Things to Do in Reykjavik

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik sits on the North Atlantic between volcanic mountains, its colorful buildings lined up against black rock. Nordic design meets Arctic landscape. The compact capital is busy with cafés, modern galleries, and bookshops that stay open late through summer's endless daylight—though the creative energy here can feel self-conscious. Steam rises from geothermal pools throughout the city. The northern lights appear overhead in winter. Ancient Viking sagas mix with contemporary life in unexpected ways: you can soak in naturally heated outdoor pools while snow falls, then catch new music in small venues that launched Björk and Sigur Rós. The city runs on contrasts. Quiet snowy winters give way to crowded weekend nights, stark lunar landscapes sit next to warm locals, and this small capital feels both old and new. Don't expect polish. Expect something stranger—a place where thermal energy literally bubbles up through the streets and nobody finds that unusual.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Purchase the Reykjavik City Card for unlimited bus rides plus museum entries. Downtown is walkable, but buses run efficiently 6:30am-midnight (limited weekend service). Rent bikes from multiple city stations—dedicated bike lanes make cycling safe and scenic.

Money: Iceland is nearly cashless—bring contactless cards and enable international transactions beforehand. Tipping isn't expected but rounding up 10% is appreciated. ATMs charge high fees; use cards everywhere including public transportation and small vendors.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes when entering homes (often required in some restaurants). Icelanders value personal space and speak softly in public. Don't expect small talk from strangers—directness isn't rudeness but cultural norm. Respect nature areas by staying on marked paths.

Food Safety: Tap water is pristine—bring a reusable bottle. Try fermented shark (hákarl) at traditional restaurants, not tourist traps. Book dinner reservations 2-3 days ahead at popular spots. Sample Icelandic hot dogs from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur—a local institution since 1937.

When to Visit

Summer (June-August) offers 19-22 hours of daylight with temperatures averaging 50-59°F (10-15°C) and minimal rainfall (1-2 inches monthly). This peak season sees 40-60% higher accommodation costs but provides optimal conditions for highland tours and midnight sun experiences. The Reykjavik Arts Festival occurs in late May, while Culture Night transforms the city every August. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) feature moderate temperatures around 39-50°F (4-10°C) with occasional northern lights visibility after mid-September. Accommodation prices drop 20-30%, though weather remains unpredictable with 2-4 inches monthly rainfall. Winter (November-March) brings temperatures of 28-39°F (-2-4°C) with 4-19 hours of daylight, perfect for northern lights viewing and ice caves. Hotel rates plummet 50-70% during this off-peak period. The Dark Music Days festival enlivens February, while New Year's Eve features spectacular citywide fireworks. Spring visitors enjoy lupine wildflowers and puffin arrivals, while autumn offers dramatic storms and fewer crowds. Budget travelers should target November-February; northern lights ensoiasts should visit September-March with clear, dark skies; summer adventurers will find July-August ideal for Westfjords and highland access.