What to do in Reykjavik

Activities, attractions and tours

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Places to Visit in Reykjavik

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Reykjavik, Capital Region while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Reykjavik attractions from NZ$2, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Reykjavik tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 391 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Reykjavik. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

Activities

Full-Day Golden Circle Tour

Full-Day Golden Circle Classic Tour with Expert Guide

NZ$138
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Full-Day Golden Circle Classic Tour with Expert Guide
Sky Lagoon Admission Including Transfer

Sky Lagoon Admission Including Transfer

NZ$315
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Sky Lagoon Admission Including Transfer
Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik

Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik

NZ$176
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik
Whale Watching

Whale Watching Tour with Professional Guide from Reykjavik

NZ$168
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Whale Watching Tour with Professional Guide from Reykjavik
Golden Circle, Kerid Crater & Blue Lagoon Admission Tickets

Golden Circle, Kerid Crater & Blue Lagoon Admission Tickets

NZ$441
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Golden Circle, Kerid Crater & Blue Lagoon Admission Tickets
Explore Reykjavik & the Icelandic Landscape

Explore Reykjavik & the Icelandic Landscape: A Self-Guided Tour

NZ$2
per adult
Explore Reykjavik & the Icelandic Landscape: A Self-Guided Tour
A snowmobile ride across Iceland

Guided Golden Circle Tour & Langjökull Snowmobiling Experience

NZ$543
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Guided Golden Circle Tour & Langjökull Snowmobiling Experience
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Top places to visit

1. Reykjavik Harbour

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2. Laugavegur

Find an exciting collection of cafés, restaurants, bars and specialty stores on Laugavegur, an arterial street in Reykjavík’s downtown area. Stroll down the partly pedestrianized strip and spend an afternoon checking out Scandinavian designer stores. Stop at a café or bakery and try delicious Icelandic treats, while watching fashion-conscious shoppers go by. In the evening, relax with a drink at one of the Laugavegur bars and clubs.
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3. Harpa

Experience the masterful design and outstanding facilities of one of Reykjavík’s modern landmarks at the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center. Opened in 2011, this contemporary structure hosts recitals, performances, exhibitions and conferences. See touring musicians or a fascinating exhibit by local artists. Attend an all-access guided tour or simply wander along the harbor taking in each aspect of the exceptionally designed building.
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A modern building with a reflective glass facade, surrounded by a marina with several boats.

4. Hallgrimskirkja

The Hallgrimskirkja is an architectural wonder. Designed in 1939 by the late Guðjón Samúelsson, this 1,000-seat church took over 40 years to build. It is an active church with Sunday mass services and some of the best views of the city. The architectural design draws inspiration from shapes of the Icelandic countryside and the façade has the appearance of cooling molten lava from a volcanic eruption.
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5. Reykjavik City Hall

Admire the bold architectural lines merging with Lake Tjörnin’s glassy reflection when you approach Reykjavík City Hall (Ráðhús Reykjavíkur), a distinctive modern civic center. Stroll around picturesque Lake Tjörnin and marvel at the structure’s intriguing design or visit the hall’s café and exhibition space to enjoy stunning views of the lake and its birdlife.
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6. Landakotskirkja

The Cathedral of Christ the King (Landakotskirkja, also known as Basilika Krists Konungs) is a stately cathedral in western Reykjavík. Sanctified in 1929 near the site of Iceland’s first Catholic chapel, the Cathedral of Christ the King is a stunning monument and active place of worship. Admire the cathedral’s striking architecture and stroll around its picturesque grounds. Wander inside the impressive building to find beautiful altars, finely crafted artworks and fascinating relics.
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A church interior with a crucifix, stained glass windows, and a central altar.

7. Perlan

The curious Perlan building was created by the architect Ingimundur Sveinsson, who in the early 1990s designed a glass and metal dome to sit over the top of these six hot water tanks. Housed within the structure is a revolving restaurant, a large exhibition space and a 360-degree viewing platform.
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A modern building with a glass dome and a symmetrical design.

Recommended things to do in Reykjavik

Number of things to do
391
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Explore Reykjavik & the Icelandic Landscape: A Self-Guided Tour: NZ$2
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Reykjavik

Stay near popular Reykjavik attractions

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Reykjavik Harbour

9.2/10 (8,713 reviews)
Reykjavík's historic harbour pulses with maritime culture amid colourful repurposed fishing buildings. Embark on whale watching or Northern Lights cruises while enjoying panoramic views of Faxaflói Bay and Mount Esja.
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Our guide on where to stay in Reykjavik

Find the best Reykjavik areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Reykjavik
Learn more about Reykjavik
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Downtown Reykjavik

If you're spending some time in Downtown Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja and Reykjavik Pond are top sights worth seeing.

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Vesturbær

The abundant dining options and waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Vesturbær. A stop by Reykjavik Harbour or Landakotskirkja might round out your trip.

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Hlíðar

Though Hlíðar may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Reykjavik Harbour and Perlan.

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Laugardalur

Laugardalur is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool or Laugavegur.

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Háaleiti

When in Háaleiti, you can plan a visit to Kringlan Shopping Mall and Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Reykjavik

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Kópavogur

A mountainous landscape with a lake, snow-capped peaks, and a clear sky.

Kjalarnes

A river with a bridge, rocky terrain, and distant mountains.

Kjósarhreppur

Frequently asked questions

Is Reykjavik worth visiting?
Famous for its nightlife and culture, discovering cool things to do in Reykjavik is a breeze. Remember to add Sky Lagoon to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Reykjavik?
Sky Lagoon and National Museum of Iceland are two good places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Reykjavik while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Reykjavik?
You can't go home without checking out Sky Lagoon, rated the top tourist attraction in Reykjavik.
Is three days enough to stay in Reykjavik?
You can easily visit leading attractions like Sky Lagoon, National Museum of Iceland and Reykjavík Cathedral with a three-day getaway in Reykjavik. On average, most travellers plan three days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to Reykjanesbær.
Is Reykjavik a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you'd like to do and see in Reykjavik. Several key sights, such as Sky Lagoon and National Museum of Iceland, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Reykjavik's neighbourhoods, Downtown Reykjavik is 0.80 kilometres away from downtown, while Tún is 2 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Reykjavik with kids?
Planning what to do in Reykjavik with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or little ones, there's no shortage of family-friendly attractions to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Reykjavik for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Reykjavik, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Laugavegur or Perlan.
Are there free things to do in Reykjavik?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Reykjavik. If you need inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Reykjavík Cathedral is a must for anyone wanting to save on their travelling adventures.