First time in Reykjavik: Everything you need to know

First time in Reykjavik: Everything you need to know

These are the must-see sights, unmissable neighborhoods, and all the essential things to know about Reykjavik.

Whether you’re chasing the dazzling Northern Lights or exploring Iceland’s natural wonders, your first time in Reykjavik promises fun-filled adventures. Discover the dramatic landscapes of the Golden Circle, with erupting geysers and the colossal Gulfoss waterfall, or relax amongst volcanic scenery in the Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters. Iceland’s seasons vary dramatically, with seemingly endless daylight in summer and just a few hours of sunlight per day in winter, each bringing its own unique opportunities. This first-timer’s guide covers all the essential things to know about Reykjavik for the ultimate Icelandic getaway.

Reykjavik: Tips for first-timers

  1. Plan activities accordingly because daylight hours vary significantly by season. The longest summer days bring over 21 hours of daylight, while there can be as little as four hours of sunlight in winter.
  2. Keep in mind that some of the popular must-dos around Reykjavik can take a couple of hours of driving, so give yourself time to explore everything.
  3. Reykjavik’s tap water is some of the purest in the world, so bring a reusable bottle to drink straight from the tap and minimize plastic waste.
  4. When aurora activity is high (with a KP level of 3 and above), head out of the city to dark areas with minimal light pollution for the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Make use of the Icelandic Met Office forecast for up-to-date aurora information.
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Photo: Alexander Maschler

Discover towering mountains, geothermal geysers, and rushing waterfalls in Iceland’s Golden Circle.

Best time to visit

From the midnight summer sun to winter’s Northern Lights, Reykjavik is a wonderful year-round destination. Each season offers something unique, so whenever you visit, it’s an excellent base for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.

Spring

Spring in Reykjavik runs from March to May, and the winter snow begins to melt away as the season progresses. March is still chilly, and snowfall is still possible throughout spring, but temperatures are milder by May. While Aurora activity stops beyond April, the longer daylight hours are ideal for outdoor adventures like snowmobiling tours. With several festivals throughout the season, including the Annual Icelandic Beer Festival and Food and Fun Festival, there’s always something going on in the city.

Summer

Reykjavik’s summer months run from June to August, bringing midnight sun and near-endless daylight, peaking with 21 hours of sunlight each day around the summer solstice. it’s the primary tourist season, which brings a vibrant atmosphere to the city and crowds at major attractions like the Blue Lagoon. The mild weather is perfect for road trips along Iceland’s Ring Road, a circular route around the island that passes by must-visit spots like Vik and the iconic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Various events run throughout the summer, including the Reykjavik Fringe Festival and lively parades celebrating the National Day of Iceland.

Fall

Fall in Reykjavik spans from September to November and typically signals the return of the Northern Lights. Aurora activity is regular throughout the season, and weather conditions are often more favorable for successful sightings of this natural phenomenon than in winter. Cool temperatures are to be expected, so wear layers when exploring outdoor attractions like Thingvellir National Park. Fall also brings various cultural events, including the Iceland Airwaves musical festival and the Reykjavik Dance Festival.

Winter

From December to February, Reykjavik’s winter months bring snow-dusted streets, festive charm, and freezing temperatures. With as little as four hours of sunlight per day, visiting outdoor attractions requires precise timing to explore Iceland’s natural wonders before nightfall. The Aurora Borealis is common throughout winter, but sightings depend on weather conditions — with snow storms and cloudy skies regularly obscuring the view. Among winter’s highlights are the annual Christmas market at ingólfstorg Square and Reykjavik’s epic New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Reykjavik’s top 5 must-visit attractions

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The world-famous Blue Lagoon is a must-visit on your first time in Reykjavik.

1. Blue Lagoon

Relax in soothing geothermal pools surrounded by rugged lava fields at the world-famous Blue Lagoon. its mineral-rich waters rejuvenate the mind and body amidst Iceland’s volcanic landscapes.

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Photo: Alexander Maschler

Experience the power of the iconic Gullfoss waterfall on Iceland’s Golden Circle.

2. Golden Circle

Discover natural wonders on Iceland’s Golden Circle, a popular scenic route encompassing the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and the Geysir geothermal area.

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Visit Thingvellir National Park to swim between continental plates in the crystal clear waters of the Silfra fissure.

3. Silfra

Brave the chilly glacial waters of Silfra for the unique opportunity to snorkel between tectonic plates. With unparalleled underwater visibility, often exceeding 328 feet (100 meters), the conditions are perfect for exploring the impressive rock formations on this continental boundary.

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Photo: Brooke Davidson

Join an aurora tour for the chance to see the dancing colors of the Northern lights in the night sky.

4. Northern Lights

Witnessing the dazzling displays of the Northern Lights is among the top things to do in Reykjavik for first-timers. Sightings depend on the season, weather conditions, and aurora activity, so take advantage of dedicated Northern Lights tours to maximize your chance of success.

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The Perlan Museum’s wonderful interactive exhibits make it one of Iceland’s top museums.

5. Perlan Museum

Uncover Iceland’s fascinating history and geology at Reykjavik’s Perlan Museum. it’s known for its wonderful immersive exhibits, which include an artificial indoor ice cave and a high-tech planetarium.

Discover experiences at Reykjavik’s top attractions

Best 3 neighborhoods to explore in Reykjavik

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The central Miðborg neighborhood is the perfect setting for your stay in Reykjavik.

1. Miðborg

Miðborg, one of Reykjavik’s must-visit neighborhoods, is home to charming streets, cozy cafes, and iconic landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja. Laugavegur, the city’s main shopping street, boasts various Icelandic stores and restaurants, while the neighborhood’s waterfront offers scenic mountain views and the famous Sun Voyager sculpture. With everything you need within easy walking distance, it’s an ideal place to stay on your first time in Reykjavik.

2. Vesturbær

Vesturbær is a laid-back residential neighborhood just a short walk from downtown Reykjavik. Sightseeing cruises regularly depart from the neighborhood’s picturesque harbor, Grandi, while the Vesturbæjarlaug geothermal swimming pool is a social hub for the local community.

3. Laugardalur

Laugardalur, or “Hot Spring Valley,” is one of Reykjavik’s best-loved outdoor areas. its open-air geothermal pools, Laugardalslaug, are popular all year round, while pathways through the Grasagardur Botanical Garden offer a more tranquil escape from the city streets.

Explore walking tours of Reykjavik’s best neighborhoods

What to eat in Reykjavik

Reykjavik’s cuisine uses fresh, local ingredients like seafood, lamb, and dairy products. These are the must-try dishes for first-time visitors.

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Skyr, a staple in Icelandic cuisine, is a must-try for first-timers in Reykjavik.

Main dishes to try

1. Skyr

A staple of Icelandic cuisine, Skyr is a mild yogurt-like dairy product often served with berries or sugar for a sweeter taste.

2. Icelandic hot dog

This is a local spin on a world-famous dish, with tasty Icelandic lamb sausages served in a soft bread bun and topped with sweet mustard.

3. Plokkfiskur

Plokkfiskur is a comforting Icelandic fish stew that combines mashed fish, potatoes, and béchamel sauce and is typically served alongside rye bread.

4. Lobster soup

Icelandic lobster soup is made with fresh, locally sourced langoustines reduced into a creamy broth. it’s a must-try for seafood lovers.

5. Kleinur

A less-sweet version of a doughnut, Kleinur is made from twisted deep-fried dough and is a popular snack at Reykjavik’s cafes.

Discover food tours in Reykjavik

Getting to Reykjavik

Flying into Keflavik airport

Keflavik international Airport is Iceland’s main international airport, located just 30 miles from Reykjavik city center. Airport buses run regularly to and from Reykjavik, while taxis offer a quicker but more expensive alternative.

Mjódd Bus Station

Mjódd station offers bus routes to and from destinations across Iceland, such as Akureyri and Selfoss. Located on the outskirts of Reykjavik, it’s easy to reach the city center by bus or taxi.

Getting around Reykjavik

Getting around Reykjavik is simple, thanks to its compact city center. Most attractions are within walking distance of each other, while reliable bus services make longer journeys a breeze.

Exploring Reykjavik on foot

Reykjavik is an easily walkable city, with sites like Hallgrimskirkja and the Harpa Concert Hall within walking distance of each other. Discovering the city on foot is one of the best things to do in Reykjavik for first-timers, allowing you to soak up the charm and admire scenic views from the waterfront.

Public transportation in Reykjavik

Buses are a convenient option for longer journeys, with regular services to and from major attractions around the city. Tickets can be purchased on board, but make sure to have the exact change. Alternatively, Reykjavik city cards offer free bus journeys in the city alongside free entry to several museums and attractions.

Get Reykjavik city cards

What to avoid in Reykjavik

  • If you’re exploring by car, avoid stopping in the middle of the road for pictures of the stunning Icelandic scenery. Doing so is dangerous and illegal, so stick to designated parking areas and official viewpoints.
  • Resist the temptation to collect natural souvenirs like lava rocks or sand. Doing so without a permit is illegal and disrupts Iceland’s beautiful nature.
  • Drones are prohibited in certain areas, such as Gullfoss and the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach in Vik, so pay attention to signs and check the rules before flying one.
  • Avoid well-lit areas when looking for the Northern Lights, as light pollution can obscure the view even when aurora activity is high.

First-timers’ guide to Reykjavik: FAQs

How many days should you spend in Reykjavik as a first-time visitor?

Three or four days is perfect for first-timers in Reykjavik, allowing time to explore the city and see the iconic sights of the Golden Circle. Adding an extra day or two is worthwhile if you plan to venture further afield on day trips.

Do you need a car to get around Reykjavik?

Many of Reykjavik’s main attractions are within walking distance of each other, so there’s no need for a car to get around the city itself, and you can also book organized tours to see the Blue Lagoon and do the Golden Circle. However, renting a car is worthwhile for longer excursions to places like Vik and the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik?

The Northern Lights are active in Reykjavik, but light pollution will affect visibility in the city. Head to darker areas outside the city when aurora activity is high for the best chance of a successful sighting.

Can you pay by credit card in Reykjavik?

Credit cards are widely accepted across Reykjavik and are the primary form of payment at most bars, restaurants, and hotels. While it can be worthwhile to have a small amount of cash for tipping or public transport, in most cases, card payments are the norm.

What is the tipping policy in Reykjavik?

Tipping isn’t customary in Iceland, as service charges are often included on the bill. In cases of exceptional service, a tip of 10% of the bill is considered fair.

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