3 perfect days in Reykjavik
There’s no wrong amount of time to spend in Iceland, but a three-day vacation hits the sweet spot. You’ll be able to see just enough of Reykjavík and the surrounding area to inspire a return visit. And with Icelandair’s Stopover program, which allows transatlantic passengers to add a one-to-seven-day stopover in Iceland at no additional airfare, three days in Reykjavík is the perfect addition to any European trip.
Home to half the country’s population, ultra-walkable Reykjavík is ideally located for a thorough preview of Iceland’s highlights. It can be a big task to balance the buzz of the capital with the intrigue of Iceland’s landscape, however. To help, we’ve put together an itinerary that makes the most of the city scene and nature for the ultimate stay in Reykjavík.
Save all the things you love
Tap the heart on any place mentioned below to save all your travel ideas in one place and build a custom itinerary. Learn more.
DAY ONE
MORNING: Hit your first hot spring
When flying from the United States, there’s a good chance that you’ll arrive in Iceland early in the day. Unless you’ve arranged for an early check in at your hotel, take the roomy, wifi-enabled Flybus from the airport to the BSí Bus Terminal, then transfer to the Sky Lagoon—Reykjavik’s newest thermal spa experience.
Iceland’s hot springs have a jetlag-curing power that makes this an essential way to start your trip, and the stunning vistas over the Atlantic don’t hurt, either. Splurge on the spa’s Sky Pass for a chance to try the Ritual, a seven-step rejuvenation routine that includes a cold plunge, a dry sauna with an incredible view, and a house-made scrub. There’s also a café on site; make sure to grab a pre-soak snack and a larger breakfast once you’ve dried off.
Travelers say: “The infinity edge that looks into the Atlantic is wonderful. Another group said they watched whales from that edge.” —@Cindi M
AFTERNOON: Explore downtown
When you’re finally ready to leave the Sky Lagoon, it’ll be time to check into your hotel. As for where to stay, the Reykjavik EDITION is an upscale, modern option on the city’s waterfront, right next to the dazzling Harpa concert hall. Once you’re settled in, you can spend the afternoon exploring the city and its major sights.
Take a waterside stroll to see the shining Sun Voyager sculpture, or climb the hill and take a peek inside the towering Hallgrimskirkja, an expressionist church that defines the Reykjavík skyline (pay the extra fee to go to the top for the views). Next, hit the mostly pedestrian street of Laugavegur for the city’s top shopping. For a snack break, pop into Svarta Kaffið for soup in a bread bowl. The menu here changes daily, but there are always only two options: a meat stew and a vegetarian soup. Whichever you order, grab a seat near the window for prime people watching.
If it’s the weekend, you’ll want to make the walk over to Kolaportið flea market near the harbor for an especially Icelandic souvenir. This is the best place to buy a handmade lopapeysa, a distinctive wool sweater worn by locals (and typically made by their moms or grandmothers). Plus, prices at the market are generally a bit more affordable than the shops along Laugavegur.
EVENING: Do nightlife as the locals do
For dinner, take a Reykjavik food tour or head to Grillmarkaðurinn for a killer steak. Follow your meal with a pint or two at Skúli Craft Bar, where you can sample a wide range of brews in a lively space filled with locals. This is a popular spot for post-concert nightcaps. If you’re after a cocktail, walk to the nearby Jungle bar, known for its fruit-forward drink menu (don’t miss the Michael Scotch with whisky, white peach, apricot, and lemon).
And don’t be afraid to head back to the Bæjarins Beztu hot dog stand for some late-night eats—it’s an essential post-bar stop for locals. Get one (or two, or three) hot dogs fully loaded to understand why this place is such a sensation.
REYKJAVIK FOOD TOUR OPTIONS
- Join the three-hour Reykjavik Food Walk for a taste of the city’s most traditional dishes. You’ll visit restaurants and food trucks, taste Icelandic hot dogs and cheeses, and get a mini history tour of sorts as you pass landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja.
- The Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour goes a step further into the local culture by introducing them to the city’s oldest restaurant, gastropubs, and an unforgettable skyr dessert.
- If you’re visiting on the weekend, the aptly named Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour pairs traditional snacks with a stop at the local flea market. You’ll even pop into a supermarket for some special tastings.
Worthy detours along the way
DAY TWO
MORNING AND AFTERNOON: Head to the Golden Circle
On your second day, you’re hitting the road to explore the Golden Circle, a popular route that passes many of South Iceland’s top sights. Before you take off, grab coffee at Reykjavik Roasters and a famous cinnamon roll at Braud & Co. For something heartier, The Laundromat Café has a massive breakfast menu.
If you rented a car and are driving yourself, be sure to stop at the massive Gullfoss waterfall, an explosive geyser aptly named Geysir, and the beautiful Þingvellir National Park, the site of the oldest surviving parliament in the world.
You don’t need a car to do any of this, however. There are plenty of outfitters that run tours from Reykjavik—both half-day and full-day—along the route. We recommend Hidden Iceland, which is known for showcasing unique sites like a secret lagoon (bring a bathing suit) and the greenhouses that supply much of Iceland’s fresh produce. Their group sizes are small, but they also have private tours, which allow for greater itinerary customization.
Friend in Iceland is another private tour operator that not only curates highly personalized tours, but also leverages owner Gunnar’s social circle. You never quite know what surprises are in store when traveling with him, but it’s very likely you’ll leave the country with a slew of new Icelandic friends
Travelers say: “One of the highlights of visiting Iceland was visiting Gullfoss, we visited several of the top ten falls and this was definitely the best of the ones we were fortunate enough to see. Best to wear waterproof jacket and pants if you want to get a great pic.” —@248danj
GOLDEN CIRCLE TOUR OPTIONS
- If you’re visiting Iceland during the winter months, you can pair your Golden Circle adventure with some aurora spotting. The nine-hour Golden Circle & Northern Lights Combo Tour starts with sights like Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park, then heads to the countryside at nightfall to catch the aurora borealis.
- Balance your sightseeing with a hot spring soak on the Small-Group Golden Circle Tour and Secret Lagoon Visit, which stops at waterfalls, geysers, and more at off-peak times for the best views.
- For an incredibly unique experience along the Golden Circle, book the Snorkeling Between Continents in Silfra tour. You’ll wiggle into a dry suit and a guide will help you swim between the constantly moving ridges that form a narrow passageway in the water.
EVENING: Experience Iceland’s first Michelin star
Whether you drive yourself or take a tour of the Golden Circle, you’ll be back in Reykjavik by dinnertime. Make a reservation far in advance to dine at DILL, Iceland’s first restaurant to earn a Michelin star. The menu of traditional Icelandic fare forged by founding chef Gunnar Karl Gíslasson makes for a truly unforgettable meal. Pro tip: Pair your dinner with some of the wine bottled exclusively for the restaurant.
Afterward, go bar hopping around the city. Kaffibarinn is legendary for shots and music, though folks who end up at Lebowski Bar or Pablo Discobar for the names alone won’t be disappointed by the good vibes. Beer lovers should head right to Kaldi, where the taps overfloweth with all the best local brews. They serve a mean G+T, too.
DAY THREE
MORNING: Visit a museum (or two)
Start the day with a bagel or fanciful pastry at Le Kock, located on the ground floor of 2023 Travelers’ Choice award winner the Exeter Hotel.
From here, dig deeper into Reykjavík’s cultural offerings at one of the city’s many interactive museums. A favorite: the National Museum of Iceland, which provides insight into the Viking culture that laid the foundation for modern-day Iceland. Other great options include Aurora Reykjavík, which captures the majesty of the Northern Lights with a hi-def time-lapse movie that you can watch from bean bag chairs, and Perlan, where you’ll find a real indoor ice cave, a life-size bird cliff, a show about volcanoes, and a planetarium.
AFTERNOON: Check out the Blue Lagoon and hike to a volcano
After a morning of learning, head out of the city to the Blue Lagoon for a bit of relaxation. On the way, consider stopping at the Fagradalsfjall volcano, which is quite a sight to see when active. Though it’s currently resting, the volcano has been spewing lava regularly over the past few years and could start back up again anytime.
BLUE LAGOON TOUR OPTIONS
- The Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights tour combines two of Iceland’s best experiences into a single eight-hour adventure. Your guide will pick you up in Reykjavik and cover all of the logistics, from scoring Blue Lagoon tickets to tracking the weather patterns for the best chance at seeing the aurora.
- If you want to pack it all in, check out the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon Including Admission & Kerid Volcanic Crater tour. It’s a full day of natural sights, relaxing in a hot spring, and hiking to the top of a volcanic crater.
- To see more of Reykjanes Peninsula’s wonders, opt for the Blue Lagoon & Reykjanes UNESCO Geopark tour. Not only will you get plenty of time at the hot spring, but you’ll also visit an iconic lighthouse, lakes, the Bridge Between Continents, and much more.
Travelers say: “Check the live cam before you go to make sure it’s erupting. We went mid august before the trail was complete so the hike was long and no joke over all the rocks. Was worried it wouldn’t be worth it, but WOW was it ever worth it. Lava took my breath away.” —@CharErinazard
EVENING: Indulge in a memorable meal
If you’re looking to live it up on your last night, skip the bus ride back to Reykjavik and book a room at the luxurious Retreat at the Blue Lagoon resort. Each suite comes with its own private (and ample!) section of the famous hot spring, and the spa offers signature float therapy that will shift your whole worldview. There are also two Michelin-recommended restaurants on site: Moss Restaurant and Lava Restaurant. Both are 2022 Travelers’ Choice award winners and serve an incredible fish of the day.
For those headed back to Reykjavik, anchor the day with dinner at Hosiló, where the regularly changing menu highlights fresh fish and other seasonal ingredients. Before bed, take a walk along the harbor. The view of Esjan mountain across the bay is especially calming after three jam-packed days of walking, shopping, eating, hiking, and soaking.
Worthy detours along the way
Know Before You Go
The hardest thing to decide about your Reykjavik trip is what month to visit, as the seasons offer completely different experiences. If you want to see the Northern Lights, you’re best bet is going to be on a visit in the darkest months (November-February). It’s possible to see the aurora during shoulder season (September, October, March, and April), but less common. Keep in mind that the weather can be quite treacherous during the winter season, so if a road trip is what you’re after, plan something during the summer.
In the warmest months (June, July, and August), you can experience the Midnight Sun. It’s exactly what it sounds like: the sun doesn’t really go down—and if it does, not for long—during this time. It’s perfect for those who want to spend entire days hiking, experiencing the Highlands, or road-tripping.
Don’t miss a weekend night in Reykjavik, as the local nightlife scene is quite vibrant and tons of fun. Really, there is no bad day to visit the capital city as it’s become a hub for travelers coming from all corners of the world and there’s something to do every day of the week.
Many cafés and breakfast spots accommodate travelers arriving in the wee hours of the morning and open as early as 6 a.m. Shops generally open their doors around 11 a.m (or noon, at the latest).
For bars and restaurants, you’ll find that the weekend hours (Thursday-Saturday) are a bit longer. Bars don’t generally settle down until at least 2 a.m. on these nights, while weekdays see an earlier wrap-up around 11 p.m. or midnight.
Downtown: There are plenty of neighborhoods offering Airbnbs and hotel rooms throughout Reykjavik, but if you plan on seeing the city on foot, set yourself up downtown in the center of the city. For a boutique hotel experience, the Ion City Hotel is a total treat offering private suites with views of Hallgrimskirkja. For something more budget-friendly, Kex is closer to the water and offers both hostels and private rooms. It’s also a great spot for dinner, as it’s a beloved gathering spot for locals (and live music).
Harbor: One of the greatest things about Reykjavik is that the water is never more than a 20(ish)-minute walk away. The harbor neighborhood is special is that you’ll get a taste of the city’s industrial heartbeat (there are plenty of ships coming and going, with their eye on the catch of the day) while experiencing some of the city’s best food and shopping opportunities. Stay at the Reykjavík Marina - Berjaya Iceland Hotels, which often accommodates early check-in requests for a small fee (great for super-early arrivals from the U.S.!).
Vesturbær: The most upscale residential neighborhood, Vesturbær is located west of the downtown neighborhood and is home to some great Airbnb options. There’s also a local pool in the area, as well as a number of great cafes (like Kaffihus Vesturbaejar and Braud & Co) for morning treats.
Public transportation: There is a public bus system in Reykjavik called Strætó that makes stops all along the city. The city is incredibly walkable, so most people take the sights in on foot, unless they’re looking to visit the further reaches of the suburbs.
By bike: Reykjavik is an incredibly bike-friendly place, and you can find businesses to rent a bike for an hour or the whole day. There is also a ride-share program for electric scooters—called Hopp scooters—all around town. You can’t walk far without finding one leaning up against a wall. There are bike lanes throughout the city, as well as pedestrian streets and harbor-side walking paths that also accommodate bikes.
By taxi: There is a taxi stand located on Aðalstræti alongside Ingólfur Square where you can often find an available car. There is also an app called Hreyfill, where you can call a taxi to pick you up. Keep in mind that taxis are quite expensive in Iceland.
By car: One of the most popular ways to see Iceland is by renting a car. There are plenty of rental agencies located in-terminal at Keflavik International Airport, as well as in the surrounding area (there are transfers for those who choose the latter option). If you plan on getting outside of Reykjavik and don’t want to join a group tour, you will want to rent a car.
Airport transfers: One of the most cost-effective ways to get from Keflavik International Airport to Reykjavik (about a 45-minute journey) is to hop on the Flybus. There’s a constant stream of departures from both the airport and the BSI station in Reykjavik, making it easy to time your flights. A one-way journey costs about $30, and the bus has wi-fi onboard.