What to do in Reykjavik

Activities, attractions and tours

Reykjavik
Harpa which includes modern architecture and general coastal views
Reykjavik showing mountains, a city and a coastal town
Harpa showing modern architecture and interior views
Reykjavik featuring heritage architecture, street scenes and a house

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$9, 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 504 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.

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Top places to visit

1. Reykjavik Harbour

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Reykjavik Harbour which includes general coastal views, boating and a bay or harbor

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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Reykjavik featuring street scenes

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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Harpa which includes a bay or harbour, modern architecture and a sunset

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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aurora borealis above hallgrimskirkja church in central of reykjavik city in Iceland, Shutterstock ID 1146085949, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: , Client/Licensee: Faa Praharnpap, Ot

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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Reykjavik City Hall showing interior views as well as a large group of people

6. 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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Perlan which includes modern architecture

7. National Museum of Iceland

With over 2,000 artefacts, including photographs and multi-media exhibits, the National Museum of Iceland follows Iceland’s history from the first Viking settlements through to the present day. The 2004 renovation of the entire building included installing a sleek, state-of-the-art exhibition space. These interactive displays provide visitors of all ages with a hands-on learning experience. Talk on the telephone with a chieftain from the middle ages or try on ancient jewellery and armour.
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National Museum of Iceland showing interior views

Recommended things to do in Reykjavik

Number of things to do
504
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
eSIM: Airalo Europe Package - United Kingdom: NZ$9
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Reykjavik

Discover the most popular places to visit in Reykjavik

Reykjavik Harbour featuring outdoor art, general coastal views and a sunset

Reykjavik Harbour

4.5/5(55 reviews)

Once a maritime and fishing district, Old Harbour now buzzes with restaurants, cafes and places to discover. Stroll along the waterfront or hop on a boat and explore the harbour.

Reykjavik Harbour
Reykjavik featuring street scenes

Laugavegur

4.5/5(30 reviews)

Brightly colored shopfronts spill into the street and add atmosphere to the sidewalk dining areas and designer stores of Reykjavík’s main downtown shopping strip.

Laugavegur
Harpa which includes a bay or harbour, modern architecture and a sunset

Harpa

4.5/5(44 reviews)

The sculptural glass façade of Reykjavík’s premier concert hall and conference center shines over the harbor, reflecting the water and the city’s energy.

Harpa
Hallgrimskirkja showing general coastal views, a sunset and a church or cathedral

Hallgrimskirkja

4.5/5(34 reviews)

This stunning church with a tower that looks like molten lava is one of Reykjavík’s most renowned landmarks and also serves as a compass point.

Hallgrimskirkja
University of Iceland

University of Iceland

3.5/5(4 reviews)

Walk around the campus at University of Iceland as part of your travels around Reykjavik. Discover the lively bars and acclaimed theatre scene in this culturally rich area.

University of Iceland
Reykjavik City Hall showing interior views as well as a large group of people

Reykjavik City Hall

4.5/5(24 reviews)

The dynamic architectural design and picturesque location of this modern civic building near the Tjörnin lakeside has made it a landmark in downtown Reykjavík.

Reykjavik City Hall
Perlan featuring a sunset and modern architecture

Perlan

4.5/5(21 reviews)

A unique glass-domed building that blends the practical aspects of heating the city’s water system within an aesthetically impressive architectural structure.

Perlan
National Museum of Iceland featuring street scenes

National Museum of Iceland

4.5/5(10 reviews)

Journey through the ages of Icelandic history, from the battlements of the Vikings and their glorious feasts to modern-day independence.

National Museum of Iceland
Iceland Phallological Museum

Iceland Phallological Museum

4.5/5(4 reviews)

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Iceland Phallological Museum in Reykjavik. Make time for the shops and local tours in this culturally rich area.

Iceland Phallological Museum

Explore areas of Reykjavik

Reykjavik showing interior views, a church or cathedral and religious elements

Downtown Reykjavik

4.5/5(14 area reviews)

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

Downtown Reykjavik
Reykjavik featuring fashion and shopping

Laugardalur

5/5(1 area review)

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 Hofdi House.

Laugardalur
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Háaleiti

4.5/5(5 area reviews)

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

Háaleiti
Reykjavik Harbour featuring general coastal views, a sunset and a bay or harbour

Vesturbær

4.5/5(11 area reviews)

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.

Vesturbær
Reykjavik featuring fashion and shopping

Tún

If you're spending some time in Tún, Hofdi House and Laugavegur are top sights worth seeing.

Tún
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Hlíðar

4.5/5(14 area reviews)

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

Hlíðar

 

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

Photo by Spencer Collier

Kópavogur

Photo by Staci K

Kjalarnes

Photo by Mike Kauffman

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.