A Complete Guide To Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland feels like another planet. The rocky terrain, unique cuisine, natural hot springs, waterfalls, volcanos, black sand beaches, exciting city of Reykjavik make Iceland a trip you will never forget. In this complete guide to Reykjavik we will go over everything you need to know about the Icelandic capital. Read on to discover what to see, do, places to eat, and the best hotels in Reykjavik, Iceland.
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Map Of Reykjavik
About Reykjavik
Safety - Iceland is frequently rated as one of the safest places in the world. While Iceland is extremely safe - Reykjavik is still a city so take normal precautions (beware of pickpockets, be vigilant at night, ect.)
Currency - Iceland uses the Icelandic Krona. One Icelandic Krona is 0.0072 of the US Dollar. For example 10,000 ISK = 70 USD. I wouldn't worry too much about this though because almost everywhere I went in Iceland took cards.
Plugs - Types C and F
History - If you want to learn about Vikings then Iceland is the place to go. Iceland was founded by Viking explorers around 1000 years ago and was first inhabited by western slaves and vikings. To learn more about Iceland's fascinating history read this article.
Where To Stay In Reykjavik
Luxury Reykjavik Hotels
The Reykjavik Edition - The Reykjavik Edition is one of the best luxury hotels in Reykjavik. You will find that the Reykjavik Edition has a cozy feel the second you step into the lobby. Offering a spa, restaurant, floor to ceiling windows, fitness center, and more, you will love your stay at The Reykjavik Edition.
101 Hotel - The centrally located 101 Hotel is a sleek and modern place to stay that is perfect while exploring Reykjavik. Enjoy an in house restaurant, spa, gym, and more at the 101 Hotel. 101 Hotel is easily one of the top places to stay in Reykjavik!
The Black Pearl - The Black Pearl Hotel is an apartment style hotel located next to the Old Reykjavik Harbor. Lovely for longer stays in the city, The Black Pearl is equipped with everything you need for an amazing trip to Reykjavik.
Middle Range Reykjavik Hotels
Alda Hotel - Located on the popular shopping street, Laugavegur, Alda Hotel is an adorable place to stay in Reykjavik. Enjoy a restaurant, free breakfast, a bar, gym, and more at Alda Hotel. If you are looking for hotels in Reykjavik city center - The Alda Hotel is a great option.
Fosshotel - Located in the heart of Reykjavik, Fosshotel is a lovely option when choosing where to stay in Reykjavik. Complete with a restaurant, room service, gym, and more, checkout the popular Fosshotel in Reykjavik. Fosshotel is one of the best family-friendly hotels in Reykjavik as there rooms can accommodate multiple people.
Kvosin - Kvosin is my favorite hotel on this guide to Reykjavik. The modern boutique hotel is in downtown Reykjavik. You will find stylish rooms, and incredible breakfast, and more at the Kvosin Hotel!
Budget Reykjavik Hotels
Hotel Von - Hotel Von is a great place to stay if you are trying to stick to a budget in Reykjavik. The modern Hotel Von will make you feel like you are at a luxury hotel for half the price.
Grandi Hotel - Grandi Hotel is an adorable boutique Hotel that has everything you need for a lovely stay in Reykjavik. The Grandi is affordable, but it looks like it would be more expensive than it is.
City Center Hotel - The City Center Hotel is located right in the heart of Reykjavik and has everything you need for a comfortable stay in the city. It is the cheapest of these hotels, but the City Center Hotel is a great budget friendly option!
What To Do In Reykjavik
Stroll Down Laugavegur
First on our Reykjavik city guide we have the cool Laugavegur Street. Laugavegur is the best place to start exploring Reykjavik. Laugavegur (Main Street) is full of shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can also find the Phallological Museum (the only museum in the world dedicated to the genitals of male creatures in all species) and the Icelandic Punk Museum.
In terms of shops you can find tourist shops, vintage shops, and boutiques selling Icelandic products. I didn't see any familier shops coming from the United States.
Rainbow Street
This guide to Reykjavik would not be complete without the iconic Rainbow Street. Rainbow Street (also called Skolavordustigur Street) is probably one of the most popular places to visit in Reykjavik, the street is literally a rainbow. You can find the same types of shops, restaurants, and cafes on Rainbow Street as you would on Laugavegur.
The adorable street lies in the Reykjavik city center and is a wonderful place for photo. The pedestrian only street leads up to the famous Hallgrimskirkja church.
Hallgrimskirkja Church
The Hallgrimskirkja church is the largest and most iconic church in Iceland. The Lutheran Church is truly an impressive structure that is hard to miss while in Iceland as it stand at 74.5 meters high. You can see the church from all over Reykjavik and it is a quick visit, so it is an easy add to your Reykjavik itinerary.
The Hallgrimskirkja church is typically open daily from 9am - 8pm, but check the website to be sure.
Sun Voyager Sculpture
A short walk away from the Hallgrimskirkja church is the Sun Voyager Sculpture. Sculpted by Jón Gunnar Árnason in 1990, the Sun Voyager Sculpture signifies hope. The artist said the sculpture represents, "the promise of undiscovered territory, a dream of hope, progress and freedom."
While it seems a bit silly to walk to see a sculpter, the Sun Voyager is definitely worth a visit. Go during sunset or try to catch the northern lights at the Sun Voyager.
Geothermal Spas
You can't go to Iceland without visiting a geothermal spa. You can either go to the Sky Lagoon or the Blue Lagoon or both. I opted for the Blue Lagoon because it had been on my bucket list forever.
The Blue Lagoon has the bluest water and is natural heated by the nearby volcano, it is honestly out of this world. The ticket to the Blue Lagoon includes access to the lagoon, a face mask, a drink, and a robe. I have an entire article about my experience at the Blue Lagoon here.
⭐Read Next - 8 Things No One Tells You About The Blue Lagoon, Iceland
The Harpa Concert Hall
The Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavík is one of the most impressive building I have ever seen. Sitting right on the water, The Harpa Concert Hall is made mostly of glass. Inside the building you will find that the incredible architecture continues as you can see the windows close up.
Visit the Harpa Concert Hall website to book a show or you can just quickly stop by.
Perlan Museum & Viewpoint
The Perlan Museum located on the Öskjuhlíð Hill in Reykjavik is an incredible museum that will help you learn all about the history and geology of Iceland. My favorite thing to learn about was the Vikings!
Since the Perlan Museum sits on a hill you will have an incredible viewpoint of Reykjavik and the surrounding area. The is also a cafe, restaurant, and ice cream shop at the Parlan Museum and viewpoint. Book your tickets here!
National Museum of Iceland
Iceland is one of the most interesting countries I have ever been to. Iceland is unlike anywhere else in the world, from the geology to the history. Even if you are not a fan of museums you should checkout the National Museum of Iceland, it is truly fascinating. Book tickets here.
Across the street from the National Museum of Iceland is Holavallakirkjugardur, one of Reykjavik's oldest cemeteries. If you have time, it is worth a visit.
Grandi Harbor
Once the quaint fishing district, Grandi Harbor, is now full of shops, restaurants, and cafes. The seaside community overlooks the stunning Esja mountain and Faxafloi Bay, making for a picturesque place to visit. While in Grandi Harbor stop by the Sun Voyager and enjoy a meal at Búrið Delicatessen or The Marshall Húsið (The Marshall House).
Some museums to visit while in Grandi Harbor are The Saga Museum and The Reykjavik Maritime Museum.
Tjornin Pond
The Tjornin Pond is hard to miss while in Reykjavik, mostly because of the size and location of it. The pond is a popular place in the summer months for locals to enjoy the sun or a meal. I was interested to learn that the Tjornin Pond is actually connected to many bodies of water in Iceland due to the marsh lands. You can read more about the Tjornin Pond in this article.
Go Whale Watching
Seeing a whale is a surreal experience. Iceland is an incredible place to see these magnificent creatures. There are plenty of whale watching tours from Reykjavik. I opted for this one out of Reykjavik and had a wonderful time. Not only did we see Whales we also saw puffins and dolphins. I loved this tour because it was short and sweet. Whale watching tours can go for upward of six hours sometimes, but this one is only three hours and we still got to see so much. Whale watching is easily one of the best things to do in Reykjavik!
🐳Book Here - Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour
Where To Dine In Reykjavik
Coffee & Breakfast
Kaffibrennslan - Kaffibrennslan is a cute little coffee shop in the heart of Reykjavik. Serving coffee, pasiteries, tea, sandwiches, and more. Kaffibrennslan is a great place for breakfast or lunch.
Rúblan bókakaffi - Rúblan bókakaffi is a lovely hole in the wall coffee joint in the center of Reykjavik. Be sure to try one of their specialty lattes!
Reykjavik Rost - Reykjavik Rost is an adorable coffee and breakfast joint located on the water. I loved enjoying my morning coffee at Reykjavik Roast looking out at the water. You can get everything breakfast and lunch at Reykjavik Rost.
☕Read Next - Best Coffee Shops In Reykjavik, Iceland
Lunch & Dinner
Foodcellar - Located in the heart of Reykjavik, Foodcellar, serves healthy Icelandic cuisine. There is also often live music on the weekends. The Foodcellar is pretty nice so be sure to dress properly.
Íslenski barinn - Another Icelandic restaurant to try is Íslenski barinn. Located in the center of Reykjavik, Íslenski barinn is known to be one of the best restaurants in the city and is perfect for lunch or dinner.
Loa - Located in downtown Reykjavik, Loa, serves breakfast, lunch, an dinner. You can find something for everyone at Loa, Icelandic food alongside classic american food such as hamburgers.
Bars
Einstök Bar - Einstok Bar is a Reykjavik gem. You will find handcrafted drinks, friendly bartenders, and a relaxed environment at Einstok Bar in the center of the Reykjavik.
Sky Bar - The Sky Bar is unique because it is on the top floor of a building overlooking the water in Reykjavik, so it feels like you are in the sky. You can find fun drinks and good food at the Sky Bar!
Best Tours To Take In Reykjavik
Reykjavik Food Tour - The best way to explore a new place is by doing a food tour! You will be able to meet like minded travellers and explore more of Reykjavik. Try the local food with a knowledgeable guide on this Reykjavik food tour.
The Blue Lagoon - This Blue Lagoon transportation and entry ticket makes going to the incredible geothermal spa so easy. You won't have to think about anything but relaxing!
The Golden Circle - This Golden Circle day trip is a must do while in Iceland. Take the day to venture outside of Reykjavik and see more of the amazing country of Iceland on this tour.
Iceland South Coast Day Tour - You will find nothing but adventure on this Iceland South Coast Day Trip. From powerful waterfalls to black sand beaches, this affordable tour is totally worth it!
The Northern Lights - The Northern Lights is on every travellers bucket list and Iceland is one of the best places to see them. This Northern Lights tour is the #1 ranked tour in Iceland!
🚗Read Next - 9 Best Tours To Take From Reykjavik, Iceland
When To Visit Reykjavik
It is called Iceland for a reason, you will not find any palm trees in this amazing country. You can visit Reykjavik any time of year, but if you are more of the outdoorsy type try to go in the summer months. I visited Reykjavik in May and thought that the weather was great, although still much cooler than Boston (where I am from).
As an avid hiker and nature lover I wouldn't go in the winter because it is hard to be outside.
Getting To & Around Reykjavik
Iceland is so much easier to get to now than it used to be! With new budget airlines and flight routes Iceland has become a tourist hub. You can find round trip flights to Reykjavik for less than two hundred dollars from destinations in the United States and Europe on PLAY Airlines! If you are flying internationally you will most likely be flying into Keflavík International Airport, which is about twenty five minutes outside of Reykjavik.
Book an affordable transfer from the airport to Reykjavik here.
Reykjavik is so walkable, you will not have to worry about any other transportation once you are in the city. If you are exploring more of Iceland then doing tours or renting a car is your best bet.
✈️Checkout The Latest Fares To Reykjavik here
A Complete Guide To Reykjavik Wrap Up
Iceland is one of my favorite countries that I have ever been to. It is truly one of the most unique places in the world. I hope that this complete guide to Reykjavik helps you plan the best trip to Iceland. Leave me a comment if you have any other questions or comments. If you liked this post I think that you will love all my guides to Ireland!
Happy Travels,
Daisy
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