Reykjavík
Iceland · Capital Region · 5 m
Description
Reykjavík is the world’s northernmost capital and a fascinating center of Icelandic culture, history, and modern life. The city is known for its colorful houses, the striking Hallgrímskirkja church, the modern Harpa Concert Hall, and its vibrant cultural scene. Reykjavík combines Nordic tranquility with a creative urban atmosphere, diverse cuisine, and a close connection to nature. At the same time, the capital is an ideal base for exploring Iceland’s extraordinary landscapes, from geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes to dramatic black-sand beaches. As the country’s cultural and urban center, Reykjavík serves as a gateway for many travelers to Iceland’s remarkable natural wonders.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 3 to 10 days (optimal 5 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: June – September
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Blue Lagoon(Day trip)
- Golden Circle: Þingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss(Day trip)
- Northern Lights (September - April)
- Hallgrímskirkja
- Perlan - Wonders of Iceland
- Harpa Concert Hall
- Sun Voyager
- National Museum of Iceland
- The Settlement Exhibition
- Reykjavík Art Museum
- Sky Lagoon
- Whale watching from Reykjavík (April - October)
- South Coast: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss(Day trip)
- Reynisfjara black-sand beach(Day trip)
- Silfra snorkeling(Day trip)
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon(Day trip)
- Vatnajökull ice caves (November - March)(Day trip)
- Grótta Lighthouse and nature reserve
- Viðey Island
- Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach
- Reykjavík Old Harbour
- Laugavegur and downtown Reykjavík
- Árbær Open Air Museum
- Einar Jónsson Sculpture Museum
- Reykjavík Maritime Museum
- Icelandic Phallological Museum
- Grandi district
- Laugardalur Valley and park
- Reykjavík Botanical Garden
- Öskjuhlíð forest
- Mount Esja hiking
- Heiðmörk nature reserve
- Höfði House
- Alþingi and Austurvöllur
- Þúfa sculpture
- Kleifarvatn and Krýsuvík(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- KEF, RKV
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry