Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland, located on the southwestern coast of the country. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique architecture.
Reykjavik is home to many famous landmarks, including the Hallgrímskirkja, the Harpa Concert Hall, and the Perlan. The city is also famous for its geothermal pools and spas, such as the Blue Lagoon. Reykjavik has a subarctic climate, with cool summers and cold winters.
The public transportation system in Reykjavik includes buses and taxis, providing easy access to all parts of the city. However, many locals and tourists opt for walking or biking to explore the city’s charming streets and unique architecture. Reykjavik is also a major transportation hub, with an international airport serving domestic and international flights.
- Country: Iceland
- Population: 133,000
- Language: Icelandic
- Currency & Exchange Rate: Icelandic króna (ISK), 1 ISK = 0.0079 USD (as of February 2023)
- Area size: 274.5 km²
- Main airport: Keflavík International Airport (located about 50 km away from Reykjavik)
- Visitors per year: Approximately 2.3 million
- Official website for visa application: https://island.is/en/do-you-need-a-visa
Best Things To Do in Reykjavik
Here are the top 10 must-visit activities in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Hallgrímskirkja: A stunning and iconic church in Reykjavik, with a unique design inspired by Iceland’s volcanic landscape, as well as beautiful views of the city from its tower.
- Price: From ISK 1000 (approx. USD $8) for standard admission to the tower
- Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm
- Website: https://www.hallgrimskirkja.is/
- The Sun Voyager: A beautiful and iconic sculpture in Reykjavik, inspired by the country’s Viking history and the idea of a journey towards the sun.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: Always open
- Harpa Concert Hall: A stunning and modern concert hall in Reykjavik, with many interesting designs and features, as well as many cultural events and shows.
- Price: Varies by event
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Website: https://en.harpa.is/
- Perlan: A unique and interesting museum in Reykjavik, with many exhibits and artifacts showcasing the natural wonders of Iceland, as well as a beautiful observation deck with panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
- Price: From ISK 4900 (approx. USD $38) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: 9am to 9pm
- Website: https://perlan.is/en/
- The Settlement Exhibition: An interesting and informative museum in Reykjavik, with many exhibits and artifacts showcasing the Viking history and settlement of Iceland.
- Price: From ISK 2000 (approx. USD $16) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm
- Website: https://www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is/the-settlement-exhibition
- Tjörnin: A picturesque and popular lake in the heart of Reykjavik, with many opportunities for boating and bird-watching, as well as many small restaurants and cafes nearby.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: Always open
- Reykjavik Art Museum: A modern and interesting museum in Reykjavik, with many exhibits and artworks showcasing the contemporary art scene in Iceland and beyond.
- Price: From ISK 1650 (approx. USD $13) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: 10am to 5pm
- Website: https://artmuseum.is/
- The Old Harbor: A charming and historic harbor in Reykjavik, with many small shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as many opportunities for boating and whale-watching.
- Price: Varies
- Opening Hours: Always open
- Laugavegur Street: A popular and bustling street in the heart of Reykjavik, with many shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as many interesting murals and street art.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: Always open
- Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach: A unique and interesting beach located outside Reykjavik, with many opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation, as well as a hot tub and sauna powered by geothermal energy.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: Always open
- Website: https://nautholsvik.is/en/
Here are the top 10 activities for kids in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Perlan Museum: A museum and observation deck, with exhibits on Iceland’s nature, geology, and history, as well as a planetarium and an ice cave experience.
- Price: ISK 4,900 (approx. $39 USD) per person, free for children under 6
- Website: https://perlan.is/en/
- Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool: A large outdoor swimming pool and hot tub complex, with waterslides, saunas, and a children’s pool, as well as a playground and a cafe.
- Price: ISK 1,100 (approx. $9 USD) per person, free for children under 6
- Website: https://www.sundlaugar.is/en/swimming-pools/laugardalslaug
- Whales of Iceland: A museum with life-size models of different whale species, as well as interactive exhibits, audio guides, and a gift shop.
- Price: ISK 3,490 (approx. $28 USD) per person, free for children under 7
- Website: https://whalesoficeland.is/
- Hallgrímskirkja Church: A landmark church and observation tower, with a unique design inspired by Iceland’s natural features, as well as a gift shop and a cafe.
- Price: ISK 1,000 (approx. $8 USD) per person, free for children under 6
- Website: https://www.hallgrimskirkja.is/english/
- Family Park and Zoo: A small zoo and amusement park, with animals such as reindeer, rabbits, and goats, as well as rides, games, and a playground.
- Price: ISK 2,500 (approx. $20 USD) per person, free for children under 2
- Website: https://www.familypark.is/english
- Reykjavik Maritime Museum: A museum with exhibits on Iceland’s maritime history and culture, including fishing, whaling, and shipbuilding, as well as a ship simulator and a gift shop.
- Price: ISK 2,200 (approx. $18 USD) per person, free for children under 6
- Website: https://www.maritimemuseum.is/
- Tjörnin Lake: A public park and lake, with ducks, geese, and swans, as well as walking paths, benches, and cafes, located in the city center.
- Price: Free admission
- Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach: A man-made beach and swimming area, with a geothermal hot tub, a sauna, and changing facilities, as well as a playground and a restaurant.
- Price: Free admission, hot tub and sauna access for ISK 1,000 (approx. $8 USD) per person
- Website: https://www.nautholsvik.is/english
- The Settlement Exhibition: A museum and archaeological site, with exhibits on the early settlement of Iceland, including artifacts and multimedia displays.
- Price: ISK 1,700 (approx. $14 USD) per person, free for children under 18
- Website: https://www.reykjavikmuseum.is/the-settlement-exhibition
- Imagine Peace Tower: A memorial and light installation, created by Yoko Ono in honor of John Lennon.
Here are the top 10 neighborhoods in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Downtown Reykjavik: The historic and cultural heart of Reykjavik, Downtown is known for its colorful buildings, vibrant street art, and lively atmosphere. This area is also home to many of the city’s top restaurants, cafes, and bars.
- Vesturbær: A charming and picturesque neighborhood that is located to the west of the city center, Vesturbær is known for its beautiful parks, historic landmarks, and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Laugardalur: A peaceful and residential neighborhood that is located to the east of the city center, Laugardalur is known for its beautiful homes, parks, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Grandi: A trendy and up-and-coming neighborhood that is popular with artists, creatives, and young professionals, Grandi is known for its hip cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops.
- Hlíðar: A bustling and diverse neighborhood that is located to the south of the city center, Hlíðar is known for its shopping malls, restaurants, and community events.
- Kópavogur: A peaceful and residential neighborhood that is located to the south of Reykjavik, Kópavogur is known for its beautiful homes, parks, and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Seltjarnarnes: A scenic and picturesque neighborhood that is located on a peninsula to the west of Reykjavik, Seltjarnarnes is known for its stunning views of the ocean and surrounding countryside.
- Grafarvogur: A quiet and tranquil neighborhood that is located to the east of the city center, Grafarvogur is known for its beautiful homes, parks, and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Breiðholt: A multicultural and diverse neighborhood that is located to the south of the city center, Breiðholt is known for its street markets, authentic cuisine, and lively community events.
- Árbær: A historic and cultural neighborhood that is located to the southeast of the city center, Árbær is known for its beautiful museums, historic landmarks, and cultural events.
Here are the top 10 restaurants in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Dill Restaurant: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of modern Icelandic cuisine made with local and seasonal ingredients.
- Price range: $$$$ (expensive)
- Location: Hverfisgata 12, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Website: https://www.dillrestaurant.is/
- Fish Market: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of Icelandic and international cuisine.
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$ (moderate to expensive)
- Location: Aðalstræti 12, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Website: https://www.fiskmarkadurinn.is/
- Matur og Drykkur: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of Icelandic cuisine made with local ingredients.
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$ (moderate to expensive)
- Location: Grandagarður 2, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Website: https://www.maturogdrykkur.is/en/
- Grillmarkaðurinn: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of Icelandic and international cuisine.
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$ (moderate to expensive)
- Location: Lækjargata 2A, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Website: https://www.grillmarkadurinn.is/en/
- Kol Restaurant: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of Icelandic and international cuisine.
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$ (moderate to expensive)
- Location: Skólavörðustígur 40, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Website: https://www.kolrestaurant.is/
- Messinn Seafood Restaurant: Casual restaurant offering a menu of Icelandic seafood dishes.
- Price range: $$ – $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Lækjargata 6b, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Website: https://www.messinn.com/
- Kopar Restaurant: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of Icelandic and international cuisine.
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$ (moderate to expensive)
- Location: Geirsgata 3, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Website: https://www.koparrestaurant.is/en/
- Reykjavik Kitchen: Casual restaurant offering a menu of Icelandic and international cuisine.
- Price range: $$ – $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Lækjargata 2, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Website: https://www.reykjavikkitchen.is/
- Sæta Svínið Gastropub: Casual restaurant offering a menu of Icelandic and international cuisine.
- Price range: $$ – $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Hafnarstræti 1-3, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Website: https://saetasvinid.is/en/
- Snaps Bistro Bar: Casual restaurant offering a menu of French and Icelandic cuisine.
- Price range: $$ – $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Þórsgata 1, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Website: https://snaps.is/
Here are the top 10 most popular bars/pubs in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Kaldi Bar – bar and microbrewery with Icelandic beer and pub food in downtown area
- Mikkeller & Friends – bar with Danish beer and international guest taps in downtown area
- Kaffibarinn – bar and live music venue with a cozy decor in downtown area
- Bryggjan Brugghús – bar and microbrewery with Icelandic beer and gastropub food in downtown area
- Pablo Discobar – bar and nightclub with a retro decor and dance music in downtown area
- Lebowski Bar – bar and restaurant with a Big Lebowski theme and international menu in downtown area
- Loft Hostel & Bar – bar and hostel with a rooftop terrace and city views in downtown area
- Ölstofa Kormáks og Skjaldar – bar and gastropub with Icelandic beer and local cuisine in downtown area
- Boston – bar and restaurant with an American-style decor and international menu in downtown area
- Slippbarinn – bar and restaurant with a nautical theme and international menu in the harbor area
And here are the top 5 best rooftops in Reykjavik:
- The Rooftop Grill & Bar – rooftop bar and restaurant with city and harbor views in CenterHotel Arnarhvoll, downtown area
- Sky Bar by Icelandair Hotels – rooftop bar with panoramic city views in Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina, harbor area
- Bryggjan Brewery Rooftop Bar – rooftop bar with city views and Icelandic beer in Bryggjan Brugghús, downtown area
- Kvosin Downtown Hotel Rooftop Terrace – rooftop terrace with city views and a bar in Kvosin Downtown Hotel, downtown area
- Alda Hotel Rooftop Lounge – rooftop lounge with city views and a bar in Alda Hotel Reykjavik, downtown area.
Here are the top 10 shopping areas in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Laugavegur: This historic street is known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and traditional crafts. It’s the most popular shopping area in Reykjavik and a must-visit for tourists.
- Kringlan: This large shopping mall is located in the city center and features many international fashion brands, department stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- Hlemmur Mathöll: This indoor food hall is located near the city center and features many local food vendors, gourmet restaurants, and specialty shops. It’s a great place to experience Icelandic cuisine and find unique gifts and souvenirs.
- Skólavörðustígur: This street is known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and designer stores. It’s a great place to find unique clothing and accessories with a local touch.
- Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre: This modern building has been designed by a world-renowned architect and features many luxury shops, gourmet restaurants, and cultural events. It’s a great place to shop and dine while admiring the modern architecture and scenic views.
- Grandi Harbor: This historic harbor district has been transformed into a creative hub, featuring many independent boutiques, art studios, and design shops. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind items and support local artisans.
- Gallerí Fold: This art gallery is located near the city center and features many local artists and designers. It’s a great place to find unique artwork and design pieces.
- Icelandic Handknitting Association: This specialty store is located near the city center and features many hand-knitted Icelandic woolen products. It’s a great place to find unique and cozy gifts.
- Sundhöll Reykjavíkur: This historic indoor swimming pool has been recently renovated and now features many boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and cultural events. It’s a great place to shop and dine while enjoying the historic atmosphere and wellness facilities.
- Öskjuhlíð Hill: This scenic hill is located near the city center and features many hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and souvenir shops. It’s a great place to experience nature and find unique gifts and souvenirs.
Here are the top 5 museums in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- The National Museum of Iceland: A museum with exhibits related to the history and culture of Iceland, including artifacts, manuscripts, and interactive displays, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: ISK 2,000 (about $16 USD) for adults, ISK 1,000 (about $8 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.thjodminjasafn.is
- The Reykjavik Art Museum: A museum with a collection of contemporary Icelandic and international art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: ISK 1,500 (about $12 USD) for adults, ISK 1,000 (about $8 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.artmuseum.is
- The Aurora Reykjavik Northern Lights Center: A museum with exhibits related to the science and folklore of the Northern Lights, including interactive displays, multimedia shows, and cultural events.
- Price: ISK 2,900 (about $23 USD) for adults, ISK 1,400 (about $11 USD) for children aged 6-15, free for children under 6.
- Website: www.aurorareykjavik.is
- The Reykjavik Maritime Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the maritime history and culture of Iceland, including fishing boats, navigational instruments, and interactive displays, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: ISK 1,700 (about $14 USD) for adults, ISK 800 (about $6 USD) for children aged 6-17, free for children under 6.
- Website: www.maritimemuseum.is
- The Saga Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the history and culture of Iceland, including lifelike wax figures, historical artifacts, and interactive displays, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: ISK 2,200 (about $18 USD) for adults, ISK 1,000 (about $8 USD) for children aged 7-15, free for children under 7.
- Website: www.sagamuseum.is
Here are the top 10 parks in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Laugardalur Park: This park is located near the city center and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several sports facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a soccer stadium, and an ice skating rink. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Klambratún Park: This park is located near the city center and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several cultural landmarks, including the Kjarvalsstaðir Museum and the Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and relaxation.
- Elliðaárdalur Valley: This park is located near the city and features several hiking trails, a large green area, and several water features, including the Elliðaá River and the Ellidaárdalur Waterfall. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach: This park is located near the city center and features a sandy beach, walking paths, and a geothermal pool. It’s a popular spot for swimming and relaxation.
- Hljómskálagarður Park: This park is located near the city center and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several cultural landmarks, including the City Hall and the National Theatre of Iceland. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and relaxation.
- Árbæjarlaug Pool: This park is located near the Árbær area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and a geothermal swimming pool. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Vatnsmýri Wetlands: This park is located near the city and features several hiking trails, a large green area, and several natural landmarks, including a bird sanctuary and several ponds. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Rauðhólar (Red Hills) Nature Reserve: This park is located near the city and features several hiking trails, a large green area, and several natural landmarks, including several volcanic craters and lava fields. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Grótta Island Lighthouse: This park is located near the Seltjarnarnes area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and a lighthouse. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and relaxation.
- Höfði Park: This park is located near the city center and features several walking paths, a large green area, and a historical landmark, including the Höfði House, where the Reykjavik Summit between the US and USSR was held in 1986. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and relaxation.
Opening hours & prices are subject to changes. Please visit the website for updated information.
TOP 10 Things You Need To Know About Reykjavik
Weather in Reykjavik:
Reykjavik has a subarctic oceanic climate with mild, wet summers and cold, snowy winters. Here are the average temperatures in Reykjavik throughout the year:
- Summer (June to August): 9-13°C (48-55°F)
- Fall (September to November): 1-8°C (34-46°F)
- Winter (December to February): -2-3°C (28-37°F)
- Spring (March to May): 0-6°C (32-43°F)
Peak Season: Reykjavik’s peak tourist season is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is milder, and many tourists come to enjoy the city’s natural attractions such as the geysers and waterfalls. This is also the busiest time, and prices for accommodations and attractions are higher.
Off-Peak Season: The best time to visit Reykjavik in terms of smaller crowds and more affordable prices is during the shoulder seasons from September to October or from March to May. Although the weather may be cooler, you can enjoy discounts on accommodations and attractions, and the city is less crowded.
In addition, visiting during cultural events such as the Reykjavik International Film Festival or the Iceland Airwaves Music Festival can be a unique and memorable experience.
In summary, the best time to visit Reykjavik is during the shoulder seasons from September to October or from March to May when the weather is cooler, and the city is less crowded. If you’re looking for milder weather and don’t mind larger crowds, visiting from June to August can also be a great option. Additionally, visiting during cultural events can offer unique opportunities to experience Reykjavik’s vibrant culture. However, note that the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable and change quickly, so it’s important to pack appropriately for all seasons.
Here’s a summary of transportation options for getting around Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Bus: Reykjavik has a bus system called Strætó that serves the downtown area and some of the surrounding neighborhoods. A single ride typically costs ISK 470 (about $3.66 USD), and there are various types of passes available. The official website for the map of the lines is https://www.straeto.is/en.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Reykjavik, and they are metered. The cost varies depending on the distance traveled and the time of day, but it’s important to note that taxis in Iceland are generally quite expensive.
- Bike: There are several bike rental options available in Reykjavik, and biking can be a great way to explore the city’s many parks and bike-friendly paths. The cost varies depending on the rental company and the length of the rental.
- Walking: Reykjavik is a very walkable city, and many of the major tourist destinations are located within walking distance of each other. Walking is also a great way to explore the city’s colorful buildings and unique architecture.
- Car rental: Many visitors to Iceland choose to rent a car to explore the country’s stunning natural landscapes. Rental prices vary depending on the rental company, the type of car, and the length of the rental.
Overall, Reykjavik’s public transportation system is relatively small, but the bus system can be useful for getting around the downtown area and some of the surrounding neighborhoods. Taxis can be useful for short trips or exploring specific areas of the city, but they can be quite expensive. Bikes can be a great way to explore the city’s more bike-friendly areas, and walking is an excellent way to explore the city’s many landmarks and unique architecture. Car rental can be a great option for exploring Iceland’s natural landscapes outside of the city.
Here are the top 10 celebrities from Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Björk: born 1965 – singer, songwriter, and actress, awarded multiple Grammy Awards and known for her contributions to electronic, experimental, and pop music
- Halldór Laxness: 1902-1998 – writer, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature and regarded as one of Iceland’s greatest writers
- Jón Gnarr: born 1967 – comedian, actor, and former Mayor of Reykjavik, known for his role in the comedy show Fóstbræður and his contributions to Icelandic politics
- Gudni Th. Johannesson: born 1968 – historian and current President of Iceland, known for his contributions to Icelandic academia and politics
- Halla Tómasdóttir: born 1960 – entrepreneur and political activist, known for her role in founding the Icelandic Women’s Investment Fund and her contributions to Icelandic politics
- Hildur Guðnadóttir: born 1982 – composer, awarded multiple Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards and known for her contributions to contemporary classical and film music
- Ragnar Kjartansson: born 1976 – artist and musician, known for his video installations and his collaborations with The National and other musicians
- Baltasar Kormákur: born 1966 – film director, screenwriter, and producer, known for his contributions to Icelandic and international cinema and awarded the Order of the Falcon
- Sigrún Lilja Guðjónsdóttir: born 1984 – writer, journalist, and radio host, awarded the Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize and known for her contributions to Icelandic media and literature
- Vigdís Finnbogadóttir: born 1930 – linguist, former President of Iceland, and awarded the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development and the United Nations Environment Programme’s Global 500 Roll of Honour.
Here are 2 notable movies that were filmed in or around Reykjavik, Iceland:
- The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013) – This comedy-drama follows the story of a daydreamer who embarks on a global adventure to find a missing photograph. Several scenes were shot on location in Reykjavik and other parts of Iceland, showcasing the country’s stunning natural beauty.
- Rams (2015) – This Icelandic drama is set in a remote farming valley and features stunning shots of the countryside around Reykjavik. It won the Un Certain Regard prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 2015.
Here are 10 interesting facts about Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland and is known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly people.
- The Hallgrímskirkja is a famous landmark in Reykjavik that is a stunning church with a unique design inspired by Iceland’s volcanic landscapes.
- The Blue Lagoon is a popular attraction near Reykjavik that features a geothermal spa with mineral-rich waters, silica mud masks, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Reykjavik is a great place to see the Northern Lights, with the aurora borealis visible from the city on clear nights during the winter months.
- The National Museum of Iceland is a popular attraction in Reykjavik that features a variety of exhibits related to Iceland’s history and culture.
- Icelandic cuisine is known for its unique and delicious flavors, including dishes such as smoked lamb, skyr (a type of yogurt), and Icelandic fish.
- The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center is a beautiful glass building in Reykjavik that is used for concerts, conferences, and other events.
- Reykjavik is a city of art and culture, with a variety of galleries, museums, and performance spaces showcasing Icelandic art and culture.
- The Perlan Museum is a popular attraction in Reykjavik that features a variety of exhibits related to Iceland’s natural history, including a glacier exhibition and an interactive Northern Lights display.
- Reykjavik is a city of geothermal energy, with much of the city’s energy coming from geothermal sources. The city also has a variety of geothermal pools and hot springs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.
Here are ten popular entertainment venues in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center – a modern performing arts center that includes multiple theaters and hosts a variety of shows, including classical music concerts, theater, opera, and music performances
- Icelandic Opera – a theater that hosts opera, ballet, and other classical music performances
- Harpa Eldborg Hall – a large concert hall that hosts major concerts and shows, as well as classical music performances
- Icelandic Phallological Museum – a unique museum that showcases a collection of penises from various animals, as well as hosts cultural events and exhibitions
- The Icelandic Punk Museum – a museum that showcases the history of Icelandic punk rock, as well as hosts live music performances and cultural events
- Cinema Bíó Paradís – a cinema that showcases local and international films, as well as hosts seminars, workshops, and other cultural events
- Reykjavik City Theatre – a theater that hosts plays, musicals, and other cultural events, as well as offers workshops and training programs for aspiring actors and performers
- The Reykjavik Art Museum – a museum that showcases contemporary art, as well as hosts cultural events and exhibitions
- The Nordic House – a cultural center that includes multiple exhibition spaces, a performance hall, and a library for various shows and performances
- KEX Hostel – a popular hostel that features live music performances, as well as a variety of drinks and snacks, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Here are the top 10 dishes to try in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Icelandic Lamb – This tender and flavorful meat is a staple of Icelandic cuisine, often served as a stew or roasted with herbs and spices.
- Skyr – This thick and creamy yogurt is a staple of Icelandic cuisine, and it’s often served with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey.
- Fish and Chips – Iceland’s fresh seafood is a must-try, and fish and chips is a popular way to enjoy it. It features crispy battered fish and thick-cut fries.
- Plokkfiskur – This traditional Icelandic fish stew features chunks of boiled fish that are mixed with mashed potatoes, onions, and spices.
- Lobster Soup – This rich and creamy soup features tender chunks of fresh Icelandic lobster in a flavorful broth.
- Rye Bread – This dense and hearty bread is a staple of Icelandic cuisine, often served with smoked salmon or butter.
- Hákarl – This traditional Icelandic dish is not for the faint of heart. It features fermented shark that’s been hung and dried for several months, resulting in a pungent and intense flavor.
- Kleinur – This popular Icelandic pastry is a type of fried dough that’s often served with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Brennivín – This traditional Icelandic schnapps is made from fermented potatoes and flavored with caraway seeds.
- Grilled Arctic Char – This flavorful fish is a staple of Icelandic cuisine, often grilled and served with a variety of vegetables and sauces.
Here are the top 10 events in Reykjavik, Iceland:
- Reykjavik International Film Festival: A film festival showcasing both Icelandic and international films, with a focus on independent and innovative cinema
- September/October
- Various venues throughout Reykjavik
- https://riff.is/
- Iceland Airwaves: A music festival featuring local and international artists across a variety of genres, with a focus on up-and-coming acts
- November
- Various venues throughout Reykjavik
- https://icelandairwaves.is/
- Reykjavik Arts Festival: A multi-disciplinary arts festival featuring performances and exhibitions from local and international artists
- May/June
- Various venues throughout Reykjavik
- https://en.listahatid.is/
- Reykjavik Pride: A celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in Iceland, featuring parades, concerts, and cultural events
- August
- Various locations throughout Reykjavik
- https://hinsegindagar.is/english
- The Reykjavik Marathon: A running event featuring multiple distances and routes throughout the city, including a full marathon and a fun run
- August
- Various locations throughout Reykjavik
- https://www.marathon.is/reykjavik-marathon/
- DesignMarch: A design festival showcasing the latest in Icelandic design, with exhibitions, talks, and workshops
- March
- Various venues throughout Reykjavik
- https://www.designmarch.is/
- Winter Lights Festival: A festival celebrating the winter season with light displays, concerts, and cultural events
- February
- Various locations throughout Reykjavik
- https://www.vetrarhatid.is/en/
- Culture Night: A celebration of Icelandic culture with open-air concerts, art exhibitions, and other cultural events
- August
- Various locations throughout Reykjavik
- https://www.menningarnott.is/
- Reykjavik Fashion Festival: A fashion festival featuring Icelandic designers and international fashion brands, with runway shows and exhibitions
- March
- Harpa Concert Hall, Reykjavik
- https://rff.is/en/
- Reykjavik Food and Fun Festival: A food festival featuring top chefs from Iceland and around the world, with special set menus and culinary events
- February/March
- Various restaurants throughout Reykjavik
- https://foodandfun.is/en/