Reykjavík — Colourful houses, hot pools and northern lights by the ocean

Reykjavík — Colourful houses, hot pools and northern lights by the ocean (2)

Reykjavík — Colourful houses, hot pools and northern lights by the ocean (3)

Reykjavík — Colourful houses, hot pools and northern lights by the ocean (4)

Reykjavík — Colourful houses, hot pools and northern lights by the ocean (5)

Reykjavík — Colourful houses, hot pools and northern lights by the ocean (6)

Reykjavík — Colourful houses, hot pools and northern lights by the ocean (7)

Reykjavík — Colourful houses, hot pools and northern lights by the ocean (8)

Reykjavík — Colourful houses, hot pools and northern lights by the ocean (9)

Iceland

Reykjavík Travel Guide

Colourful houses, hot pools and northern lights by the ocean

June-August for the longest days and milder weather. September-March for darker nights and better northern-lights conditions. ISK ~$252/ day 2–7 days

💰 Plan Your Budget ✈️ Cheap flight tickets

Last reviewed: 2026-09-0210 official sourcesHow do we research?

❄️ Coolcation pick 🎭 Arts & culture 🌿 Nature escape 🌊 Sea & beach 💕 Romantic getaway 🧘 Slow travel 🧗 Adventure 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family trip 🍽️ Foodie spot

CITY PULSE

In Reykjavík, geothermal water is not merely a visitor experience; it is part of the city’s everyday infrastructure. Municipal pools are year-round social spaces where swimming, hot-tub soaking and conversation belong to the same routine, and Icelandic swimming-pool culture was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2025. The other force that reshapes the city is daylight: summer nights barely become dark, while midwinter can bring only a few hours of daylight. The same streets, cafés and waterfront therefore do more than look different by season—the rhythm of an ordinary day changes with them.

Last updated: 2026-09-05

CITY PULSE

The city's 24-hour rhythm.

Turn the dial to any hour and it tells you where you should be.

11:00 ☀️ Vibrant & Peak Rhythm

☀️

Now

11:00 · Laugavegur

Downtown picks up

Shops, cafés and side streets come alive. It is one of the easiest times of day to explore the compact centre on foot.

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Reykjavík: places to visit

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Reykjavík’s skyline icon. After taking in the basalt-inspired façade, go up the tower for colourful rooftops and broad views across the bay.

🎟️ Entry: Church free; tower adult 1,500 ISK🕐 Hours: Winter 10:00-17:00; summer 09:00-20:00📍 Open in map

Sun Voyager

A steel “dream boat” on the waterfront and one of the city’s strongest photo stops, especially at sunrise or sunset with Mount Esja behind it.

🎟️ Entry: Free🕐 Hours: Outdoor site open 24 hours📍 Open in map

Harpa Concert Hall

Modern Reykjavík’s architectural symbol, wrapped in a honeycomb-like glass façade. Even without a concert ticket, the interior and harbour views are worth seeing.

🎟️ Entry: Building free; events ticketed🕐 Hours: Sun-Mon-Tue 10:00-18:00; Wed-Sat 10:00-20:00📍 Open in map

Tjörnin Lake

A calm city-centre lake beside City Hall. Birdlife, colourful reflections and the walk through Hljómskálagarður make it one of downtown’s most peaceful pauses.

🎟️ Entry: Free🕐 Hours: Outdoor site open 24 hours📍 Open in map

National Museum of Iceland

The city’s strongest introduction to Icelandic history, from settlement to the modern era. It is also one of Reykjavík’s best indoor choices when the weather turns.

🎟️ Entry: Adult 3,300 ISK; under 18 free🕐 Hours: Daily 10:00-17:00📍 Open in map

Perlan Nature Museum

An ice cave, glacier and volcano exhibits, a northern-lights show and a 360-degree viewing deck bring Icelandic nature together under one roof.

🎟️ Entry: Paid; current price varies by ticket type🕐 Hours: Daily 09:00-21:00📍 Open in map

FOOD & DRINK

What to eat in Reykjavík

Icelandic Hot Dog

Reykjavík’s most famous street bite

At Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur’s original 1937 Tryggvagata stand, order “eina með öllu”: a lamb-forward sausage with raw and crispy onions, ketchup, sweet mustard and remoulade.

📍 Open in map

Plokkfiskur Fish Stew

Creamy, warm Icelandic comfort food

At Messinn, plokkfiskur arrives hot and rich in a pan, built around cod, potatoes and onion. Dark Icelandic rye bread on the side balances the creamy dish.

📍 Open in map

Icelandic Lamb Soup

A cold-weather classic that warms you up

Íslenski Barinn’s traditional kjötsúpa combines lamb, root vegetables and a light broth. On a windy Reykjavík day, it is one of the most sensible warming meals you can choose.

📍 Open in map

Rye Bread Ice Cream

The most surprising way to taste rye bread

Kaffi Loki’s distinctive rye bread ice cream turns the caramel-like flavour of rúgbrauð into dessert with cream and rhubarb syrup, right across from Hallgrímskirkja.

📍 Open in map

Icelandic Langoustine Soup

The Old Harbour’s cult favourite soup

Sægreifinn’s creamy langoustine soup has long been the harbour-side restaurant’s signature. Served with bread, it is simple, warming and deeply satisfying.

📍 Open in map

Cinnamon Roll

A buttery reward for your morning walk

Fresh from Brauð & Co’s Frakkastígur bakery, the cinnamon roll is packed with butter, cinnamon and marzipan filling. It is one of Reykjavík’s strongest coffee companions.

📍 Open in map

5 · Areas

Where to stay

Areas	MiðbærPrice: High	VesturbærPrice: Medium	LaugardalurPrice: Medium	SeltjarnarnesPrice: Medium	Old Harbour & GrandiPrice: Medium
Atmosphere	The most practical area for visitors who want to stay in central Reykjavík and walk to Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa, museums, restaurants and nightlife.	A balanced choice west of the centre for travellers who want a quieter, residential atmosphere while staying close to downtown.	A greener accommodation base east of the centre, with major recreation areas, Laugardalslaug, the Botanical Garden and family-oriented activities.	A peninsula west of the centre for travellers seeking an oceanfront setting, long walking and cycling paths, Grótta and a quieter atmosphere.	A characterful area between the centre and the harbour, where the old fishing port has evolved into a mix of culture, food and drink, and maritime experiences.
Best for	First-time visitorsTravellers without a carNightlifeCulture and city walks	FamiliesQuieter accommodationStaying close to the centreLocal neighbourhood feel	FamiliesPool and sports loversTravellers wanting green spaceTravellers wanting to stay away from central noise	Travellers seeking quietSea viewsGetting away from city lights for the northern lightsLong walks and cycling	Sea and harbour atmosphereMuseumsWhale-watching toursFood and drinkStaying near the centre in a different setting
Accommodation profile	PriceHighNightlifeHighWalkabilityHigh	PriceMediumNightlifeLowWalkabilityHigh	PriceMediumNightlifeLowWalkabilityMedium	PriceMediumNightlifeLowWalkabilityMedium	PriceMediumNightlifeMediumWalkabilityHigh
Transport	Much of the centre can be explored on footStrætó city routes connect the centre with different neighbourhoodsBSÍ Bus Terminal is close to the central area	Walking and Strætó connections can be used to reach the centreCity buses connect the area with other neighbourhoods	Strætó links to the city centreCycling and longer walks to some central locations are possible	Connected to the centre by the capital-area Strætó networkWalking and cycling along the coast are strong options	Walkable from the centreStrætó city routes serve the Grandi area
Advantages	Most major central sights are within walking distance Dense choice of restaurants, cafés, shops and cultural venues Easy access to public transport and tour departure points	Quieter residential character than the centre Major places such as the National Museum of Iceland and Vesturbæjarlaug are in the area Its proximity to the centre makes walking and short bus rides practical	Close to Laugardalslaug and extensive open spaces Strong family and outdoor options around the Botanical Garden Public transport connections to the centre	Coastal walks and wide sea views Close to nature-focused stops such as Grótta and Kvika Quieter atmosphere than the city centre	Maritime heritage, culture, and food and drink in the same area Close to Old Harbour activities A more open, waterfront-oriented setting than Miðbær
Consider	High accommodation demand can mean fewer budget options Weekend noise can be more noticeable on streets close to nightlife Drivers should factor in central parking costs and parking rules	Fewer restaurants and nightlife options than Miðbær Walking times to the easternmost visitor sights are longer	Walking to the main central attractions is not always practical For nightlife, you will usually need to head into the centre	Farther from central restaurants and nightlife Reaching the centre during the day requires a bus ride or a longer walk	Some walks are longer than from the Hallgrímskirkja side of the centre Nightlife is less concentrated than in Miðbær

Last reviewed2026-09-02

Travel Guide

Planning notes.

Researched recommendations, practical information and route decisions.

Must Do

Go up Hallgrímskirkja for a view over the colourful rooftops and the bay.
Walk the waterfront from the Sun Voyager to Harpa and catch the evening light.
Try a neighbourhood swimming pool, not only a tourist spa; it is one of the best ways to feel Reykjavík's everyday rhythm.

Avoid These

Do not check the forecast once and lock in the whole day; wind and rain can change quickly.
Do not confuse Keflavík International Airport with Reykjavík Airport in the city; they are not in the same place.
Do not walk out toward Grótta without checking the tide; the causeway can disappear quickly as the water rises.

Tips

Bring a windproof outer layer as well as rain protection; in Reykjavík, wind often decides how comfortable the day feels.
If you plan several museums, buses and municipal pools in one day, compare the total cost with a Reykjavík City Card.
Bring an eye mask if light affects your sleep; around late June the sky may never become fully dark overnight.

MAP

Reykjavík map

Budget

What will it cost me?

Total Estimated Budget

$756

$252 / day · 3 days

Currency

Food

Transport

Activities

People

1 day7 days14 days

Figures are per-person daily USD estimates compiled from BudgetYourTrip, Numbeo and recent traveller reports. Flight/ferry tickets not included.

✓ Treat the budget figures as planning ranges. Accommodation, tours and restaurant prices in Reykjavík can change noticeably with season, demand and booking time. · Last updated: Sep 2026

TRIP PLANNER

How many days?

Choose the best route for your schedule.

7 days, 28 stops

1Culture & Art

2Culture & Art

3Culture & Art

4Culture & Art

5Culture & Art

6Culture & Art

7Culture & Art

LandmarkFoodMarketTransportWalk

LandmarkDay 1 · 1

Morning Hallgrímskirkja Church starts the day well; take in the city from the tower, then walk downhill along Skólavörðustígur.

Reykjavík’s skyline icon. After taking in the basalt-inspired façade, go up the tower for colourful rooftops and broad views across the bay.

Winter 10:00-17:00; summer 09:00-20:00Church free; tower adult 1,500 ISKShow on map

FoodDay 1 · 2

Noon Cinnamon Roll is a perfect Frakkastígur stop; grab the warm roll with coffee and continue toward the waterfront.

Fresh from Brauð & Co’s Frakkastígur bakery, the cinnamon roll is packed with butter, cinnamon and marzipan filling. It is one of Reykjavík’s strongest coffee companions.

Show on map

WalkDay 1 · 3

Afternoon Sun Voyager makes an easy waterfront pause facing Mount Esja; when the light is good, it is one of the city’s strongest photo moments.

A steel “dream boat” on the waterfront and one of the city’s strongest photo stops, especially at sunrise or sunset with Mount Esja behind it.

Outdoor site open 24 hoursFreeShow on map

WalkDay 1 · 4

Evening Harpa Concert Hall is worth stepping inside for the changing glass façade and harbour views; finish the first day by the water.

Modern Reykjavík’s architectural symbol, wrapped in a honeycomb-like glass façade. Even without a concert ticket, the interior and harbour views are worth seeing.

Sun-Mon-Tue 10:00-18:00; Wed-Sat 10:00-20:00Building free; events ticketedShow on map

LandmarkDay 2 · 1

Morning National Museum of Iceland gives you Iceland’s story from settlement to the present; morning is a comfortable time to move through the galleries.

The city’s strongest introduction to Icelandic history, from settlement to the modern era. It is also one of Reykjavík’s best indoor choices when the weather turns.

Daily 10:00-17:00Adult 3,300 ISK; under 18 freeShow on map

FoodDay 2 · 2

Noon Plokkfiskur Fish Stew at Messinn is your lunch stop; try the creamy fish dish hot from the pan with dark rye bread.

At Messinn, plokkfiskur arrives hot and rich in a pan, built around cod, potatoes and onion. Dark Icelandic rye bread on the side balances the creamy dish.

Show on map

WalkDay 2 · 3

Afternoon Tjörnin Lake is ideal for a gentle loop around the pond, with City Hall and Hljómskálagarður adding a calm break to the afternoon.

A calm city-centre lake beside City Hall. Birdlife, colourful reflections and the walk through Hljómskálagarður make it one of downtown’s most peaceful pauses.

Outdoor site open 24 hoursFreeShow on map

WalkDay 2 · 4

Evening Icelandic Lamb Soup is a warming finish to the day; the traditional lamb-and-root-vegetable soup works especially well on a windy evening.

Íslenski Barinn’s traditional kjötsúpa combines lamb, root vegetables and a light broth. On a windy Reykjavík day, it is one of the most sensible warming meals you can choose.

Show on map

LandmarkDay 3 · 1

Morning Perlan Nature Museum starts day three with the ice cave and nature exhibits, then a 360-degree view of Reykjavík from the observation deck.

An ice cave, glacier and volcano exhibits, a northern-lights show and a 360-degree viewing deck bring Icelandic nature together under one roof.

Daily 09:00-21:00Paid; current price varies by ticket typeShow on map

WalkDay 3 · 2

Noon Icelandic Hot Dog brings you back downtown; order 'eina með öllu' at Bæjarins Beztu for Reykjavík’s classic quick bite.

At Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur’s original 1937 Tryggvagata stand, order “eina með öllu”: a lamb-forward sausage with raw and crispy onions, ketchup, sweet mustard and remoulade.

Show on map

FoodDay 3 · 3

Afternoon Rye Bread Ice Cream is a playful dessert stop opposite Hallgrímskirkja, turning the caramel-like flavour of rúgbrauð into ice cream.

Reykjavík’s skyline icon. After taking in the basalt-inspired façade, go up the tower for colourful rooftops and broad views across the bay.

Winter 10:00-17:00; summer 09:00-20:00Church free; tower adult 1,500 ISKShow on map

WalkDay 3 · 4

Evening Icelandic Langoustine Soup ends the three-day route at the Old Harbour; Sægreifinn’s hot soup and the harbour atmosphere make an easy final evening.

Sægreifinn’s creamy langoustine soup has long been the harbour-side restaurant’s signature. Served with bread, it is simple, warming and deeply satisfying.

Show on map

TransportDay 4 · 1

Morning Harpa Concert Hall is a good starting point for a walk toward the Old Harbour and Grandi; if your timing and ferry schedule work, add Viðey this morning.

Modern Reykjavík’s architectural symbol, wrapped in a honeycomb-like glass façade. Even without a concert ticket, the interior and harbour views are worth seeing.

Sun-Mon-Tue 10:00-18:00; Wed-Sat 10:00-20:00Building free; events ticketedShow on map

LandmarkDay 4 · 2

Noon Icelandic Langoustine Soup at Sægreifinn makes an easy harbour lunch, followed by a slow wander through Grandi’s small museums and waterfront.

Sægreifinn’s creamy langoustine soup has long been the harbour-side restaurant’s signature. Served with bread, it is simple, warming and deeply satisfying.

Show on map

WalkDay 4 · 3

Afternoon Sun Voyager brings you back toward the centre; the coastal path between Sun Voyager and Harpa can feel completely different in afternoon light.

A steel “dream boat” on the waterfront and one of the city’s strongest photo stops, especially at sunrise or sunset with Mount Esja behind it.

Outdoor site open 24 hoursFreeShow on map

WalkDay 4 · 4

Evening Icelandic Hot Dog is a cheap, local way to finish the day; leave the rest of the evening open for an unplanned walk around Laugavegur.

At Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur’s original 1937 Tryggvagata stand, order “eina með öllu”: a lamb-forward sausage with raw and crispy onions, ketchup, sweet mustard and remoulade.

Show on map

LandmarkDay 5 · 1

Morning National Museum of Iceland sets up a culture-focused morning; afterwards take a bus to Árbær Open Air Museum to see Reykjavík’s older houses and everyday history.

The city’s strongest introduction to Icelandic history, from settlement to the modern era. It is also one of Reykjavík’s best indoor choices when the weather turns.

Daily 10:00-17:00Adult 3,300 ISK; under 18 freeShow on map

FoodDay 5 · 2

Noon Plokkfiskur Fish Stew at Messinn works well once you return downtown; keep the rest of lunch light enough for an easy afternoon.

At Messinn, plokkfiskur arrives hot and rich in a pan, built around cod, potatoes and onion. Dark Icelandic rye bread on the side balances the creamy dish.

Show on map

WalkDay 5 · 3

Afternoon Tjörnin Lake deserves a slower second visit; the benches by City Hall and Hljómskálagarður are useful places to pause on a longer trip.

A calm city-centre lake beside City Hall. Birdlife, colourful reflections and the walk through Hljómskálagarður make it one of downtown’s most peaceful pauses.

Outdoor site open 24 hoursFreeShow on map

WalkDay 5 · 4

Evening Icelandic Lamb Soup is a warming finish in cool weather; after an early dinner, explore downtown without a strict schedule.

Íslenski Barinn’s traditional kjötsúpa combines lamb, root vegetables and a light broth. On a windy Reykjavík day, it is one of the most sensible warming meals you can choose.

Show on map

LandmarkDay 6 · 1

Morning Perlan Nature Museum starts the day indoors; afterwards take a bus to Elliðaárdalur for a greener, more local walk along the river.

An ice cave, glacier and volcano exhibits, a northern-lights show and a 360-degree viewing deck bring Icelandic nature together under one roof.

Daily 09:00-21:00Paid; current price varies by ticket typeShow on map

FoodDay 6 · 2

Noon Cinnamon Roll is a good reward when you return downtown; stop at Brauð & Co and pair the warm roll with coffee.

Fresh from Brauð & Co’s Frakkastígur bakery, the cinnamon roll is packed with butter, cinnamon and marzipan filling. It is one of Reykjavík’s strongest coffee companions.

Show on map

LandmarkDay 6 · 3

Afternoon Hallgrímskirkja Church can lead naturally into Sundhöll Reykjavíkur; the hot pools are one of the best ways to take a break like a local rather than a sightseer.

Reykjavík’s skyline icon. After taking in the basalt-inspired façade, go up the tower for colourful rooftops and broad views across the bay.

Winter 10:00-17:00; summer 09:00-20:00Church free; tower adult 1,500 ISKShow on map

FoodDay 6 · 4

Evening Rye Bread Ice Cream is a small dessert stop opposite Hallgrímskirkja; keep the evening light and unhurried.

Reykjavík’s skyline icon. After taking in the basalt-inspired façade, go up the tower for colourful rooftops and broad views across the bay.

Winter 10:00-17:00; summer 09:00-20:00Church free; tower adult 1,500 ISKShow on map

WalkDay 7 · 1

Morning Tjörnin Lake can be the starting point for heading toward Seltjarnarnes; if visiting Grótta, check the tide and the 1 May-15 July seasonal closure.

A calm city-centre lake beside City Hall. Birdlife, colourful reflections and the walk through Hljómskálagarður make it one of downtown’s most peaceful pauses.

Outdoor site open 24 hoursFreeShow on map

WalkDay 7 · 2

Noon Icelandic Hot Dog is an easy quick lunch once you return downtown; do not overpack the final day.

At Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur’s original 1937 Tryggvagata stand, order “eina með öllu”: a lamb-forward sausage with raw and crispy onions, ketchup, sweet mustard and remoulade.

Show on map

WalkDay 7 · 3

Afternoon Sun Voyager is ideal for one last long waterfront walk; if the sky is clear, use Mount Esja as the backdrop for a slow farewell to Reykjavík.

A steel “dream boat” on the waterfront and one of the city’s strongest photo stops, especially at sunrise or sunset with Mount Esja behind it.

Outdoor site open 24 hoursFreeShow on map

WalkDay 7 · 4

Evening Harpa Concert Hall is a fitting final downtown stop; if Sky Lagoon is your evening plan, book according to the current seasonal opening hours.

Modern Reykjavík’s architectural symbol, wrapped in a honeycomb-like glass façade. Even without a concert ticket, the interior and harbour views are worth seeing.

Sun-Mon-Tue 10:00-18:00; Wed-Sat 10:00-20:00Building free; events ticketedShow on map

PRACTICAL INFO

What to know before you go.

Tourist traps, SIM, money, taxis, safety, health, transit and language — the city in eight answers.

Biggest tourist mistake

A common mistake is trying to solve everything in central Reykjavík with expensive tour packages. The centre is walkable; if your day includes buses, public pools and several museums, the City Card can make more sense.

scam

Safety

Reykjavík is generally easy to explore safely; the bigger practical risk is often weather and road conditions rather than crime. Before leaving the city, check current weather, roads and travel alerts.

safety

Health & water

Tap water is safe to drink, so buying bottled water in Reykjavík is usually unnecessary. Hot tap water can have a mild natural sulphur smell from geothermal sources; use the cold tap for drinking.

health

Transit card

City buses are operated by Strætó. Klapp is used for tickets and journey planning; on museum-and-pool-heavy days, the Reykjavík City Card also includes unlimited city bus travel. Keflavík Airport is not included.

card

Language tip

English is enough for almost every everyday situation. A little Icelandic is still appreciated: “takk” means thanks, and “góðan dag” is a friendly good day or hello.

language

WEATHER & BEST TIME

Reykjavík: weather and crowds by month

Jan❄️2°🟠

Feb❄️2°🟠

Mar☁️3°🟡

Apr🌧️4°🟡

May☁️7°🟢

Jun☁️11°🟢

Jul☁️12°🟢

Aug🌧️11°🟢

Sep🌧️9°🟢

Oct🌧️5°🟡

Nov❄️2°🟠

Dec❄️1°🟠

🟢 Ideal · 🟡 Good · 🟠 Busy · 🔴 Tough

🎒 What to pack

✔ Walking shoes
✔ Power adapter
✔ Jacket
✔ Layers
✔ Gloves & beanie
✔ Umbrella

FLIGHTS

✈️ Flights to Reykjavík Cheap flight tickets

Currency

Where are you coming to Reykjavík from?

Pick a timeframe to see prices.

Check flight prices

Airport to city

KEF

FlybusBSÍ Bus Terminal, Reykjavík

About 45 minutes. The official KEF page states that services from the airport to Reykjavík leave roughly 40 minutes after flights land.

Best for: Travellers with luggage who want a direct ride to the main terminal in central Reykjavík.

Limitations: There is no rail connection. Traffic and road conditions can affect travel time; hotel drop-off points depend on the selected ticket or service.

↗ Official source

Strætó Route 55Reykjavík / BSÍ, or on some services Fjörður, Hafnarfjörður

Travel time varies by service and final stop; check the current timetable. In the 2026 network, not every service continues to BSÍ.

Best for: Travellers looking for a lower-cost official public transport option than Flybus and who can plan around the timetable.

Limitations: Not every service goes to Reykjavík BSÍ; some terminate at Fjörður in Hafnarfjörður. Check the current timetable in advance.

↗ Official source

FAQ

Reykjavík: frequently asked questions

What is the most practical way to get from Keflavík Airport to central Reykjavík?

Keflavík International Airport is not in Reykjavík itself. Travellers can use dedicated airport coaches, regular public transport, taxis or rental cars between KEF and the city. Flybus is one common option linking the airport with Reykjavík’s BSÍ terminal. Services may still operate around late arrivals, but schedules and drop-off arrangements can change, so check Keflavík Airport and your chosen operator’s official website shortly before travelling.

Can you see the Northern Lights from Reykjavík itself, or do you need to leave the city?

Yes, the Northern Lights can be visible from Reykjavík when conditions cooperate. Cloud cover and urban light pollution are the main obstacles, so coastal areas, open parks and darker edges of the city usually offer better odds than busy central streets. Strong aurora can appear above the city, but no location or tour can guarantee it. Check the Icelandic Met Office cloud and aurora forecast on the same day before deciding where to go.

Which Reykjavík geothermal pools are good for visitors, and what is the shower rule?

Sundhöllin is one of the easiest public pools to reach from the centre, while Laugardalslaug is larger and known for its pools, hot tubs and local atmosphere. Reykjavík’s municipal pools are part of everyday Icelandic life rather than luxury spas. Before entering the water, guests are expected to shower thoroughly without a swimsuit using soap. Admission prices and opening hours can change, so confirm current details on Reykjavík’s official pool pages before visiting.

Is the Blue Lagoon in Reykjavík, and does it make sense to visit on the way to or from the airport?

The Blue Lagoon is not in central Reykjavík; it is on the Reykjanes Peninsula in the direction of Keflavík Airport. That location makes it convenient for many travellers to combine the lagoon with an arrival or departure day. Transfers are available from Reykjavík and the airport, but timetables and booking arrangements can change. Because volcanic activity and road conditions can also affect access, check the Blue Lagoon website and official travel or road updates before setting out.

Is Reykjavík a good base for day trips to the Golden Circle and South Coast?

Yes. Reykjavík is the main starting point for many organised day trips to the Golden Circle and Iceland’s South Coast. Staying in the city works well if you want to visit places such as Þingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss without renting a car, and South Coast tours also commonly depart from Reykjavík. In winter, daylight, weather and road conditions can significantly affect plans. Self-drivers should check official road and weather information on the day of travel.

Sources and review dates

Keflavík Airport2026-09-02 ↗Strætó2026-09-02 ↗Strætó2026-09-02 ↗Strætó2026-09-02 ↗Visit Reykjavík2026-09-02 ↗Visit Reykjavík2026-09-02 ↗Visit Reykjavík2026-09-02 ↗Reykjavík City2026-09-02 ↗Isavia2026-09-02 ↗Icelandair2026-09-02 ↗

Update history

2026-01-02Under the 2026 regional route system, Route 55's route and connections changed; on weekdays only certain services continue to BSÍ, while at other times some services terminate at Fjörður, Hafnarfjörður. The old information that every service goes directly to central Reykjavík should therefore not be used.

How do we research?

Direct official transport, fare, area and airport pages were checked. Dynamic transport claims were reverified on 2026-09-02, and older route changes were compared with the current network pages.

Contains no claims based on first-hand experience. The priceLevel, nightlife and walking ratings for accommodation areas are comparative editorial classifications derived from official area descriptions, not exact price levels. No uncertain transport option has been added for RKV because a current, direct official airport transfer page could not be verified.

NEARBY

Nearby routes

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EXPLORE THE WORLD

Reykjavík Travel Guide

The city's 24-hour rhythm.

Downtown picks up

Reykjavík: places to visit

Hallgrímskirkja Church

Sun Voyager

Harpa Concert Hall

Tjörnin Lake

National Museum of Iceland

Perlan Nature Museum

What to eat in Reykjavík

Icelandic Hot Dog

Plokkfiskur Fish Stew

Icelandic Lamb Soup

Rye Bread Ice Cream

Icelandic Langoustine Soup

Cinnamon Roll

Where to stay

Planning notes.

Reykjavík map

What will it cost me?

How many days?

What to know before you go.

Reykjavík: weather and crowds by month

🎒 What to pack

FLIGHTS

✈️ Flights to Reykjavík Cheap flight tickets

Airport to city

Reykjavík: frequently asked questions

Sources and review dates

Nearby routes

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