Your Guide to the Best Things to do in Reykjavik
Reykjavík may be one of the smallest capitals in the world, but it’s not small on things to do. It’s full of culture, colour, and character. Whether you’re here for a quick stopover or a few days, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Reykjavík. From iconic landmarks and museums to cosy geothermal pools and vibrant nightlife, Iceland’s capital offers the perfect mix of city life and natural beauty.
We spent one week in Reykjavik, as our base for exploring more of southern Iceland. This guide covers (from our experience) what we’d say are the top things to do in Reykjavík. Plus, some of the best things to do near Reykjavík if you want to explore further afield. We have also pinned everything on the map below for ease. Everything in Reykjavik is blue, with things a little further out in orange.
1. Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church
No list of the best things to do in Reykjavík is complete without the iconic Hallgrímskirkja. This towering church, with its striking design was inspired by Iceland’s basalt lava columns. At 74.5 meters high, it took over 40 years to complete and is the city’s most recognisable landmark. Inside, you’ll find a beautifully simple interior and one of the country’s largest pipe organs But the real highlight is the viewing platform at the top. Take the elevator up and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across the colourful rooftops, Faxaflói Bay, and Mount Esja in the distance – making it one of the best spots in the city for photos. Whether you’re drawn to its unusual architecture, the cultural significance, or the views, Hallgrímskirkja is a stop you shouldn’t miss.
⏰ Hours: The church is open daily, generally 10:00–17:00 (extended in summer)
💰 Entry fee: ~1,200 ISK (about £8). You can by tickets at the entrance
2. Stroll Down Laugavegur Street
If you want to soak up the atmosphere of this buzzy city, a stroll along Laugavegur is one of the top things to do in Reykjavík. By day, this main shopping street is the city’s main shopping and cultural hub. Lined with cute boutiques, souvenir stores, and cosy cafés serving strong Icelandic coffee. By night, it becomes the centre of Reykjavík’s nightlife, with bars and clubs buzzing until the early hours. Along the way, you can check out the city’s colourful buildings and architecture – quintessentially Scandinavian! The city’s famous street art murals are also worth checking out along the side streets. Whether you’re looking to pick up unique souvenirs, enjoy people-watching with a coffee in hand, or dive into Reykjavík’s nightlife, this street has something for everyone.
Some must-visit places along Laugavegur Street include:
Sandholt Bakery – Famous for fresh pastries, artisan bread, and excellent coffee.
Mokka Kaffi – One of the city’s oldest cafés, known for its retro charm and delicious hot chocolate.
Kaffibrennslan – A cosy café and bar with a great atmosphere, perfect for a mid-shopping break.
12 Tónar – An iconic record shop and indie music hub where you can listen to Icelandic music and even get free coffee while you browse.
Kiosk – A design collective showcasing Icelandic fashion and accessories.
Lucky Records (just off Laugavegur) – A treasure trove for vinyl lovers and one of the best record shops in Iceland.
Farmers & Friends – A shop featuring eco-friendly fashion and design by local Icelandic brand Farmers Market.
3. Head to Harpa Concert Hall
Harpa Concert Hall is one of Reykjavík’s most striking modern landmarks. Opened in 2011, this award-winning glass building was designed in collaboration with Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson, and its shimmering facade was inspired by Iceland’s basalt landscapes. The honeycomb-like panels change colour with the light, creating a constantly shifting effect, whether you see it by day or illuminated at night. It’s honestly quite mesmerising to see.
Inside, Harpa is home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera. Even if you don’t catch a performance, a visit here is still one of the top things to do in Reykjavik. You can enjoy a coffee in the atrium, wander through the public spaces, admire the geometric interiors, browse design shops, or relax in the café while soaking in the harbour views.
Hours: Daily, 10:00–18:00 (hours vary for events)
Entry fee: Free to enter the building – concerts are ticketed
4. Lounge by the Sun Voyager
The Sun Voyager (Sólfar) is one of the most photographed spots in Reykjavík. This steel sculpture, resembles a Viking ship, but was actually designed as a “dreamboat” symbolising hope and freedom. It sits right on the waterfront, making it a perfect place for photos with Mount Esja in the background.
It’s also surprisingly bigger than you realise! The Sun Voyager is free to visit and easy to reach on foot from the city centre. It’s also just a short walk from Harpa, so easy to combine both in one outing.
We suggest visiting at both sunrise and sunset to admire it in different lighting. It’s a lovely spot! While it only takes a few minutes to see, it’s a must for things to do in Reykjavik. As a side note, it can get windy by the waterfront, so it’s worth bringing an extra layer!
5. FlyOver Iceland
FlyOver Iceland is an immersive flight simulation that “flies” you across the country’s landscapes, from waterfalls and glaciers to fjords and volcanoes. The whole thing is a 4D experience, with motion seats, wind, mist, and scents making it feel incredibly real. The experience starts with an engaging pre-show that sets the scene through storytelling and history, before you strap into the ride itself. It’s also a great indoor option if the weather turns during your trip!
Hours: Daily, 10:00–19:00
Entry fee: 5,990 ISK (about £35 per person)
6. Whale Watching & Reykjavík Harbour
Easily one of the most exciting things to do in Reykjavik is whale watching! Better still, you can do it right from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. Sadly this wasn’t something we managed to do during our time in Iceland, as we were a little out of season. But it remains super high on our bucket list! If you have the opportunity, you should absolutely take it!
Tours last an average of 2–3 hours, with summer (April–October) offering the highest chance of sightings. You can expect to see minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and porpoises. If you’re lucky, some have seen orca’s and in rare occasions – blue whales! The harbour itself is also worth a wander, with seafood restaurants, museums, and colourful fishing boats adding to the atmosphere.
Departing from: Reykjavík Old Harbour
Times: Multiple departures – depends who you book with
Fee: Expect to pay roughly 10,000 ISK adults (£60) per person
7. Perlan
Perlan (“The Pearl”) is one of the most unique attractions in Reykjavík, built on old water tanks and topped with a glass dome. Inside, you’ll find a mix of museum exhibits and immersive experiences. Highlights include ‘The Wonders of Iceland’ complete with indoor ice cave! There are also interactive glacier displays, and a planetarium displaying the Northern Lights. There’s something for everyone here, making it one of the best things to do in Reykjavik. The observation deck at the top also offers some of the best 360° views of Reykjavík, Mount Esja, and on a clear day, even Snæfellsjökull glacier!
Hours: Daily, 09:00–22:00
Entry fee: 4,900 ISK (about £30 per person)
8. Grab Some Tasty Pastries at Brauð & Co
For foodies, one of the best things to do in Reykjavík is pay a visit to Brauð & Co – the city’s most famous bakery. Their cinnamon buns are legendary, baked fresh throughout the day with sticky glaze and cardamom. You’ll also find sourdough loaves, croissants, and pastries made with organic ingredients. The colourful mural outside makes it a photo-worthy stop too. Arrive early — pastries often sell out by afternoon.
9. Head Over to Viðey Island
Viðey Island is a peaceful escape just a short ferry ride from Reykjavík. The island is a haven for nature and wildlife. You’ll find walking and cycling trails with stunning views back to the city. You can also see the surrounding mountains, and even across to Snæfellsjökull on a clear day.
The island is also home to Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower, lit each year in memory of John Lennon. There are also and several outdoor artworks by Icelandic and international artists. With its mix of birdlife, cultural heritage, and scenic landscapes, a trip to Viðey is easily one of the best things to do in Reykjavik if you’re looking for something a little different.
Location: Ferries depart from Reykjavík Old Harbour
Hours: Summer: daily; winter: weekends only
Entry fee: Return 1,700 ISK (about £10 per person)
10. Buy an Icelandic Jumper From the Handknitting Association
The Handknitting Association is the place to go if you’re looking for an authentic Icelandic souvenir. Founded in 1977, this cooperative sells traditional Icelandic jumpers (lopapeysa), scarves, hats, gloves and more, all handmade from Icelandic wool. Prices are higher than mass-produced versions. But unlike cheaper machine-made imitations found in tourist shops, everything here is crafted by members of the association. The quality and craftsmanship are unmatched! We both bought a jumper each, plus a big cosy puffin blanket which we love! As the perfect place to pick up a meaningful souvenir, it’s rightly one of the top things to do in Reykjavik.
11. Icelandic Phallological Museum (Penis Museum)
Perhaps one of the quirkiest things to do in Reykjavík is visit the Icelandic Phallological Museum. We stumbled across this place during a rainy day in Reykjavik, but it was surprisingly interesting. This unusual attraction houses the world’s largest collection of penises and penile parts, representing almost every mammal in Iceland! It’s light-hearted, educational, and definitely a conversation starter. It’s worth a visit should you have a day when the weather isn’t on your side.
Hours: Daily, 10:00–19:00
Entry fee: 2,500 ISK (about £15 per person)
12. Tuck into Icelandic Fish & Chips
It’s no surprise that Iceland’s seafood is world-class. So of course trying some authentic fish and chips is one of the best things to do in Reykjavík. Iceland’s waters are some of the cleanest around, and the cod and haddock caught here are incredibly fresh. Local spots often put their own spin on the classic dish, using tempura-style batter, or serving it with skyr-based tartar sauce. The dish is a hearty, affordable way to taste local flavours. If you’re looking for a quick, authentic taste of Iceland, sitting down to fish and chips by the harbour is one of the best things to do in Reykjavik after a day of exploring .A popular option is “Icelandic Fish & Chips” near the harbour, which uses organic ingredients and light batters.
Best Things to Do Near Reykjavík
Of course, Iceland is a vast and beautiful country! There is so much more to see and do outside of the city. However, Reykjavík is also the perfect base for nearby adventures. If you’re looking for things to do near Reykjavík, these day trips are unmissable! Below are just some of the highlights that you can tag on as day trips. But if you’d like more inspiration, we’ve written a round-up of the top 30 things to do near Reykjavik!
Northern Lights Hunting (Winter)
From September to April, Reykjavík is a great base for Northern Lights tours. While you can sometimes see them from the city, the best displays are found just outside, away from light pollution.
The opportunity to see these stunning displays is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many. The lights are unpredictable and rely on near-perfect conditions to be seen, and of course nature offers no guarantees. However the pay-off of witnessing the lights with your own eyes makes all the hard work and late nights worthwhile.
There are many companies in Iceland who go hunting for the lights. Some will even re-book you free of charge if you’re unsuccessful on your first attempt. Alternatively you can self-drive and go looking for the lights yourself. We have written a post about our own hunt for the Northern Lights, including driving through an insane blizzard to reach them!
Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is the most famous sightseeing route and day trip from Reykjavík. It combines three of the country’s most iconic sights: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. It’s a compact 300km loop, making it doable in a single day. With a mix of interesting history, geology, and breathtaking scenery, the Golden Circle is one of the top things to do near Reykjavik and the perfect way to get a taste of Iceland’s natural wonders in just one day. For a full overview, checkout our Golden Circle Highlights.
Mount Esja
Mount Esja is Reykjavík’s “city mountain”. It’s one of the most popular spots for locals to hike, making it a perfect day trip if you want to escape the city. Just a 30-minute drive or short bus ride from downtown, the trails offer something for everyone. From gentle walks at the base to more challenging hikes up to the 914m summit.
A hike at Esja is one of the most rewarding things to do near Reykjavik if you love the outdoors. On clear days, the views back over Reykjavík and across the bay are spectacular. The well-marked paths mean you can choose how far to go, with the “Steinn” rock being a popular turnaround point if you don’t want to climb all the way to the top. Pack a picnic, wear sturdy shoes, and enjoy a breath of fresh Icelandic air!
South Coast Day Trip
A South Coast day trip is one of the BEST adventures you can take from Reykjavík. (In our opinion). Just a couple of hours’ drive from the city, you’ll find thundering waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss, one of the country’s most photogenic falls. The route also takes you past black sand beaches at Reynisfjara, famous for its basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves. Then onwards to the charming village of Vík, perfect for a lunch stop. With its mix of waterfalls, beaches, and volcanic scenery, a South Coast road trip is one of the most spectacular things to do near Reykjavik and gives you a taste of Iceland’s wild beauty in just one day.
Sky Lagoon
Sky Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most luxurious geothermal spas and a fantastic way to unwind just minutes from the city centre. Opened in 2021, it sits on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, giving bathers incredible infinity-pool views. What sets Sky Lagoon apart is its ‘seven-step Ritual’, a unique experience that blends hot, cold, steam, and sauna to leave you completely refreshed. Blissful!
Blue Lagoon
As Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa, understandably it is one of the top things to do near Reykjavik. Its milky-blue waters get their colour from the high silica content, which also gives the lagoon its signature skin-softening properties. The pools stay at a soothing 37–40°C year-round, making it the perfect place to relax year-round. You can indulge in silica mud masks, enjoy drinks from the swim-up bar, or even book unique in-water massages! Although it’s the most commercial of Iceland’s geothermal spas, its combination of comfort, natural beauty, and one-of-a-kind treatments makes it worth the visit.
Reykjanes Peninsula
Reykjanes Peninsula is a wild and dynamic corner of Iceland’s southwest. Packed with geological wonder, it’s a top pick among things to do near Reykjavík. The region lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and you’ll find a series of lava fields, geothermal areas, sea cliffs, dramatic coastlines, and more.
Among the must-sees are the Bridge Between Continents (a symbolic footbridge across the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates). Also there’s Krýsuvík, a geothermal area with its bubbling mud pots and steaming vents, coastal features like Brimketill (a lava-rock pool carved by the sea), and Reykjanesviti, Iceland’s oldest lighthouse at Reykjanestá.
FAQs For Things to Do in Reykjavík
How long should I spend in Reykjavik?
That depends on how long you’ve got! There’s so much to see and do in the area, you could easily tag on extra days and never be short of new things to explore. We stayed in Reykjavik for one week, and used it as our base to explore Southern Iceland, which was a comfortable amount of time. That said, if you have less time, anywhere between three to five days would also be enough to see the main highlights.
Is Reykjavík walkable?
Absolutely! The city centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. Many of the top things to do in Reykjavik like Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa, and Laugavegur are within walking distance of each other.
What’s the best way to see attractions outside the city?
For places like Mount Esja, the Golden Circle, or the South Coast, we’d suggest renting a car. This gives you the most flexibility with your plans. Day tours are also an option though if you prefer not to drive.
Is it worth visiting Reykjavík in winter?
Definitely! We visited at the end of November and we thought the place was magical! You’ll get fewer crowds, the chance to see the northern lights, plus have lots of cosy cafés and spas to enjoy. Keep in mind that daylight hours are shorter. For us, the sun started to set around 3pm.
Is it safe to visit the Reykjanes Peninsula with recent volcanic activity?
Authorities advice that it’s safe as long as you follow local guidance and stick to designated safe areas. They also continue to monitor the situation closely and close off areas if there’s any risk. It’s worth checking online before making any plans to visit though.
What are the best day trips from Reykjavík?
In short, your best options are: the Golden Circle, exploring the South Coast, Mount Esja, Viðey Island, and Reykjanes Peninsula. Each offers a different glimpse of what Iceland has to offer. That said, Iceland does have A LOT to offer. And even beyond those places, there is much more to see and do. Whatever you choose to do as a day trip from Reykjavik, you can’t go too far wrong.
Get in Touch!
We hope you enjoyed our list of the best things to do in Reykjavik! These are just based on our own experiences, but we’re sure you’ll agree Reykjavik will be an unforgettable trip whatever you choose to get up to!
If you’ve visited any of these sights, please share your experiences below, or if there’s something missing that you’d recommend feel free to share below – we’d love to hear them! If you found our blog helpful, check out our Insta @welovetravel.in – if you give us a follow don’t forget to say hey! 
For more Iceland travel inspiration check out our other guides and Trip Reports below:
