Reykjavik Travelers Recommend

Summer is the most popular time to visit Reykjavik, with almost 24 hours of daylight, mild weather, and a busy schedule of open-air entertainment. To make the most of your trip, see below for our top picks of what to see and do in Reykjavik this summer.

• Admire natural wonders such as Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geyser, the Secret Lagoon, and the Haukadalur lava fields on a full-day Golden Circle tour.

• Trek through Vatnajökull National Park, around the Landmannalaugar mountains, or into the heart of Thrihnukagigur volcano.

• Take a dip in one of Reykjavik’s open-air, heated swimming pools or bathe in the steamy Blue Lagoon hot springs.

• Soar over Reykjavik on a helicopter tour and touch down on the peak of Mt. Esja.

• Mount up for a horseback riding tour and admire Iceland’s volcanic landscapes from the back of an Icelandic horse.

• Experience the magic of the midnight sun on an evening whale watching cruise from Reykjavik and spot humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises in their natural environment.

• Get your adrenaline pumping as you snorkel through the Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park and explore the Gjábakkahellir lava cave.

• Discover the natural wonders of Iceland’s southern coast including the black-sand beach of Vik, the Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, and Mýrdalsjökull glacier.

Iceland's Golden Circle route is the ultimate day trip destination from Reykjavik—although not too far from the city, the route features some of the country’s must-see geysers and waterfalls. Here’s how to tour the Golden Circle from Reykjavik.

Guided Tours

Tours leave Reykjavik regularly, with guides on hand to lead travelers directly to the route's key sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Thingvellir National Park, widely considered home to Iceland's most impressive natural attractions. Travel by road or take to the skies by helicopter with a guide, and discover famous Golden Circle staples such as Gullfoss waterfall, the geothermal pools and Strokkur waterspout at Geysir, and the tectonic rift in the Thingvellir National Park.

Combo Tours

Combo tours are an ideal way to double up on the adventure, and squeeze more into your time in Iceland. Choose a tour that takes you around the Golden Circle's top spots and also includes a trip to the Hvítá River for a white-water rafting adventure; to the Blue Lagoon or Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths for a soak; or to Langjokull Glacier for some winter sports.

Things to Know

• Express Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik run at about eight hours, and more comprehensive combo tours can be upwards of 11, so prepare for a full day.
• From Reykjavik, the furthest point on the Golden Circle tour is the Gulfoss waterfall. This natural landmark lies 67 miles (109 km) away from the city—a drive of about 1.5 hours.
• Iceland's otherworldy landscapes come with unpredictable weather and rugged terrain, so pack accordingly. At a minimum in winter, you’ll need a fleece layer, a warm, waterproof coat, thermals, and a hat and scarf, plus warm socks and gloves. In summer, wear thinner layers that can be easily removed and packed away if the sun comes out. And don’t forget hiking boots for the trekking trails or swimwear for the thermal baths.

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the elusive Northern Lights. To help you catch a glimpse of this natural display of swirling colors in the sky this winter, we've gathered insider tips and our top guided experiences. See below for your options.

When to Go

The prime time to see the Northern Lights near Reykjavik is from September to March. You need pure darkness and cloudless skies to get the best views, but beware—the clearest nights are often the coldest. Make sure you dress accordingly.

Where to Go

Reykjavik is a perfect starting point for seeing the Northern Lights. Since the city isn't too big and doesn't create much light pollution, you don't have to travel very far to find complete darkness, which creates the perfect backdrop for this natural light show.

How to Go

Whether you travel by super jeep into the mountains, take a cruise on Faxaflói Bay, or combine your Northern Lights trip with whale watching or a visit to the Blue Lagoon, there are plenty of options to hunt down this mystical natural light show near Reykjavik.

A 2-day trip to Reykjavik offers the chance to fully explore the cosmopolitan capital of Iceland and also get a taste of the wild landscapes that are just a short distance away. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, here’s how to spend two days in Reykjavik.

Day 1: The City and Its Natural Wonders

**Morning:**Spend your first hours in Reykjavik getting your bearings and doing some sightseeing. Walking and biking tours are greats way to familiarize yourself with the city and hit the highlights, while coach and hop-on hop-off bus tours cover more ground in less time with the chance to customize your stops.

**Afternoon:**Get out on the water on a whale-watching cruise from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. If visiting in summer, you can combine whale watching with a cruise to Akurey to see its puffin colony. If you’d rather stay on land, consider Blue Lagoon tickets or a horseback riding tour close to Reykjavik—hotel transfers are generally included.

**Night:**Summer offers extended daylight hours so you can take an evening tour of the Golden Circle, which brings the benefit of smaller crowds at the attractions. In winter, you can choose from a coach, boat, or Super Jeep tour for a northern lights hunt. 

Day 2: Into the Countryside

**Morning:**You can spend the whole day exploring the Golden Circle on a private or group tour that includes an activity such as snowmobiling on a glacier or a visit to the Secret Lagoon. Some longer full-day options also take in Iceland’s south coast or Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Alternatively, take a shorter morning or afternoon tour that focuses on Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

**Afternoon:**A helicopter tour is a great way to get a sense of Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes. Tours typically depart from Reykjavik’s downtown airport and offer sightseeing over Thingvellir National Park and Eyjafjallajokull glacier.

**Night:**Reykjavik is famed for its lively nightlife. Beer- and food-themed tours offer a taste of local drink and food culture as well as insight into the best spots to spend the rest of your evening after you leave your tour guide.

The Golden Circle route and the Blue Lagoon are considered among Iceland’s top attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. Here are a few ways to visit them both in the same day and make the most of your time in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Highlights

• Tick off two of Iceland's top activities in one convenient tour package

• Single-day options are available, as well as more extensive multi-day tours that take you to other parts of Iceland as well

• Travelers looking for outdoor adventure can choose a hiking tour to tackle the terrain on foot

• Combo tours typically include pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik hotel, plus round-trip transport to your destinations

Things to Know

• Bring clothing layers for all weather. During the cold winter months, you'll need a fleece layer, a warm waterproof coat, and a hat and scarf, plus warm socks and gloves. In summer, wear thinner layers that can be easily removed and packed away, plus sun protection. Don't forget swimwear for the Blue Lagoon thermal bath.
• Most combo day tours available from Reykjavik last between 7 and 10 hours.
• From Reykjavik, the furthest point on the Golden Circle tour is the Gulfoss waterfall. This natural landmark lies 67 miles (109 km) away from the city—a drive of about 1.5 hours. 
• From Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is a 29-mile (47-km) drive.

With three days in Reykjavik, you have plenty of time to soak up the city’s atmosphere, see the historic sights, and journey into the surrounding countryside to see some of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions. Here are a few ideas for how to spend three days in Reykjavik.

Day 1: Explore the City’s Sights and Lights

Walking tours are an enjoyable way to explore Reykjavik and get your bearings, thanks to the city’s compact size and the close proximity of attractions such as Hallgrimskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall. Alternatively, hop-on hop-off bus tours allow you to set your own itinerary with 24-hour tickets, so you can spend the whole day exploring at your leisure.

In winter, you’re likely to be able to see the northern lights. To maximize your chances, leave the city on an aurora borealis night tour. It’s a good idea to schedule this for the first night of your trip as, if you do not see the aurora that night, some tours offer a complimentary second tour the following night. If visiting outside winter, book an evening visit to the Blue Lagoon instead.

Day 2: Head into the Country

Traversing the Golden Circle is a must-do. The route, which is easily accessible from Reykjavik, is made up of three main attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Most guided Golden Circle tours take a full day, with some including additional excursions, such as snowmobiling on a glacier or visiting the Secret Lagoon.

Iceland’s south coast is another popular day-trip destination. Visit on a full-day private or group tour to see Seljalandsfoss waterfall (which you can walk behind) and the black-sand beach and basalt columns of Reynisfjara.

Day 3: Meet Iceland’s Animal Inhabitants

The Icelandic horse is famed for its hardiness, charming looks, and uniquely smooth gait, called tölt. You’ll likely see some as you travel the countryside, but for a closer experience, book a horseback riding tour. These typically include transportation from Reykjavik to a countryside farm and continue into scenic surroundings of mountains and lava fields.

If you prefer to watch animals from afar, join a whale-watching cruise from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, offered year-round but with the most frequent sightings from April through October. In summer, some cruises include visits to nearby Akurey to see its puffin colony. Whale watching and horseback riding can even be combined with one full-day tour.

The world’s northernmost capital may be far-flung, but Reykjavik is both full off and close to some one-of-a-kind attractions. As well as being the departure point for tours of the wild Icelandic countryside, the city has its own unique appeal. Reykjavik boasts colorful houses, ultra-modern architecture, art galleries, creative cuisine, and wild nightlife. Although its small size means you can see a lot in a short time, you’ll want to plan ahead to ensure you make the most of it.  

From exploring the city sightseeing to whale and puffin watching to spotting the Northern Lights and discovering waterfalls, glittering glaciers, and black-sand beaches, this list reveal the experiences that you can't miss in the Icelandic capital. 

Iceland is a nation filled with diverse landscapes, breathtaking scenery—and active volcanoes. Few excursions offer visitors the opportunity to take in all the unique natural sights like a guided volcano tour from Reykjavik and Iceland’s south coast, which offers some of the most stunning views the country has to offer.

Highlights

• Descend into Thrihnukagigur, one of Iceland’s most impressive dormant volcanoes, and spend a few hours exploring its subterranean interior.

• Hike through Thorsmork Valley and enjoy incredible views of the rocky craters and cooling lava fields of the Fimmvorduhals volcano.

• Take a “super jeep” tour around the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which brought European air travel to a halt when it erupted in 2010.

• Marvel at the magical waterfalls of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, and go for a stroll along the black-sand beach of the popular Reynisfjara beach.

• Go for a short glacier walk on the 700-year-old Solheimajokull glacier.

• Get a bird’s-eye view of the Eyjafjallajokull glacier, Thorsmork ridge, and Katla volcano on a two-hour helicopter tour.

• Join a small-group tour to climb to the top of the Hekla volcano.

Reykjavik, the far-flung yet surprisingly cosmopolitan capital of Iceland, is filled with more attractions than its compactness might suggest. And its small size means you can see a lot in a single day, from historic landmarks and Viking influences to mountains and geysers. Here are a few ways to spend one day in Reykjavik.

Morning: Take in the City’s Sights

Reykjavik is a highly walkable city, making an on-foot tour an enjoyable way to see the sights. Most walking tours comprehensively cover the main landmarks, such as Hallgrimskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall, with enlightening commentary. To get just outside the city center, opt for a bike tour or book round-trip transport from the Blue Lagoon. Private or group minibus tours, on the other hand, cover even more ground in less time, while hop-on hop-off bus tours have the added benefit of allowing you to set your own itinerary and pace.

Afternoon: Experience Otherworldly Landscapes

Although it’s impossible to see all of Iceland in one day, you can still see some of Iceland’s famed geysers, hot springs, and lava fields from the air. Helicopter tours leave from Reykjavik’s domestic airport (conveniently located downtown) and typically fly to Thingvellir National Park and Thorisjokull glacier, or to Eyjafjallajokull glacier and Katla volcano. Some helicopter tours focus on Iceland’s geothermal landscapes while others allow for mountain summit landings. If you’d rather stay on the ground, off-road quad biking tours can give you a taste of the wilderness in a short time.

Night: Marvel at Iceland’s Night Sky

If traveling in summer, long daylight hours mean you can fit in more activities. Take advantage of the midnight sun to get out of the city on an evening Golden Circle tour that departs from Reykjavik and travels to Thingvellir, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Winter, on the other hand, brings the aurora borealis. You have several options for northern lights tours: travel by coach, boat, or Super Jeep. Most tours head out into the countryside and away from light pollution, and some offer a free second chance if you don’t see the aurora that night.

Compact, colorful, and charming, Reykjavik is full of kid-friendly fun. From learning about Vikings and petting Icelandic horses to spotting whales and chasing the Northern Lights, this list details some of the best things for families to do in Iceland’s capital.

• Explore the city at your own pace on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour that hits all the major sights.
• Meet adorable Icelandic horses and ride through the countryside.
• Dress up like a Viking and hear dramatic tales about the history of Iceland at the Saga Museum.
• Meet farm animals and costumed guides at Árbær Open Air Museum.
• View life-size models of whales at Whales of Iceland and then head out onto the water with a combo museum and whale-watching package. Or, go puffin-spotting.
• Search for the magical Northern Lights and hear some of the Icelandic myths associated with them on an evening tour. Toasting marshmallows arounf the campfire is a family favorite.

Fall is the perfect shoulder season in Reykjavik: The landscape is vibrant with color, and the darkness and chill of winter have yet to arrive. During your autumnal stay, plan a wide-ranging itinerary that blends trips into nature with cultural excursions and culinary adventures—here’s how to make the most of a fall visit to the Icelandic capital.

• Enjoy the fresh, crisp air and vibrant fall colors when you go on a horseback riding tour.
• Indulge in a soothing soak in one of the region’s natural thermal springs.
• See the mighty Gullfoss waterfall before it freezes over during a Golden Circle day trip.
• Sample delicious traditional Icelandic cuisine on a tour of Reykjavik’s best restaurants.
• Embark on a whale-watching tour to see these giants of the deep during their autumn migrations.
• Tour Reykjavik’s major landmarks from the cozy comfort of a minibus.
• Admire volcanoes, lava beaches, and waterfalls juxtaposed with an autumnal color palette during a visit to Snaefellsnes National Park.
• Embark on a sea-fishing adventure, and barbecue your catch onboard.
• Head indoors and discover Reykjavik’s highlight museums, from the Reykjavik Museum of Photography to the Reykjavik Maritime Museum.
• Plan a fun and festive night out with a wine-bar excursion or pub crawl.

The days when the far-flung capital of Reykjavik was off the radar for international tourists are long gone. Since 2008, tourism in Iceland has skyrocketed and Reykjavik’s once-quiet streets have filled with tourists. It’s still possible to beat the crowds, though. Here’s how. 

Plan ahead

Take note of opening times and pre-book entry when possible; it saves you both time and money. Another good idea is to pre-purchase a City Card, which grants you free entry to many attractions without you having to wait in line. 

Make the most of the midnight sun

During the summer months, the sun hardly sets in Iceland, which opens up more opportunities for visiting attractions outside of peak hours. If you’re willing to wait until late evening to head out, you’ll likely find that you have some top attractions all to yourself.

Visit in winter

Fewer tourists visit Reykjavik in the winter. That means that you’re more likely to have a crowd-free experience at major landmarks. As an added bonus, you might spot the Northern Lights.

Skip the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions and is always packed full of tourists. It’s not the only hot springs within reach of Reykjavik, though. Visit the Secret Lagoon, Laugarvatn Fontana, or Reykjadalur Hot Springs instead, which are all within 62 miles (100 kilometers) of Reykjavik.

Embrace the weather

Iceland’s weather is notoriously fickle but is all part of the local experience. Use it to your advantage by venturing out in rainy weather, when most other travelers avoid outdoor attractions. 

Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour

Rather than following a set sightseeing schedule, create your own itinerary by taking a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour. That way, you can linger at attractions for as much time as you wish, long after the crowds have dispersed.

Thanks to its compact size, Reykjavik is easy to navigate without a vehicle (and given the high cost of car rental in Iceland, you’re better off without one). From public transit and bus tours to simply walking, here’s how to get around the Icelandic capital.

Walking, Biking, and Segway Tours

The majority of Reykjavik’s top attractions are within a short distance of one another, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. Walking tours are popular and typically cover the main sights or focus on a certain theme, such as Viking history or culinary heritage. Alternatively, cover more ground in less time by booking a bicycle or Segway tour.

Hop-On-Hop-Off-Bus Tours

One of the best ways to familiarize yourself with a new city is with a hop-on hop-off tour. You can travel around Reykjavik in an open-top, double-decker bus, opting to stay on board for the whole route or get off at any stop that interests you, explore at your own pace, and then reboard and continue on. Bonus: Tickets are good for 24 hours.

Buses

Many visitors to Reykjavik make use of the private buses that travel between downtown Reykjavik and Keflavík International Airport. Straetó, the country's public bus system, also comes in handy for getting around the city and traveling to nearby towns, such as Mossfellsbær and Kópavogur—Reykjavik City Card holders ride free within the city. If you’re planning to travel much farther afield, however, you’ll save time and effort by joining a tour or renting a car.

With its dreamy landscapes and cozy bars, Reykjavik is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Plus, its consistently chilly temperatures demand that you get cozy with your sweetheart. Here are a few ways to get romantic in Iceland’s capital.

Hunt the Northern Lights

Seeing the Northern Lights is a spectacular experience that’s best shared with a loved one. Bundle up and head out into the countryside or onto the water to increase your chances of seeing the natural phenomenon. During summer, you can chase the midnight sun instead in an ATV for two.

Take a Dip in the Secret Lagoon

Avoid the crowds of the Blue Lagoon at Secret Lagoon, a much more intimate hot spring experience in the village of Flúðir, east of Reykjavik. The steamy waters are naturally heated to between 100–104˚F (38–40˚C).

Ride into the Countryside

Soak up the otherworldly landscapes surrounding Reykjavik by riding through the countryside on an Icelandic horse. You’ll ride past mountains and lakes, and get the opportunity to pet this unique breed of stead.

Dine at a Top Restaurant

Round off a day in Reykjavik with a romantic meal for two at one of the city’s best restaurants, such as Kopar, famed for its Icelandic specialties. You can even combine dinner with a Northern Lights cruise.

The Icelandic capital may not be known for its cuisine, but visitors with adventurous palates can eat well in Reykjavik. From fish stew to hot dogs, here are some of the city’s must-try dishes.

Fish: Given its island status and solid fishing culture, it’s no surprise that fish is a mainstay in Icelandic cuisine. Cod, salmon, and haddock are most common and typically served grilled, though you should also try plokkfiskur, a delicious traditional fish stew.

Lamb: Visit Iceland in spring or summer and you’ll be sure to see lambs roaming around the hills. They soon make their way onto Icelanders’ plates, and—given their months of grazing on Icelandic moss, wild grass, and berries—their lean meat has a distinctive, almost gamey flavor. Try it in kjötsúpa, Icelandic lamb soup.

Skyr : A thick, creamy dairy product, skyr is a sour-milk cheese easily mistaken for yogurt. Eat it like yogurt, straight from the tub, or as a dessert topping—it’s delicious over berries and high in protein.

Hot Dogs: In business for more than 60 years, the iconic Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur serves hot dogs made from a blend of beef, lamb, and pork. They’re best ordered eina með öllu (with everything), namely fried onions, brown mustard, and creamy remoulade.

Slátur : A truly traditional and hearty Icelandic food, slátur is made from sheep innards and comes in two different varieties: blóðmör (blood pudding, similar to the UK and Ireland’s black pudding) and lifrarpylsa (liver sausage, similar to Scottish haggis).

Plants are making a verdant reappearance, sunlight is returning, and crowds have yet to arrive: Spring is one of the prettiest and most tranquil times to visit Iceland. Take advantage of the warming days on a national park day trip, and make the most of Reykjavik’s cultural plenty, too. Here’s how to plan your spring getaway.

• Admire a spectacular late-night northern lights show before summer’s midnight sun arrives.
• Plan a pampering spa trip to the thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.
• Treat yourself to a spring-cleaning wardrobe refresh when you go for a shopping tour of the city.
• Take advantage of the longer days with a walking tour of Reykjavik’s major landmarks.
• Head out on a Golden Circle tour to see Gullfoss waterfall’s raging, glacier-fed rapids.
• Enjoy green and blossoming meadows during an Icelandic horseback-riding excursion.
• Learn all about seasonal Icelandic cuisine during a hands-on cooking class.
• See Iceland’s nature in all its glory with a trip to the wild and rugged Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
• Enjoy an unconventional way to discover the springtime scenery with a Game of Thrones–themed day trip.
• Head to the South Coast and see some of Iceland’s most spectacular landscapes when you embark on a boat tour of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

With its vast glaciers, steamy hot springs, and towering volcanic peaks, Iceland’s unique landscapes could have been lifted from the pages of a fantasy novel, and the most spectacular views are from high above. Here are your options for Reykjavik helicopter tours.

Highlights

• Fly to the 3,000-foot (914-meter) mountaintop of Mount Esja on a 40-minute helicopter tour and marvel at the views on a summit landing.

• Take a thrilling Reykjavik helicopter flight along the Reykjanes Peninsula and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Seltun lava fields as well as Graenavatn and Kleifarvatn lakes.

• Soar over the volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and valleys of Iceland’s south coast, the Vatnajokull National Park, or the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

• Take in the highlights of the Golden Circle sightseeing route from the air, and see the Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geyser, and Gullfoss waterfall.

• Spend two hours flightseeing Eyjafjallajokull Glacier, Thorsmork ridge, and Iceland’s Blue Mountains.

Reykjavik may be best known as the gateway to the Icelandic countryside, but for those with time to spend in town, a plethora of interesting, informative museums await. Here are a few top picks.

National Museum of Iceland

Dive into Iceland’s fascinating history—from the Vikings and the struggle for independence to modern day—at the National Museum of Iceland. The museum’s collection of more than 2,000 artefacts, from drinking horns to medieval carvings, fill in the details.

**How to Visit:**Book a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour and make the museum one of the stops you explore at your own pace. 

The Settlement Exhibition

Multimedia exhibits and archaeological artefacts bring the Viking era to life at the Settlement Exhibition. The museum is based around a 10th-century Viking longhouse discovered on the site in 2001.

**How to Visit:**Book your ticket in advance to guarantee entry at a time of your choice and avoid waiting in line.

Saga Museum

Life-like replicas of key figures from Icelandic history bring more than 1,000 years of Icelandic civilization to life. Visitors can dress up as a Viking Leif Eiriksson and learn about saga authors including Snorri Sturluson.

**How to Visit:**Guide yourself through the exhibits with an audio tour.

Reykjavik Art Museum

Reykjavik Art Museum occupies three different sites in the city. The Kjarvalsstaðir site focuses on modern paintings and sculptures; Ásmundursafn is dedicated to the works of 20th-century sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson; and the contemporary Hafnarhús features pop art by Erró.

**How to Visit:**One admission ticket is valid for 24 hours at all three locations; all are included with a Reykjavik City Card. 

Whales of Iceland

Located in the Old Harbor area, the Whales of Iceland Exhibition features more than 20 life-size models of whales found in the waters surrounding Iceland. Visitors can use the interactive stations to watch videos and learn about the different species. 

**How to Visit:**Combine learning about whales with seeing them by booking a whale watching tour that includes an admission ticket to the museum.

Maritime Museum

Fishing has played a critical role in the history and development of Iceland. Learn about the history of Icelandic fisheries at the Maritime Museum, housed in a former fish factory. 

**How to Visit:**Purchase a 24- 48- or 72-hour Reykjavik City Card, which includes admission to the Maritime Museum, as well as many other attractions.

The black-sand beaches, sea cliffs, and fjords of the Icelandic coastline host a diverse cast of creatures, from dolphins and whales to throngs of orange-billed puffins. Here’s what you need to know about Reykjavik-based RIB (rigid inflatable boat) cruises, which allow you to get close to coastal wildlife during exhilarating high-speed tours.

Highlights

• Admire the Reykjavik skyline and spot noteworthy landmarks, such as Harpa Concert Hall and the Sólfar (Sun Voyager) sculpture, from the water.

• Cruise through Faxaflói Bay, stopping at Lundey Island or Akurey Island to see nesting birds during a puffin tour.

• Scan the water for sightings of surfacing minke and humpback whales.

• Enjoy the excitement of whizzing across the water at high speed.

• Learn about the behavioral patterns of seabirds, such as auks and gannets, from your guide.

Things to Know

• Most RIB tours depart from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. 

• Puffins are most visible during the breeding season, May to August. You can spot whales and dolphins in Iceland year-round, but more species are present during the summer months.

• Speedboats generally accommodate small groups of 15 people or fewer, guaranteeing an intimate experience. 

• Most RIB tours provide warm waterproof overalls and life jackets.

• Many whale-watching tours offer complimentary tickets for another speedboat cruise if you don’t spot any whales the first time around.

• RIB speedboat tours typically last one to two hours. 

• Boat engines can be switched off so as not to alarm wildlife and to allow you to appreciate the sounds of nature. 

Reykjavik is a famously expensive city, where a beer in a bar might set you back as much as a meal in another city. With careful planning, though, you don’t have to spend a fortune on sightseeing. Here are our tips for saving money in the Icelandic capital.

Book a Super Saver

For those who want to do as much as possible, it pays to book a Super Saver, which combines two best-selling activities—such as whale watching and a northern lights hunt—into one tour at a discounted price.

Take a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Compact Reykjavik is a highly walkable city, but some of its most popular attractions, such as the Laugardalur Valley, are spread out. To save on transportation, a hop-on hop-off tour carries you all around the city and to farther-flung sights for just one price, plus you can enjoy the benefit of onboard commentary to learn about the city's attractions as you go. 

Choose a Tour That Includes Lunch or Tastings

Instead of booking a regular walking tour, choose one that includes food tastings to save on the cost of meals. Some experiences, such as cooking classes and history-themed walking tours, even include a full lunch. And, rather than spending too much money on beer, book a pub crawl or brewery tour that includes drinks. 

Buy an Attractions Pass

Save on admission fees and other costs by purchasing a multiattraction City Card. Valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours, these passes include entry to top attractions, use of the public bus, and discounts at restaurants.

Though Reykajvik is a relatively compact and laid-back capital, its always nice to find a green space to take a break from city life. From the thermal pool of Laugardalur to the art installations of Viðey, here are some of the best parks and gardens in Reykjavik.

Laugardalur Park

Once the source of the city’s hot water supply, Laugardalur is a major center for recreation; the public swimming pool, fed by a geothermal spring, is accessible year-round and allows visitors to take a warm dip on a cold, winter’s day. There are also a concert arena, bike paths, a petting zoo, and botanical gardens.

Viðey

A short boat ride from Reykjavik city center takes you to the island of Viðey. In addition to birds, panoramic views, and a network of walking and bike trails, you’ll find Richard Serra’s Áfangar — which consists of 18 basalt columns—and Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower, which is lit each year between John Lennon’s birthday and the date of his death.

Hljómskálagarður Park

Located at the southeast corner of Lake Tjörnin, Hljómskálagarður Park is popular with joggers and cyclists, and best-known for its collection of sculptures by five female Icelandic artists. The lake itself if an attractive spot to linger, especially for birdwatchers, who might spot Arctic terns, eider ducks, and whooping swans.

Austurvöllur

Austurvöllur is a popular gathering place for locals due to its proximity to Parliament—it served as a significant spot during Iceland’s recent political protests. Locals flock here to soak up the elusive Icealndic sun and to hang out in the cafes of nearby Vallarstræti and Pósthússtræti.

Mæðragarðurinn

Dedicated to mothers with young children, Mæðragarðurinn is a popular spot for families. The park is home to a statue of a mother with a child that was created by famed Icelandic sculptor Nína Sæmundsson.

Given its compact size, Reykjavik’s contribution to culture is an outsized one: the city is the birthplace of big names in the fields of art, music, and literature, including Björk and Halldór Laxness. Here are just some of the ways that you can make the most of your visit by diving into the city’s cultural scene. 

Explore Harpa

A Reykjavik landmark, Harpa Concert Hall was designed by Henning Larsen Architects and Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson; the design of the modern, honeycomb structure was inspired by Icelandic nature and Arctic light. The building plays host to the National Opera and Symphony but even if you don’t have the chance to attend a performance, a tour lets you see areas that aren’t open to the public and provides insight into the construction of the architectural masterpiece. 

Visit an Art Museum

Iceland’s largest and most-important visual arts institution, the Reykjavik Art Museum is spread across three different buildings in Reykjavik. Located by the old harbor, Hafnarhús exhibits works by local and international contemporary artists, including Icelandic pop artist Erró. Kjarvalsstaðir by Klambratún houses the works of one of Iceland’s most influential artists, Jóhannes S. Kjarval, while Ásmundarsafn in Laugardalur exhibits the sculptures of Ásmundur Sveinsson. Access to all three is included in the Reykjavik City Card.

Learn About the Contemporary Art Scene

As well as national institutions, Reykjavik is home to a number of independent contemporary art galleries, such as i8 on Tryggvagata and BERG Contemporary on Klapparstígur. Spend an afternoon popping in and out of galleries and then learn more about the contemporary scene by meeting a local artist for dinner.

Discover Iceland’s Musical Heritage

Home to world-famous acts such as Björk, Sigur Rós, and Of Monsters and Men, Reykjavík has a rich musical legacy. Visit Keflavik’s Icelandic Museum of Rock‘n’Roll to dive into the history of Icelandic popular music and then browse independent record stores 12 Tónar and Lucky Records for releases by local acts. Check the calendar to see who is playing at Reykjavik’s great music venues, which include Gaukurinn and KEX. Music lovers should try to time their visit to coincide with the annual Iceland Airwaves music festival, which takes place across the city.

Dive into Icelandic History

From the Vikings and independence movement to the political protests of the past decade, Reykjavik has been the setting of many dramatic historical  events. Learn about them on a walking tour of the capital with a local storyteller. If Viking history piques your interest, pay a visit to the Saga Museum or head for the nearby town of Reykjanesbær, home of the Viking World Museum.

Reykjavik is one cultured place. From its myriad museums and public artworks (like the Sun Voyager) to its architectural highlights, this is a city with art and design in its DNA. During your next visit the Icelandic capital, get ready to admire paintings, sculptures, photos, and more: Here are Reykjavik's top artistic addresses.

National Museum of Iceland

The perfect destination for first-time visitors to Iceland, the National Museum of Iceland hosts temporary and permanent exhibitions devoted to the country’s long history. Included among the treasures on display are collection highlights such as the Valthjófsstaðdur door, which features medieval engravings, as well as pottery, photographs, and other objects.

National Gallery of Iceland

For a crash course in Icelandic art, make your way to the National Gallery of Iceland. The wide-ranging collection focuses primarily on Icelandic works from the 19th and 20th centuries (though some works by international artists are also displayed, including Edvard Munch, Pablo Picasso, and Richard Serra).

Reykjavik Art Museum

One of Iceland’s most important cultural stops, the Reykjavik Art Museum occupies three different locations in the Icelandic capital. Hafnarhús, situated in an old harbor warehouse, showcases modern and contemporary artists; Kjarvalsstaðir displays pieces by one of Iceland’s most celebrated painters and sculptors, Jóhannes S. Kjarval; and Ásmundarsafn is located in a modern, domed building where sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson lived and worked.

Reykjavik Museum of Photography

If you’re passionate about photography, the Reykjavik Museum of Photography can keep you entertained for hours. Part of the Reykjavik City Museum—which includes other major stops such as the Arbaer Open Air Museum, the Settlement Exhibition, and the Maritime Museum—it showcases upwards of 5 million photos from 1870 to today.

Gerðarsafn–Kópavogur Art Museum

Located on the edge of Reykjavik proper, the boundary-pushing Gerðarsafn–Kópavogur Art Museum, named after sculptor Gerður Helgadóttir, features more than 1,400 of her works (and is the only Icelandic art museum named in honor of a female artist). Today, in addition to Helgadóttir’s works, it displays wide-ranging modern and contemporary art exhibitions.

As its completely surrounded by the ocean, Iceland has fresh seafood in abundance. But that’s not all to tempt your tastebuds in the world’s northernmost capital. From street eats and local dining to high-end cuisine, here are a few foods and activities you won't want to miss.

Must-Try Dishes

Fish is a mainstay in Icelandic cuisine, with cod, salmon, and haddock being most common. Try them grilled, fried, or in plokkfiskur, a type of fish stew. Lamb is another favorite, as evidenced by the many sheep you’ll see in the surrounding countryside. Only-in-Iceland dishes you should taste include skyr —a thick, creamy dairy product similar to yogurt which is eaten alone or as a dessert topping—and fermented shark, though that’s really only eaten by tourists nowadays.

Though it’s not traditional Icelandic food, the iconic Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur has been serving hot dogs to Icelanders and tourists for more than 60 years. These dogs are made from a blend of beef, lamb and pork, and are best-ordered eina með öllu (with everything), namely fried onions, brown mustard, and creamy remoulade.

Must-Do Experiences

• Hit the streets on a food walking tour that visits a variety of Reykjavik eateries—from restaurants to food trucks—and sample a selection of traditional dishes and street food.
• Combine a food tour with craft beer tastings at a hip bar in the Old Harbor district.
• Get exclusive insight into local Reykjavik life by having a private dinner in the home of a local artist. As you dine on traditional Icelandic dishes, you’ll learn all about the city’s creative scene.