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Reykjavík Travel Guide

About Reykjavik

Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, derives its name from the Icelandic words “reykur,” meaning “smoke,” and “vík,” meaning “bay.” The name reflects the steam rising from the area’s geothermal vents and hot springs, including the famous Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon

The city has been inhabited by Norse settlers since the 9th century, though it was not officially founded until 1786. Over time, Reykjavík grew from a small fishing village into the center of Icelandic politics, culture, and commerce. Its transformation continued through the 20th century, as it industrialized while preserving a deep connection to nature.

Today, Reykjavík is recognized as one of the world’s cleanest, greenest, and safest cities. Its colorful houses, vibrant arts scene, and strong commitment to sustainability make it a truly unique destination.

The city prioritizes environmental preservation with initiatives such as widespread renewable energy usage and sustainable urban planning. Additionally, Reykjavík serves as a gateway to Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, showcasing the island’s natural beauty and dedication to sustainable living.

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Reykjavik, Iceland
7:45 am, Feb 12, 2025
temperature icon 41°F
clear sky
Humidity 56 %
Pressure 1025 mb
Wind 18 mph
Wind Gust Wind Gust: 0 mph
Clouds Clouds: 0%
Visibility Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise Sunrise: 9:32 am
Sunset Sunset: 5:51 pm
Iceland Nothern Light
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Best Time To visit

  • Summer (June to August): Long daylight hours due to the Midnight Sun make summer perfect for outdoor activities, including hiking and whale watching. Temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
  • Winter (November to February): This time of year is ideal for those looking to witness the Northern Lights. While temperatures can drop below freezing, the city is magical with its festive atmosphere and snowy backdrop.

Spring and Autumn (April to May, September to October): Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and a mix of activities from both summer and winter. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn offers stunning fall colors.

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What to expect

For a memorable stay, The Reykjavik Edition, Hotel Reykjavík Saga, and Hotel Reykjavik Grand provide modern elegance with a sustainability-focused approach. These hotels seamlessly blend contemporary design with eco-friendly practices, ensuring guests enjoy luxurious comfort while minimizing their environmental footprint.

The local food scene is a treat for every palate. Begin your morning with fresh organic pastries from Brauð & Co., or enjoy plant-based creations at Mama Reykjavik, where locally sourced ingredients shine. For fine dining, the Michelin-starred Dill Restaurant and the exclusive Tides deliver culinary artistry and one-of-a-kind experiences. . . .

For a wellness experience, you will find plenty to enjoy, from soaking in the soothing geothermal spas such as the Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon to joining a yoga or Pilates session at Reykjavik Yoga Studio and Body Moving Pilates Studio.

If you want more pampering, the Laugar Spa offers massages, beauty treatments, and organic skincare products. Organic products and health-focused goods are also readily available at Himneskt and Heilsuhusid.

Reykjavik’s beauty extends to its iconic landmarks. Witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, admire the sleek Sun Voyager sculpture along the waterfront, and visit the towering Hallgrímskirkja, a symbol of Iceland’s unique architectural charm.

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Things to know

  • Currency: The Icelandic Króna (ISK) is the local currency.
  • Language: Icelandic is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
  • Time Zone:  Iceland follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) annually and does not observe daylight saving time.
  • Weather: The weather in Reykjavik can be unpredictable and often changes quickly, so it’s advisable to dress in layers and be prepared for rain, wind, and sunshine all in one day.
  • Midnight Sun: During the summer, Reykjavik experiences the Midnight Sun, where the sun doesn’t set for several weeks. This offers long, bright days for outdoor activities. . . . 
  • Electricity: Iceland uses European-style two-pin plugs (220V).
  • Northern Lights: Reykjavík is an excellent base for seeing the Northern Lights, especially in winter. While they may be visible from the city, heading to darker areas outside will give you a better chance to experience the phenomenon.
  • Mobile Phones & Internet: Iceland has excellent mobile network coverage, and Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and even many remote areas. You can purchase a local SIM card for data and calls to stay connected.
  • Public Restrooms: Public restrooms are generally available in Reykjavik and along popular tourist routes. Some require a small fee (around 200 ISK), so it’s handy to carry coins or a credit card for payment.
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how to get around

Reykjavík offers a variety of efficient and eco-friendly ways to explore the city:

  • Walking: Reykjavík is a compact city, making exploring on foot at your own pace easy.
  • Biking: For an environmentally friendly option, bike rentals are available throughout the city.
  • Public Transport: The reliable Strætó bus system connects significant city areas, offering convenient travel options.
  • Car Rentals: Renting a car is perfect for day trips or venturing into Iceland’s stunning countryside. . . .
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available, but they can be pricey. Alternatively, ride-sharing apps like Hreyfill provide a more affordable option.

OTL Tip: Strætó is the official public transport provider in Reykjavík for bus travel. The Strætó app is handy for checking routes and timetables. Other apps, like Reykjavík City Bus or Hreyfill, can help you navigate the city more easily.

Iceland Transportation

Where to stay

Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

This modern 5-star hotel offers stunning views of the harbor, Mt. Esja, and Snæfellsjökull glacier. The hotel is committed to sustainability, aligning with Reykjavik’s reputation . . . .

as one of the world’s most sustainable capitals. It features eco-friendly practices and locally sourced materials, ensuring a minimal environmental water and carbon footprint while providing guests with a luxurious and socially responsible stay. Additionally, the hotel boasts a unique social spa concept, a nightclub, and various spaces for relaxation and socialization, making it an ideal base for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.

Lækjargata 12, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

This elegant 4-star hotel offers stunning views of the city, sea, or glaciers from all rooms, ensuring a memorable stay for every guest. The hotel is committed to sustainability and has . . . .

achieved the prestigious Green Key certification, becoming the first Icelandic hotel chain to do so. This certification reflects the hotel’s dedication to environmentally friendly practices, including energy conservation, waste reduction, and using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients in its restaurant.

Sigtún 28, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland

Hotel Reykjavik Grand offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from superior rooms to executive suites, combining comfort and elegance. Sustainability is central to the hotel’s . . . .

operations, as it holds certifications from the Nordic Swan Ecolabel and Green Key for meeting rigorous environmental and quality standards. By embracing eco-friendly practices, the hotel supports the community, its employees, and the environment, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable hospitality in Iceland.

Where to EAT + DRINK

Frakkastígur 16, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Located on Frakkastígur, known for its delicious sourdough bread and pastries, Brauð & Co. prides itself on using only organic, high-quality ingredients. The bakery offers a cozy . . . .

atmosphere where customers can watch the bakers at work and even chat with them about the baking process. It’s a must-visit spot for bread lovers and those who appreciate honest, traditional baking methods.

Bankastræti 2, 101 Reykjavik

Mama Reykjavik is a vibrant, plant-based haven in downtown Reykjavík. This unique space offers a healthy vegan menu focusing on local and seasonal ingredients. Beyond just a restaurant, . . . .

Mama Reykjavík is a community hub that hosts various events, including cacao ceremonies, ecstatic dance, concerts, and more. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere encourages connection and well-being, making it a beloved spot for everyone. Their commitment to sustainability and love for nature is evident in every aspect of their operation, from the food they serve to the events they host.

Grandagarður 7, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Lamb Street Food is a delightful eatery located in the vibrant Grandi harbor area of Reykjavík. This restaurant masterfully combines traditional Icelandic lamb with international flavors, . . . .

offering a unique culinary experience. Their menu features delicious lamb wraps, salads, and other street food-inspired dishes, all made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

Michelin Restaurants

Red Star

Laugavegur 59, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Dill is a Michelin-starred New Nordic restaurant founded in 2009 by chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason. Known for its innovative take on traditional Icelandic cuisine, Dill focuses on . . . .

sustainability using locally sourced, foraged, and preserved ingredients. The restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu featuring unique dishes like dung-smoked trout and fermented vegetables, complemented by natural wines. With a cozy atmosphere, an open kitchen, and a blend of industrial decor and warm hues, Dill provides an inviting dining experience. It is open for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday.

Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Located within The Reykjavik EDITION hotel, Tides is celebrated for its exquisite seafood sourced from Iceland’s pristine waters alongside locally sourced meats and ingredients. Under . . . .

the direction of renowned chef Gunnar Karl Gíslason, Tides emphasizes Nordic cooking techniques that highlight the natural flavors of its high-quality ingredients. The restaurant features a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for various dining experiences, from casual meals to romantic dinners complemented by a carefully curated selection of wines and cocktails inspired by Icelandic culture. Operate daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring a memorable culinary experience with stunning harbor views.

Pósthússtræti 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

The restaurant is recommended in the 2024 MICHELIN Guide Iceland and is renowned for its fresh, local seafood sourced sustainably from the surrounding oceans. The menu changes . . . .

seasonally, offering a variety of fish, meat, and vegetable dishes. Led by Ragnar Eiríksson, former head chef of the Michelin-starred Dill Restaurant, and co-owned by Sommelier Ólafur Örn Ólafsson, Brúð boasts an extensive wine list with a focus on quality wines from around the world. The restaurant’s ambiance is simple yet elegant, with stone floors, upholstered benches, and open pipework, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant operates from Wednesday to Friday, 17:30 – 22:00, and on weekends, it welcomes guests from 12:00 – 15:00 and 17:30 – 22:00. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

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Laugavegur 28, 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Located in downtown Reykjavik, inspired by the nostalgic atmosphere of Beirut, Lebanon, Sumac Grill + Drinks offers a unique culinary experience that blends Middle Eastern and North . . . .

African flavors with fresh Icelandic ingredients. The restaurant features a charcoal grill that infuses a smoky aroma into various dishes, including meat, fish, and vegetarian options. The menu is known for its exotic spices and seasonal ingredients, creating a fusion of Mediterranean and Icelandic cuisine. The bar offers a selection of Mediterranean and North African wines and house-made cocktails. It is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM.

Ox

Laugavegur 55, 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

ÓX is a renowned speakeasy-style fine dining restaurant located in Reykjavík, Iceland. It offers an intimate culinary experience focusing on innovative Icelandic cuisine, . . . .

featuring a tasting menu showcasing local ingredients. The restaurant is known for its unique setting, as it operates from a small chef’s counter that accommodates only 17 guests, creating a cozy and interactive atmosphere where diners can engage with the chefs throughout their meals.

Organic Markets

Skútuvogi 7, Reykjavík, Iceland

Himneskt is a vibrant hub for health-conscious individuals. It offers a wide range of organic and vegan products, including wholesome recipes, gluten-free baked goods, and natural . . . .

supplements. It aims to promote a healthy lifestyle through nutritious and sustainable food choices.

4-12, 103, Reykjavík, Iceland

This health food store promotes healthy living through various organic and natural products. It offers extensive health foods, supplements, and wellness products to support a balanced diet . . . .

and overall well-being. The store emphasizes quality and sustainability, making it a go-to destination for health-conscious consumers.

Wellness Spa + Studio

Sundlaugavegi 30a, 104 Reykjavík, Iceland

Renowned for its extensive range of relaxing treatments and facilities, this spa features saunas, steam baths, jacuzzis, cold tubs, and unique foot baths, all designed to provide a relaxing and . . . .

rejuvenating experience. You can also enjoy massages, beauty treatments, and organic skincare products while being pampered by professional staff.

Bryggjugata 6, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

This spa is situated within The Reykjavik Edition Hotel and is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. It offers a range of treatments inspired by the Icelandic landscape, . . . .

including hammam sessions, body massages, and facials. The spa also features a thermal plunge pool, sauna, steam room, and a lounge with a bar serving healthy post-workout smoothies.

Bakhús/Port, Skipholt 23, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland

This boutique Pilates studio offers a welcoming atmosphere for practitioners of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Focuses on enhancing mental well-being through certified Pilates . . . .

teachers’ personalized instruction, utilizing mat exercises and specialized Pilates equipment. Classes are designed to improve strength, flexibility, posture, and overall body awareness, catering to individual needs and abilities.

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Fiskislóð 61, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Body Moving Pilates promotes physical health through mindful movement and core strength. This studio offers personalized training and group classes, emphasizing proper . . . .

alignment and technique to achieve fitness goals, improve posture, enhance flexibility, or build overall strength. The studio provides a supportive and motivating environment, making it an excellent choice for strengthening physical well-being.

Frakkastígur 16, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

This yoga studio offers various yoga classes catering to all skill levels. The studio prides itself on creating a tranquil and inclusive space where students can explore different styles . . . .

of yoga, from gentle restorative practices to more dynamic flows. Focusing on mindfulness, relaxation, and physical wellness, Reykjavik Yoga helps individuals find balance and inner peace amidst their busy lives.

Fiskislóð 31B 204, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

This dynamic yoga and wellness studio provides various yoga classes, meditation sessions, and wellness workshops to foster holistic health. The studio’s serene atmosphere and . . . .

experienced instructors create a nurturing environment where clients can focus on their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. REYR’s commitment to promoting a balanced lifestyle makes it a beloved spot for wellness seekers in Reykjavik.

Skeifan 7, 3.hæð, 108 Reykjavík, Iceland

This studio emphasizes community and personal growth, creating a safe space for individuals from various backgrounds and experiences. The experienced instructors guide students through . . . .

multiple styles, including Yoga Nidra, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Hatha, and Yin/Restorative Yoga, ensuring that each class accommodates different needs and preferences. The studio focuses on fostering better health and inner peace, encouraging participants to connect with their bodies and minds through mindful practice.

what to experience

Reykjavik, Iceland

The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon best experienced away from city lights in the skies above Reykjavik and surrounding areas. During the winter, clear nights offer a chance to . . . .

witness the mesmerizing display of green, pink, and purple lights dancing across the sky. Tours often take visitors to optimal viewing spots, providing warm gear and sometimes even hot drinks to enjoy while marveling at this breathtaking spectacle.

Vesturvör 44-48, 200 Kópavogur, Iceland

Nestled in Kópavogur, a short drive from central Reykjavik, the Sky Lagoon is a modern geothermal spa with stunning ocean views and Icelandic landscapes. It features a rejuvenating . . . .

seven-step ritual that includes a soak in a warm infinity pool, a cold plunge, and a visit to a steamy sauna. The blend of natural surroundings and luxurious amenities makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Norðurljósavegur 11, 241 Grindavík, Iceland

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon offers a luxurious escape in Iceland, with stunning views of milky-blue geothermal waters and volcanic landscapes. Its minimalist architecture blends . . . .

seamlessly with nature, providing a serene, relaxing environment. Each suite features floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces, and access to the lagoon’s healing waters. The world-class spa offers holistic treatments, while the Moss restaurant, a Michelin star and Lava restaurant, serves gourmet cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.

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Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík, Iceland

This Blue Lagoon is between Reykjavik and Keflavik International Airport and is one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas. Its milky-blue waters are rich in silica and minerals and are known . . . .

for their skin-healing properties. The surrounding lava fields create an otherworldly ambiance, making it a must-visit destination.

Iceland

A popular day trip from Reykjavik, the Golden Circle is a scenic route featuring three iconic attractions: Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. . . . .

Þingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk between two tectonic plates. Geysir offers erupting hot springs, with Strokkur being the most active. The Gullfoss showcases a mighty cascade of glacial water, creating a dramatic and unforgettable view.

Sæbraut, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Located along Reykjavik’s waterfront on Sæbraut, the Sun Voyager (Sólfar) is an iconic stainless-steel sculpture resembling a Viking ship. It symbolizes exploration, freedom, and the . . . .

promise of undiscovered territories. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Faxaflói Bay, especially at sunset, when the light adds a golden glow to the sculpture.

105 Reykjavík, Iceland

Situated on Öskjuhlíð hill, Perlan is a striking glass-domed building offering panoramic views of Reykjavik. Inside, visitors can explore interactive exhibits about Iceland’s natural . . . .

wonders, including a recreated ice cave, a planetarium showcasing the Northern Lights, and displays on glaciers and volcanoes. The observation deck provides breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and beyond.

Kistuhylur 110, 110 Reykjavík, Iceland

Located on the outskirts of Reykjavik, the Arbaer Open Air Museum is a charming glimpse into Iceland’s past. It features preserved historic buildings, including traditional turf houses, . . . .

a church, and a blacksmith’s workshop. Visitors can experience the daily life of Icelanders from centuries ago through engaging exhibits and guided tours, with costumed interpreters bringing history to life.

Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavik’s tallest church, is an iconic symbol of Iceland, inspired by the country’s basalt landscapes. Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, it features striking architecture, a tranquil . . . .

interior, and a renowned 5,275-pipe organ. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavik from its observation deck, making it a must-see landmark.

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