Guys, Reykjavik is absolutely wild! The first time I saw the Northern Lights dance above Hallgrímskirkja church, I actually forgot to breathe. There’s something surreal about standing in the world’s northernmost capital, watching that iconic concrete spire pierce through curtains of green light. And the best part? This was just the beginning of my love affair with this city!
Let me show you the most beautiful places in Reykjavik that completely blew my mind. From soaking in the silica blue waters of Sky Lagoon while watching the sunset paint the ocean gold to wandering through Harpa Concert Hall when the sun hits those glass panels just right, these 12 spots prove why Iceland’s capital is unlike anywhere else on Earth. Trust me, you’re in for something special!
Must-See Attractions in Reykjavik
Looking for the coolest things to do in Reykjavik? Relax in the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon, witness the stunning beauty of Bruarfoss Waterfall, and experience the thrill of FlyOver Iceland. Visit the scenic Grotta Lighthouse for breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re interested in nature, adventure, or relaxation, here are the top attractions to visit in Reykjavik.
1. Blue Lagoon
Blue Lagoon honestly deserves every bit of hype it gets. I’ve been to thermal baths all over the world, but nothing matches that first moment when you slip into those milky-blue waters surrounded by black lava fields. The water stays a perfect 98-104°F year-round, and those silica mud masks you can grab from the edge actually work – my skin was ridiculously soft afterward.
Sure, it’s touristy, but there’s a reason millions visit annually. The Comfort package starts around $82-103 USD and includes entrance, silica mud mask, towel, and a drink at the swim-up bar. I’d recommend booking the Premium package ($113-124 USD) for the extra masks and bathrobe – totally worth it when you’re dealing with Iceland’s chilly air. The lagoon is open daily from 8am-10pm (extended summer hours until midnight), and you really need to book ahead since they sell out regularly.
Pro tip: Visit during winter if you want a shot at seeing Northern Lights while soaking. The Lava Restaurant on-site serves decent Icelandic cuisine, though it’s pricey. If you’re splurging, The Retreat offers private lagoon access and luxury accommodations, but expect to pay $1,500+ per night. The 45-minute drive from Reykjavik is easy, and there’s bus service available. Just remember to condition your hair before getting in – the minerals can be drying.
2. Bruarfoss Waterfall
Bruarfoss is Iceland’s best-kept secret, and honestly, I almost don’t want to share it. The electric-blue water looks fake in photos, but it’s completely natural – caused by glacial minerals that create this insane turquoise color. The hike is about 7km roundtrip, and while it’s not technically difficult, wear proper boots because it gets muddy after rain.
I’ve done this hike three times now, and each visit the colors look different depending on the light. The waterfall isn’t massive like Gullfoss, but the series of small cascades flowing into these brilliant blue pools is way more photogenic. You’ll have the place mostly to yourself, especially if you go early morning. The trailhead is about 90 minutes from Reykjavik, and parking is free.
The best part? No entrance fees, no crowds, just you and this incredible natural phenomenon. Pack snacks and water since there’s nothing nearby except the Grimsborgir luxury cottages if you want to stay overnight in the area. The water is absolutely freezing, so don’t plan on swimming, but the photo ops are endless. Just please respect the area and don’t climb on the formations – they’re more fragile than they look.
3. FlyOver Iceland
FlyOver Iceland is basically Iceland’s answer to Disney’s Soarin’ ride, and it’s actually pretty incredible. The 8-minute flight simulation takes you over glaciers, volcanoes, and fjords with wind, mist, and even scents that make you feel like you’re really flying. I was skeptical at first, but the technology is impressive – you’re suspended in chairlift-style seats facing a massive 20-meter curved screen.
Located in Reykjavik’s Grandi district, it’s perfect for families or anyone wanting to see Iceland’s highlights without hiking for hours. The total experience lasts about 35 minutes including two pre-shows that set up the main attraction. Kids need to be at least 102cm (40 inches) tall to ride. Tickets start around $45-60 USD, and honestly, it’s worth it for the quality of the experience.
I’d recommend going early in your trip – it gives you a great overview of places you might want to visit. The on-site Kaffi Grandi serves decent coffee and snacks, and there’s parking available. Sure, it’s not “authentic” Iceland, but when the weather’s terrible (which happens), this is a fun way to spend 30 minutes. Book online to avoid disappointment, and if you’re doing other attractions nearby like Harpa Concert Hall, you can easily walk between them.
4. Grotta Lighthouse
Grotta Lighthouse is hands down the best spot in Reykjavik for Northern Lights without leaving the city. This little white lighthouse sits on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, about 10 minutes from downtown, and it’s accessible on foot during low tide. The area around it is perfect for photography – you’ve got the lighthouse, dramatic coastline, and zero light pollution.
During summer, the place transforms into a bird paradise with nesting arctic terns (they’re pretty aggressive protecting their nests, so watch out). But winter is when Grotta really shines. I’ve seen some incredible aurora displays here, and the lighthouse makes for perfect foreground in photos. The surrounding tide pools are fascinating to explore, and the views across Faxaflói Bay to the mountains are stunning.
There’s no entrance fee, and it’s accessible year-round, though check tide times before walking out to the lighthouse. The nearby Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach is also worth checking out if you want to combine your visit. Parking is free, and there are basic facilities nearby. Pro tip: Download a tide app and plan your visit accordingly – you don’t want to get stranded when the tide comes in. It’s also incredibly windy, so dress appropriately.
5. Hallgrímskirkja
Hallgrimskirkja isn’t just Iceland’s most famous church – it’s the best viewpoint in Reykjavik, period. That concrete tower inspired by basalt columns rises 244 feet above the city, and the elevator ride to the observation deck costs 1,400 ISK (about $10 USD) for adults. Kids 7-16 pay just 200 ISK, and there are discounts for seniors and students with valid ID.
The church itself is free to visit and genuinely stunning inside – those soaring white columns and minimalist design create this peaceful, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The massive pipe organ (5,275 pipes!) is incredible if you catch one of the regular concerts. But honestly, most people come for the tower views. You can see all of Reykjavik, Mount Esja, and the ocean stretching toward Greenland.
Current hours are 10am-5pm daily (9am-8pm in summer), with the tower closing 15 minutes before. You can’t buy tickets in advance – just show up and purchase at the church shop. The Leif Erikson statue out front is worth a photo, and the surrounding Skolavordustigur Street has great shops and cafes. Warning: those church bells ring every 15 minutes and they’re LOUD. I jumped every time despite knowing they were coming. The elevator makes it accessible for most visitors, though the very top level isn’t wheelchair accessible.
6. Mount Esja
Mount Esja is Reykjavik’s backyard mountain, and it’s perfect for anyone wanting to actually hike instead of just taking photos. The trail to Steinn (the Stone marker) at 914 feet is totally doable for most fitness levels, and the views back to Reykjavik are incredible. More serious hikers can continue to the summit at 2,999 feet, but that’s a proper mountain hike requiring good weather.
I love how accessible this is – just 10km from downtown Reykjavik, with a proper parking area and even a small cafe (Esjustofa) at the trailhead. The mountain looks different every time you see it, changing with weather and light. Sometimes it’s shrouded in dramatic clouds, other times it’s this gentle green giant overlooking the city. The hike to Steinn takes about 2-3 hours roundtrip, and there’s a guest book to sign at the marker.
Wear proper hiking boots and bring layers – weather can change quickly. The trail is well-marked but rocky in places. Winter hiking is possible but requires experience and proper gear. There’s no entrance fee, and parking is free. If you want to stay nearby, Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura offers decent accommodations with mountain views. This is real hiking in Iceland without driving hours from the city.
7. Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are absolutely magical, and 2025 is actually one of the best years to see them thanks to the solar maximum cycle. Iceland sits perfectly at 64 degrees north latitude, making it ideal for aurora viewing from late September through April. The peak months are typically October through March, with the best viewing times between 11pm-2am.
I’ve chased the lights all over Iceland, and honestly, patience is key – they can appear suddenly and disappear just as fast, or dance for hours across the sky. You need three things: darkness, clear skies, and minimal light pollution. While you can sometimes see them from Reykjavik during strong activity, getting away from city lights dramatically improves your chances. Popular spots include Thingvellir National Park, Grotta Lighthouse, and the south coast.
Guided tours start around $50-80 USD and typically depart around 8:30pm. The good companies only run tours when conditions look promising and often offer free rebooking if you don’t see anything. I’d recommend booking for multiple nights to increase your odds. Check the aurora forecast on vedur.is or apps like My Aurora Forecast – you want a KP index of 3 or higher. Dress warmly in layers, bring a tripod for photos, and be prepared to wait. When they finally appear, it’s absolutely worth every cold minute.
8. Perlan Ice Tunnel
Perlan’s ice tunnel is actually pretty cool – a 100-meter artificial glacier tunnel that stays at -10°C year-round. It’s located inside that distinctive glass dome on Öskjuhlíð Hill, about 3km from downtown. The tunnel recreates the experience of being inside a real glacier with that ethereal blue light you get from compressed ice. Even wearing the provided gear, your fingers will get cold – it’s part of the authentic experience.
Beyond the ice tunnel, Perlan houses exhibits on volcanoes, earthquakes, and geothermal energy that are genuinely interesting. The observation deck on top offers 360-degree views of Reykjavik that rival Hallgrímskirkja’s tower. I particularly like the sunset views from here – you can see the city, Mount Esja, and the ocean all in one panorama.
The museum is open daily 9am-7pm, and combo tickets including the ice tunnel start around 4,400 ISK (about $32 USD). It’s perfect for families or anyone wanting to experience glacier environments without driving hours to see the real thing. The Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Natura nearby offers comfortable rooms if you want to stay in this area. Pro tip: grab a coffee at the on-site cafe after your visit – the views while sipping hot chocolate are fantastic.
9. Sky Lagoon
Sky Lagoon is what happens when someone takes the Blue Lagoon concept and makes it even more luxurious. That infinity edge where the pool seems to blend into the North Atlantic Ocean is genuinely stunning, especially at sunset when the sky lights up in impossible colors. The 38-40°C geothermal water feels amazing against Iceland’s cold air, and the ocean views are unmatched.
The 7-Step Skjól Ritual is what sets this apart from other hot springs. You progress through lagoon soaking, cold plunge (brr!), sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows, cold mist, body scrub, steam room, and final relaxation. The cold plunge at 5°C is brutal but oddly addictive – I found myself going back multiple times. The sauna views through that massive window are incredible, looking out over Bessastaðir (the president’s residence) and Mount Keilir.
Packages start at around 12,990 ISK ($93 USD) for Saman (shared facilities) or 15,990 ISK ($115 USD) for Sér (private changing rooms). Both include the ritual, and honestly, the private changing room is worth the upgrade. Open 10am-10pm (extended summer hours), and book ahead – it’s becoming as popular as the Blue Lagoon. Located just 15 minutes from central Reykjavik, it’s easily accessible by car or bus. The on-site restaurant and bars are excellent if you want to make it a longer experience.
10. Sun Voyager
Sun Voyager (Sólfar) might be Reykjavik’s most photographed sculpture, and I get why – that gleaming steel “dreamboat” against the backdrop of Mount Esja and Faxaflói Bay creates the perfect postcard shot. It’s not actually a Viking ship despite what many people think, but rather artist Jón Gunnar Árnason’s representation of a dream boat symbolizing hope and exploration.
The best time for photos is definitely golden hour when the low-angled sunlight transforms the stainless steel into something that looks like liquid gold. I’ve photographed it dozens of times, and the lighting never gets old. The sculpture sits right on Sæbraut Road along the coastal path, making it easy to combine with walks to Harpa Concert Hall or downtown Reykjavik.
There’s no entrance fee obviously, and it’s accessible 24/7. The surrounding coastal path is perfect for jogging or just strolling while taking in the bay views. Parking can be tricky during peak tourist hours, so I’d recommend walking from downtown (about 15 minutes) or combining it with other waterfront attractions. The Reykjavik Marina – Icelandair Hotel is within walking distance if you want stylish accommodations near the harbor. Pro tip: check the sunset times and arrive 30 minutes early to set up your shot.
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11. Tjörnin
Tjörnin (the pond) is Reykjavik’s peaceful heart, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite spots in the city for just chilling out. This small lake in the city center reflects the colorful surrounding buildings and hosts dozens of bird species, including majestic whooper swans that are surprisingly tame. Feeding them bread creates great photo opportunities, though I’m not sure it’s technically allowed.
During winter when temperatures drop enough, locals turn the frozen pond into a natural ice skating rink – it’s such a uniquely Icelandic experience watching families glide around with the Reykjavik City Hall as backdrop. The perimeter walk is lovely any time of year, connecting several cultural institutions including the National Gallery and Reykjavik Art Museum.
The pond area is free and accessible 24/7, though the best light for photography is during golden hour. The surrounding streets have excellent cafes and shops if you want to grab coffee while pond-watching. Apotek Hotel offers elegant boutique accommodations right nearby if you want to stay in this central location. I love how this little oasis provides such a contrast to urban life – you can literally escape city noise just steps from the main shopping street. The bird life varies seasonally, but there’s always something interesting to see.
12. Videy Island
Videy Island is like stepping into a different world, even though it’s only a 20-minute ferry ride from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor. This uninhabited island combines history, art, and untouched nature in a compact package that’s perfect for a half-day escape. The Viðey House from 1755 is Iceland’s first stone building, and the Videy Church dates back to 1774 – both are fascinating glimpses into Iceland’s past.
The most famous attraction is Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower, which beams a column of light into the sky from October through December. When it’s operating, you can see it from Reykjavik, but experiencing it up close on the island is much more powerful. The marked walking trails are easy and offer incredible coastal views that made me forget the city was nearby.
Ferries run on limited seasonal schedules, so check times carefully before planning your visit. Round-trip tickets cost around 1,500 ISK (about $11 USD) for adults. The island has no facilities except basic restrooms, so bring snacks and water. It’s completely flat and walkable for all fitness levels. Reykjavik Residence Hotel offers comfortable apartment-style accommodations near the ferry departure point. This is perfect for anyone wanting to experience Iceland’s nature and history without driving hours from Reykjavik. The peace and quiet after the ferry leaves is incredible – you really do feel like you have your own private island.
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