Reykjavik: the must-see spots of the Icelandic capital

Barely off the plane in Keflavík, you can already smell the salty air of the Atlantic Ocean. Welcome to Reykjavik, the northernmost capital in the world. For most travelers, this is the first stop on a trip to Iceland, and it’s no coincidence. Compact, colorful, and surprisingly lively for a city of around 140,000 people, Reykjavik can easily be explored in a day... but many end up staying longer than planned.

In this article, we’ll take you to discover the most beautiful sights of Reykjavik, share some practical tips, and reveal a few anecdotes that will impress during your next happy hour.

Located on the southwest coast of Iceland, Reykjavik has a strategic location, close to Keflavík International Airport and just a few kilometers from the famous Golden Circle. Travelers setting out to explore Iceland by 4x4 or van almost always begin their adventure here.

Reykjavik is much more than just a stopover. It’s the perfect place to acclimate, do some shopping, and plan your itinerary before heading out to discover the wild landscapes where the roads become more isolated and the horizons infinitely broader.

The Icelandic capital also has a nice surprise for those who only associate Iceland with its volcanoes and waterfalls. You’ll find a creative and quirky atmosphere, with street art on almost every corner, charming cafés, and an urban skyline dominated by an iconic building.

What should you absolutely see in Reykjavik? Some sites are simply unmissable.

The Hallgrímskirkja is undoubtedly the most famous monument in Reykjavik. Its spectacular architecture is inspired by the basalt columns found throughout Icelandic nature. Standing at 74 meters tall, it dominates the capital. Take the elevator to the top for a panoramic view of the colorful rooftops of the city and, on clear days, the surrounding mountains.

The Sólfar, also known as Sun Voyager, is another iconic spot in Reykjavik. This stainless steel sculpture of a stylized Viking ship symbolizes hope, discovery, and travel. Located by the water, it’s particularly photogenic at sunset or under the midnight sun in summer, with the bay and mountains in the background.

Another important place is BSÍ, the central bus station in Reykjavik. It might not seem glamorous, but it’s the main departure point for excursions to the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, or Keflavík Airport. Travelers without a vehicle take their shuttles from here or meet their guide. Even if you travel by van or 4x4, it’s helpful to know where BSÍ is if you want to join a tour without using your own vehicle.

• Harpa Concert Hall : a modern concert hall located by the harbor, famous for its glass façade inspired by Icelandic basalt formations and beautifully illuminated in the evening.
• Old Harbour : the old harbor, the starting point for whale watching tours and a neighborhood known for its excellent seafood restaurants.
• Laugavegur : the main shopping street in Reykjavik, lined with local designer boutiques, souvenir shops, and cozy cafés.
• Perlan : a unique museum that features a reconstructed ice cave, a planetarium, and a panoramic platform offering a 360° view of the city.

Despite its modest size, Reykjavik is a destination that will delight food lovers. Here are some must-visit spots:

• Café Loki: located right across from Hallgrímskirkja, this café is the perfect place to taste Icelandic specialties. Be sure to try fermented shark or rúgbrauð, a traditional rye bread served with smoked fish and butter.
• Grandi Mathöll: this food hall in the old harbor features several stands offering cuisines from around the world. Whether you're in the mood for sushi, gourmet burgers, or local specialties, there's something for everyone.
• Reykjavik Roasters: this spot roasts its own coffee and serves one of the best espressos in the city. With its warm atmosphere and intentionally casual decor, it's a favorite hangout for both locals and visitors.
• Skúli Craft Bar: a true paradise for craft beer lovers, with dozens of Icelandic options on the menu. The vibe is friendly and you'll quickly feel right at home.
• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: the iconic hot dog stand on the waterfront. Even Bill Clinton waited in line during his visit to Iceland, which speaks to its well-deserved reputation.

Before you head out to explore the Icelandic capital, here are some tips to make your stay even more enjoyable.

Reykjavik is very easy to explore on foot. Its downtown area is compact enough to cover in a few hours. Once you're settled in, you can leave your car behind.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Weather: the weather changes very quickly in Iceland. Bring several layers of clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can drop suddenly.
• Currency: card payments are accepted almost everywhere. It’s rarely necessary to have cash.
• Hot springs: in addition to the famous Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik has several municipal geothermal pools, like Laugardalslaug, which are much more affordable and just as relaxing.
• Cuisine: be sure to try fresh fish or traditional Icelandic lamb at least once. And don’t miss a hot dog from Bæjarins Beztu, a true local institution for decades.

If your trip to Iceland starts in Reykjavik, take the opportunity to stock up on supplies. Outside the capital, supermarkets are fewer and prices are often higher.

Did you know?

Reykjavik is among the most eco-friendly cities in the world. Much of its heating comes from geothermal energy sourced from deep underground. That’s also why tap water can sometimes have a slight sulfur smell: it’s perfectly harmless and part of everyday life for Icelanders.

Reykjavik is much more than just a gateway to Iceland: it’s a destination in its own right. With the majestic Hallgrímskirkja, the elegant Sólfar by the sea, and BSÍ, the starting point for many excursions, the capital has something to attract all types of travelers.

Combine a few days of urban exploration with the spectacular landscapes of the rest of the country, and you’ll have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable trip.