Iceland

Reykjavik Travel Guide

Weather, best time to visit, and the best food, culture, nature and activities.

Weather
Avg TempSummer (June-August) average temperatures range from 10-15°C (50-59°F), but can occasionally reach up to 20°C (68°F).
RainfallReykjavik experiences moderate rainfall year-round, even in summer. Expect some rainy days, but also plenty of sunshine.
Best TimeSummer (June-August) is generally considered the best time to visit Reykjavik due to the mild temperatures, long daylight hours (midnight sun), and increased accessibility to outdoor activities.

Food & Drink

  • The Fish Company (Fiskfélagið)Modern Icelandic, Seafood · $$$$

    A high-end restaurant offering a modern take on Icelandic cuisine, focusing on fresh seafood with international influences. Known for its elegant ambiance and creative dishes.

  • Dill RestaurantNew Nordic, Fine Dining · $$$$

    Iceland's first Michelin-starred restaurant, offering New Nordic cuisine with a strong emphasis on seasonal, local ingredients. Features a tasting menu experience.

  • Íslenski barinn (The Icelandic Bar)Traditional Icelandic, Pub Food · $$

    A cozy and authentic Icelandic gastropub serving traditional Icelandic dishes like lamb stew, plokkfiskur (fish stew), and fermented shark, alongside a wide selection of local beers.

  • Bæjarins Beztu PylsurHot Dogs · $

    A famous hot dog stand, considered an Icelandic institution. Often lauded as one of the best hot dog stands in the world, popular with locals and tourists alike.

  • Kaffibarinn

    One of Reykjavik's most iconic bars, known for its lively atmosphere, diverse crowd, and late-night DJ sets. Popular for both casual drinks and dancing.

  • Dillon Whiskey Bar

    A rock 'n' roll themed bar with a vast selection of whiskeys, live music, and a relaxed, friendly vibe. Features outdoor seating overlooking the street.

  • Gaukurinn

    A popular venue for live music, stand-up comedy, and drag shows. Known for its alternative scene and diverse events calendar.

Culture & History

  • National Museum of Iceland

    Showcases the history and culture of Iceland from settlement to the present day, with artifacts dating back to the Viking Age.

  • Perlan - Wonders of Iceland

    A futuristic building offering interactive exhibits on Iceland's natural wonders, including a real indoor ice cave, a Northern Lights planetarium show, and a 360-degree viewing deck.

  • Reykjavík Art Museum (Hafnarhús)

    One of three venues of the Reykjavik Art Museum, focusing on contemporary art and hosting exhibitions by Icelandic and international artists.

  • The Icelandic Phallological Museum

    A unique and quirky museum dedicated to phalluses of various mammals found in Iceland and around the world.

  • Smárabíó

    A modern cinema complex located in the Smáralind shopping mall, offering multiple screens showing the latest international and Icelandic releases. Features comfortable seating and digital projection.

  • Sambíóin Egilshöll

    Another large cinema complex featuring several screens, showing a wide range of films from blockbusters to independent features. Known for its comfortable facilities.

  • Reykjavik Culture Night (Menningarnótt)

    An annual event held in August, transforming the city with art exhibitions, concerts, performances, and cultural events culminating in a grand fireworks display over the harbor.

  • Reykjavik Pride (Hinsegin Dagar)

    A vibrant and inclusive festival celebrating LGBTQ+ culture, featuring a colorful parade, concerts, parties, and various events throughout the city.

  • Secret Solstice Festival

    A music festival held during the summer solstice, known for its unique concept of partying under the midnight sun. Features international and local artists across various genres. (Note: Festival dates and occurrence can vary yearly, check official sources)

Nature & Outdoors

  • Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach

    A unique man-made geothermal beach where cold sea water is mixed with hot water from boreholes, creating warm bathing conditions. Features golden sand, a hot tub, and changing facilities.

  • Rauðasandur Beach (Red Sands Beach)

    While not directly in Reykjavik, this stunning red sand beach in the Westfjords is accessible via domestic flight or a long drive, making it a popular, though distant, natural attraction.

  • Glymur Waterfall

    Iceland's second-highest waterfall (198 meters), located in Hvalfjörður. Reaching it requires a challenging but rewarding hike through beautiful landscapes, including river crossings.

  • Mount Esja

    The iconic mountain range visible from Reykjavik, popular for hiking. Offers various trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, with panoramic views of the capital area.

Active & Fun

  • World Class Laugum

    One of the largest and most comprehensive fitness centers in Reykjavik, offering extensive gym facilities, group classes, personal training, and access to Laugardalslaug swimming pool.

  • Reebok Fitness Holtagörðum

    A well-equipped gym with a wide range of cardio and strength training equipment, group fitness classes, and specialized areas for functional training.

  • Laugardalslaug

    Reykjavik's largest public geothermal swimming pool complex, featuring multiple outdoor pools, hot tubs, steam baths, a waterslide, and an indoor pool. A popular spot for locals and tourists.

  • Sundhöllin

    Reykjavik's oldest public swimming pool, located in the city center. Features an indoor pool, outdoor hot tubs, and a sunbathing area. Known for its classic architecture.

  • Blue Lagoon

    A world-renowned geothermal spa known for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters. Offers a luxurious bathing experience, silica mud masks, and various spa treatments. Reservations are essential.