Best Things to do in Reykjavik
FAQs For Things to Do in Reykjavík
How long should I spend in Reykjavik?
That depends on how long you’ve got! There’s so much to see and do in the area, you could easily tag on extra days and never be short of new things to explore. We stayed in Reykjavik for one week, and used it as our base to explore Southern Iceland, which was a comfortable amount of time. That said, if you have less time, anywhere between three to five days would also be enough to see the main highlights.
Is Reykjavík walkable?
Absolutely! The city centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. Many of the top things to do in Reykjavik like Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa, and Laugavegur are within walking distance of each other.
What’s the best way to see attractions outside the city?
For places like Mount Esja, the Golden Circle, or the South Coast, we’d suggest renting a car. This gives you the most flexibility with your plans. Day tours are also an option though if you prefer not to drive.
Is it worth visiting Reykjavík in winter?
Definitely! We visited at the end of November and we thought the place was magical! You’ll get fewer crowds, the chance to see the northern lights, plus have lots of cosy cafés and spas to enjoy. Keep in mind that daylight hours are shorter. For us, the sun started to set around 3pm.
Is it safe to visit the Reykjanes Peninsula with recent volcanic activity?
Authorities advice that it’s safe as long as you follow local guidance and stick to designated safe areas. They also continue to monitor the situation closely and close off areas if there’s any risk. It’s worth checking online before making any plans to visit though.
What are the best day trips from Reykjavík?
In short, your best options are: the Golden Circle, exploring the South Coast, Mount Esja, Viðey Island, and Reykjanes Peninsula. Each offers a different glimpse of what Iceland has to offer. That said, Iceland does have A LOT to offer. And even beyond those places, there is much more to see and do. Whatever you choose to do as a day trip from Reykjavik, you can’t go too far wrong.
