Exploring Reykjavik: Top Activities and Sights for an Unforgettable Icelandic Adventure
- Alanna Gabbett
- Dec 7, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Mar 26
Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, offers an exciting blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and lively culture. Whether you're an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or simply looking to explore a unique city atmosphere, Reykjavik has something special to offer. In this guide, we will take you through some of the best activities and sights in Reykjavik, complete with details, prices, and tips to help you plan your adventure successfully.
For more information on traveling to Iceland, check out some of our other blogs:
The Essential Iceland Packing List: Unforgettable Items for Every Season!
How to Save Money in One of The World's Most Expensive Travel Destinations: Iceland
Unleash Your Inner Adventurer: Uncovering the Ultimate Kid-Friendly Experiences in Iceland!
The Best Eats in Iceland's Charming Capital: Exploring Reykjavik's Culinary Delights!
Iceland: How to Book Your Dream Trip to The Land of Fire and Ice
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Hallgrímskirkja
Hallgrímskirkja, reaching an impressive height of 74.5 meters, is a symbol of Reykjavik’s skyline. Its design mimics the shapes of basalt lava flows, making it not only a church but also a work of art. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for stunning views of the city, or city and listen to one of Europe's largest organs play in the main hall.
Location: Skólavörðuholti, 101 Reykjavik
Entry Fee:
Free (small fee for tower access - around ISK 1.000)
Hours:
In general, the church is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Check here for the current schedule.
Highlight:
Panoramic views of Reykjavik and beyond, with visibility stretching over 30 kilometers on clear days.
Harpa Concert Hall
Harpa is more than just a concert venue; it’s an architectural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its glass façade reflects the colors of the surrounding sea, creating a beautiful visual experience while hosting various performances and events throughout the year.
The concert hall was opened in May of 2011 and is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, Icelandic Opera, and Reykjavík Big Band, which hold regular concerts throughout the year.
Visitors can attend a concert or event, walk the main hallways, or take a guided tour. There's even a small kids' play area with musical-themed activities for little ones.
Location: Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavik
Entry Fee: Free for the venue; event prices vary based on performance.
Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Highlight:
Visitors can enjoy free concerts, art exhibitions, and the stunning design that lights up at night.
Sun Voyager
The Sun Voyager, a striking sculpture resembling a Viking ship, invites visitors to reflect on exploration and discovery. Located by the waterfront, it offers breathtaking views, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it a favorite photography spot.
The sculpture was created by Jón Gunnar Árnason and is described as a dreamboat or an ode to the Sun. The artist intended it to convey the promise of undiscovered territory.
Location: Sæbraut, 101 Reykjavik
Entry Fee: Free
Highlight: Spectacular views of Mount Esja, particularly captivating during golden hour.
Perlan Museum
At Perlan’s exhibitions you learn all about Icelandic nature in interactive and fun ways. Experience the wonders of Iceland in Iceland's biggest exhibition center.
Unlike any standard museum, Perlan features a real ice cave and interactive exhibitions about Iceland's natural wonders. Families and individuals will find plenty to explore, offering new insights into the glaciers and volcanoes that shape this incredible country.
Location: Varmahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavik
Entry Fee: ISK 5.390 (adults), ISK 3.390 (ages 6-17), Free (ages 0-5)
Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Highlight: The Ice Cave experience draws on real glacial formations, and the observation deck presents 360-degree views of the capital.
Laugavegur Street
Laugavegur is the heartbeat of Reykjavik, a shopping street lined with trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, and mouth-watering restaurants. Walking here means immersing yourself in local culture while searching for unique souvenirs and treats.
Location: Laugavegur, 101 Reykjavik
Entry Fee: Free
Highlight: A vibrant atmosphere filled with energetic street life and art installations, plus an array of local cuisine options.
National Museum of Iceland
For those eager to understand Iceland's past, the National Museum offers a deep dive into the nation's history, from the Viking era to the present day. It’s a fantastic place to learn about the culture and traditions that have shaped modern Iceland.
Location: Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavik
Entry Fee: ISK 2.500 (adults), FREE (under 18) Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily
Highlight: The “Making of a Nation” exhibition presents archaeological artifacts and stories that connect Icelanders to their ancestry, engaging over 100,000 visitors annually.
Reykjavik Art Museum
The Reykjavik Art Museum is spread across three distinct locations, each showcasing a diverse range of contemporary and modern art. It’s an excellent destination for art lovers aiming to experience the creative pulse of the city.
Check out their official website for more information.
Location: Various locations (including Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn)
Entry Fee: ISK 2.350 (adults), FREE (under 18), ISK 1.450 (students)
Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Highlight: The museum hosts regular exhibitions, combining local talents and international artists in dynamic displays.
Whales of Iceland
Whales of Iceland provides an engaging experience for marine life enthusiasts, featuring life-size replicas of various whale species. The interactive exhibits guarantee that visitors of all ages will walk away with fascinating knowledge about these majestic creatures.
Children will find this especially fun as they have 23 life-size replicas of whales that are soft and squishy to touch and there are even opportunities to learn about whale anatomy.
Award-winning documentaries are shown daily on a large cinema screen in the Fin Whale Theatre, which is included in the cost of admission. The films discuss whale conservation, research, and other fascinating subjects. The theatre also features a conservation exhibit, developed in cooperation with the International Fund for Animal Welfare and local whale scientists.
Location: Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavik
Entry Fee: ISK 4.300 (adults), ISK 2.150 (7 - 15), FREE (0-6)
Family ticket (2 adults, 2 children): ISK 8.600
Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. year-round
Highlight: Educational workshops help illuminate topics like whale migration patterns and the ecosystem of the North Atlantic Ocean.
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach
While Reykjavik may not be known for swimming and beaches, the city does feature a unique beach where locals frequently take a dip.
The hot spring beach in Nauthólsvík has truly established itself as a paradise in the city, attracting both domestic and foreign visitors. Mighty sea defenses close off a beautiful lagoon where cold sea and warm water flow into one. Golden shell sand has been pumped inside the gardens, and these conditions are more reminiscent of the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea than a cove in the world's northernmost capital on the North Atlantic.
The beach is open year-round and offers the opportunity for sea swimming right in the city's capital, with a marine pool, hot tub, and wading pool of varying temperatures.
The location has changing facilities, restrooms, and a restaurant.
For more information, check out their website.
Location: 102 Reykjavík, Iceland
Entry Fee: ISK 890 (adults), FREE (under 18)
Hours: Tuesday to Friday 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
Highlight: Sea swimming in the heart of the country's capital.
Other Notable Mentions
The Blue Lagoon: While just outside of Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is a world-renowned geothermal spa famous for its beautiful, milky blue waters rich in minerals. This relaxing destination is ideal for unwinding after exploring the city. The Blue Lagoon is the most popular day trip taken from the city of Reykjavik.
Check out their website here.
Lava Show: The only lava show in the world, with two locations; Reykjavik and Vik. LAVA SHOW recreates a volcanic eruption by superheating real lava up to 1100°C (2000°F) and then pouring it into a showroom full of people.
Check it out here.
Rainbow Street: While Rainbow Street isn't actually its name (locals will correct you on this), the famously painted Skólavörðustígur Street is one of the most photographed areas of the city. This street stands to represent Iceland’s friendliness and acceptance towards its LGBTQ community (Iceland is considered one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world).
The Golden Circle: Make sure that while staying in Reykjavik you venture out on a tour of the famous Golden Circle Route. Hike or snorkel through fissures between tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park, witness grand eruptions of Strokkur Geysir, and marvel at the power of Gullfoss.
Your Icelandic Experience Awaits
Reykjavik is a city that surprises and delights, blending history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are wandering through its colorful streets, enjoying a rejuvenating soak in geothermal waters, or exploring its rich heritage through museums, unforgettable experiences await. Plan your journey to this enchanting city today and prepare for an adventure in the heart of Iceland!
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