Things to Do in Sun Voyager Sculpture
Sun Voyager Sculpture, Ísland - Complete Travel Guide
Reykjavík, Iceland's vibrant capital, is a compact yet culturally rich city that serves as the perfect gateway to the Land of Fire and Ice. Home to just over 130,000 residents, this northernmost capital in the world punches well above its weight with its thriving arts scene, innovative cuisine, and stunning natural beauty that begins right at the city's doorstep. The city seamlessly blends modern Scandinavian design with traditional Nordic culture, creating an atmosphere that's both cosmopolitan and authentically Icelandic.
The Sun Voyager sculpture stands as one of Reykjavík's most iconic landmarks, gracefully positioned along the scenic Sæbraut waterfront. This gleaming steel masterpiece, created by artist Jón Gunnar Árnason, resembles a Viking ship sailing toward the sun and has become a symbol of hope, progress, and dreams. Beyond this stunning sculpture, Reykjavík offers visitors a treasure trove of experiences, from the colorful corrugated iron houses of the old town to world-class museums, geothermal pools, and some of the planet's most accessible Northern Lights viewing opportunities.
Top Things to Do in Sun Voyager Sculpture
Northern Lights Hunt
Experience one of nature's most spectacular phenomena with guided Northern Lights tours that take you away from city lights for optimal viewing. These tours typically include expert guides who know the best viewing spots and provide warm clothing and hot drinks during the wait.
Booking Tip: Tours cost around $50-80 per person and run from September to March. Book tours that offer free rebooking if Northern Lights aren't visible, and choose operators that provide pickup from your accommodation.
Golden Circle Adventure
Explore Iceland's most famous tourist route featuring Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park. This classic day trip showcases Iceland's geological wonders and historical significance in one comprehensive tour.
Booking Tip: Full-day tours range from $60-120 depending on group size and inclusions. Small group tours offer more personalized experiences, while larger buses are more budget-friendly. Look for tours that include Kerið crater for added value.
Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa
Relax in Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, featuring milky blue mineral-rich waters heated by underground geothermal energy. The spa offers various packages including silica mud masks, in-water massages, and fine dining experiences.
Booking Tip: Entry tickets start at $55 and must be booked in advance, especially in summer. Premium packages ($90-200) include extras like robes, towels, and spa treatments. Book early morning or late evening slots for fewer crowds.
Reykjavík Food Walking Tour
Discover Iceland's unique culinary scene through guided food tours that sample traditional dishes like fermented shark, fresh seafood, and modern Nordic cuisine. These tours often include visits to local markets, artisan shops, and hidden gems known only to locals.
Booking Tip: Food tours cost $80-150 per person and typically last 3-4 hours. Book tours that include at least 6-8 tastings and provide cultural context about Icelandic food traditions. Afternoon tours often offer better restaurant availability.
Whale Watching Expedition
Embark on boat tours from Reykjavík's Old Harbor to spot minke whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises in Faxaflói Bay. These tours offer stunning views of Reykjavík's coastline and Mount Esja while searching for marine wildlife.
Booking Tip: Tours cost $65-90 per person and run year-round with best sightings from April to October. Choose operators offering warm overalls and refreshments, and look for companies with high success rates (90%+) for whale sightings.
Getting There
Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is Iceland's main international gateway, located about 50 kilometers southwest of Reykjavík. The Flybus and Airport Express offer regular shuttle services to the city center for around $25-30, taking approximately 45 minutes. Rental cars are available at the airport, while taxis cost around $130-150 for the journey. Many visitors also arrive via cruise ships that dock at the Old Harbor in downtown Reykjavík, providing convenient access to the city center and major attractions.
Getting Around
Reykjavík is highly walkable, with most attractions within easy walking distance of each other, including the Sun Voyager sculpture which is about a 15-minute stroll from the city center along the scenic waterfront. The city operates an efficient bus system (Strætó) with day passes costing around $8, though many visitors find walking sufficient for exploring the compact downtown area. Rental bikes are popular during summer months, and taxis are readily available but expensive. For day trips outside the city, rental cars offer the most flexibility, though numerous tour operators provide transportation to major attractions.
Where to Stay
101 Downtown
Laugavegur Shopping District
Old Harbor Area
Hlemmur Square
Vesturbær West Side
Laugardalur Valley
Food & Dining
Reykjavík's dining scene brilliantly showcases both traditional Icelandic ingredients and innovative Nordic cuisine, with restaurants emphasizing fresh seafood, grass-fed lamb, and foraged ingredients. The city center offers everything from casual fish and chips shops serving fresh cod to Michelin-starred establishments pushing culinary boundaries with fermented and smoked preparations. Don't miss trying traditional dishes like hákarl (fermented shark), fresh langoustine, or Icelandic hot dogs from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, while food halls like Hlemmur Mathöll provide diverse options under one roof. The local coffee culture is exceptional, with numerous cozy cafés serving expertly roasted beans alongside traditional Icelandic pastries.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Reykjavik
Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)
When to Visit
The best time to visit Reykjavík depends on your priorities, with summer (June-August) offering nearly 24 hours of daylight, lupine flowers in bloom, and the warmest weather (10-15°C), making it ideal for exploring the Sun Voyager sculpture and waterfront walks. Winter (November-March) brings the magical Northern Lights season, cozy indoor culture, and easier access to ice caves, though daylight is limited to 4-5 hours. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer fewer crowds, moderate weather, and good value for accommodations, with autumn providing excellent Northern Lights viewing opportunities as darkness returns.
Insider Tips
Visit the Sun Voyager sculpture during golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the most dramatic photographs with the sculpture silhouetted against colorful skies and mountain backdrops
Download the Reykjavík City Card app for discounts on attractions, free bus transportation, and access to geothermal pools throughout the city
Pack layers regardless of season as Icelandic weather can change rapidly, and always carry a waterproof jacket even on seemingly clear days