Reykjavik

Reykjavik

Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital, is a city like no other. Perched on the edge of the Arctic Circle, it offers a remarkable blend of vibrant culture, modern design, Viking history, and natural wonders that include geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Whether you're seeking serenity in geothermal lagoons or the excitement of midnight sun parties, Reykjavik sets the stage for unforgettable adventures. As you stroll down Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s bustling shopping street, you’ll be met with quirky boutiques, cozy cafes, and colorful street art. History enthusiasts can step into the past at the National Museum or explore Viking legends at the Saga Museum. The striking Hallgrímskirkja church towers over the city, offering panoramic views from its peak. But it’s not just culture that beckons—nature is always just a heartbeat away. You can embark on whale-watching tours from the Old Harbour, soak in the Blue Lagoon, or take a day trip along the Golden Circle to marvel at Gullfoss Waterfall and the Strokkur geyser. Winter brings the thrill of aurora hunting, while summer invites you to bask in endless daylight. Reykjavik is also celebrated for its sustainable living and geothermal innovations. From eco-friendly hotels to zero-waste eateries, you’ll experience a city deeply connected to nature. Add to that a thriving music scene, top-tier restaurants serving Nordic cuisine, and welcoming locals, and it’s easy to see why Reykjavik is a must-visit.  

Travila Reykjavik Travel Guide

What to know before Travelleing

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Language: Icelandic
Peak Season: November to March (Aurora); June to August (Midnight Sun)
Time Zone: UTC+0 (GMT)
Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Travila

3 Hours

Average Flight Time

£7.50

Price Of Pint
Transport
Best time to visit
The Magic of the Northern Lights

 Few experiences compare to witnessing the Northern Lights—those swirling, dancing ribbons of green, purple, and pink that light up Reykjavik’s night skies. Known locally as Aurora Borealis, this natural wonder is one of Iceland’s biggest draws, and Reykjavik is a prime viewing spot. Nestled close to vast, open wilderness and free from excessive light pollution, Reykjavik offers easy access to Northern Lights hotspots just minutes from the city. The best time to see the lights is from late September to early April, with peak activity between November and March. Reykjavik’s proximity to the Arctic Circle makes for ideal conditions—clear, dark skies, solar activity, and cold temperatures. Tour companies operate nightly excursions from the city, often chasing clear skies and venturing into remote Icelandic landscapes. Many offer guarantees, allowing free rebooking if the lights don’t appear. Even within Reykjavik, you can enjoy glimpses of the aurora from spots like Grótta Lighthouse, Öskjuhlíð Hill, or the northern shores of the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. The tranquil ambiance, often accompanied by silence or the distant crash of waves, creates an unforgettable atmosphere. For photographers, Reykjavik’s Northern Lights are a dream. Whether silhouetted against the Hallgrímskirkja church or mirrored in a geothermal lake, the aurora offers dramatic, ever-changing compositions. Local guides are well-versed in helping guests set up cameras and maximize the moment. Beyond the spectacle, the aurora holds deep cultural significance. Icelandic folklore once saw the lights as dancing spirits or divine omens. Today, they symbolize Iceland’s connection with raw nature. If seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, Reykjavik is the gateway to ticking that dream off in style.  

Reykjavik’s Art, History & Culture

 Reykjavik may be small in size, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to culture. The city is a hub of Nordic creativity, rich history, and artistic expression. As the heart of Iceland’s cultural life, Reykjavik fuses ancient Viking traditions with modern-day innovation and design. Start your journey with a visit to the National Museum of Iceland, where over a millennium of history comes to life. From Norse artifacts to medieval manuscripts and interactive exhibits, the museum paints a vivid picture of Iceland’s transformation over centuries. Another must-see is the Saga Museum, which brings to life the stories of Viking heroes and early settlers using lifelike wax figures and dramatic storytelling. For art lovers, Reykjavik boasts a thriving visual arts scene. The Reykjavik Art Museum spans three locations and showcases both Icelandic and international contemporary artists. The city is also known for its vibrant street art—whole buildings become canvases for large-scale murals that add color and character to every corner. Architectural highlights include the stunning Hallgrímskirkja, inspired by Iceland’s basalt lava flows. A ride to the top offers sweeping views of the colorful rooftops and Faxaflói Bay. Nearby, Harpa Concert Hall is an icon of modern design, with its glass façade reflecting the sea and sky in mesmerizing patterns. The city also celebrates its cultural identity through festivals. Reykjavik Culture Night, held each August, turns the entire city into a stage with free events, exhibitions, and live performances. There’s also the Reykjavik International Film Festival, Iceland Airwaves music festival, and numerous literary events that draw global talent. From ancient heritage to contemporary cool, Reykjavik is a cultural destination like no other—a city where every street, gallery, and venue tells a story worth hearing.

Day Trips Beyond the City

 One of Reykjavik’s greatest strengths is its role as a launchpad for some of Iceland’s most incredible natural wonders. In just a few hours from the capital, you can explore volcanic craters, majestic waterfalls, steaming geysers, black sand beaches, and glacial lagoons. The most popular route is the Golden Circle, a looped tour covering three top attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. Þingvellir is not only a geological marvel, where tectonic plates drift apart, but also a UNESCO World Heritage site with profound historical roots. Geysir, the original geyser, lends its name to geothermal eruptions around the world—its sibling, Strokkur, erupts like clockwork every 5–10 minutes. Then there’s Gullfoss, a thunderous, two-tiered waterfall that often showcases rainbows in its mist. Adventurers can venture further on day tours to the south coast, where you’ll find the surreal Reynisfjara black sand beach, the charming village of Vík, and waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. During winter, the icy landscapes make for spectacular views, and glacier hiking or ice cave excursions become unforgettable experiences. Another option is a trip to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often dubbed “Iceland in Miniature” due to its variety of landscapes—lava fields, fishing villages, mountains, and the mystical Snæfellsjökull volcano. All these day trips are accessible via guided tours, self-drive options, or private transfers. Reykjavik’s well-organized tourism infrastructure means you can explore vast wilderness by day and return to a warm hotel and fine dining by night.

Where to Eat, Drink & Socialise

 Reykjavik’s culinary scene is an exciting blend of traditional Icelandic flavors and contemporary flair. Over the past decade, the city has transformed into a foodie hotspot, where chefs take pride in using local, seasonal ingredients—fresh seafood, free-roaming lamb, wild herbs, and dairy products are staples. Start your culinary journey with a bowl of Icelandic lamb soup (kjötsúpa), a staple of the country’s food heritage. Or try a tasting menu at restaurants like Dill or Matur og Drykkur, which elevate ancient recipes into modern gourmet dishes. Seafood lovers are in for a treat with dishes featuring Arctic char, langoustine, and cod cheeks served in imaginative ways. Street food in Reykjavik also has its charm. Don’t leave without trying the famous hot dog from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, made with a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, and topped with crispy onions and sweet mustard. As night falls, Reykjavik’s social scene ignites. Cafés transition into wine bars, pubs serve up local craft beer, and the city’s live music culture kicks off. For cocktails with a view, head to SKY Bar or KEX Hostel’s lounge. Reykjavik is also known for its “runtur”—a weekend bar crawl tradition where locals hop from venue to venue until the early hours. Whether you’re sipping geothermal spring water, sampling fermented shark (if you’re brave), or dancing to Icelandic indie bands, Reykjavik offers a fun and flavorful experience for every taste and energy level.

Destination

 Reykjavik might be known for its stunning landscapes and Northern Lights, but it's also an excellent destination for families seeking a unique and enriching holiday. With its safe streets, welcoming locals, and interactive attractions, the city offers a variety of engaging experiences for all ages. Start your adventure at the Reykjavik Family Park and Zoo, located in Laugardalur Valley. It’s home to Icelandic farm animals like horses, sheep, goats, and even seals and reindeer. Adjacent is a large playground and the Laugardalslaug geothermal pool complex, where kids can enjoy water slides, hot tubs, and shallow pools while parents relax. The city also hosts several hands-on museums perfect for young explorers. At Perlan’s Wonders of Iceland exhibit, families can walk through a man-made ice cave and learn about glaciers, volcanoes, and earthquakes. The interactive displays are as fun as they are educational. Another favorite is the Whales of Iceland Exhibition, which features life-sized models of whales, VR stations, and audio guides. For budding scientists and curious minds, the Aurora Reykjavik Northern Lights Center combines science with magic. Kids and adults alike can learn how the aurora is formed and watch captivating timelapse videos in the center’s small cinema. Don’t miss a visit to the Reykjavik Maritime Museum, where families can board real coastguard vessels and explore Iceland’s seafaring history. Many of Reykjavik’s museums offer free or discounted admission for children, and several include dedicated play areas or child-focused tours. Outdoorsy families can take advantage of Reykjavik’s green spaces. Feed the ducks at Tjörnin Pond, cycle around the scenic coastline, or hike up Mount Esja for panoramic views. In winter, snowball fights and sledding become spontaneous fun right in the city. Dining with children is also stress-free in Reykjavik. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus and high chairs, while Iceland’s famous hot dogs and waffles with cream are always a hit. From interactive education to nature-filled days, Reykjavik ensures that every family member, young or old, leaves with unforgettable memories.

Family Fun in Reykjavik

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