wanting more. And of course, there’s always the chance to witness the amazing Northern Lights dancing across the sky, a true bucket-list experience.
This time around, I was eager to discover all of Reykjaviks attractions. Here’s my ultimate guide to the top things to do in Reykjavik to help you experience its magic for yourself! From all the different geothermal pools you can visit depending on your budget, to watching a LIVE Lava Show, to stepping back in time at an open air museum, to visiting a hidden waterfall! Reykjavik is a destination that promises unforgettable moments.
I have also suggested how to spend 48 hours in Reykjavik, so you can make the most of your time in Iceland’s capital, and see the best attractions in Reykjavik. It’s the perfect weekend getaway in Europe. Don’t forget to grab the Reykjavik City Card, which offers free entry to major attractions, transportation, and discounts.
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Wander through Reykjavik’s compact and colourful city centre. It’s easy to walk around. However the Reykjavik City Card offers free public transport to make exploring even easier! Highlights include:
Skólavörðustígur: Rainbow Street
Hallgrímskirkja: Iconic church
Reykjavik Pond: A serene spot near City Hall, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Old Harbor: Visit cozy cafes like Röst or explore boutique shops.
Harpa Concert Hall: An architectural masterpiece on the waterfront.
Reykjavik is famous for its geothermal pools, which are among the top Reykjavik attractions, where you can soak in warm waters surrounded by stunning scenery. Sky Lagoon is the most famous, offering a luxurious experience, but it is located about 15 minutes outside of the town centre.
If you are looking for a geothermal pool in Reykjavik town centre (and you’re on a budget) I recommend Sundhöll Reykjavíkur. It is a more traditional pool with an authentic local vibe. Entrance is free with the Reykjavik City Card.
Set sail from Reykjavik’s harbour on an unforgettable whale watching tour with Elding. One of the best activities in Reykjavik. They have a sighting guarantee (or you can try again for free), so you have a high chance of being able to see something!
This excursion offers an incredible opportunity to witness Iceland’s marine life up close. During our tour, we were lucky enough to spot two humpback whales gracefully surfacing and diving! We also encountered playful dolphins swimming alongside the boat. The knowledgeable guides provided insights into the behaviour and habits of these marine animals, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.
Elding offer complimentary overalls to wear over your clothes, as an extra layer of warmth and protection against any water splashes!
Whale watching is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Reykjavik and a must for nature lovers visiting Iceland.
One of the top things to do in Reykjavik is to check out the only live Lava Show in the world!
The Lava Show in Reykjavik is a one-of-a-kind experience that lets you witness the raw power and beauty of molten lava up close. It’s not every day you get to see (and feel the heat of) lava flowing right before your eyes in a controlled environment!
During the show, real molten lava—heated to over 1,100°C—is poured into a special viewing area. Watching the bright, fiery substance move and flow is absolutely mesmerizing, and you’ll feel the intense heat radiating from it even at a safe distance. As the lava cools, you can observe how quickly it solidifies, forming new rock in mere moments—a process that typically takes days or weeks in nature.
The expert hosts share fascinating insights about Iceland’s volcanic activity, the geology behind lava formations, and how eruptions have shaped the country’s dramatic landscapes. This immersive and educational experience makes the Lava Show a must-see when exploring Reykjavik. It’s the perfect way to safely connect with the island’s volcanic heritage and witness nature’s incredible forces in action!
There are only 6 shows a day, at 10am, midday, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm and 8pm so make sure to plan and book accordingly.
Pair your visit to the Lava Show with an unforgettable ride at FlyOver Iceland, as these two top Reykjavik attractions are conveniently located right next to each other.
FlyOver Iceland offers a thrilling virtual flight that showcases Iceland’s stunningly diverse landscapes in an immersive way. From glaciers and volcanoes to black sand beaches and waterfalls, this aerial journey uses cutting-edge technology—complete with motion, wind, mist, and scents—to make you feel like you’re truly soaring.
In just a few minutes, you’ll experience the beauty and contrasts of Iceland’s rugged highlands, serene fjords, and geothermal wonders. Perfect for all ages, FlyOver Iceland is both entertaining and awe-inspiring, making it one of the top things to do in Reykjavik.
Þúfa (pronounced th-oo-fha), meaning “The Tussock,” is an impressive 8-meter-tall grassy mound created by Icelandic artist Ólöf Nordal in 2013. Built using 4,500 tons of gravel, it stands as one of Iceland’s largest artworks, and you can climb up it for free! Located in the Grandi area, Þúfa is conveniently close to popular attractions like FlyOver Iceland and the Lava Show. It’s one of the top things to see around Reykjavik town centre.
Hallgrímskirkja Church is an iconic landmark and undoubtedly one of the top things to see in Reykjavik. Its striking architecture, inspired by Iceland’s basalt lava flows, makes it a standout feature of the city skyline. Located at the top of Skólavörðustígur (Rainbow Street), it’s impossible to miss.
Be sure to step inside this impressive church—it’s not only beautiful but also free to enter. The interior is simple yet elegant, with soaring ceilings and a grand pipe organ that’s a marvel of craftsmanship. For the best experience, visit in the morning when the church, which faces east, is bathed in sunlight, creating a magical atmosphere.
Don’t miss the opportunity to go up the Hallgrímskirkja tower. For just 1400 ISK (£8), you can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of Reykjavik. From here, you’ll see the city’s colourful rooftops, the nearby mountains, and the surrounding ocean. It’s the perfect spot for photography or simply taking in the beauty of Iceland’s capital from above.
If you want to sample a variety of local Icelandic foods while learning more about the city, I highly recommend booking a food walking tour with Your Friend in Reykjavik! This tour is a fantastic way to explore the Reykjavik’s culinary scene and culture at the same time. We had the chance to taste several delicious local dishes, including the iconic Icelandic hot dog—made with lamb, giving it a unique and rich flavor. Each stop introduced us to a new side of Icelandic cuisine, from traditional favorites to modern takes on classic dishes.
Our guide made the experience even more memorable by sharing fascinating stories and anecdotes about Reykjavik’s history, culture, and food traditions. If you love food and want to immerse yourself in Reykjavik’s local flavour, this tour is an absolute must!
One of the most magical winter activities in Reykjavik is ice skating. During the colder months, Reykjavik Pond in front of the City Hall freezes over, offering a beautiful natural ice rink where you can skate for free if you bring your own skates!
Alternatively, during the Christmas season, you can enjoy ice skating at Ingólfur Square, located just in front of the Center Hotels Plaza. The square transforms into a festive ice rink, making it a fun and charming way to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re skating on the pond or the square, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy winter in Reykjavik!
One of the top things to do in Reykjavik is experience the mesmerizing Northern Lights. The best time to see them is between September and April, when the long, dark nights provide the perfect conditions for this stunning natural phenomenon. The good news is you don’t have to drive far to witness the Northern Lights—Reykjavik is ideally located for aurora viewing, and you can easily book an Aurora Tour and be picked up in the city or visit Aurora Basecamp, just outside of Reykjavik.
What I loved about Aurora Basecamp is the cozy igloo they have, where you can stay warm while waiting for the lights to appear. They also offer hot cocoa to keep you refreshed during your wait! The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and share tips on how to best spot the aurora, including where to look and how to capture the perfect photo. The whole experience is not only awe-inspiring but also comfortable and informative, and it’s one of the more affordable ways to see the Northern Lights near Reykjavik.
Even when you’re not on a tour, make sure to look out every night for them! All you need to do is look north holding up your phone camera. We did this on our first night and managed to see them from our hotel!
Helgufoss Waterfall, located just a short drive outside of Reykjavik, is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from the city and is one of the top things to see around Reykjavik. This stunning waterfall, which cascades gracefully over a series of rocks, is surrounded by beautiful Icelandic landscapes, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
While it’s not as well-known as some of Iceland’s larger waterfalls, Helgufoss offers a serene and less crowded experience. In the winter you’ll find it surrounded by snow and potentially frozen which adds even more to the magical landscape!
The Sky Lagoon is a luxurious oceanside retreat just a 15-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and a tranquil escape from the city. This geothermal spa is perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating, with its unique 7-step spa ritual designed to cleanse and invigorate your body and mind. The ritual includes experiences like a cold plunge, steam baths, a sauna, and a soothing hot lagoon soak, all set against the backdrop of Iceland’s dramatic coastal landscape.
If you don’t have your own transport, you can easily book a transfer to the Sky Lagoon, making it convenient to enjoy this spa experience without any hassle. The soothing waters and breathtaking scenery make Sky Lagoon one of the best attractions in Reykjavik, so make sure to include it in your Iceland itinerary.
After here you can pop to the nearby Gerðarsafn Kópavogur Art Museum to enjoy a light lunch at the Krónikan cafe.
Höfuðstöðin, the first art gallery in Iceland founded by a woman, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts in Reykjavik. It is currently exhibiting a multi-sensorial Chromo Sapiens exhibition by Hrafnhildi Arnardottir. It will make you feel as if you’re walking through the belly of a monster! You can actually lay down on the floor and look at the art installation for as long as you want. It’s an incredible experience and definitely one of the top things to do in Reykjavik Iceland!
You can use public transport to get here, however it will include some walking, so I recommend either hiring your own car or using the Hopp app. A sustainable travel solution where you can hire scooters, car share or taxis.
After visiting Höfuðstöðin, a great next stop is the Árbær Open Air Museum, located just next door. This charming museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s past, with a collection of historic buildings that have been relocated to the site, including traditional turf houses and a 19th-century village. As you wander through the museum, you’ll get a sense of what life was like for Icelandic families centuries ago. Entrance is free with the Reykjavik City Card!
Winter in Reykjavik is a magical time. If you are visiting in December I recommend visiting the Hafnarfjörður Christmas Market. Stroll through the charming small Christmas market, enjoy local treats and super tasty hot cocoas! And make sure to stop and chat to the various Icelandic Santa Clauses (there are 13!), they are very different to the santas you and I know well!
Make sure to also walk around Hellisgerði Park. Entrance is free and the park is a fairy-tale setting with sparkling lights wrapped around the trees and Christmas decorations.
Reykjavik’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Icelandic and modern cuisine. Highlights of the best food in Reykjavik include:
Apótek Restaurant: Perfect for a fine dining experience.
Tapas Barinn: Sample small Icelandic plates with a twist.
Grái Kötturinn: A charming café for breakfast or lunch.
Reykjavik Rost: A cosy cafe on the harbour front – make sure to try their toasted sandwich!
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: A famous hot dog stand where you can try Icelandic food even on a budget.
If you are looking for where to stay in Reykjavik, please find my recommendations below. The best hotels in Reykjavik listed by budget type.
For a more luxurious stay In Reykjavik, consider the Reykjavik EDITION. A five-star hotel that redefines modern elegance in Iceland’s capital. Located in a prime spot by the Old Harbor and steps away from attractions like the Harpa Concert Hall, this hotel offers stunning views, impeccable service, and world-class amenities.
For mid range travellers Center Hotel Plaza is an excellent choice, and where I personally stayed during my time in Reykjavik. Offering a comfortable stay for a reasonable price in the heart of Reykjavik. Located right on Ingólfur Square, it’s just steps away from the city’s top attractions, restaurants, and shopping streets, making it a convenient base for exploring. They also have a beautiful wrap around balcony on the 8th floor giving you incredible views of Reykjavik!
For budget-conscious travelers, lers, Reykjavik offers a range of hostel options, though many feature large dorm rooms with over 20 beds, which might not be ideal for everyone. however a lot of these offer dorm rooms with over 20 beds! If you’re looking for a more comfortable yet affordable stay, I recommend Baron’s Hostel, conveniently located near Hallgrímskirkja Church. It offers smaller dormitories and private room options, ensuring a bit more privacy and comfort without straying from your budget.
Getting to Reykjavik is easy and offers several options to suit your travel style and budget. After arriving at Keflavik International Airport, located about 50 km from Reykjavik, you can choose from the following:
No matter which option you choose, the journey into Reykjavik will provide a glimpse of Iceland’s stark and beautiful landscapes, setting the tone for the adventures ahead!
Reykjavik is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique experiences. Choosing the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do, as well as your tolerance for cold weather and shorter days. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect each season:
Winter in Reykjavik is magical, with average temperatures hovering around -1°C (30°F). While the days are short, with as little as 4–5 hours of daylight in December, you will find cotton candy skies and never ending sunrises and sunsets! The long nights are also perfect for spotting the Northern Lights. This is also the season for ice skating, visiting cozy Christmas markets, and soaking in geothermal pools surrounded by snow.
Spring brings milder weather, with average temperatures between 0°C and 6°C (32°F to 43°F) and increasing daylight hours. By May, Reykjavik enjoys about 16 hours of daylight, making it a great time to explore the city and nearby attractions. Spring is also a quieter season, offering fewer crowds and blooming landscapes as the snow begins to melt.
Summer is the most popular time to visit Reykjavik, with temperatures averaging 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The city enjoys nearly 24 hours of daylight during the Midnight Sun, allowing for endless exploration. This is the best time for outdoor activities like whale watching, hiking, and exploring Iceland’s waterfalls and fjords. The vibrant summer festivals, including Reykjavik’s culture night and music events, add to the city’s lively atmosphere.
Autumn in Reykjavik offers crisp air and fewer crowds, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 8°C (39°F to 46°F). The fall colors add a special charm to the city and surrounding landscapes. September and October are also prime months for catching the Northern Lights as the nights grow longer but the weather remains relatively mild.
No matter when you visit, Reykjavik offers unforgettable experiences, from its vibrant culture to its stunning natural attractions. Whether you prefer the long, bright days of summer or the cozy, aurora-filled nights of winter, Iceland’s capital is ready to enchant you in any season.
Reykjavik, with its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern culture, offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler in Iceland. Whether you’re soaking in the luxurious waters of the Sky Lagoon, marveling at the Northern Lights, exploring the charm of Hallgrímskirkja Church, or sampling local delicacies on a food tour, there’s no shortage of incredible activities to fill your itinerary.
From discovering art and history at places like Höfuðstöðin and the Árbær Open Air Museum to embracing the magic of Icelandic winter with ice skating or whale watching, Reykjavik truly has something for everyone. With its proximity to stunning natural wonders like Helgufoss Waterfall and the ease of getting around using the Reykjavik City Card, this city is the perfect gateway to Iceland’s adventures.
No matter your budget or travel style, Reykjavik promises a trip full of memorable moments and breathtaking sights. It’s a city where modern comforts meet timeless landscapes, ensuring an experience you’ll cherish long after your visit. It’s also a great place to base yourself if you want to explore more of Iceland, like the Golden Circle, whilst not changing accommodation all the time.
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