Things to do in Reykjavik

Activities, attractions and tours

Reykjavik
Reykjavik
Harpa showing general coastal views and modern architecture
Reykjavik featuring general coastal views, a coastal town and mountains
Harpa which includes modern architecture and interior views
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Top places to visit

1. Reykjavik Harbour

Reykjavík’s Old Harbour is the perfect place to start your visit to Iceland. Wander along the quay through quaint lanes and past renovated fishermen’s sheds that now house galleries, cafés and tour operators.
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Reykjavik Harbour which includes general coastal views, boating and a bay or harbor

2. Harpa

Experience the masterful design and outstanding facilities of one of Reykjavík’s modern landmarks at the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center. Opened in 2011, this contemporary structure hosts recitals, performances, exhibitions and conferences. See touring musicians or a fascinating exhibit by local artists. Attend an all-access guided tour or simply wander along the harbor taking in each aspect of the exceptionally designed building.
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Harpa showing modern architecture, a bay or harbour and general coastal views

3. Laugavegur

Find an exciting collection of cafés, restaurants, bars and specialty stores on Laugavegur, an arterial street in Reykjavík’s downtown area. Stroll down the partly pedestrianized strip and spend an afternoon checking out Scandinavian designer stores. Stop at a café or bakery and try delicious Icelandic treats, while watching fashion-conscious shoppers go by. In the evening, relax with a drink at one of the Laugavegur bars and clubs.
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Reykjavik which includes street scenes

4. Hallgrimskirkja

Designed in 1939 by the late architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, Hallgrimskirkja is a 1,000-seat church that took more than 40 years to complete. Samúelsson’s inspiration came from the shapes of the Icelandic countryside. He created the structure to appear like cooling lava from a volcanic eruption. Visit for Sunday mass or simply for the best views of Reykjavík.
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aurora borealis above hallgrimskirkja church in central of reykjavik city in Iceland, Shutterstock ID 1146085949, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: , Client/Licensee: Faa Praharnpap, Ot

5. Reykjavik City Hall

Admire the bold architectural lines merging with Lake Tjörnin’s glassy reflection when you approach Reykjavík City Hall (Ráðhús Reykjavíkur), a distinctive modern civic center. Stroll around picturesque Lake Tjörnin and marvel at the structure’s intriguing design or visit the hall’s café and exhibition space to enjoy stunning views of the lake and its birdlife.
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Reykjavik City Hall featuring street scenes and a pond

6. Perlan

In the early 1990s, the architect Ingimundur Sveinsson created an exciting tourist attraction by resting a glass and metal dome on top of the city’s six hot water tanks. The structure includes a huge exhibition space, a revolving restaurant and a 360-degree viewing platform.
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Perlan showing modern architecture

7. Reykjavík Cathedral

Domkirkjan, the National Cathedral, is an unassuming city church completed in 1796. It stands beside Parliament House in the city’s main square. It was at the National Cathedral that the Lutheran church officially endorsed Icelandic sovereignty and independence in 1845, although the modern Republic of Iceland was not founded until 1944. Today this rather understated church provides an austere contrast to the soaring tower of Hallgrímskirkja and is the perfect place for reflecting quietly or joining locals at prayer.
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National Cathedral featuring religious elements and a church or cathedral

What to do in Reykjavik

Popular places to visit

Reykjavik Harbour which includes outdoor art, a sunset and general coastal views

Reykjavik Harbour

4.5/5(694 reviews)

Once a maritime and fishing precinct, the Old Harbour now buzzes with restaurants, cafés and tour boat operators.

Reykjavik Harbour
Harpa showing modern architecture, a bay or harbour and general coastal views

Harpa

4.5/5(466 reviews)

The sculptural glass façade of Reykjavík’s premier concert hall and conference center shines over the harbor, reflecting the water and the city’s energy.

Harpa
Reykjavik showing street scenes

Laugavegur

4.5/5(446 reviews)

Brightly colored shopfronts spill into the street and add atmosphere to the sidewalk dining areas and designer stores of Reykjavík’s main downtown shopping strip.

Laugavegur
university building at Reykjavik harbor, Iceland

University of Iceland

4/5(33 reviews)

Walk around the campus at University of Iceland as part of your travels around Reykjavik. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this walkable area.

University of Iceland
Hallgrimskirkja showing a sunset, a church or cathedral and general coastal views

Hallgrimskirkja

4.5/5(514 reviews)

With its magnificent tower, this church is one of Reykjavík’s most famous landmarks, dominating the skyline and serving as a useful compass point.

Hallgrimskirkja
Reykjavik City Hall showing interior views as well as a large group of people

Reykjavik City Hall

4/5(235 reviews)

The dynamic architectural design and picturesque location of this modern civic building near the Tjörnin lakeside has made it a landmark in downtown Reykjavík.

Reykjavik City Hall
Perlan which includes modern architecture and a sunset

Perlan

4.5/5(260 reviews)

This unusual glass-domed structure combines the practical aspects of the city’s water heating system with spectacular architectural vision.

Perlan
National Cathedral showing a church or cathedral and religious elements

Reykjavík Cathedral

4.5/5(164 reviews)

This humble church is Reykjavík’s oldest. It holds great historical importance as both the center of Iceland’s Lutheran faith and the birthplace of independence.

Reykjavík Cathedral
National Museum of Iceland showing street scenes

National Museum of Iceland

4.5/5(105 reviews)

From Viking feasts and battles to the independence movement of the 20th century, Iceland’s premier museum preserves every detail of the nation’s history.

National Museum of Iceland

Areas of Reykjavik

Rainbow painted street in downtown Reykjavik, Iceland

Downtown Reykjavik

5/5(281 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Downtown Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja and National Gallery of Iceland are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Reykjavik
Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, the largest city in the island and the northernmost capital in the world, is also great for cycling around the city because of it’s excellent bicycle lanes system. #Iceland #Reykjavik #bicycling #bicycle #biker #OnTheRoad

Laugardalur

4/5(29 area reviews)

Laugardalur is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool or Laugavegur.

Laugardalur
Háaleiti

Háaleiti

4/5(73 area reviews)

When in Háaleiti, you can plan a visit to Kringlan Shopping Mall and Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Háaleiti
Reykjavik Harbour showing a bay or harbour, boating and general coastal views

Vesturbær

4.5/5(100 area reviews)

The abundant dining options and waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Vesturbær. A stop by Reykjavik Harbour or Landakotskirkja might round out your trip.

Vesturbær
Black sand beach in Iceland

Hlíðar

4.5/5(164 area reviews)

Though Hlíðar may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Reykjavik Harbour and Perlan.

Hlíðar
Laugavegur featuring street scenes

Holt

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Holt and surrounding area, you can visit Reykjavik Harbour and Laugavegur.

Holt
Coming across these Icelandic beauties whilst exploring the Golden Circle

Seltjarnarnes

Frequently asked questions

Is Reykjavik worth visiting?
Famous for its nightlife and culture, discovering cool things to do in Reykjavik is a breeze. Remember to add Sky Lagoon to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Reykjavik?
Sky Lagoon and National Museum of Iceland are two good places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Reykjavik while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Reykjavik?
You can't go home without checking out Sky Lagoon, rated the top tourist attraction in Reykjavik.
Is three days enough to stay in Reykjavik?
You can easily visit leading attractions like Sky Lagoon, National Museum of Iceland and Reykjavík Cathedral with a three-day getaway in Reykjavik. On average, most travellers plan three days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to Reykjanesbær.
Is Reykjavik a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you'd like to do and see in Reykjavik. Several key sights, such as Sky Lagoon and National Museum of Iceland, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Reykjavik's neighbourhoods, Downtown Reykjavik is 0.80 kilometres away from downtown, while Tún is 2 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Reykjavik with kids?
Planning what to do in Reykjavik with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or little ones, there's no shortage of family-friendly attractions to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Reykjavik for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Reykjavik, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Laugavegur or Perlan.
Are there free things to do in Reykjavik?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Reykjavik. If you need inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Reykjavík Cathedral is a must for anyone wanting to save on their travelling adventures.

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