Reykjavik Travel Guide
Weather, best time to visit, and the best food, culture, nature and 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.