Discover Reykjavik: Your Ultimate Guide with Hidden Iceland

Before You Venture into Iceland’s Countryside, Explore Reykjavík

Before setting out to chase waterfalls, hike glaciers, and stroll along black sand beaches, take a moment to immerse yourself in Reykjavík. This charming capital packs a surprising punch, offering a delightful mix of culture, cuisine, and charisma. Whether your stay lasts just a single day or stretches longer, the city invites you to uncover its hidden gems and vibrant atmosphere. Small in size but rich in experiences, Reykjavík is a place you won’t soon forget.

Navigating the City

Reykjavík’s compact city center is a pedestrian-friendly haven where most attractions lie within a leisurely stroll of one another. For those longer treks, public buses and taxis are readily at hand, and renting an e-scooter can be a fun way to enjoy the crisp Icelandic air. To enhance your visit, consider acquiring the Reykjavík City Card, which offers unlimited bus travel for your selected duration, along with free entry to many museums, galleries, and geothermal baths.

Iconic Attractions

• Laugavegur Street | This vibrant thoroughfare serves as Reykjavík’s main shopping hub, flanked by chic boutiques, cozy cafés, and inviting restaurants. It’s the ideal backdrop for a leisurely stroll and a session of people-watching. Laugavegur captures the city’s essence, blending Icelandic design with street art and an eclectic nightlife. The street’s summer ambiance, alive with outdoor dining and music festivals, transforms into a winter wonderland of twinkling lights and festive markets.
• Hallgrímskirkja Church | This iconic Lutheran church towers at 74 meters, majestic atop a hill. After 41 years of development, it was completed in 1986 and offers breathtaking views from its tower. Stand in awe of the Leifur Eiríksson statue at its entrance, a gift from the United States honoring the Norse explorer.
• The Einar Jónsson Museum Sculpture Park | Opened in 1923, this park pays tribute to Iceland’s first sculptor, Einar Jónsson (1874–1954). The adjacent museum houses nearly 300 artworks spanning his extensive career, while the serene garden features 26 bronze casts of his creations, inviting public exploration. Hljómskálagarðurinn park is a haven for relaxation, especially in winter when its frozen pond becomes a skating playground.
• Harpa Conference & Concert Hall | This architectural marvel designed by Ólafur Elíasson graces the harbor with its glass façade, captivating visitors with dynamic light displays. Home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and numerous festivals, Harpa melds cutting-edge design with world-class acoustics, solidifying its status as Reykjavík’s cultural heartbeat.
• Alþingi (The Parliament House) | Built in 1849 near Austurvöllur park, Alþingi has long been Iceland’s political nucleus, succeeding centuries of assembly at Þingvellir National Park. As one of the country’s oldest stone edifices, crafted from Icelandic stone, this vital institution is a living relic of democracy, set against the backdrop of Iceland’s oldest public garden.
• Grandi Old Harbour area | Recently revived, this lively district is a feast for the senses, teeming with local culinary delights, artistic expression, and design. Drop by the Hidden Iceland office for a chat over coffee, then indulge in sweet treats from Omnom Chocolate or embrace adventure at FlyOver Iceland. Don’t miss URÐ, renowned for its artisan soaps and wellness products crafted from local ingredients.
• Tjörnin Pond & Hljómskálagarðurinn Park | Known locally as ‘the pond,’ Tjörnin is a serene retreat nestled in central Reykjavík, surrounded by the vibrant Hljómskálagarðurinn park. The latter, Reykjavík’s first formally designed green space, offers visitors a chance to admire sculptures from Iceland’s most notable artists, alongside opportunities for birdwatching and leisurely strolls.
• Local Swimming Pools | A cherished Icelandic tradition, visiting local swimming pools—complete with dry saunas and cold plunges—offers a warm welcome, no matter the weather. Try the recently renovated Sundhöll Reykjavíkur, Iceland’s oldest public pool, or the cozy Vesturbæjarlaug. No visit is complete without stopping at a nearby ice cream shop or a hot dog stand!
• Sky Lagoon | Just a 15-minute drive from the city center, this newly opened geothermal spa elegantly fuses natural heat with modern luxury against breathtaking views. The unique 7-Step Ritual promises a refreshing experience, allowing visitors to lose track of time as they revel in the spa’s extensive amenities.

Reykjavík’s Coffee Scene

Fueling your days in Reykjavík is a must, and what better way than with a excellent cup of coffee? Icelanders love their coffee, ranking as the third-largest consumers per capita in the world, averaging around 9 kg per person annually. Here, you won’t find the typical American coffee chains. Instead, independent, boutique coffee houses pride themselves on crafting the perfect brew. A few local favorites are highlighted below, each with its own distinctive flair.

• Reykjavík Roasters | Nestled in several locations off one of the main shopping avenues, this boutique roastery guarantees you a delightful cup of coffee, crafted by award-winning baristas.
• Kaktus Espressobar | A charming café run by two Icelandic friends, Kaktus serves high-quality Italian coffee in a cozy setting, complemented by daily soups, sandwiches, and delectable cakes.

— See also | Exploring the best cafés in Reykjavík & surrounding areas

Reykjavík’s Arts & Culture Scene

If your visit coincides with one of Reykjavík’s many cultural events, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant arts scene. From weekly happenings to seasonal festivals like the Winter Lights Festival in February and Culture Night in August, Reykjavík offers a multitude of experiences year-round. The annual Iceland Airwaves music festival each November stands out as a highlight on the city calendar, while local museums and pools beckon with unique insights into Iceland’s heritage.

• Reykjavík Art Museum | This establishment encompasses three museums—Hafnarhúsið, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn—each offering a glimpse into the city’s artistic landscape. Perfect for a day indoors, especially on gloomy days.
• National Gallery of Iceland | The country’s premier art museum showcases an extensive collection of both Icelandic and international works, spanning the 19th century to the present day. With ongoing lectures, guided tours, and workshops, it is a hub for art lovers of all ages.
• The Settlement Exhibition | Built around the excavation of a 10th-century longhouse, this interactive museum reveals Reykjavík’s Viking roots, complete with digital reconstructions and original artefacts that transport visitors back in time.
• Marshall House | Originally a fish meal factory built in 1948, this stunning structure has since been repurposed into a cultural hub, housing several museums and La Primavera restaurant. It also features installations by renowned artist Ólafur Elíasson.
• Þula Gallery | A contemporary space showcasing the vibrant works of emerging and mid-career Icelandic artists. Its dynamic exhibitions highlight diverse mediums, revealing Iceland’s rich creative landscape.
• Listval | Part gallery and part design boutique, Listval celebrates the interplay between art and craftsmanship. Curated exhibitions of both Icelandic and international works make it a perfect stop for inspiration and unique finds.

Reykjavík’s Shopping Landscape

As you wander through Reykjavík, you’ll encounter a delightful mix of shopping options. While larger stores like H&M and COS await in the modern Hafnartorg shopping center, independent shops and unique boutiques line the main streets, showcasing Icelandic designs alongside curated international brands.

• Mikado | This concept store, which opened just before Christmas 2020, draws inspiration from Japanese aesthetics to offer a carefully selected range of homeware from Iceland, Japan, and Scandinavia.
• Andrá Reykjavík | A boutique women’s clothing store featuring both international names and local labels, Andrá focuses on ethical and environmentally friendly fashion.
• Skálda Bookshop | Tucked away in Reykjavík’s western district, this independent bookstore offers a mix of contemporary Icelandic and international titles, alongside a selection of second-hand books.
• Fischersund | Created by musician Jónsi from Sigur Rós, this immersive concept store offers handcrafted perfumes inspired by Icelandic nature, set within an atmospheric environment filled with art and sound.
• Officina | A design-forward boutique in Reykjavík that curates exclusive fashion, lifestyle items, and accessories, beautifully blending local and international heritage.
• Rammagerðin | With roots dating back to the 1940s, this store brims with handcrafted goods from local artisans, including glassware and uniquely designed home decor.
• Herrafataverzlun Kormáks & Skjaldar | A notable destination for menswear since 1996, featuring heritage brands alongside meticulously crafted Icelandic tweed.
• HAF Store | Founded by a husband-and-wife duo, this store specializes in homeware from Icelandic designers and other carefully selected international products, making it a dream for design enthusiasts.
• Hayalin | A gourmet French store featuring artisanal spreads, chocolates, and gourmet foods—ideal for picking up edible souvenirs.

Reykjavík’s Wine Bars

No guide to Reykjavík would be complete without mentioning where to unwind with a glass of wine after a day of exploring. Settle into one of these charming wine bars for a relaxed evening before heading out for dinner.

• Vínstúkan 10 Sopar | A cozy basement bar specializing in natural wines from small producers, coupled with a delightful Spanish menu crafted by a skilled chef—a true match made in culinary heaven.
• Bodega | Just off the bustle of the city center, this inviting wine bar features a curated selection of wines, cocktails, and craft beers. On warm days, their spacious outdoor area offers the perfect setting to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

— See also | The ultimate guide to Reykjavík’s wine bars

Dining in Reykjavík

Iceland’s culinary landscape has flourished, with new restaurants appearing to tantalize the taste buds of eager diners. While dining out can come at a premium, guests often leave with experiences that far exceed expectations. Here’s a glimpse into some of the standout establishments you won’t want to miss.

• OTO | Curated by award-winning chef Sigurður Laufdal, OTO presents a delightful fusion of Japanese and Italian flavors, each dish a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Their impressive wine selection and cocktail menu add to the dining experience.
• Bryggjuhúsið | Set within a beautifully restored historic building, this restaurant balances Icelandic comforts with gourmet sophistication, providing the perfect setting for an elegant evening of fine dining.
• Hósíló | This beloved eatery, founded by three friends in late 2020, offers a rotating menu of fresh meats, fish, and vegetarian options sourced from local suppliers. Their inventive dishes have garnered positive acclaim, including recognition from the Michelin guide.
• ÓX | This intimate gem is hidden away in downtown Reykjavík, seating only 17 guests. With an exclusive menu crafted around Icelandic ingredients, it offers a whimsical culinary adventure, guided by engaging chefs and accompanied by flowing wine.

— See also | The essential Reykjavík Restaurant Guide

Venture Beyond the City Lights

Once you’ve soaked in all that Reykjavík has to offer, it’s time to explore the breathtaking landscapes beyond the city. From chasing the midnight sun in summer to delving into glacial ice caves in winter, Iceland presents endless adventures. While the abundance of options may be intoxicating, your adventures await outside the city lights.