Things to Do in Reykjavik

About Reykjavik

Travel Tips

• Currency and Payments: Iceland is virtually cashless, so bring a credit/debit card with no foreign transaction fees—even public restrooms and hot dog stands accept cards, and many places don't take cash at all.

• Geothermal Pool Etiquette: Before entering any public swimming pool or hot spring (including the famous Blue Lagoon), you must shower thoroughly without a swimsuit in the communal changing rooms, as this is strictly enforced Icelandic hygiene practice.

• Weather Preparation: Reykjavik's weather changes rapidly throughout the day, so always dress in layers and bring waterproof outerwear even in summer—locals say "if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes."

• Transportation Timing: The Flybus airport shuttle to Keflavík Airport takes 45-50 minutes, so book your pickup at least 3-3.5 hours before your flight departure, as the airport is much farther from downtown Reykjavik than most visitors expect.

When to Visit

Reykjavik's tourism is heavily split between summer (June-August) when temperatures reach 10-15°C with near 24-hour daylight, drawing massive crowds for midnight sun experiences and accessible highland tours, versus winter (November-March) when temperatures hover between -5°C to 2°C, offering northern lights viewing and smaller crowds but with only 4-5 hours of daylight in December and frequent storms that can cancel flights and tours. The shoulder months of May and September provide the best balance with temperatures around 5-10°C, fewer tourists than peak summer, reasonable daylight (15-18 hours in May, 12-14 in September), and decent chances for both northern lights (September) and manageable outdoor conditions, though September brings increasing rain and wind. Budget travelers should target November through March when hotel prices drop by 40-50% compared to summer, but be prepared for many highland roads and some attractions being completely closed due to ice and snow. Consider timing your visit around Iceland Airwaves music festival in early November for cutting-edge Nordic music performances, or avoid the Reykjavik Culture Night in August unless you specifically want to experience the city-wide street festival, which makes accommodation nearly impossible to find and dramatically inflates prices.