Looking for things to do in Iceland? Head to its capital, Reykjavik! A trip to this vibrant city is a journey into a world of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and unique experiences. With its colorful houses and picturesque streets, this charming city is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, making it a haven for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Reykjavik offers a quaint yet exciting combination of history, art, and adventure, all tied into one eclectic city. From exploring the vibrant arts scene to soaking in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, camping at Mosfellsbaer, and visiting the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, Reykjavik has something to offer every traveler.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 15 things to do in Reykjavik, uncovering the best hidden gems the city offers. Let our recommendations inspire your travels so you can create memories that will last a lifetime!
The Top 15 Things to Do in Reykjavik
Reykjavik has an array of cultural explorations, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences, making it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re traveling in an Iceland camper van rental or exploring on foot, here are the top attractions and experiences that best showcase this enchanting city:
1. Explore Harpa Concert Hall
The stunning Harpa Concert Hall is a list-topping attraction in Reykjavik. This architectural masterpiece is a renowned performance venue that hosts concerts and events and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
The building’s unique glass facade and interior design reflect Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a fascinating destination for architecture enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Harpa Concert Hall and immerse yourself in its stunning blend of art and nature!
2. Take a Walking Tour of the City
If you have just arrived and are wondering what to do in Reykjavik, start with a guided walking tour to familiarize yourself with the area. Discover hidden gems like The Settlement Exhibition and iconic landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja Church as a knowledgeable guide leads you through the charming streets of Reykjavik.
The Settlement Exhibition is a downtown museum that showcases the remains of an ancient Viking longhouse. It provides a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s early history, and the museum’s interactive exhibits and archaeological artifacts offer a unique perspective on Iceland’s Viking heritage.
Hallgrímskirkja Church is one of Reykjavik’s most iconic landmarks and a stunning example of modernist architecture. Inspired by Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, its striking design also has an elevator to the top of the church tower for panoramic views of the city.
3. Relax in the Blue Lagoon
For more relaxing things to do near Reykjavik, visit the Blue Lagoon, just a short drive away. This geothermal spa is known for its healing properties and stunning environment. Surrounded by Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, the Blue Lagoon is arguably one of the top things to do in Iceland, unlike anything you’ve experienced!
Take a dip in the milky-blue waters of the lagoon, which are rich in minerals, making them relaxing and beneficial for your skin. You can even indulge in the range of spa treatments available, from massages to facials, for the ultimate pampering experience.
4. Visit the Reykjavik Art Museum
Art enthusiasts and travelers can immerse themselves in Iceland’s vibrant art scene at the Reykjavik Art Museum, the largest visual arts institution with the most substantial art collection in Iceland.
The museum features contemporary Icelandic art like paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. With exhibitions that rotate throughout the year, visitors can experience the diversity and creativity of Icelandic artists. Explore the museum’s galleries and discover the beauty and innovation of Icelandic art!
5. Go Whale Watching
Experience the thrill of whale-watching with a tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. Whale-watching tours range from small, inflatable boats, to yacht cruises for a more upscale experience. Tour lengths also vary. Some are around two and a half hours, while others last for a “half-day,” which typically equates to around six hours. Some tours are during the day, while others go after sunset so you can experience twilight on the water.
The sea around Iceland is teeming with marine life, which is why it’s one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Spend a day on the water, spotting majestic whales, playful dolphins, and other marine life in their natural habitat. Don’t forget your camera — you never know what incredible sights you might capture!
6. Enjoy the Nightlife
Reykjavik’s nightlife is legendary, and there’s no better way to experience it than by exploring the city’s cozy pubs, stylish cocktail bars, and energetic nightclubs. Start your evening at a cozy spot like Saeta Svínid Gastropub, where you can enjoy neighborhood brews and mingle with locals and travelers. Then, head to a stylish cocktail bar like Pablo Discobar for expertly crafted drinks in a chic setting.
Finally, dance the evening away at a place like LÚX Nightclub, where you can experience Reykjavik’s vibrant nightlife scene in all its glory. Join locals and create unforgettable memories in this dynamic city after dark.
7. Camp at Mosfellsbaer
In addition to the many urban things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland, you may be eager to immerse yourself in the city’s mesmerizing surroundings. In that case, we recommend camping at Mosfellsbaer! Located just a short drive from Reykjavik, you can spend a few nights at the Mosfellsbaer campsite.
This peaceful area offers stunning views and excellent amenities tailored to camper vans. Facilities include washers, dryers, toilets, waste disposal, showers, a common kitchen with many places to sit, and more, ensuring a comfortable stay surrounded by Iceland’s natural beauty. Whether stargazing or catching the northern lights, camping at Mosfellsbaer can be a great way to get away from the noise and enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty.
8. Shop at Kolaportid Flea Market
Explore Reykjavik’s largest indoor weekend market, Kolaportid Flea Market, for an array of Icelandic souvenirs and local treasures to bring home. Browse stalls selling hand-knit sweaters, traditional woolen goods, textiles, paintings, jewelry, vintage finds, and unique Icelandic crafts. Sample local foods and delicacies while you walk and remember that you can barter if you want to try to get a deal on an item you love! You will surely come away with unique souvenirs to represent your Icelandic travels.
9. Visit the Grótta Lighthouse
Enjoy a scenic drive in your camper van to the Grótta Lighthouse, situated on a small island just off the coast of Reykjavik. This charming lighthouse is a must-see in Iceland if you love stunning views, like watching the sunset or stealing a glimpse of the northern lights dancing across the sky.
Accessible by foot during low tide via a causeway, the Grótta Lighthouse is a peaceful retreat from the city and a great place to immerse yourself in Iceland’s natural beauty. If you’re not traveling by campervan, you can also take a bus route to get there.
10. Hike Mt. Esja
For a riveting exploration just outside the city, Mt. Esja is the ticket. It’s a fantastic hiking opportunity that provides beautiful things to see in Reykjavik, with breathtaking views of the capital area and beyond. The mountain’s trails cater to hikers of all skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging ascents.
Pack a picnic and spend a day exploring the mountain’s diverse landscapes, including lush valleys, rocky slopes, and panoramic views. You don’t have to be an experienced hiker to witness Iceland’s beauty — you can see it all from Mt. Esja!
11. Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church
If you appreciate iconic landmarks, visiting the Hallgrímskirkja Church and taking in the panoramic city views from its tower is one of the best things to do in Reykjavik. Hallgrímskirkja Church is the largest church in Iceland, built by the Icelandic Parliament in a design competition. The state, city, parish, and many anonymous gifters helped pay for the building costs, which began back in 1945.
You might pass the church by seeing a statue of Leifur Eiríksson in the square in front of it. Nearby is the sculpture museum and a garden belonging to the sculptor, Einar Jónsson. No matter how you happen upon this great establishment, it’s guaranteed to take your breath away.
12. See the Sun Voyager Sculpture
The Sun Voyager Sculpture, a striking steel creation located along Reykjavik’s waterfront, resembles a Viking ship and serves as an ode to the sun. Designed by artist Jón Gunnar Árnason, this iconic sculpture symbolizes the promise of undiscovered territory and Iceland’s adventurous spirit, making it a powerful symbol of exploration and discovery.
The sculpture is particularly stunning at sunset when its sleek silhouette is set against the vibrant hues of the evening sky, creating a mesmerizing and unforgettable sight. The Sun Voyager is sure to be a highlight of your Icelandic travels!
13. Explore the National Museum of Iceland
Discover Iceland’s rich history at the National Museum of Iceland. The exhibits offer a comprehensive journey through the island’s past, from Viking heritage to their struggle for independence. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s cultural and historical evolution.
Explore artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations that bring Iceland’s story to life and provide insight into the country’s unique culture and identity. The National Museum of Iceland is great for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of this captivating island nation.
14. Immerse Yourself in Natural History at Perlan
Perlan, which means “The Pearl” in Icelandic, is a distinctive nature museum in Reykjavik, perhaps best known for its landmark glass dome that towers over the city skyline. Offering panoramic views of Reykjavik and its surroundings, the viewing deck atop Perlan has a breathtaking perspective of the city’s natural beauty and architectural landmarks. In addition to its stunning vistas, Perlan is home to a museum celebrating Iceland’s natural wonders. It includes an immersive exhibit featuring an artificial ice cave where visitors can experience the sensation of walking through a glacier.
If you’re looking for things to do in Reykjavik for your little ones, Perlan hits all the marks. It offers educational programs for adults and children, such as watching a 360-degree Northern Lights show in the planetarium or the Geldingadalir eruption (volcano show). Perlan’s scenic vistas and educational exhibits make it a truly memorable, inclusive, and enriching experience for visitors.
15. Delight in Reykjavik Botanic Garden
Escape the hustle and bustle with activities that interact with nature, like the Reykjavik Botanic Garden — a tranquil oasis located in the heart of the city. The gardens are home to around 3,000 native plant species, subspecies, varieties, and cultivars, including Icelandic flora, perennial plants, roses, rhododendrons, woodland plants, an alpine garden, vegetables, herbs, forage plants, and an arboretum for testing and grouping plants.
Stroll through the garden’s winding paths and discover a variety of plant species unique to Iceland, all while enjoying the serenity of this beautiful green space. After exploring the garden, be sure to visit the on-site cafe, Flóran Garden Bistro, which offers a selection of refreshments and snacks.
Experience the Beauty of Iceland with Rent.is
As you can see, Reykjavik, Iceland has something to offer every traveler. Our list of spectacular things to do in Reykjavik presents a blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and unique Icelandic experiences, so all visitors can find something they love. Most importantly, it provides an immersive journey into the heart and soul of the city, from exploring beautiful outdoor spaces like Mt. Esja, the Blue Lagoon, and the Reykjavik Botanic Garden to see iconic landmarks and art centers like the Reykjavik Art Museum, Hallgrímskirkja Church, and Perlan.
If you’re ready to explore Iceland’s beauty, check out stories on our Iceland travel blog for inspiration, and consider renting an Iceland camper van for a reliable way to traverse the country. Our camper van rentals are designed to provide the flexibility and comfort you need to explore Iceland independently, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Plan a road trip to see the stunning landscapes, seek adventure in the great outdoors, or take relaxing walking tours and spa trips around the city!
