18 Amazing Things to Do in Reykjavik You can’t Miss

Are you looking for the best things to do in Reykjavik? This is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe and here are all of our favourite things to do!

Reykjavik is an incredible city. It’s the northernmost capital city in the world, and aside from being in one of our all-time favourite countries, it’s also a pretty cool city. 

Admittedly, it doesn’t have the architectural charm of cities like Bergen or the cute old town of Stavanger, but it does have incredible street art, quirky buildings, and some of the friendliest locals we’ve met. Plus, it really does have the best museums. 

If you’re spending any amount of time in Iceland, whether you’re doing a road trip or simply extending your layover, no doubt you’ll visit Reykjavik at some point. So, here are the best 18 things to do in the Icelandic capital.

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1. Climb up Hallgrimskirkja Church

This iconic church is the symbol of Reykjavik. Its unique design, inspired by the basalt columns found along Iceland’s southern coast, makes it one of the most distinctive churches in Europe. It’s beautiful and we make a point to visit every time we’re in the capital.

From the outside, you can admire the church’s incredible architecture and the statue of Leifur Eiríksson, the first Viking to discover America. We also recommend going inside.

The architecture here is simple but still quite striking. During our first visit, the whole interior was lit with a glowing red light, which really emphasised the building’s Gothic style.

While you’re there, you also have to climb to the top of the church to see panoramic views over the city and, on a clear day, the magnificent Mount Esja in the distance. 

2. Visit Perlan Museum

On all of our Reykjavik itineraries, we recommend a trip to Perlan. It’s our favourite museum in Iceland and is such a magnificent introduction to both the city and the whole country. 

Located just outside the main city centre on Oskjuhlid Hill (which is also a popular spot for hiking and cycling), Perlan is easily accessible by bus as there’s a stop right outside.

The building of Perlan is made up of former water cylinders and is incredibly unique. 

Inside, you’ll find a lot of exhibits showcasing the natural wonders of Iceland. You can learn about the volcanoes and glaciers that shape the island’s landscape, as well as the environmental challenges posed by human activity.

You can also learn about Iceland’s diverse wildlife, from huge whales to puffins and seabirds, and even to polar bears that used to roam the country. 

What makes Perlan even more special is its interactive exhibits. You can experience a Northern Lights show in the theatre, explore a volcano display, see a life-size model of seabird cliffs, and even step inside a real ice tunnel.

Without a doubt, it’s one of the best things to do in Reykjavik, and we’ve always had an amazing time here.

Tickets are priced at 5390 ISK, which is around £30 or $39.

❤️ This is one of our favourite museums in Reykjavik and a must-visit!

3. Go on a Food Tour

We did this on our second trip to Iceland and it was a highlight of our visit. Reykjavik is known as being a great city for food lovers, but Icelandic cuisine is pretty unique. 

There are some very unusual dishes you may want to try and going on a food tour is a great way to try them all without spending a fortune!

On our tour, we got to taste a variety of Icelandic specialities, including arctic char, traditional lamb soup, lamb tartare on sweet bread, and of course, the infamous fermented shark.

It was so much fun and we highly recommend anyone visiting Reykjavik goes on a food tour.

❤️ This was the food tour we did in Reykjavik, and we loved it!

4. See the Lava Show

In our opinion, this is a bucket list thing to do in Iceland. Although it’s a relatively new attraction, it’s quickly become one of the city’s most popular, especially with the recent volcanic activity in Iceland.

If you’ve ever wanted to see real molten lava or witness what a volcanic eruption might look like, we really recommend The Lava Show. 

During the show, the hosts pour actual lava into a tunnel leading into the showroom, and you can instantly feel the heat – it’s incredible!

Throughout the show, they demonstrate how lava behaves in different ways, including creating a miniature version of a lava tunnel, adding ice to the lava to show you how it would interact with Iceland’s snowy landscapes, or creating strings of molten lava in the air. 

There are several ticket options. When we visited, we had Premium tickets, which included entry to the Premium Lounge, a welcome drink, and premium seats overlooking the experience. We also had a backstage tour of the furnace after the show. 

The Premium tickets cost 9,900 ISK (approximately £57 or $72), but you can also get the standard tickets for 5,900 ISK (£34 or $43). 

❤️ We highly recommend this incredible experience in Iceland.

5. Walk Down Rainbow Street

This is one of the most popular shopping streets in Iceland. It’s opposite the church and is actually one of the best places to photograph it.

Aside from the views, there is also a great selection of shops here. You can buy a range of things from Icelandic sweaters to trinkets and souvenirs. 

There are also cafes where you can grab a cup of coffee or a bite to eat, perfect if you’re visiting Iceland in the winter months and need a break from the cold. 

6. Visit the Swans at Tjörnin Lake

Tjörnin Lake is located in the heart of Reykjavik and is one of the prettiest parts of the city. 

You’ll find a variety of birds here, including lots of swans, especially in the summer. In Reykjavik in winter, the lake partially freezes, but areas are kept thawed for the birds.

We walked by the lake during our food tour, and the tour guide actually gave us some bread to feed the swans. They were so friendly and took the bread right out of our hands.

Tjörnin is a wonderful place to go for a walk and photograph Reykjavik’s skyline. You’ll also find Reykjavik’s City Hall nearby, which is also worth a stop.

7. Admire the Sun Voyager

Located along the waterfront of Reykjavik, this impressive sculpture looks like the skeleton of a ship. It was designed to represent adventure and exploration and symbolise the sailors who journeyed from Reykjavik in the past. 

It’s a great place for photography, especially during Golden Hour when the sky glows pink. The mountains across the water in the background make this place especially beautiful.

👉Check out our full guide to the best time to visit Iceland for all our tips.

8. Go Whale Watching

This is one of the most bucket-list things to do in Reykjavik. There are lots of different whale-watching tours that depart from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. They offer an incredible opportunity to see some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures in their natural habitat. 

Depending on the season you visit, you might spot humpback whales, minke whales, orcas, dolphins, and porpoises.

Tours are led by knowledgeable guides, and it’s a great way to learn about the marine life around Reykjavik as well. They’ll also provide you with warm clothing and, although they can’t guarantee a sighting, they often offer a free second trip if you don’t see any whales.

Going whale watching is a bucket list thing to do in Reykjavik and one of the best activities in all of Iceland.

❤️ We highly recommend this incredible experience in Iceland.

9. See the Whales of Iceland Museum

This is our second favourite museum in Iceland, and we absolutely loved our visit here. Whales of Iceland is one of the best places to visit in Iceland if you love wildlife. It’s fascinating, and you can learn a lot about the ocean’s gentle giants.

Tickets are priced at 4300 ISK (around £25 or $31). Inside, you’ll find over 20 life-size models of whales and dolphins from around the world. You can see species native to Iceland, along with others like the bottlenose dolphin and the massive blue whale.

The museum also features a cinema experience that highlights the impact of human activity and boat traffic on whale populations and marine life. It’s quite eye-opening.

If you love marine life and the ocean, you’ll love this museum.  

❤️ Book tickets to Whales of Iceland in advance here.

10. Admire the Street Art

Reykjavik may not be widely known for its street art, but the city is actually home to some incredible artworks that are definitely worth checking out.

You can take a street art tour to discover some of the most impressive works, or simply explore the city on foot, and you’re sure to stumble upon some amazing art.

Among our favourites are the stunning polar bear and northern lights mural in the city centre, as well as the beautiful mermaid mural.

11. Try an Icelandic Hot Dog

If you’re a food lover, trying an Icelandic hot dog is a must when you visit Iceland. It’s honestly one of the best hot dogs we’ve ever had and is our go-to snack in Reykjavik.

There are several places you can get one in the city, but the most popular is Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur in the city centre. This is one of the oldest hot dog places in Iceland, and their hot dogs are simply delicious. 

The hot dog itself is made from lamb meat, and it’s served inside a toasted brioche bun, on top of crispy onions and topped with ketchup and Icelandic mustard. 

It’s delicious, and having one is definitely one of the best things to do in Reykjavik!

12. Visit Árbær Open Air Museum

If you love exploring traditional history, you’ll love this museum. Scandinavian countries are known for their open-air museums, and this is one of the best museums in Iceland. 

Located on the outskirts of Reykjavik, you can walk around the little turf houses, the village church, and historical farms. It’s a great way to see what Iceland would’ve looked like all those years ago. 

You can also explore inside the buildings, which have been recreated as they would’ve looked. It offers a great glimpse into the daily life of the original Icelandic people. You’ll also find staff dressed in period costumes demonstrating traditional crafts and activities. 

13. Admire Harpa Concert Hall

Located along the waterfront about 15 minutes on foot from the Sun Voyager sculpture, this is another of the most beautiful buildings in Reykjavik.

The design was also inspired by the basalt columns along the south coast, but, in our opinion, it resembles an iceberg.

The building is made from reflective glass panels and, if you visit at the right time of day, it’s completely beautiful. When we visited, it had just been raining and the sun was setting, so the whole place was bathed in purple light. It was so gorgeous. 

It’s also worth going inside the building. It’s usually used for concerts and events; however, you can explore the inside even if you aren’t attending an event. It’s just as beautiful inside as it is outside. 

14. Visit FlyOver Iceland

This is one of the most unique things to do in Reykjavik. FlyOver Iceland is an immersive experience that lets you “fly” over Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes without leaving the city. 

It starts with a short pre-show that introduces Iceland’s history, culture, and natural wonders. You’ll then be strapped into a chair in front of a massive curved screen and taken on a virtual flight over glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic craters.   

It seriously seems like you’re flying over the country and even uses air, motion, wind, scents, and mist to make it feel more real. It’s quite exhilarating, although I don’t recommend it if you get motion-sick!

❤️ Book tickets to FlyOver Iceland in advance here.

15. Soak in the Sky Lagoon

The Sky Lagoon is one of Iceland’s newest geothermal lagoons and is the closest to Reykjavik, making it a must-visit during your time in the city.

Unlike the Blue Lagoon, the waters here aren’t a milky blue. But what sets the Sky Lagoon apart is the stunning views. The scenery is one of the highlights here ,and you’re basically in a geothermal infinity pool with magnificent ocean views. 

The lagoon is also known for its unique 7-step ritual. This ritual includes a sauna, body scrubs, a cold plunge, and steam rooms for the most rejuvenating experience. 

Tickets start at 10,490 ISK, which is around £60 or £75, which includes tickets to the spa, access to the ritual, and access to the changing facilities. 

We definitely recommend booking this in advance as tickets will sell out.

❤️ The Sky Lagoon can be quite popular, so you’ll need to book in advance.

16. Visit the Phallological Museum

This is one of the most unique museums in Iceland and one of the best things to do in Reykjavik. Inside the Icelandic Phallological Museum, you’ll find one of the largest displays of penises in the world. 

Located in the city centre, the museum boasts a collection of over 200 specimens, including those from whales, seals, and even humans.

The museum also shows a variety of phallus-related art and folklore, offering insights into how these symbols have been viewed across different cultures and contexts.

You can explore the scientific, cultural, and humorous aspects of the collection. It’s educational, fairly amusing, and one of the quirkiest and most fascinating attractions in Reykjavik.

17. Explore the Settlement Exhibition

If you enjoy history and want to learn even more about the original settlers of Iceland, we highly recommend a visit to the Settlement Exhibition. 

Located in the heart of Reykjavik, the Settlement Exhibition is built around the preserved remains of a Viking longhouse dating back to around 871 AD. 

This is one of the oldest archaeological finds in the country and the museum tells the story of Iceland’s first settlers and their daily lives.

You can learn about how the Vikings adapted to the harsh Icelandic environment, the tools and techniques they used, and the significance of the longhouse in their society.

The exhibition also provides fascinating insights into Iceland’s natural history, offering a deeper understanding of how the island looked over a thousand years ago. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and anyone curious about Iceland’s Viking heritage.

18. Go on a day trip from Reykjavik

Last but not least, whilst Reykjavik is definitely worth visiting, the true beauty of Iceland’s landscapes lies outside the city centre. 

There are so many day trips that you can do from Reykjavik to see everything from beautiful glaciers to black sand beaches and so many unique waterfalls. 

Some of the most popular day trips include those to the Golden Circle and the Southern Coast. If you’re basing yourself in Reykjavik and you have longer than a few days, we highly recommend taking one of these day trips. 

👉 If you want a little more inspiration, check out all of our favourite day trips from Reykjavik here. 

How long do you need in Reykjavik?

This depends. If you are basing yourself in Reykjavik and exploring other parts of the country via day trips, we’d recommend spending anything from 4 days to a week in the city. 

If you’re visiting Reykjavik at the start or end of an Icelandic road trip, then you could easily still spend 3 full days exploring Reykjavik’s museums and attractions, but most people only spend one day or two days in the capital. 

Personally, we feel that 2-3 full days in Reykjavik is a great amount of time. This will allow you to see the main attractions in the city as well as see a few museums and a few hidden gems. 

👉 Check out our full 2-day itinerary for Reykjavik here. 

What’s the best way to get around Reykjavik?

Reykjavik is a very walkable city, especially in the city centre. You can walk around a lot of the city easily, however, some of the museums are a little further out. 

For instance, Perlan is quite a distance from the city centre, so is easier to reach by public transport. Similarly, Árbær Open Air Museum is also easier to reach via public transport. 

Luckily, Reykjavik has an excellent public transport system. The Straeto buses are reliable and clean, and offer a reasonably affordable way to travel around the city. 

Tickets cost 650 ISK (around £3.70 or $4.70) per adult and you can pay via either cash or the Klappid App.

Are these all of the best things to do in Reykjavik?

Technically, no, there are many more things that you can do in Reykjavik. 

However, at the moment, these are the best things we’ve experienced in the city. As we return to Iceland again and again, we’ll update this list and add more things as we discover them. 

Reykjavik is a fantastic place to visit, and you should 100% stop here at least once during your time in Iceland. 

Even if you only visit Reykjavik for a day, the capital will give you a great understanding of Icelandic culture, plus, you’ll get to try some delicious hot dogs, which is always a win!

We hope this article has given you plenty of inspiration for your trip to Iceland, but if you have any questions, ask us anything in our free Facebook Group.

👉 Haven’t decided where to stay yet? Check out all of our favourite places to stay in Reykjavik.

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