Explore Reykjavik's must-see spots! From iconic landmarks and unique museums to relaxing geothermal spas and thrilling adventures, discover the best of Iceland's capital.
Hello, fellow travelers! Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Iceland as we explore Reykjavik, a city brimming with unique charm, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty. This guide will walk you through 22 of the most iconic and beloved attractions, ensuring your trip to the world's northernmost capital is truly unforgettable.
Iconic Landmarks & City Strolls
Discover Reykjavik's most recognizable architectural wonders and inviting public spaces, perfect for a leisurely walk through the city's artistic and historical core. These sites offer a glimpse into the city's soul, from its towering church to its artistic waterfront.
Hallgrímskirkja
Historical and Cultural Significance
Hallgrímskirkja is Iceland's largest church and one of Reykjavik's most iconic landmarks. Its unique design, inspired by the basalt lava columns found in Icelandic nature, dominates the city skyline. It is a Lutheran parish church, named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson.
Nearby Attractions
Skólavörðustígur Rainbow Street: A vibrant street leading directly to the church.
Leif Erikson Statue: Standing prominently in front of the church, a gift from the United States.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors are drawn to Hallgrímskirkja for its striking architecture, its impressive pipe organ, and the panoramic views of Reykjavik and the surrounding mountains and ocean from its observation tower.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 25974
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Perlan
Historical and Cultural Significance
Perlan, meaning "The Pearl," is a distinctive glass dome built atop six hot water tanks. It serves as a nature exhibition center, offering insights into Iceland's unique geology and natural phenomena. It also features a rotating restaurant and an observation deck.
Nearby Attractions
Öskjuhlíð Hill: The wooded area surrounding Perlan, offering walking paths.
Reykjavik Domestic Airport: Located nearby.
Why Tourists Visit
Tourists visit Perlan for its state-of-the-art exhibitions, including an artificial ice cave and a Northern Lights planetarium show, as well as the 360-degree observation deck that provides stunning views of Reykjavik and its surroundings.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 9939
Sun Voyager
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Sun Voyager (Sólfar) is a dream boat, an ode to the sun, by Jón Gunnar Árnason. It symbolizes the promise of undiscovered territory, a dream of hope, progress, and freedom. Though often mistaken for a Viking ship, it is intended to represent a "dream boat" and a symbol of light and hope.
Nearby Attractions
Harpa Concert Hall: A short walk along the waterfront.
Waterfront promenade: Ideal for scenic strolls.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors are drawn to the Sun Voyager for its striking metallic design, its picturesque location on the Reykjavik waterfront with views of Mount Esja, making it a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 9520
Skólavörðustígur Rainbow Street
Historical and Cultural Significance
Skólavörðustígur Rainbow Street is a prominent street in central Reykjavik known for its vibrant rainbow-colored paving. It serves as a symbol of diversity and inclusivity, particularly celebrating LGBTQ+ pride. The street leads directly to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church.
Nearby Attractions
Hallgrímskirkja: Located at the top of the street.
Various art galleries, boutiques, and cafes.
Why Tourists Visit
Tourists flock to Skólavörðustígur for its cheerful and photogenic appearance, its unique shops and galleries, and its welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for leisurely exploration and photography.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 3082
Höfði
Historical and Cultural Significance
Höfði is a picturesque house in Reykjavik with significant historical importance. It is most famous as the location for the 1986 summit meeting between U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev, a pivotal event in ending the Cold War.
Nearby Attractions
The Reykjavik Sculpture and Shore Walk: A scenic path along the coast.
Laugardalslaug Swimming Pool: A popular geothermal public pool.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors come to Höfði to see this historically significant building, learn about its role in international politics, and enjoy its charming architecture and scenic waterfront setting, though it is not open for public entry.
Rating: 4.3 Reviews: 1288
Ingólfstorg
Historical and Cultural Significance
Ingólfstorg is a public square in the heart of downtown Reykjavik, named after Ingólfur Arnarson, the first settler of Iceland. It is a central gathering place, often hosting events, concerts, and in winter, a popular ice-skating rink, reflecting the city's vibrant social life.
Nearby Attractions
Austurvöllur Square: Another prominent public square with the Parliament building.
Harpa Concert Hall: A short walk away.
Why Tourists Visit
Tourists visit Ingólfstorg to experience the lively atmosphere of central Reykjavik, enjoy outdoor events, and find a convenient starting point for exploring the city's shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 1102
Cultural & Historical Deep Dive
Journey through Iceland's fascinating past and rich heritage by exploring museums that chronicle everything from Viking settlements to the nation's maritime traditions, offering deep insights into Icelandic life and history.
National Museum of Iceland
Historical and Cultural Significance
The National Museum of Iceland offers a comprehensive overview of Iceland's history and culture from the Viking Age to the present day. Its main exhibition, "Making of a Nation," tells the story of Iceland through various artifacts and interactive displays, highlighting the unique challenges and triumphs of its people.
Nearby Attractions
University of Iceland: The museum is located on its campus.
National and University Library of Iceland: Adjacent to the museum.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors immerse themselves in Icelandic heritage, explore Viking artifacts, and gain a deeper understanding of the nation's development, traditions, and the daily lives of its people throughout the centuries.
Rating: 4.5 Reviews: 3722
Icelandic Phallological Museum
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Icelandic Phallological Museum is a unique and somewhat humorous museum dedicated to phallology, the study of the phallus. It houses a collection of penile specimens belonging to various land and sea mammals found in Iceland, providing a peculiar yet educational insight into biological diversity.
Nearby Attractions
Laugavegur: Reykjavik's main shopping street, with numerous shops and restaurants.
Hlemmur Mathöll: A popular food hall.
Why Tourists Visit
Tourists visit this quirky museum out of curiosity, to experience something truly unconventional, and to share a laugh while learning about a fascinating, albeit unusual, scientific collection.
Rating: 4.3 Reviews: 4879
The Settlement Exhibition
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Settlement Exhibition is built around the archaeological remains of a Viking longhouse, dating back to the 9th century. It provides a fascinating look into the lives of Iceland's first settlers, using multimedia displays to bring the Viking era to life and showcasing early Icelandic history.
Nearby Attractions
Aðalstræti: One of Reykjavik's oldest streets, featuring historic buildings.
Reykjavík Art Museum – Hafnarhús: A contemporary art museum.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors are drawn to this exhibition to stand on the very ground where Vikings lived over a thousand years ago, to understand the challenging conditions of early settlement, and to connect with Iceland's foundational history.
Rating: 4.4 Reviews: 1262
Saga Museum
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Saga Museum vividly recreates key moments in Icelandic history, from the Viking settlement to more recent times, using lifelike wax figures and authentic costumes. Each exhibit is based on historical accounts, bringing Iceland's sagas and famous individuals to life.
Nearby Attractions
Reykjavík Maritime Museum: Located in the same area of Grandi Harbour District.
FlyOver Iceland: An immersive flight simulation experience.
Why Tourists Visit
Tourists visit the Saga Museum to experience Icelandic history in an engaging and visual way, learning about the characters and events that shaped the nation through its famous sagas.
Rating: 4.2 Reviews: 1823
Reykjavík Maritime Museum
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Reykjavík Maritime Museum chronicles Iceland's centuries-long struggle and ultimate triumph over the ocean, showcasing the nation's profound relationship with fishing and maritime culture. Housed in a former fish factory, it features exhibitions on the fishing industry, the Coast Guard, and the history of the harbor.
Nearby Attractions
Grandi Harbour District: A vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and other museums.
Whales of Iceland: Located nearby in the Grandi area.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors gain an appreciation for Iceland's dependence on the sea, learning about its fishing heritage, the development of its fleet, and the challenges faced by its fishermen through engaging exhibits and a retired Coast Guard vessel.
Rating: 4.3 Reviews: 1030
Árbær Open Air Museum
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Árbær Open Air Museum is a historical museum that offers a unique insight into the architecture and lifestyle of Iceland's past. It comprises more than 20 historical buildings that have been moved from central Reykjavik and reassembled to form a charming village, depicting life in past centuries.
Nearby Attractions
Elliðaárdalur Valley: A recreational area with hiking and cycling paths.
Reykjavík Park and Zoo: Located a short drive away.
Why Tourists Visit
Tourists visit to experience a living history lesson, explore traditional Icelandic turf houses and timber buildings, and observe various crafts and activities that demonstrate how Icelanders lived and worked in bygone eras.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 1127
Immersive & Unique Experiences
Prepare for unforgettable adventures and one-of-a-kind attractions that offer a fresh perspective on Iceland's natural wonders and distinctive culture, from simulated flights to live lava demonstrations.
FlyOver Iceland
Historical and Cultural Significance
FlyOver Iceland is an immersive flight simulation ride that takes visitors on a breathtaking journey across Iceland's most stunning landscapes. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, it offers a unique "flight" experience, showcasing glaciers, volcanoes, and fjords from a bird's-eye perspective, accompanied by sensory effects.
Nearby Attractions
Grandi Harbour District: Home to various other attractions and eateries.
Whales of Iceland: Located just a short walk away.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors are drawn to FlyOver Iceland for its thrilling and highly realistic experience, allowing them to see remote and beautiful parts of Iceland in a short amount of time, making it an excellent introduction to the country's natural wonders.
Rating: 4.7 Reviews: 4643
Lava Show
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Lava Show is a unique attraction where visitors can witness real molten lava, heated to 1100°C (2000°F), poured into an exhibition room. This provides a safe yet dramatic experience of Iceland's volcanic activity, allowing guests to feel the intense heat and hear the sizzling sounds of cooling lava.
Nearby Attractions
Aurora Reykjavík - The Northern Lights Center: Situated very close by.
Old Harbour: A vibrant area for dining and tours.
Why Tourists Visit
Tourists visit the Lava Show for an unparalleled, direct encounter with one of Iceland's most defining natural phenomena, gaining a visceral understanding of volcanic power in a controlled environment.
Rating: 4.8 Reviews: 3590
Whales of Iceland
Historical and Cultural Significance
Whales of Iceland is the largest whale exhibition in Europe, featuring 23 life-size models of various whale species found in Icelandic waters. The exhibition offers an educational and immersive experience, highlighting the diverse marine life and the importance of conservation in Iceland.
Nearby Attractions
Grandi Harbour District: A popular area with several museums and eateries.
Reykjavík Maritime Museum: Located nearby.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors are captivated by the sheer scale of the whale models and the interactive displays, making it an excellent place to learn about these magnificent creatures before or after a real-life whale watching tour.
Rating: 4.2 Reviews: 2825
Aurora Reykjavík - The Northern Lights Center
Historical and Cultural Significance
Aurora Reykjavík - The Northern Lights Center is an educational and interactive exhibition dedicated to the science, folklore, and photography of the Aurora Borealis. It offers a captivating experience, especially for those unable to see the Northern Lights in person or seeking to understand them better.
Nearby Attractions
Lava Show: Located very close by.
Old Harbour: A vibrant area for dining and tours.
Why Tourists Visit
Tourists visit to learn about the elusive Northern Lights through multimedia displays, enjoy a stunning cinematic experience of the aurora, and get practical tips on how to photograph this natural wonder.
Rating: 4.4 Reviews: 1834
The Reykjavik Food Walk
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Reykjavik Food Walk is a highly-rated guided culinary tour that takes participants through the city center, sampling traditional Icelandic dishes and modern cuisine from various local restaurants and eateries. It's a fantastic way to explore Reykjavik's food scene and learn about its culinary history.
Nearby Attractions
Laugavegur: The main shopping street, where many stops are located.
Harpa Concert Hall: Often a starting or ending point.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors join the Food Walk to taste authentic Icelandic flavors, discover hidden culinary gems, and gain insights into local culture and history from knowledgeable guides, making it a delicious and informative experience.
Rating: 5 Reviews: 3818
Nature, Relaxation & Adventure Tours
Indulge in the therapeutic warmth of geothermal waters or embark on exciting expeditions that connect you with Iceland's stunning landscapes and wildlife, offering both relaxation and thrills.
Sky Lagoon
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Sky Lagoon is a luxurious geothermal spa known for its stunning ocean views, infinity pool design, and the traditional Icelandic 7-step ritual. It offers a contemporary take on Iceland's bathing culture, providing a serene escape and a connection to the country's geothermal energy.
Nearby Attractions
Kársnes Harbour: The lagoon is situated on this peninsula, offering coastal walks.
Reykjavik city center: A short drive away.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors flock to Sky Lagoon for its breathtaking scenery, the unique rejuvenating 7-step ritual, and the opportunity to relax in warm geothermal waters while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean and the city skyline.
Rating: 4.7 Reviews: 7797
Arctic Adventures
Historical and Cultural Significance
Arctic Adventures is a prominent tour operator specializing in a wide range of adventurous excursions across Iceland. They offer experiences like glacier hiking, ice caving, river rafting, and snorkeling between tectonic plates, providing travelers with unique ways to explore Iceland's rugged landscapes.
Nearby Attractions
Various departure points across Reykjavik for different tours.
Operates trips to major natural attractions outside the city.
Why Tourists Visit
Tourists choose Arctic Adventures for their professionally guided tours that cater to different thrill levels, offering safe and unforgettable opportunities to experience Iceland's dramatic natural wonders up close.
Rating: 4.6 Reviews: 4001
Your Friend In Reykjavik
Historical and Cultural Significance
Your Friend In Reykjavik offers highly personalized walking tours and experiences, aiming to provide visitors with an intimate and authentic look at Icelandic culture, history, and daily life. Their local guides share insights and stories, making the city come alive beyond typical tourist routes.
Nearby Attractions
Tours typically start and cover central Reykjavik areas, including its main streets and hidden gems.
Near various city landmarks and cultural spots.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors choose "Your Friend In Reykjavik" for a more personal and engaging exploration of the city, benefiting from local knowledge and recommendations, and discovering aspects of Reykjavik they might otherwise miss.
Rating: 4.9 Reviews: 1539
Special Tours
Historical and Cultural Significance
Special Tours is a leading whale watching and marine wildlife tour operator based in Reykjavik's Old Harbour. They provide opportunities to observe whales, dolphins, and puffins in their natural habitat, contributing to marine conservation awareness and offering insight into Iceland's rich biodiversity.
Nearby Attractions
Old Harbour: Departure point for many boat tours and home to seafood restaurants.
Reykjavík Maritime Museum: Within walking distance.
Why Tourists Visit
Tourists join Special Tours for the chance to witness magnificent marine animals up close in the Faxaflói Bay, enjoying scenic boat rides and learning about the local ecosystem from experienced guides.
Rating: 4.3 Reviews: 1296
Other Notable Attractions
For those looking for a different kind of urban experience, this attraction offers a mix of local wildlife and family-friendly entertainment within the city.
Reykjavík Park and Zoo
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Reykjavík Park and Zoo is a small yet charming family-friendly attraction combining a zoo with native Icelandic animals, a domestic animal farm, and a botanical garden. It also features a popular family park with rides and playground areas, making it a local recreational hub.
Nearby Attractions
Laugardalslaug Swimming Pool: A large geothermal pool complex.
Húsdýragarðurinn (Family Park): Part of the same complex, offering rides and playgrounds.
Why Tourists Visit
Visitors, especially families, enjoy the Reykjavík Park and Zoo for its accessible collection of Icelandic farm animals, seals, and reindeer, along with its botanical garden and amusement park, providing a relaxing and engaging day out.
Rating: 4.1 Reviews: 1066