If we were sitting across from each other with warm mugs of coffee in hand, and you said, “I’m going to Reykjavík, what should I do?”… well, I’d probably light up and start rattling off all my favorite spots.
Because the best of Reykjavík isn’t just about ticking off the major sites.
While the major landmarks are a great starting point, the true heart of Reykjavík lies in the places most visitors overlook.
I’m talking about live music, incredible nature… IN the city… and the best late-night hot dogs you’ll ever eat. EVER!
So, whether you’re a foodie, art lover, history nerd, or just want to soak up Iceland, my best of Reykjavik list pulls together what I’d personally recommend. From hidden gems to iconic sites and everything in between.
Are you ready for the ultimate ‘best of’ list?
Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents:
- Top Sights in Reykjavík
- Best of Reykjavik’s Art Galleries + Museums
- Where to Eat in Reykjavík
- Where to Drink in Reykjavík
- Best Live Music in Reykjavík + Where to Meet the Locals
- Best Day Trips from Reykjavík
- Best Things to Do in Reykjavík with Kids
- The Best of Reykjavík on a Map
Top Sights in Reykjavík
Here’s a handpicked list of the best sights in the city, from iconic landmarks to little spots that totally deserve a moment in the spotlight.
The Best Views of the City
If you’re after the best view of Reykjavík, these are the top panoramas in town!
Hallgrímskirkja Church Tower
One of my favorite sights in the world is the view overlooking Reykjavík from Hallgrímskirkja.
The multi-colored houses dotting the streets of the city, with a huge mountain range in the background, make it easy to see why this is the best view in town!
Just keep in mind that Hallgrímskirkja is an active place of worship, so please be respectful during your visit.
Because of this, access to the tower may be limited to specific times.
Tower admission: Tickets can be purchased at the church shop for 1400 ISK ($11 USD).
(Discount prices are available for students and seniors.)
Perlan
This natural history museum with a rotating glass dome is one of the most recognizable structures in Reykjavík.
While the aerial view is not as high as Hallgrímskirkja, the colorful homes are just as stunning.
Perlan also has an onsite restaurant, cafe, and gift shop. Oh, and don’t miss the Wonders of Iceland exhibit!
It includes an ice cave exhibit, as well as volcano and Northern Lights shows.
Admission: 6,290 ISK ($50 USD) or free with the Wonders of Iceland!
Mt. Esja
You’ll recognize this mountain as Reykjavík’s backdrop.
If you want to work up a bit of a sweat and experience awesome views over the city and sea, then this hike will only take you about an hour.
Best for Sightseeing + Famous Landmarks in Reykjavík, Iceland
Some of the ‘best of Reykjavík’ can be found in its signature landmarks. Take a look.👇
Hallgrímskirkja
Yep, this one deserves a second mention because it’s the most iconic landmark on Reykjavík’s skyline. It’s also usually at the top of every visitor’s list!
Its design, especially the column-like features, was inspired by Svartifoss, the black waterfall in South Iceland.
Sólfar
This famous Viking ship sculpture sits next to the Harpa Music Hall.
This homage to the sun symbolizes exploration, progress, and freedom. With Mt. Esja rising across the bay, it’s one of the most popular photo spots in the city!
Tjörnin Pond
Tjörnin is a big pond in the heart of downtown Reykjavík.
It’s a lovely spot for a walk, and a great place to take the kids.
💥If you’re looking for a little more information about Reykjavík’s history and landmarks, consider joining a fun walking tour.👇
➡️TAKE A TOUR: Private Walking tour Reykjavík – CityWalk
Best Place for Nature (Within the City)
Get ready to be wowed by some unexpected nature in Reykjavík!
Elliðaárdalur
When I first visited the Elliðaárdalur valley, I honestly couldn’t believe I was still in the middle of Reykjavík!
This huge nature reserve is a dream for a sunny afternoon stroll or bike ride, with waterfalls around nearly every turn.
Actual waterfalls in the city. It’s amazing!
Reykjavík Botanical Garden
In a country that has very few trees and flowers, the botanical garden is a refreshing escape in the city!
It even has a small cafe (Café Flóra), a lovely spot to grab a snack or coffee.
Best of Reykjavík’s Art Galleries + Museums
Learn about Iceland’s rich history, art, and culture at some of the best museums in Reykjavík. If you want a creative break between sightseeing, these spots are the ones worth checking out.
The Einar Jónsson Museum
Don’t visit Hallgrímskirkja without stopping by the sculpture garden right next door!
This garden is the home and studio of Einar Jónsson – Iceland’s first sculptor. The garden is full of bronze statues of his work, and it’s one of the best art museums in Reykjavík.
Opening hours: Tues – Sun 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
National Gallery of Iceland
Located right next to Tjörnin, this museum has a wonderful collection of Icelandic paintings that capture Reykjavík’s creative spirit.
Opening hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Aurora Reykjavík
If you’re heading to Iceland in search of the Northern Lights, sometimes it won’t always be possible to see them.
The good thing about Aurora Reykjavík is that the lights are always in season!
It’s fascinating learning all about them.
Admission: 3,900 ISK (31 USD)
Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Whales of Iceland
Get up close to life-size models of whales – and yes, you can even touch them!
This immersive exhibit features interactive displays, underwater sounds, and award-winning documentaries that bring these incredible animals to life.
Admission: Adults 4,300 ISK (35 USD) / Children 7 – 15 years 2,150 ISK (17 USD) / Children under 7 free
Opening hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
National Museum
If you’re interested in learning all about Icelandic culture, Vikings, and the Sagas, this is the place for you!
Admission: 3,000 ISK (25 USD) for adults, 1,500 (12 USD) ISK for senior citizens, free for children under 18.
Opening hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
This is just a small snippet of all the amazing museums in Iceland. Check out this post if you want to learn more.👇
➡️ READ: The 16 Best Museums in Iceland You Need to Experience on Your Trip!
Where to Eat in Reykjavík
Let’s find out which eateries earn their place in the best of Reykjavík list, shall we?
Breakfast + Brunch Favorites in Reykjavík
Breakfast in Iceland may not be exactly what you’re used to back home, but these spots totally hit the spot!
Braud + Co.: If you’re after the “best cinnamon rolls in the country,” head to this colorful bakery tucked just around the corner from Hallgrímskirkja.
Grái Kötturinn: A quirky 50s-style cafe serving a classic American-style breakfast. Think bagels, bacon, eggs, and good coffee!
If you want to take your foodie adventure further, continue exploring Icelandic cuisine on the Reykjavík Food Walk Tour.
You’ll get to sample iconic dishes and discover the city’s best-kept culinary secrets!
Get a 10% discount when you use my special code: ICEVIEW
Budget-Friendly Meals + Lunches in Reykjavík
You don’t need to spend a fortune to eat well in Reykjavík. Here are tasty spots that won’t leave you hungry… or broke! 😂
Bæjarins Beztu: Hot dogs in Iceland are seriously good. Bæjarins Beztu is one of the most popular tourist stops in Reykjavík, and for good reason!
Sægreifinn: As you’re walking around Old Harbour, make sure to stop in for a cup of creamy lobster soup. Sægreifinn also has a selection of fresh sushi-grade fish cuts that can be cooked in-house or eaten raw.
Hraðlestin: The tagline for this restaurant is “Indian Street Food,” so if you’re looking for a full-flavoured spicy meal, this is the place to go! I recommend the Chicken Thali served with basmati rice and naan.
Lemon: If you’re craving sandwiches and fresh-pressed juices, Lemon is one of my go-to spots. I always leave feeling full AND healthy!
Looking for more budget-friendly eateries in Iceland? Check out my top recommendations below.👇
➡️ READ: 10 Best Budget Restaurants in Reykjavík for Mouthwatering Cheap Eats
Best Restaurants in Reykjavík to Splurge on a Special Dinner
You may not want to go all-out for every meal, but when you decide to splurge on fine dining in Reykjavík, these restaurants deserve a place at the top of the best of Reykjavík list.
Fiskmarkaðurinn: Hands down, my favorite meal in all of Iceland is the Lamb from Fiskmarkaðurinn! I know it’s called The Fish Market, but trust me, order the lamb!
Geiri Smart: This restaurant is a local favorite. They use fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and their flavor pairings are out of this world!
Dill: The first Icelandic restaurant to earn a Michelin star – so you know it’s going to be good. Reservations here are a must!
The Best Ice Cream in Reykjavík
The ice cream in Iceland is so good, you guys! It’s one of those things that you need to experience, I promise, the calories are totally worth it!
Valdís Ice Cream: When it comes to deliciousness, Valdís 100% delivers! They have the basic flavors like salted caramel and chocolate, but also expect bold choices such as licorice and Turkish pepper. Do not leave this city without stopping here!
Ísbúð Vesturbæjar: This is another great option to satisfy your sweet tooth.
They offer two types of ice cream—old and new—and you can load them up with so many toppings and candies. This is the way locals LOVE to eat their ice cream here — they choose 3 or 4 mix-ins with their flavor (kind of like a DQ Blizzard for my American friends 😉 ).
Where to Drink in Reykjavík
In your downtime between exploring the landscapes of Iceland, there are a lot of options if you’re looking to relax with a cocktail or get a much-needed coffee kick!
The Best Coffee Shops in Reykjavík
One thing you need to know about Icelanders is that they love a good cup of coffee!
While Americans are used to big chains, Iceland is all about small, locally-owned cafés.
You can expect coffee brewed to perfection and a cozy atmosphere.
Reykjavík Roasters: This is the most famous coffee shop in Reykjavík. What’s unique about RR is that they offer three different brewing methods as well as a full menu of espresso drinks – just ask the barista if you don’t know what to order.
P.S. Their bakery items are sooo good, especially the gluten-free chocolate and peanut butter bar!
Café Babalú: You literally can’t miss Café Babalú. The building is orange with a bright blue door that practically begs you to come inside! They serve delicious crepes, soups, sandwiches, and cakes. During the summer months, their outdoor patio is the place to be!
Best Cocktails in Reykjavík
These are my go-to spots for everything from classic cocktails to creative concoctions, and yes, happy hour is your best friend here!
Slippbarinn: Located right next to the Old Harbor, this is a great scenic spot. I love their drinks and appetizer menu. The vibe is super trendy modern, with bright lighting and Scandinavian decor.
Sæta Svínið: Known for its unique cocktails and lively atmosphere, the playlist is a fun mix of ’90s hits and local Icelandic artists. It’s a great spot to kick back with a drink and soak up the Reykjavík vibe.
Alcohol in Iceland isn’t cheap, so making the most of happy hours around the city is a smart way to stretch your budget without missing out on the fun.
Find out more about happy hours in Reykjavík right here.👇
➡️ READ: Reykjavík Happy Hours: 10 of the Best Happy Hour Spots in the City!
Best Craft Beer in Reykjavík
A few breweries in Iceland have earned a loyal following over the years with bold, creative brews.
Skúli: A great spot to go if you want to relax in a cozy atmosphere. They usually have a number of beers on tap, focusing on the Borg brewery (one of my favorites!)
Micro Bar: This is one of the oldest craft beer bars in Iceland. They have 8 beers on tap and a great selection of bottled beers from around the world.
If, like me, you believe that one of the best ways to immerse yourself in a country is through its cuisine, then you have to check out this food and drink guide! 👇
➡️ READ: Reykjavík Food & Drink Guide: The Best Foodie Hot Spots In Iceland’s Capital
Best Live Music in Reykjavík + Where to Meet the Locals
Live music and meeting people go hand in hand. These spots are perfect for either enjoying live local tunes or striking up a conversation with someone new.
Local Bars and Nightclubs
The Danish Bar, Pablo Discobar, and Sólon Bistro and Bar are fantastic places to grab a drink, put on some dancing shoes, and meet the locals.
Just remember that Icelanders typically don’t head out for the night until late, often not until around midnight.
Curious about the nightlife in Reykjavík? Check out this video.👇
Harpa Music Hall
The Harpa is a gorgeous glass building right along the ocean that hosts concerts and plays.
The best part is that there’s no charge to walk around inside and appreciate the design!
Loft Hostel
With live music, Karaoke nights, and pub quizzes, Loft features up-and-coming artists and always delivers a good vibe.
It’s also a great place to meet fellow travelers and swap stories over a drink.
Pools in Iceland
On weekends and holidays, Icelanders can be found at their local pools, relaxing and socializing with one another!
Here are the best pools in Reykjavík where you can meet locals:
Laugardalslaug: This is especially great if you have kids, you could spend all day here!
Vesturbæjarlaug: Here you’ll find hot tubs, a steam bath, and a big communal hot pot. A perfect place for a sunny day.
Nauthólsvík: I love Nauthólsvík because of the scenery. It’s a pool next to a beach! A lot of people alternate between the hot tub and the ocean to get the blood pumping!
Best Day Trips from Reykjavík
Want to explore more of Iceland without staying overnight? Check out the top day trips from Reykjavík.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Often called “miniature Iceland”, Snæfellsnes Peninsula stands out for its incredible variety of landscapes.
I also love it because fewer tourists visit, making it a quieter alternative to some of the more popular spots.
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Snæfellsnes Peninsula in a Small Group Tour
Hvalfjörður
Only a short 40-minute drive from the city will bring you to the massive “whale fjord”. Other than the fact that this is full of beautiful nature, it’s home to one of my favorite hikes at the end of the fjord, the Glymur waterfall hike!
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Private Bespoke Hvalfjörður Tour
Reykjanes Peninsula
If you’re short on time, the Reykjanes Peninsula is seriously underrated!
From geothermal mud pots to jagged cliffs, this is a great option for a day trip from Reykjavík.
Get the best out of this region with this super jeep tour.👇
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Private Reykjanes Peninsula Super Jeep Tour
Getting out of the city is easy when you’ve got a solid rental car to rely on.
My go-to car rental company has always been Blue Car Rental.
They’re a local company that understands Iceland’s terrain, and their vehicles are properly rigged with the correct gear to keep you safe.
They also have 24/7 roadside assistance and insurance is included in their rental price.
Get an automatic 5% OFF your rental price when you use 👉 this link. NO CODE needed.
Best Things to Do in Reykjavík with Kids
You’ll be happy to know that when you’re traveling to Iceland with kids, there’s still plenty of things you can enjoy doing as a family. Take a look!
Pools: Adults and children alike love to meet at the swimming pools on the weekends for some family fun. Some pools have big slides or a play area, all very kid-friendly.
Museums: The Interactive museums I mentioned earlier are always a hit with the kids!
Zoo: What child doesn’t like the zoo?! Just note that the Reykjavík zoo has Icelandic animals only – no lions or monkeys here! There’s also a small train, fair activities, and playgrounds. The zoo is right in the middle of Laugardalur valley, which has beautiful botanical gardens in the summer. It is also home to the biggest pools in Reykjavík. You could easily spend a day here.
The Best of Reykjavík on a Map
Here’s the thing about Reykjavík – yes, you can see Hallgrímskirkja, walk the main streets, snap a few Instagram shots, and call it a day.
But that’s just scratching the surface.
The real Reykjavík is in its tucked-away cafes, unexpected nature, local hangouts, and family-run food spots.
Want to explore it like someone who actually knows the city?
After years of calling Reykjavík home, I’ve put together something I wish I’d had when I first arrived: the best of Reykjavík pinned on a digital map with over 200 handpicked spots that go way beyond the guidebook basics.
The kind of spots you find after years of living here.
From iconic stops to offbeat corners, it’s all neatly pinned, reviewed, and updated on the map.
I’ve also included the practical things you actually need to know, like where to find toilets, ATMs, and grocery stores- instantly accessible on your phone.
Ready to explore Reykjavík the way it’s meant to be seen?
Check out this 👉Reykjavík Map and experience the best that this city has to offer!
Happy Planning!
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