Where to Go in Reykjavik, Iceland: 12 Amazing Experiences

Reykjavik completely won me over with its perfect mix of cozy Nordic charm and wild Icelandic spirit. The world’s northernmost capital turned out to be way more than just a gateway to Iceland’s natural wonders—walking past the rainbow-colored houses of the old town and watching the sunset paint the striking Hallgrímskirkja church in golden light, I couldn’t help but fall for this quirky city’s personality.

After spending a week exploring the best things to do in Reykjavik, from soaking in the silky waters of the Sky Lagoon to catching world-class bands at the Harpa Concert Hall, I’m convinced this city deserves more than just a quick stopover. Whether you’re planning to stay for a few days or use it as a base for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders, here are my favorite experiences in this captivating Nordic capital.

Best Things to Do in Reykjavik, Iceland

Visiting Reykjavik, Iceland? Spend the day exploring Hallgrímskirkja, stroll around the scenic Old Harbour Area, or dive into history at the National Museum of Iceland. Relax in the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon or shop along the vibrant Laugavegur Shopping Street. Whether you’re into history, nature, or urban experiences, Reykjavik has plenty to offer.

1. Hallgrímskirkja

You can’t miss Hallgrímskirkja—literally. This towering Lutheran church dominates the skyline and acts as a landmark from almost anywhere in Reykjavik. Its design was inspired by Iceland’s volcanic basalt columns, and the architecture makes it one of the most unique buildings I’ve ever seen. Step inside and you’ll find a massive 15-meter pipe organ that looks just as dramatic as the exterior.

I took the elevator to the top on a clear day, and the views were insane—colorful rooftops, distant mountains, and the sea all in one sweep. It’s a great intro to the city and a perfect photo spot. Even if churches aren’t usually your thing, this one is hard to skip. Whether you’re here for the design, the music, or the view, Hallgrímskirkja is a Reykjavik essential that sets the tone for everything that comes next.

2. Old Harbour Area

Reykjavik’s Old Harbour is where fishing history meets modern energy. It’s got everything—cafés, art galleries, boutique shops, and some of the city’s best seafood. I ended up here after a whale-watching tour and was surprised by how much there was to explore. From puffin tours to Northern Lights cruises, most of the city’s boat adventures launch from this spot.

One of my favorite moments? Grabbing fish and chips from Icelandic Fish & Chips and watching boats drift by against the mountain backdrop. The vibe is super relaxed but still buzzing with activity. You can spend an entire afternoon here wandering the waterfront or hopping onto a boat for a scenic cruise. Whether you’re hungry, curious, or just want to sit and take in the view, the Old Harbour is where Reykjavik really starts to show off.

3. National Museum of Iceland

If you want to understand Iceland beyond the lava fields and waterfalls, stop by the National Museum of Iceland. It covers over a thousand years of history, from the Viking Age to the modern republic. The exhibits are well laid out and surprisingly interactive. I found myself lingering by the old church door carvings longer than expected—those tiny details tell stories better than any textbook.

The permanent exhibit, “The Making of a Nation,” gives context to everything else you’ll see in Iceland. Weapons, tools, clothing, and everyday items are presented with just enough background to make them feel real. It’s not a flashy museum, but it’s a must if you want to know what shaped this country. When the weather turned rainy during my trip, this was the perfect indoor stop that still felt meaningful and memorable.

4. Blue Lagoon

Yes, it’s touristy—but the Blue Lagoon is still 100% worth visiting. Located about 45 minutes from Reykjavik, this geothermal spa sits in a lava field and feels like something from another planet. I went straight after landing, jet-lagged and freezing, and within minutes of sinking into that warm, milky water, I felt human again.

You’ll get a silica mud mask included with your entry, and the swim-up bar is a fun touch. There’s also a sauna, steam room, and a café if you want to make a full afternoon of it. It’s more expensive than your average spa, but the experience is unlike anything else I’ve done. If you want to start or end your Iceland trip with pure relaxation, the Blue Lagoon delivers a surreal, soothing break from the chilly air and rugged terrain.

5. Laugavegur Shopping Street

If you want to get a feel for Reykjavik’s local vibe, start with Laugavegur Shopping Street. It’s packed with cool design shops, record stores, vintage finds, and spots to grab a quick coffee or a craft beer. I didn’t go in planning to buy anything, but ended up with an Icelandic sweater and a chocolate bar made with volcanic salt.

This street isn’t just about shopping—it’s also where Reykjavik’s energy really comes alive. You’ll see murals, quirky architecture, and even a few tucked-away side streets with their own charm.

By night, Laugavegur turns into a nightlife hub with bars like Kaldi or Kaffibarinn drawing a local crowd. Whether you’re browsing for souvenirs, grabbing lunch at Reykjavik Chips, or just walking around, it’s a fun, low-key way to spend an afternoon. You’ll likely end up here more than once without even planning to.

6. Harpa Concert Hall

You can’t miss Harpa Concert Hall—literally. Its shimmering glass façade catches the light in ways that stop you mid-walk. Located right by the Old Harbour, it’s home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and Icelandic Opera, but even if you’re not there for a show, it’s worth stepping inside. I wasn’t planning to visit but ended up going twice—once for a concert, once just for the architecture.

The building’s design is inspired by basalt columns, and the way the light moves through the space is kind of hypnotic. There’s also a café and shop inside, and the views of the water and mountains are stunning from nearly every corner. Whether you’re catching a performance or just walking through, Harpa feels like Reykjavik’s cultural heart—and a cool place to chill, especially on a windy day.

7. The Perlan

Sitting on Öskjuhlíð Hill, The Perlan is hard to miss with its glass dome perched on massive water tanks. I went mainly for the view—and it seriously delivers. The outdoor observation deck offers 360-degree sights of Reykjavik and beyond, especially gorgeous during golden hour.

Inside, it’s part museum and part interactive experience. The Wonders of Iceland exhibit includes a real indoor ice cave and a Northern Lights planetarium show that’s way better than expected. It’s kid-friendly but still interesting for adults, with solid info on glaciers and volcanoes.

I didn’t dine there, but the rotating restaurant under the dome looks like a splurge-worthy spot. If you’re short on time and want views, fun, and science all in one stop, The Perlan nails it. It’s a great indoor alternative if Reykjavik’s weather turns rough.

8. Reykjavik Art Museum

If you like modern and contemporary art, the Reykjavik Art Museum is worth carving out time for. It’s spread across three different spaces—Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn—each with a totally different vibe. I checked out Hafnarhús near the harbor first and was surprised by how bold and colorful the exhibits were.

Kjarvalsstaðir focuses more on Icelandic landscapes and works by Jóhannes Kjarval, one of the country’s most loved painters. Ásmundarsafn is a sculpture museum in a super quirky domed building, surrounded by outdoor works.

You don’t have to visit all three in one day—just pick one or two depending on your route. Each spot gives you a different lens into Iceland’s creative side. And honestly, it was a nice break from all the geothermal and natural wonders. Sometimes art hits differently when you’re in a place this remote.

9. Tjörnin

Right in the heart of Reykjavik, Tjörnin is a peaceful pond surrounded by historic buildings and greenery. It’s an easy walk from most downtown spots and offers a quiet break from the city’s buzz. I went on a cloudy afternoon and ended up staying longer than planned, just watching the birds skim the water.

Locals come here to feed the ducks, jog around the paths, or sip coffee on a bench with a view. On one side, you’ll spot Reykjavik City Hall, while the other edges up to Hljómskálagarður Park, perfect for a casual stroll. Even in winter, Tjörnin is charming—the city keeps parts of it thawed for the swans and ducks. It’s not flashy, but it’s one of those places that quietly becomes your favorite. Bring a snack, your camera, or just your thoughts—it’s a simple, peaceful Reykjavik must-do.

10. Sun Voyager Sculpture

Perched along the waterfront, the Sun Voyager Sculpture is one of Reykjavik’s most iconic spots—and yes, it’s worth the hype. This steel ship structure, designed by Jón Gunnar Árnason, was built as a tribute to discovery and hope. From certain angles, it looks like a Viking ship; from others, something completely futuristic.

I caught it just before sunset, and the reflection off the sculpture with Mount Esja in the background was unreal. It’s not a stop that takes long, but it’s one of those moments that sticks with you. People come here to reflect, snap photos, or just enjoy the calm. There’s something cool about how still everything feels despite the nearby traffic. It’s also close to Harpa Concert Hall, so it’s easy to combine both. If you want one of the best Reykjavik photos, this is your spot.

11. Settlement Exhibition

The Settlement Exhibition makes Reykjavik’s Viking history feel close enough to touch. Located right downtown, this underground museum is built around the actual remains of a 10th-century longhouse discovered during construction. I didn’t expect to spend much time here, but the combination of ruins, tech, and storytelling pulled me in.

Interactive displays walk you through how the first settlers lived—what they ate, how they built their homes, and what daily life looked like in early Iceland. It’s kid-friendly, but not dumbed down, and the holograms and touchscreens actually help you picture what Reykjavik looked like back then.

For history lovers or anyone curious about the roots of Iceland, this place is a gem. It’s small but packed with details, and super easy to fit into your day while exploring downtown. Definitely worth ducking underground for an hour.

12. Árbær Open Air Museum

Just outside the city center, Árbær Open Air Museum brings old Reykjavik to life with restored buildings, costumed guides, and farm animals wandering around. It’s part museum, part living history experience. I visited on a Sunday and caught a baking demo inside a turf-roof house—it smelled like childhood.

The site includes a village square, a church, a working blacksmith’s shop, and even an old-school gas station. You’ll get to walk inside these buildings and see how Icelanders lived through the decades.

Kids love the sheep and cows, and adults will appreciate how much you can actually learn without it ever feeling boring. In summer, the actors really bring the place to life; in winter, it’s quieter but just as magical with snow-dusted rooftops. If you want a deeper dive into Icelandic culture, Árbær offers an authentic, interactive way to experience it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Things to Do in Reykjavik, Iceland

Looking for more content on the top things to do in Reykjavik? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help you plan your trip to Reykjavik:

How do I get from the airport to Reykjavik?

Iceland’s international Keflavík Airport is about an hour away from downtown Reykjavik. You can rent a car, book an airport transfer into the city, or use a taxi service.

What is the best way to get around Reykjavik?

The city has a public bus system called Strætó. A single ticket costs about 350 ISK ($2 USD). Taxis are also available, but you need to book them on the phone or from taxi stands in key downtown locations.

How many days are needed in Reykjavik?

The number of days needed in Reykjavik depends on what you want to see and do. For a basic exploration of the city’s main attractions, 2-3 days can be sufficient. This would allow you to visit key sites like Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall, the Sun Voyager sculpture, and explore the vibrant downtown area with its shops, cafes, and museums.

However, if you want to experience more of Reykjavik and the surrounding area, consider extending your stay to 5-7 days. This would give you time to take day trips to nearby natural wonders like the Golden Circle. This includes the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park. You could also explore the South Coast, visit the Blue Lagoon, or even take a tour to see the Northern Lights if you’re visiting in the winter months.

Reykjavik serves as a gateway to Iceland’s incredible landscapes. As such, many visitors use the city as a base for exploring other parts of the country. If you plan to venture further, such as driving the Ring Road to see glaciers, volcanoes, fjords, and other natural wonders, you might want to plan a longer trip of 10-14 days.

In summary, a short stay of 2-3 days will allow you to see Reykjavik’s highlights. However, extending your visit will enable you to explore more of the city’s surroundings and Iceland’s unique landscapes.

Where should I stay in Reykjavik?

Accommodation in Reykjavik can be expensive due to its small size and central location. However, there are various hotels available to suit different budgets.

What is Reykjavík best known for?

Reykjavík is best known for its vibrant arts scene, unique architecture, and geothermal pools. It’s also the gateway to Iceland’s stunning natural wonders, including the Northern Lights, geysers, and glaciers.

What do tourists do when they visit Reykjavík?

Tourists visiting Reykjavík Iceland often embark on adventures to explore the country’s stunning natural wonders, from the mesmerizing Northern Lights and majestic glaciers to the geothermal Blue Lagoon. In the capital, Reykjavík, they immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting museums, sampling Icelandic cuisine, and experiencing the city’s vibrant arts scene and nightlife.

Is Reykjavik worth visiting?

Absolutely! Reykjavik is a treasure trove of culture, art, and history. As such, it offers a unique blend of cosmopolitan charm and natural beauty. From its vibrant nightlife and world-class dining to its proximity to Iceland’s stunning landscapes, Reykjavik is a destination that captivates and inspires, making it well worth a visit.

Closing Thoughts on Visiting Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, offers a variety of attractions for tourists. From exploring the city’s unique architecture and vibrant nightlife to experiencing its traditional cuisine and rich history, there’s something for everyone. However, to truly appreciate the beauty of Iceland, it’s recommended to venture outside the city and explore the countryside. Don’t forget to protect yourself with travel insurance and always carry it with you.

Remember, Iceland is an expensive destination, especially when it comes to food. One way to save money is to cook your own meals if your accommodation has a kitchen. Also, consider getting a Reykjavik City Card for free or discounted access to local museums and attractions.