Reykjavík
· IS

Reykjavík

Reykjavík, Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík: Where Vibrant City Life Meets Untamed Nature Nestled on the coast of Iceland, Reykjavík, the world's northernmost capital, is a captivating blend of urban energy and untamed wilderness. Bathed in the otherworl…

#Capital city#Northernmost capital city in the world#Geothermal activity#Viking history#Northern lights
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Reykjavík.

Top Hotels in Reykjavík

Top Flights to Reykjavík

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Reykjavík.

Tours

Reykjavík City Walking Tour

Explore the vibrant streets of Reykjavík with a guided walking tour, visiting key landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager sculpture.

Reykjavík Art Museum

Discover Icelandic art across three unique locations in the city, showcasing contemporary and historical artworks.

Perlan - Wonders of Iceland

An iconic building offering exhibitions about Icelandic nature, ice caves, and an observation deck with panoramic views of Reykjavík.

Visit Hallgrímskirkja

Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, known for its unique architecture and panoramic views from the tower.

Visit to Harpa Concert Hall

Explore the architectural beauty of Harpa, Reykjavik's iconic concert hall and conference center. Enjoy its modern design and perhaps catch a festive performance.

Evening with Reykjavik's Northern Lights Tour

Set out for an unforgettable evening under the magical Northern Lights. Experience this natural phenomenon illuminating the Icelandic skies.

Visit the National Museum of Iceland

Delve into Icelandic history and culture with interactive exhibits and fascinating displays about the nation's heritage.

Visit to the Sun Voyager Sculpture

Visit the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture along Reykjavík's scenic waterfront.

Explore Árbær Open Air Museum

Step back in time at Reykjavík's Árbær Open Air Museum, featuring historic Icelandic homes and exhibits on local history and culture.

Visit to Reykjavík Maritime Museum

Explore Iceland's maritime history through fascinating exhibitions and interactive displays, perfect for families.

Visit the Settlement Exhibition

Explore the history of Iceland's earliest settlers with interactive displays and artifacts at the Settlement Exhibition in Reykjavík.

Explore the Reykjavik City Museum

Dive into the captivating history and culture of Reykjavík at the City's dedicated museum, featuring permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Visit the Icelandic Phallological Museum

A unique and educational visit to the world's only museum dedicated to phallology, featuring an extensive collection of phallic specimens from various species. Suitable for family visits.

FlyOver Iceland

Experience Iceland's stunning landscapes through this immersive flight simulation ride, enjoyable for the whole family.

Shopping

Laugavegur Shopping Street

The main shopping street in Reykjavík, lined with stylish boutiques, charming cafes, and vibrant street art.

Kolaportið Flea Market

A bustling weekend market in Reykjavík where you can find everything from local crafts to vintage clothing and Icelandic delicacies.

Outdoor

Golden Circle Day Trip

Embark on a scenic drive to explore Iceland’s famed Golden Circle, including Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

Northern Lights Tour

Experience the breathtaking Northern Lights on a guided tour outside Reykjavík, away from the city's light pollution.

Þórsmörk Valley Hiking Tour

Join a guided hike through the stunning landscapes of Þórsmörk Valley, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour

Ride Icelandic horses through the stunning countryside near Reykjavík, perfect for both beginners and experienced riders.

Family Ice Skating at Ingólfstorg Square

Enjoy a fun family ice skating session at the seasonal ice rink located in Ingólfstorg Square, a great festive activity for all ages.

Morning at Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool

Start your Christmas Day with a relaxing dip in one of Reykjavik's beloved geothermal swimming pools. Enjoy the hot baths and rejuvenate in the thermal heat.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Reykjavík.

Currency
ISK | Icelandic króna | Icelandic króna
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Reykjavík, Iceland is 131,000.
Languages
Icelandic, Icelandic, English
Average weather
Reykjavík
Jan
snow
2°-3°
Feb
snow
3°-2°
Mar
snow
3°-2°
Apr
cloud
6°0°
May
cloud
10°4°
Jun
cloud
12°7°
Jul
cloud
14°9°
Aug
cloud
13°8°
Sep
rain
10°5°
Oct
rain
7°2°
Nov
snow
4°-1°
Dec
snow
2°-3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Reykjavík.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Reykjavík, the capital city of Iceland:

  1. Natural Beauty: Reykjavík is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including geysers, waterfalls, hot springs, and lava fields. The city also offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby mountains.

  2. Unique Culture: Reykjavík has a rich cultural scene, with a vibrant arts and music community. Visitors can explore museums, galleries, and live music venues to experience Icelandic culture firsthand.

  3. Outdoor Activities: Reykjavík is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, whale watching, horseback riding, and even glacier trekking. The city is also a popular starting point for tours of the famous Golden Circle route.

  4. Safety and Cleanliness: Iceland is known for being one of the safest and cleanest countries in the world, making Reykjavík a great destination for solo travelers or families.

  5. Thermal Pools: Reykjavík is home to several geothermal pools and spas, where visitors can relax and unwind in the warm waters while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Overall, traveling to Reykjavík offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, outdoor activities, safety, and relaxation, making it a fantastic destination for travelers looking for a memorable and diverse experience.

What to know

Traveling to Reykjavík, Iceland, like any destination, has its own set of cons to consider. Here are some potential drawbacks of traveling to Reykjavík:

  1. High Cost of Living: Iceland is known to be an expensive destination, with high prices for accommodation, food, and activities. Travelers should be prepared for the higher cost of living in Reykjavík compared to many other cities.

  2. Unpredictable Weather: Iceland's weather can be very unpredictable, with changes occurring rapidly. Travelers should be prepared for sudden shifts in weather conditions, including rain, wind, and even snow, depending on the time of year.

  3. Limited Daylight in Winter: During the winter months, Reykjavík experiences limited daylight hours, with only a few hours of sunlight each day. This can impact sightseeing and outdoor activities, as well as general mood and energy levels.

  4. Crowds of Tourists: Reykjavík has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years, leading to crowds at popular attractions and busy city streets, especially during the peak travel seasons.

  5. Remote Location: Iceland is located far from many other countries, which can result in longer travel times and potentially higher transportation costs to reach Reykjavík.

  6. Language Barrier: While many Icelanders speak English, the official language is Icelandic, which can pose a language barrier for some travelers. It's always helpful to learn a few basic Icelandic phrases or carry a translation app.

  7. Limited Public Transportation: Reykjavík's public transportation system is not as extensive as in some other cities, which can make getting around a bit more challenging for travelers who prefer not to rent a car.

Overall, while Reykjavík is a beautiful and unique destination, it's important for travelers to be aware of these potential cons before planning their trip.

Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, located on the southwestern coast of the country. The city's history dates back to the settlement of Iceland by Norsemen in the 9th century. Reykjavík is said to have been founded in the year 874 AD by the Norse chieftain Ingólfur Arnarson, who is considered one of the city's founding figures.

Over the centuries, Reykjavík grew from a small fishing village into a significant trading and cultural center. In 1786, Reykjavík became the official capital of Iceland, a status it has maintained to this day. The city has played a crucial role in Iceland's struggle for independence from Denmark, culminating in the establishment of the Republic of Iceland in 1944.

Several significant events have shaped Reykjavík's history, including the Reykjavík Summit in 1986, where U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev met to discuss nuclear disarmament. The city has also been a hub for artistic and cultural movements, with a vibrant music and arts scene.

Reykjavík is home to several important landmarks, including Hallgrímskirkja, a striking church that is one of the city's most iconic buildings. The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is a modern architectural marvel that has become a symbol of Reykjavík's cultural scene. The city is also known for its geothermal pools, such as the Blue Lagoon, which attract tourists from around the world.

Throughout its history, Reykjavík has been a center of Icelandic culture, politics, and innovation, playing a crucial role in shaping the identity of the nation. Today, the city continues to thrive as a dynamic and cosmopolitan capital, known for its unique blend of tradition and modernity.