Things to do in 

Reykjavik

Reykjavik, the sparkling gem of the North, offers a captivating collection of experiences. The city, hushed by winter snow or bathed in midnight sunshine, is rich in layers of history and culture. Amidst top-notch museums, vibrant harbours and the pulse of local life, find the raw beauty of natural phenomena. From the quirkiness of street art-scattered neighbourhoods to the gentle lull of thermal baths, there are countless things to do in Reykjavik. While familiar landmarks may draw you in, the city invites you to step off the well-worn path. Reykjavik, honest and alive, awaits your story.

Explore Reykjavik off the beaten path

Ease away from the checklist and drift toward quieter corners—alternative things to do that reward slow steps, warm pools, and small stages are waiting.

Cultural experiences:. Slide into Sundhöllin public pool in late afternoon and listen to neighborhood chatter rise with the steam. After dinner, find a seat at Mengi on Óðinsgata for an intimate experimental set.

Small museums and galleries:. Duck into the Icelandic Punk Museum on Bankastræti—tiny, loud, and quick. Ride the elevator to the Reykjavik Museum of Photography in Grófarhús for a thoughtful half hour. Near Skólavörðustígur, the Ásgrímur Jónsson Collection shows a painter’s home and calm landscapes in a few small rooms.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints:. Time the tide and walk to Grótta Lighthouse at Seltjarnarnes for a windy sunset with seabirds and long views. For a quieter outlook, follow the forest paths on Öskjuhlíð behind Perlan and pause at a west-facing clearing before dusk.

Shop for local products & souvenirs:. On weekends, poke around Kolaportið flea market for vintage lopapeysa, old stamps, and salty fish snacks. Swing by 12 Tónar on Skólavörðustígur to browse local music, sip the offered coffee, and ask for staff picks. In Grandi, the Omnom Chocolate factory shop sells limited flavors and tidy gift boxes that travel well.

Popular neighbourhoods

Lose yourself in the colorful and diverse neighbourhoods of Reykjavik. Each part of the city is full of charming houses, unique local eateries and a culture that's rooted in Icelandic heritage.

Downtown: Roam through this vibrant area boasting of colourful houses, eclectic street art and a bustling nightlife scene. Discover a blend of tradition and innovation in design boutiques and art galleries.

Old Harbour: Experience a bit of old and new as you explore the remodeled fishing huts turned restaurants and boutiques. Be sure to enjoy the local seafood delicacies and the panoramic vista of the bay.

Grandi: Visit this up-and-coming neighborhood that’s home to food trucks, artist studios and trendy shops. Here, you can also delve into Iceland’s history at the Maritime Museum.

Laugardalur: Surrender to relaxation in the city’s hot springs and geothermal pools. Home to the city’s largest public swimming pool, this area sprinkles fitness charm into your Icelandic journey.

Vesturbaer: Feel the authentic spirit of Reykjavik by exploring shops full of local products and dining at local eateries. Don't miss the grand Grótta Island Lighthouse, a perfect spot for Northern Lights viewing.

Things to do in Reykjavik by season

Spring: Thawing paths and brightening days set up whale watching, puffin sightings on nearby islets, and long soaks in steamy outdoor pools. Families find it easy to mix short city walks with nature in a single day.

Summer: Under the midnight sun, hike Öskjuhlíð, picnic at Nauthólsvík’s warm shallows, and wander harbour bars that never seem to close. It’s the best time to visit Reykjavik for road trips and late-night light.

Fall: Cooler winds return the northern lights, museums feel snug, and menus lean into autumn catches and berries. Photographers chase golden hours over Faxaflói Bay and the lighthouse at Grótta.

Winter: Christmas in Reykjavik means craft markets, Yule Lad folklore, and candles in snow-dusted streets; warm up on a café crawl before an aurora hunt. Short days bring clear, quiet moments on the waterfront when the sky cooperates.

Annual favourites include Menningarnótt Culture Night in August with citywide art and fireworks, Reykjavik Pride’s joyful August parade, and February’s free Winter Lights Festival that brightens parks, pools, and landmarks.