Top 10 Things to Do in Reykjavik

Introduction

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a city of contrasts. From its colorful buildings to its rugged landscapes, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. As someone who has visited Reykjavik multiple times, I can say that it’s one of my favorite places in the world. In this article, I’ll share with you my top 10 things to do in Reykjavik, based on personal experiences, opinions, and expert advice.

Top Curiosities and Statistics

• Reykjavik is the northernmost capital city in the world.
• The city has a population of around 130,000 people.
• The name Reykjavik means smoky bay, referring to the steam rising from the city’s hot springs.
• The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs staying open until 4 or 5am.
• Reykjavik is also a popular destination for seeing the Northern Lights.

1. Visit the Blue Lagoon

One of the most popular things to do in Reykjavik is to visit the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa located about 45 minutes outside of the city. The warm, milky-blue waters are rich in minerals and are said to have healing properties. I visited the Blue Lagoon on my first trip to Reykjavik and it was an unforgettable experience. I felt so relaxed and rejuvenated after spending a few hours in the water.

Tip: Book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

2. Take a Walking Tour

Reykjavik is a small city, but there’s a lot to see and learn about. Taking a walking tour is a great way to get acquainted with the city’s history, culture, and architecture. I took a free walking tour on my most recent trip to Reykjavik, and it was one of the highlights of my trip. Our guide was knowledgeable and funny, and I learned so much about the city that I wouldn’t have known otherwise.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a lot of walking.

3. Explore the Reykjavik Art Scene

Reykjavik has a thriving art scene, with many galleries and museums showcasing local and international artists. One of my favorite art museums in the city is the Reykjavik Art Museum, which has three different locations. I also love walking around the city and stumbling upon street art and murals.

Tip: Check out the Harpa Concert Hall, a stunning glass building that hosts concerts, conferences, and events.

4. Visit Hallgrimskirkja

Hallgrimskirkja is Reykjavik’s most iconic landmark, and for good reason. The Lutheran church, which took over 40 years to build, is an impressive feat of architecture. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the church for panoramic views of the city. I’ve visited Hallgrimskirkja on every trip to Reykjavik and it never gets old.

Tip: Try to time your visit for sunset, as the views are particularly stunning.

5. Go Whale Watching

Whale watching is a popular activity in Reykjavik, with many tour companies offering trips out to sea. I went whale watching on my most recent trip and it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We saw several humpback whales and even some dolphins. It was amazing to see these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Tip: Dress warmly and bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture the whales.

6. Try Icelandic Cuisine

Icelandic cuisine may not be as well-known as some other international cuisines, but it’s definitely worth trying. Some traditional Icelandic dishes include fermented shark, lamb soup, and skyr (a type of yogurt). I tried all of these dishes on my first trip to Reykjavik, and while they may not be for everyone, I enjoyed trying something new.

Tip: Check out the Reykjavik Food Walk, a guided tour that takes you to some of the city’s best restaurants and food shops.

7. Visit the Harpa Concert Hall

As mentioned earlier, the Harpa Concert Hall is a must-visit attraction in Reykjavik. In addition to its stunning architecture, the building houses a concert hall and conference center. I attended a concert at the Harpa on my most recent trip and was blown away by the acoustics and atmosphere.

Tip: Check the Harpa’s schedule for upcoming events and concerts.

8. See the Northern Lights

As I mentioned earlier, Reykjavik is a popular destination for seeing the Northern Lights. While there’s no guarantee that you’ll see them, it’s definitely worth trying. I went on a Northern Lights tour on my first trip to Reykjavik and was lucky enough to see a beautiful display of lights dancing across the sky.

Tip: Book a tour with a reputable company and dress warmly.

9. Relax at a Hot Spring

In addition to the Blue Lagoon, there are many other hot springs and pools in and around Reykjavik. One of my favorites is the Secret Lagoon, which is located about an hour and a half outside of the city. It’s a natural hot spring that’s been turned into a pool and is surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Tip: Bring a towel and a swimsuit.

10. Take a Day Trip

While Reykjavik has plenty to offer, there are also many day trips you can take to explore more of Iceland. One of the most popular day trips is the Golden Circle, which includes stops at Thingvellir National Park, Geysir (a geothermal area with spouting hot springs), and Gullfoss (a stunning waterfall). I took this tour on my first trip to Reykjavik and it was a great way to see some of Iceland’s natural beauty.

Tip: Book a tour or rent a car to explore on your own.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Reykjavik?

The best time to visit Reykjavik depends on what you want to do. If you want to see the Northern Lights, the best time to visit is from September to April. If you want to experience the Midnight Sun, visit between May and August. Keep in mind that the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so bring warm clothing no matter what time of year you visit.

Is Reykjavik expensive?

Yes, Reykjavik is known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in a hostel, cooking your own meals, and taking advantage of free attractions like walking tours.

Do I need to speak Icelandic to visit Reykjavik?

No, most Icelanders speak English fluently, so you shouldn’t have any trouble communicating. However, learning a few Icelandic phrases can be a fun way to immerse yourself in the culture.