Plan your trip to

Reykjavik, Iceland

Discover Reykjavik

Where colorful houses line the harbor, locals party hard, and you can't miss a stop at the world's most famous hot dog stand

Often overlooked in favor of the stunningly beautiful countryside, Iceland's capital and largest city is worth exploring on its own. Despite its small size, the quirky city — which feels more like a big town —   bustles with modern art museums, inventive restaurants that mix traditional ingredients with cutting-edge techniques, and boutiques selling handmade goods from local designers. Here, Iceland's endlessly creative culture is on full display in bookstores, bars, food halls, and flea markets.

You can take a food tour (don't miss a stop at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a hot dog stand with a cult following) or go whale watching by day, and then catch an opera or symphony at the Harpa Concert Hall by night. Or head just a short way out of town to explore some of the country's mind-boggling landscapes and then return in time for a Michelin-starred dinner and evening of the city's famously hard-partying nightlife, which doesn't even get into full swing until well after midnight and goes until 5am on weekends.

Why we love Reykjavik

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Compact and walkable, Reykjavik blends colorful houses, bold street art, and a vibrant café culture. Stroll down Laugavegur for local shops, indie galleries, and design-forward boutiques, or head to the harbor where old fishing boats meet modern architecture. At night, walk to a cozy bar or two to catch some live local music.
Nature blends into city life here. You’re never far from the sea, the mountains, or a geothermal pool. Locals bike along the waterfront, hike nearby trails after work, and soak under the stars in hot tubs all winter long. Life here is lived outdoors, even when it’s cold.
Icelandic cuisine has evolved beyond fermented shark (though you can try it if you’re brave). Reykjavik’s dining scene is bold and exciting, with cozy cafés, seafood-forward tasting menus, vegan bakeries, and top-tier Nordic restaurants fueled by local lamb, skyr, and geothermal-grown produce. Don’t miss the fresh cinnamon buns (called kanilsnúðar) or pylsur (hot dogs), either.
Reykjavik may not have the Eiffel Tower, but it does have Hallgrímskirkja, a dramatic, basalt-inspired church that towers above the city — and some of the best views around. Add in Harpa Concert Hall, the Sun Voyager sculpture, and the ever-changing street art, and it’s clear: this little city knows how to make a statement.
Reykjavik is the perfect launchpad for an unforgettable day of volcanoes, waterfalls, and wide-open wilderness. Within a couple of hours, you can walk between tectonic plates at Þingvellir National Park, or watch geysers erupt and waterfalls thunder along the famous Golden Circle. Drive a bit farther to see black sand beaches, or glacier lagoons full of floating icebergs.

Reykjavik at a glance

When to go

summerAvg temp58° / 44°
fallAvg temp57° / 42°

Visa information

U.S. State Department guidance

Safety

World Peace Index rankingEqualdex score

Getting There

Long-haul international flights arrive at Iceland's main airport, Keflavik, about 45 minutes from the city. Taxis are available but very expensive; opt for one of the shuttle buses that run every 15-30 minutes to the city center.

Reykjavik airports

  • Keflavík International AirportKEF
    55km / 34mito city center
    TaxiShuttle bus
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Reykjavik flight trends

Analysis based on point.me exclusive flight data

Average fares

economy class

100¢/pointFare value

Typical cash

$958

Typical points

55,000pts

Lowest points

55,000pts
Average fares

business class

100¢/pointFare value

Typical cash

$5,596

Typical points

295,000pts

Lowest points

295,000pts

Explore Reykjavik

Petite Reykjavik offers plenty to do; but here are the must-sees for the quintessntial Icelandic experience.

Stroll through the Old Harbor
Get cultured at the National Gallery of Iceland
Walk the Sculpture & Shore Walk
Eat (and drink) like a local
Catch sunset from Perlan

Destinations near Reykjavik

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Frequently asked questions

  • How many days is enough for Reykjavik?

    Four days will give you time to see the highlights of central Reykjavik, explore some of the Golden Circle Route, and visit the Blue Lagoon (or another hot springs attraction).

  • When is the best weather in Reykjavik?

    Late spring to early fall (May–September) offers the mildest weather and the most daylight. July and August are the warmest months, while May and September are quieter and still pleasant for exploring.

  • When is the cheapest time to go to Reykjavik?

    Winter (November to March, excluding holidays) tends to be the most affordable for flights and hotels. You’ll trade longer nights and chillier temps, but gain a chance to see the northern lights.

  • How far is the airport from Reykjavik?

    Keflavík International Airport is about 50 kms (31 mi) from downtown Reykjavik. The ride takes 45–60 minutes by bus, airport shuttle, or taxi.

  • Is Reykjavik safe?

    Reykjavik is one of the safest capitals in the world. Crime is extremely low, but as with any destination, it’s wise to stay aware and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist areas.

  • Do I need to rent a car in Reykjavik?

    Not for city exploring, as Reykjavik is walkable and has good bus service. But if you want to explore Iceland’s countryside and natural wonders independently, renting a car is highly recommended.

  • Is Reykjavik expensive?

    Yes — it’s one of Europe’s priciest destinations, especially for food and lodging. Expect to pay $200–$300 per night for a central hotel and around $20–$30 for a casual meal. That said, nature is free, and many of the city’s best experiences (like geothermal pools and scenic walks) are low-cost.