Best Things to Do in Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is such a vibrant city with an amazing culinary scene. It’s worth exploring just the city or at least carving some time out for it on your road trip. Here are some of the best things to do!

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Visit this iconic church, which is the tallest building in Reykjavik and offers panoramic views of the city from its tower. Admission is free to the church but to get up to the top of the tower, it costs around $10 USD.

Rainbow Road

This is one of the main streets in downtown Reykjavík, you can’t miss it. It has been dressed up in the colors of the rainbow to celebrate Reykjavík Pride which is now held for the seventeenth time. Great picture taking spot!

Take a Food Tour

As a foodie, I love a food tour. It’s a great way to meet people and get to know the local cuisine with a local. Sample food from various locations and learn about the history and culture.

Some good food tours are: Your Friend in Reykjavik, Reykjavik Food Walk, Reykjavik Food Tour

Sky Lagoon

The Sky Lagoon is a geothermal spa in the Greater Reykjavik Area that opened in 2021. Relax in the lagoon with views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a fairly short drive from downtown, about 15 minutes. There are different packages you can pick from starting at $50 USD. Book tickets here.

Helicopter Ride Over Iceland

A helicopter ride over Iceland allows you to reach hard-to-access places with limited effort and in a short time. With the option to fly over the city, over volcanoes and glaciers, and over national parks, there’s something for you! This is something I wish I would’ve done, even though it’s on the more expensive side, because I think the landscape in Iceland is SO unique. It would also be super cool to flyover an erupting volcano if you could time it right.

Explore the Nightlife

Reykjavik has some of the best nightlife on the weekends! Wander down Laugavegur Street and there will be many bars to pop in and out of. There’s also the option to go on the Reykjavik Bar Crawl that will take you all around the city at night! It’s a great way to make friends and get to know some locals. Or you could go on your own bar crawl and bop in and out of bars that speak to you.

Harpa Concert Hall

This cultural landmark hosts an array of performances, from classical concerts by the Iceland Symphony Orchestra to contemporary shows and international events. Buy a ticket to an event or simply take a peak inside because the architecture is incredible!

Whale Watching

Running from April to October is whale watching season and Reykjavik is one of the best places in Iceland for it. This tour will take you into the North Atlantic waters with tour operators - book here. If you love whales, this tour is for you!

Visit Museums

If you are a museum girly, this rec is for you! Perlan Museum is the most popular one – from man-made ice caves you can explore to a Northern Lights display and even a planetarium. Other museums that are notable are: National Museum of Iceland, The Settlement Exhibition, and the Icelandic Phallological Museum.

Outdoor Adventure Tours

If you want to go on some outdoor adventures that are away from the city, there are a ton you can book that depart from Reykjavik.

Go horseback riding through the lava fields (here)

Kayak at Sólheimajökull Glacier (here). This was recommended by a friend who said this was her favorite part of her trip!

Explore the Kalta ice caves (here). You could also do this from Vik.

Hike to recently active volcanoes (here)

Eat A Hot Dog

Indulging in a hot dog in Reykjavik is not just a culinary experience; it's a cultural institution and it must be done. Head to the legendary Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a famous hot dog stand with all the toppings. Or feel free to stop at any of the stands if the line is too long. You can’t go wrong.

Free Walking Tour

Do the free walking tour that takes you through the city's history, culture, and landmarks - you’ll get to know the lay of the land and meet some fellow travelers.