Destination Guide - Reykjavik
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Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, offers endless adventure, from a vibrant art scene to world-class cultural attractions. Reykjavik, meaning "Smoky Inlet," is the northernmost capital city in the world. It boasts a wide range of sights and activities that will captivate culture enthusiasts, nature-lovers and foodies.
Currency
The króna (ISK) is the official currency of Iceland though most places are card-friendly. ATMs are readily available if you need local currency. Tips, while not expected, can be given in krónur, euros, or USD. Consider providing small tips (10%) for bus drivers and local guides.
Things to Do
Hallgrimskirkja Lutheran Church
Rising out of the Reykjavik’s skyline, Hallgrimskirkja Church is one of Iceland's most iconic landmarks. Its towering structure is visible from nearly every part of the city, making it easy to spot. Built in the Functionalism Scandinavian style, the church is meant to reflect the natural elements found in Iceland, particularly the basalt columns found throughout the island nation. Visiting the church is free. The church tower is open daily, except during services or events. Entrance to the top is ~$10 USD for adults/ discounts available for 67+, <$2 for children ages 7-16 pay. An elevator takes you to the top for panoramic views.
Explore Reykjavik on Foot
Reykjavik’s compact size makes it a perfect city for exploring on foot. From Hallgrimskirkja, stroll through the city’s center, where you can discover charming streets like Laugavegur, Bankastraeti, and Austurstraeti. These pedestrian-friendly streets are home to great shopping, local eateries, and hotels. Reykjavik is full of delightful surprises, and you’ll uncover many hidden gems as you wander. For a guided experience, consider joining a local tour, or take a scenic helicopter ride over the city and land on Mount Esjan for unbeatable views.
Reykjavík Art Museum and National Gallery of Iceland
Showcasing the work of classic Icelandic artists.
National Museum of Iceland
Featuring the history of the island nation for both the casual tourist and history buff. Entrance fee is ~$15. Audioguide for an additional fee (or download for free.) Nice gift shop and cafe.
Harpa Concert Hall
Be sure to look inside at the interior featuring black concrete and red wood - reflecting the volcanic eruptions that shaped Iceland. Guided Tours are available. Check the schedule here. Nice cafe and gift shop.
Art Walk Around Reykjavik
Reykjavik’s vibrant cultural scene extends beyond its galleries and concert halls. As you wander the streets, you’ll come across fascinating outdoor sculptures and colorful street art. The most iconic piece is the Sun Voyager sculpture, or "Sólfarið," located by the seaside near Harpa Concert Hall, offering a stunning view of Mount Esja.
Whales of Iceland Museum
Includes life-size models of 23 different species of whales that live in Icelandic waters. The largest of its kind in Europe.
Visit Reykjavik's Geothermal Swimming Pools
Iceland’s geothermal swimming pools are more akin to luxurious spas than traditional community pools. Many locations feature both indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and hot tubs (some with as many as eight). For a more natural experience, visit the geothermally-heated waters at Reykjavik’s Nautholsvik beach or the small footbath at the Grotta nature reserve, known as Kvika (15-minute ride by car to lighthouse). These are some great, free activities to enjoy in the city.
Shopping:
Reykjavík's main shopping streets, Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur (the rainbow street), offer a dynamic mix of upscale design houses showcasing the latest in global fashion alongside charming boutiques featuring local designers. Visitors can explore a vibrant array of shops, from souvenir and vintage clothing stores to jewelry designers and outdoor gear outlets.
For a more centralized shopping experience, several malls in the capital area provide a convenient variety of stores under one roof. On weekends, the Kolaportið flea market is available, offering bric-a-brac, second-hand clothing, Icelandic books, and a taste of traditional local foods.
Popular Items
- Lopapeysa: The traditional Icelandic wool sweater, known for its warmth and distinctive patterns. A stylish and practical keepsake perfect for remembering the Icelandic landscape. Look at the Handknitting Association of Iceland for an authentic, 100% Icelandic wool piece at Skólavörðustígur 19. Beware of products that claim they are made of Icelandic wool are mass-produced outside of Iceland.
- Jewelry: Crafted from local materials like lava rocks and Icelandic gemstones, these unique pieces carry a piece of Iceland's natural beauty with them.
- Local Handicrafts: Handmade items, including ceramics, textiles, and woodwork, showcase the skill and creativity of Icelandic artisans. These unique items make wonderful gifts and mementos. Consider
- Licorice: Icelandic licorice is a beloved treat with a distinct flavor. It's a delicious way to bring a taste of Iceland back home. Pro-tip: Buy at a grocery store such as Bonus or Kronan.
- Icelandic Sea Salt: Consider flavors like birch-smoked, seaweed, black lava, and arctic thyme.
These souvenirs not only serve as wonderful reminders of your trip but also support local artisans and businesses.
Foods to Try
The mainstays of Icelandic cuisine are lamb, fish, milk products, potatoes - and the iconic hot dog!
Skyr | Soft Cheese (a cross between yogurt and cream cheese) |
Icelandic Ice Cream | Dairy products in Iceland are particularly high quality due to grass-fed cows and strict regulations on dairy farming allowing only minimal intervention resulting in a richer, more flavorful milk and superior dairy products. |
Pylsur | Sweet hot dog made of a blend of lamb, beef, and pork, and typically topped 5 toppings: crispy & raw onions, sweet ketchup, sweet mustard, and remuladi (mayo relish). Consider purchasing from the Oldest Hot Dog Stand: Bæjarins Beztu |
Rúgbrauð (Icelandic Rye Bread) | A sweet, dark brown bread that (in some places in Iceland) is cooked by burying the dough within a pot in the ground where there is geothermal heat. |
Humarsúpa (Lobster soup) | Similar to lobster bisque. The broth is made from langoustine shells finished with cream and curry powder. |
Plokkfiskur (Fish Stew) | Thick fish stew served on rúgbrauð. |
Seafood | From the North Atlantic & Arctic Ocean |
Fish Jerky | |
Icelandic lamb | |
Brennivín ("Black Death") | a potent schnapps made from fermented grain or potato and flavored with caraway |
hákarl | fermented shark |
Licorice |
Icelandic tap water is always safe to drink and is among the cleanest in the world. It should be free of charge. Be sure to bring a refillable water bottle.
Restaurant Recommendations
Here is a list of restaurant options near the Midgardur Center Hotel in Reykjavik, with a mix of traditional Icelandic dishes, seafood, and international influences. These have been carefully selected for their good reviews and proximity:
Name | Cuisine | Highlights | Distance from Midgardur Center Hotel | Cost |
Reykjavik Kitchen | Icelandic | A cozy bistro offering both lamb and seafood specialties, perfect for a relaxed and delicious meal. | 1 minute walk (across the street from hotel) | $$-$$$ |
Cafe Loki | Traditional Icelandic Food | Filling lamb soup and rye bread ice cream. | Walk: ~15-minute (Near the church) | $$-$$$ |
Icelandic Street Food | Traditional Icelandic | A casual eatery specializing in hearty soups like lamb and seafood served in bread bowls with free refills. No reservations needed | Walk: ~23-minute Taxi: ~ 7-minute (Old Town) | $ |
Fiskfélagið (The Fish Company) | Modern Icelandic Seafood | Stylish setting with creative Icelandic seafood dishes, often featuring a global twist. Reservations recommended. | Walk: ~23 minutes Taxi: ~ 7 minutes (Old Town/Harbor) | $$$$ |
Mama Reykjavik | Vegan food, Dahl & Soups | Walk: ~17-minute Taxi: ~ 6-minute (Old Town) | $$-$$$ | |
Loa | Icelandic with European Flair | A stylish bistro that serves Icelandic ingredients with a European twist. Known for its lively atmosphere and great for unwinding after a busy day. | Walk: ~3 minutes (Opposite old town) | $$-$$$ |
Messinn | Icelandic Seafood | Known for its Arctic char and plaice, Messinn offers authentic Icelandic flavors in a cozy atmosphere. Reservations recommended. | Walk: ~20-minute Taxi: ~ 7-minute (Old Town) | $$-$$$ |
Hlemmur Mathöll | Food Hall | A trendy food hall offering Icelandic seafood, international dishes, and various casual options. | ~1 minute walk | $$-$$$ |
Svarta Kaffid | Icelandic Soups | A cozy spot known for hearty soups served in bread bowls—perfect for a casual meal. A great, budget-friendly option for a quick bite. | Walk: ~12 minutes (between hotel & Old Town) | $ |
Kröns | Soups | Soup, lamb soup and mushroom soup are very good portion. | Walk: ~5 minutes (between hotel & Old Town) | $$-$$$ |
ROK | Seafood, European | Casual dining with focus on serving high quality food in a friendly relaxed environment | Walk: ~13 minutes (near church) | $$-$$$ |
Potturinn og Pannan | Traditional Icelandic | A family-friendly restaurant offering classic Icelandic dishes such as lamb, fish, and stews in a relaxed, welcoming environment. | Walk: ~ 9 minutes (Opposite Old Town) | $$-$$$ |
Grillmarkaðurinn (The Grill Market) | Grilled Meats & Seafood | Known for high-quality grilled meats and seafood, focusing on local ingredients in a stylish setting. Reservations highly recommended. | Walk: ~22-minute Taxi: ~ 7-minute (Old City) | $$$$ |
Sægreifinn (The Sea Baron) | Icelandic Seafood | Famous for their lobster soup and fish skewers, this casual spot near the harbor serves fresh Icelandic seafood. It can be very busy, so be prepared for a wait. | Walk: ~30-minute Taxi: ~ 6-minute (Harbour) | $$-$$$ |
Bæjarins Bestu Pylsur | Icelandic Hot Dog | The Famous Hot dog stand from 1937, where Bill Clinton came and many more celebrities. 600 kr per hot dog! Take Away. | Walk: 20 minutes (Old City) | $ |
Brauð & Co. | Bakery | Take away with best cinnamon buns and Wedding Blitz Cake | Walk: ~ 11 minutes (Between hotel and Old City) | $ |
Day Trips and Tours Around Reykjavik
If you’re looking for more adventure, Reykjavik is a gateway to numerous exciting day trips. You can embark on whale watching (best times are April to September, but whales can be spotted all times of year) or puffin tours in Faxafloi Bay, or experience horseback riding tours in the surrounding countryside. The bay is home to minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and porpoises.
Another great day trip is to Videy Island, known for the Yoko Ono Imagine Peace Tower, a tribute to John Lennon. The island is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with seabirds such as gannets, gulls, cormorants, and puffins (during summer months).
Snorkel or Scuba Dive between 2 Tectonic Plates
At Silfra Fissure, snorkel between the large volcanic canyons and discover the crystal clear waters of Thingvellir Lake that flow between the North American and Eurasian continents. Meet on site or book a tour that includes transportation.
Relax at the Sky Lagoon
Although located in nearby Kopavogur, just 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavik, the Sky Lagoon is a must-see geothermal spa. Along with the Blue Lagoon, it’s one of Iceland’s most popular attractions. The Sky Lagoon offers full-access admission, which includes the Skjól Ritual, their signature ritual which includes a journey through the glass sauna, cold mist area, steam bath, and a revitalizing cold plunge. If you prefer access to private changing rooms, be sure to purchase the Ser package. Otherwise, the Saman ticket provides access to only public changing rooms. The picturesque setting provides great photo opportunities, and you can even enjoy a drink at their swim up bar while soaking in the warm waters. Opened in 2021, the Sky Lagoon blends modern amenities with traditional Icelandic spa experiences. Allow 2-3 hours.
With so much to do in and around Reykjavik, you're sure to find plenty of ways to enjoy this dynamic capital city!
VAT Tax Refund for US Residents
VAT (Value Added Tax) may be refunded for US travelers on goods they are taking home with them.
Conditions:
Total purchase price is ISK 12,000 (~$85) or more, including VAT, even if one or more single items do not reach the minimum amount.
Request the VAT refund form from the store when you are purchasing.
Present: US Passport, Goods, Tax-free form (from the store) and receipt at Tax Refund Service Provider
Where?: Arion Bank at Keflavík airport (located in the arrival hall opposite the car rentals.) Passengers must reclaim their VAT before checking in their luggage. Tax-free service is available at the currency exchange counter when the tax-free counter is closed.