City Guides
About this guide
Look no further than Reykjavik, Iceland for a destination equal parts enchanting and otherworldly. The charming Old World capital city offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes and the ethereal Northern Lights. Nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and foodies can all find something to enjoy in this destination. From soaking in geothermal hot springs, exploring vibrant street art, and indulging in Icelandic cuisine makes this a must-visit Northern European city. Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), October to April (off-season), May to June and September to October (shoulder season) Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) Currency: ISK (Icelandic Króna or kr) Noteworthy: Winter Lights Festival (February), Reykjavik Jazz Festival (August), Culture Night or Menningarnótt (August), Reykjavik International Film Festival or RIFF (September), Iceland Airwaves (November) Best for: Culture & History, Art & Music Festivals, Adventure Enthusiasts,...Quick Facts
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Matur og Drykkur
Housed within a historic Salt Fish factory by the harbor, Matur og Drykkur—Icelandic for food or drink— creates classic Icelandic cuisine with modern flair. The family restaurant commits to reinventing recipes sourced from historic cookbooks with their own homemade twist.
Baka Baka
Baka Baka serves freshly baked bread, pastries, and coffees by day and fire-baked pizzas, pasta, and natural wines by night. From sunrise to sunset, this two-level restaurant is the spot to indulge in every dish at any time of the day.
Mat Bar
The harmony of the Nordic-Italian fusion concept at Mat Bar in Reykjavik is one-of-a-kind. This restaurant offers seasonal tapas like cheese flatbread with wasabi honey walnuts and affogato of espresso with vanilla ice cream.
Sweet Aurora
Pastry chef and owner Aurore Cady and her all-women team create the delectable fusion of Icelandic charm and French pastry mastery at Sweet Aurora. They serve classics like Tonka bean cream-filled chocolate eclairs, "volcano macarons" with smoked chocolate ganache, and custom cakes.
Kaffivagninn
Kaffivagninn is the oldest restaurant in Iceland with specialties like smoked trout omelets with Danish-style butter bread and traditional spreads. The charming brunch spot also offers scrumptious meals like chia porridge, brunch platters, pancake and French toast platters, and more.
Mama Reykjavik
The plant-based restaurant and wellness sanctuary has a vibrant atmosphere with natural decor. From delicious herbal tea blends and smoothies to hearty stews with fire-baked naan, Mama Reykjavik nourishes mind, body, and soul.
Spacious Lovely Icelandic Flat By The Sea
The newly renovated Airbnb flat by the sea located in the highly sought-after Vesturbær neighborhood is just 15 minutes from downtown. There’s a walking path across a scenic shoreline with easy access to the local swimming pool, coffee houses, restaurants, bakeries, and gourmet food stores.
Cheerful Newly Renovated Downtown Apartment
This 3-bedroom Airbnb apartment is steps away from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, top-tier swimming pools, and Iceland's premier bakeries. The family-friendly stay is perfect for a peaceful stay in the heart of downtown Reykjavik.
Kex Hostel
Housed in a former biscuit factory, the rooms at the Kex Hostel have a vintage-industrial vibe including in the eclectic library and reading lounge. The hotel has a bar, restaurant, lounge, and heated patio just a short walk to local cafes, museums, shops, and music venues.
Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel
The Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel offers comfortable rooms with four-poster beds and modern amenities like free WiFi and flat-screen TVs. The location is a convenient walk to the city center including historic landmarks, designer shops, diverse dining, and vibrant nightlife.
Kvosin Hotel
The award-winning 24/7 concierge team at the luxurious boutique Kvosin Hotel ensures every guest enjoys a stress-free experience. Located in the historic Kirkjuhvoll building, guests can also sightsee iconic landmarks like the Icelandic Parliament and the old cathedral.
Black Pearl Apartment Hotel
The Black Pearl Apartment Hotel is a staycation with vacation vibes including fully equipped kitchens and in-suite breakfast services. For added convenience, there are private entrances, a parking garage, and a dedicated shopping service to enhance the guest experience.
Reykjavik Food Walk
The 3-hour food walk tour is a foodie traveler must for a true taste of Iceland while sightseeing iconic landmarks. Guests will savor eight or more Icelandic dishes across six local establishments from food trucks to fine-dining spots.
Northern Lights Tour
Led by a family-run team at Reykjavik Outventure, visitors enjoy one of Iceland’s highest-rated excursions during the Northern Lights Tour. Visitors get free high-quality photos, complimentary homemade hot chocolate with cinnamon buns, and warm wool blankets.
The Original Classic Whale Watching
The ultimate Icelandic itinerary has to include whale watching for a majestic encounter with humpback, orca, blue, and minke whales. Guided by marine experts, this tour ensures minimal disturbance to these remarkable ocean creatures with provided overalls, raincoats, and blankets.
Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and Kerid Volcanic Crater
Visiting Iceland means a required day at the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and Kerid Volcanic Crater. Rejuvenate in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, Thingvellir, Geysir Hot Spring, Gullfoss waterfall, and the stunning Kerid crater.
Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour
This horseback riding tour connects visitors to nature, culture, and community among the captivating landscapes around Iceland. Ideal for both beginners and experienced riders, they provide equipment to explore lava-laden terrains, serene lakes, and the majestic mountains.
Twin Peaks ATV Adventure
See parts of Iceland inaccessible by car on this ATV adventure tour on top of two panoramic rugged peaks. Led by a local instructor this adventure is perfect for experienced and first-time riders.
Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates in Silfra
Travelers snorkel between tectonic plates in Silfra at one of the world’s most dramatic snorkeling sites. With a dry suit and snorkeling equipment included, guests snorkel through the glaciers with hot chocolate and cookies afterward.
Volcano Hike With A Geologist
A volcanologist guides travelers through this epic volcano hike with insights into the events of the new eruption at Litla-Hrùt. The 3-hour tour requires physical fitness and schedule flexibility with seasonal weather conditions.
Year-Round Dog Sledding
Sledding with dogs would probably be one of the most memorable moments for animal-loving travelers in Iceland. The local guide provides additional cold-weather clothing if needed and guests give the dogs belly rubs during photo breaks.
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