Reykjavik Travel Guide, Hotels & Things to Do

Where to stay

Hotels in Reykjavik

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Sea View Villa

12 Skrúðás | Reykjavik, 210, IS

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Mid-Century Modern Styled Apartment

Laugavegur 83 | Reykjavik, 101, IS

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Reykjavik Natura - Berjaya Iceland Hotels

Nauthólsvegur | Reykjavik, 101 IZL, IS

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Nordic Apartments

Snorrabraut 56 | Reykjavik, 105, IS

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Vaktahouse

Garðastræti 23 | Reykjavik, 101, IS

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Nes Residence

Látraströnd 54 | Reykjavik, 170, IS

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Tower Suites Reykjavík

Katrínartún 2 | Reykjavik, 105, IS

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House of the Snowbird

5 Vesturgata | Reykjavik, 101, IS

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At a glance

Climate

Temperate

Languages

Icelandic and English

Local currency

ISK (ISK)

Local time

03:35 (GMT+0)

Ideal trip length

3–7 days

Cost level

5 of 5 · our research

Suggested area to stay

Miðborg (Downtown)

Tap water

Generally described as safe to drink

Tipping

Not expected, but appreciated

What this place is for

History

95 · Outstanding

Culture

90 · Outstanding

Food

90 · Outstanding

Family 75 · Good

Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.

Food to try

Kjötsúpa Hot Dog (Pylsur) Skyr Fish and Chips

When to visit Reykjavik

How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.

Best months: July Busiest: Jun-Aug

Jan

50

Cold, dark, aurora
Feb

55

Cold, dark, aurora
Mar

60

Cold, snow, aurora
Apr

65

Cool, less snow
May

75

Mild, longer days
Jun

90

Mild, midnight sun
Jul

95

Mildest, midnight sun
Aug

90

Mild, long days
Sept

80

Cool, autumn colors
Oct

70

Cold, shorter days
Nov

60

Cold, dark
Dec

50

Cold, dark, festive

50

Jan Cold, dark, aurora

55

Feb Cold, dark, aurora

60

Mar Cold, snow, aurora

65

Apr Cool, less snow

75

May Mild, longer days

90

Jun Mild, midnight sun

95

Jul Mildest, midnight sun

90

Aug Mild, long days

80

Sept Cool, autumn colors

70

Oct Cold, shorter days

60

Nov Cold, dark

50

Dec Cold, dark, festive

Things to do in Reykjavik

7 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.

Best in the morning

2 places

Golden Circle Tour

Outside Reykjavik 8 hrs

Witness Iceland's most famous natural wonders: Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park.

Outdoors Good for children

Whale Watching Tour

Old Harbor 3 hrs

Sail from Reykjavik harbor to spot majestic whales, dolphins, and various seabirds.

Outdoors Good for children

Best in the evening

1 place

Northern Lights Hunt

Outside Reykjavik 4 hrs

Embark on an evening excursion to chase the elusive and magical Aurora Borealis.

Outdoors Good for children

Any time of day

4 places

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Miðborg 1.5 hrs

Admire the iconic, unique architecture and panoramic city views from its tower.

Indoors Good for children

Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa

Grindavik (near) 3 hrs

Relax in the milky-blue, mineral-rich waters of this world-famous geothermal spa.

Outdoors

Harpa Concert Hall

Miðborg 1 hr

Marvel at the stunning glass facade and enjoy a concert or simply explore the modern architecture.

Indoors Good for children

Perlan Museum - Wonders of Iceland

Öskjuhlíð 2.5 hrs

Explore interactive exhibits on glaciers, volcanoes, and the Northern Lights, plus a real ice cave.

Indoors Good for children

Reykjavik itineraries

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Culture and history

3 Days in Reykjavik — Culture & History

Uncover the sagas, art, and vibrant heritage of Iceland's captivating capital.

This 3-day itinerary delves deep into Reykjavik's rich cultural tapestry and historical roots, perfect for travelers eager to explore Viking heritage, modern art, and iconic landmarks. From ancient settlement ruins to stunning contemporary architecture, you'll experience the unique spirit of Iceland's past and present.

3 Days 12 Stops

See the full plan