Our one-day itinerary maximizes your time in Reykjavík where ancient sagas meet modern culture. Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, Reykjavík’s excellent museums and stunning art galleries. End the day relaxing at a thermal spa. We fill every moment in Iceland’s dynamic capital.
Table of Contents
One Day in Reykjavík Itinerary
This is the perfect itinerary to explore Reykjavík in just one day.
Our 1-day itinerary is ideal for cruise passengers and also great for those who want to briefly visit Reykjavík before driving Iceland’s Ring Road, as we did.
- Start your visit at the gleaming Sun Voyager Sculpture on Reykjavík’s scenic waterfront.
- Take the elevator to the top of Hallgrimskirkja Church for panoramic city views.
- Journey through 1,200 years of history at the National Museum of Iceland.
- Walk around freshwater Tjornin Lake in central Reykjavík, surrounded by parkland and historic buildings.
- View contemporary Icelandic art at the National Gallery of Iceland.
- People-watch from the bustling cafés of Austurvollur Square located near Parliament House.
- Visit one of the museums in the City Centre such as the fascinating Settlement Exhibition.
- Walk around Reykjavík’s Old Harbour and visit one of its many attractions, including the Maritime Museum.
- Enjoy excellent local cuisine at one of Downtown Reykjavík’s Restaurants or vibrant Food Halls.
- Soak in the geothermal waters at the famous Blue Lagoon.
- Alternatively, stay in the city and relax in one of the local Thermal Spas and Swimming Pools.
With more time in the city, enjoy these fantastic things to do:
- See majestic marine life on a memorable Whale Watching excursion.
- Explore attractions Beyond Downtown Reykjavík including interactive exhibits at the Perlan Museum.
- In the evening, attend a performance at the magnificent Harpa Concert Hall.
Reykjavík Map with Attractions
Use our handy map to discover all of the key attractions in Reykjavík.
Sun Voyager Sculpture
The Sun Voyager sculpture symbolizes hope and exploration and is a popular photo stop on the waterfront. This stainless steel sculpture, which resembles a Viking longship, appears as if it is floating on air promising undiscovered territory ahead.
Created by artist Jón Gunnar Árnason commemorating Reykjavík’s 200th anniversary, it was unveiled in 1990. Sadly he passed away in 1989.
While the sculpture reflects the sun beautifully at any time of day, its placement on the waterfront frames stunning sunsets over the Faxaflói Bay. Our visit was later in the day.
Almost due south of Sun Voyager is one of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks on Skólavörðuholt, the highest point in the city.
Hallgrímskirkja Church
Hallgrímskirkja’s white, concrete structure is visible from anywhere in Reykjavík. The church’s façade was inspired by Iceland’s volcanic landscape, resembling the distinctive hexagonal columns formed when basalt lava cools.
The Evangelical-Lutheran parish church is Iceland’s largest church, and one of its tallest, with its tower almost 75 metres high. The tower’s observation deck offers one of the city’s best viewpoints. Take the elevator up for panoramic views extending up to 20 kilometres on clear days.
In addition to being Iceland’s largest church, Hallgrímskirkja also contains the country’s largest pipe organ, installed in 1992. The organ is 15 metres tall, weighs about 25 tons, and features 5,275 pipes with some individual pipes as tall as 10 metres. Hallgrímskirkja often hosts concerts and cultural events as well as regular church services.
In front of the church, the Leif Eriksson Monument stands just over 5 metres tall on a granite pedestal designed to resemble a Viking ship’s prow. Created by American sculptor Alexander Stirling Calder, it memorializes Eriksson, the first European to land in North America, centuries before Columbus. Unveiled in 1932, it was a gift from the United States to Iceland for the 1,000th anniversary of the Alþingi, the world’s oldest parliament.
Discover the works of Iceland’s first professional sculptor in the Einar Jónsson Museum across Eiríksgata, opposite the church. Jónsson built the building for his apartment and studio. He donated it, as well as his works, creating Iceland’s first public art museum. Over 300 works showcase his distinct style over a 60-year career. The apartment provides a unique look at his lifestyle.
The neighbouring Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. This free-to-enter, outdoor space displays 26 bronze casts of Jónsson’s sculptures, complementing the museum’s indoor exhibits.
About a kilometre west is Iceland’s excellent national history museum.
National Museum of Iceland
Explore Iceland’s captivating history at the National Museum of Iceland. The permanent exhibition, “Making of a Nation”, is the 1200-year story of the development of Iceland’s culture and heritage. Explore seven distinct time periods, each offering unique insights into the country’s development from early settlement to the present day.
One of the museum’s most prized possessions is the Valþjófsstaður door, a remarkable 12th-century artifact adorned with intricate carvings and runic inscriptions. The museum is spread across three floors. Its interactive displays bring history to life, ensuring a fun experience for all ages.
The green space to the southeast, beside the busy ring road Hringbraut. is the Vatnsmýri Nature Reserve. On the north side of the ring road is the south end of the Pond.
Tjörnin Lake – A Walk Around “The Pond”
The Pond, as Tjörnin Lake is affectionately called by locals, is a shallow lake in the heart of Reykjavík. It formed over a thousand years ago when a gravel bar grew at the edge of the ocean and created an inland, saltwater lake. The lake was replenished with salt water by a stream connecting the two. As the city centre developed between the ocean and the Pond, the connection disappeared. By 1989 Tjörnin was a freshwater lake and the centre of a unique urban ecosystem.
The area is home to over 40 different bird species including Arctic Tern, Eider and Mallard Ducks, geese and seagulls. Many species are migratory but some stay all winter since part of the Pond does not freeze over. It has become a popular spot for birdwatching.
Tjörnin and the neighbouring parks are surrounded by significant landmarks, including City Hall and the National Gallery of Iceland.
The Reykjavík City Hall is located on Tjörnin’s northwestern corner. The beautiful building, inaugurated in 1992, is an excellent example of modern architecture, blending glass and concrete to create a striking structure.
Be sure to go inside to the Visitor’s Centre. (Don’t assume city hall is closed on the weekend as we did.) See the large 3D topographical map of Iceland, showcasing the country’s diverse geography including its volcanoes and glaciers, and several other exhibits. The building serves not only as the city’s administrative centre but also hosts cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
A number of sculptures and art pieces have been installed along the paths and throughout the parks. On our walk around the lake, we saw beautiful buildings and interesting art.
On the west side of Tjörnin and north of the street Skothúsvegur, share a bench with Tómas Guðmundsson, celebrated Icelandic poet and writer. His lyrical poetry often carried themes of nature, identity, and urban life and influenced modern Icelandic poetry.
Tjörnin is unevenly split by Skothúsvegur’s causeway and bridge. The southern part of the Pond is surrounded by Hljómskálagarður. This treed park has excellent walking and cycling paths.
The park gets its name from the Hljómskálinn, an octagonal, tower-like structure built in 1923 in the northeast corner of the park. It was the first building in Iceland specifically constructed for use by musicians. Designed for the Reykjavík brass band, its name translates to “The Sound Pavilion” and it played a major role in the development of Reykjavík’s musical scene.
The pretty garden Hallargarðurinn sits diagonally across the intersection to the northeast. Several sculptures stand out among its colourful flowerbeds and winding paths. It was designed by Jón H. Björnsson, Iceland’s first trained landscape architect.
Continuing north along the Pond there are 2 white buildings. The Lutheran Free Church, with the green steeple of the bell tower, is an independent Lutheran church established in 1899. Its pipe organ (one of Iceland’s best), high ceilings and large windows make it popular for hosting both secular and non-secular events and gatherings.
The larger, white building beside it, housing the National Gallery, was an ice house when constructed in the first part of the 20th century.
National Gallery of Iceland
Founded in Copenhagen in 1884, and relocated to Reykjavík in 1950, the current building was beautifully renovated and adapted for museum use in 1987. Its spacious galleries are the perfect setting to explore the extensive collection of over 15,000 works. The collection focuses on 19th and 20th-century Icelandic art and shows its evolution and international influences.
Exhibitions rotate throughout the year, featuring both Icelandic and international artists, highlighting Iceland’s rich artistic heritage. Works range from traditional paintings and sculptures to contemporary photography and multimedia installations. There are significant works by Icelandic artists such as Jóhannes S. Kjarval and Ásgrímur Jónsson.
More pieces of the National Gallery’s collection are on exhibit in the gallery’s House of Collections at 15 Hverfisgata, less than a 10 minute walk to the northeast.
Walk north along the Pond to Magnús Tómasson’s Monument to the Unknown Official. This sculpture, made of bronze and basalt, recognizes the everyday “faceless” city officials on their way to work. Turn north and walk to the lively public square.
Austurvöllur Square
The statue of Jón Sigurðsson, a pivotal figure in Iceland’s fight for independence sits at the centre of leafy, 18th-century Austurvöllur Square. Alþingishúsið or Parliament House, and Dómkirkjan, the Reykjavík Cathedral, are on the south side of the square.
With its location in the city’s centre and at the front door of government, Austurvöllur Square has seen celebrations and protests. In warm weather, outdoor patios of area cafés and restaurants line its north side. During the holiday season, a large Christmas tree graces the centre. What a great spot to people-watch and feel the pulse of the city and country.
Iceland’s Parliament House, constructed in 1881 using locally quarried grey volcanic rock, is the home of the Alþing, one of the world’s oldest surviving parliaments. The building’s façade features ornate details including the crown and crest of King Christian IX of Denmark, monarch of Iceland at the time of the building’s construction. Four bas-reliefs on the second floor show Iceland’s guardian spirits: a giant, a great bird, a bull, and a dragon. Iceland’s oldest public garden, created in the late 19th century, is tucked behind the building surrounded by a stone wall.
The Alþing assembled outdoors at what is now Þingvellir National Park from its founding in 930 AD until 1799. Parliament was dissolved in 1798 and reconvened in 1845 in Reykjavík, moving into Parliament House in 1881.
Each session of parliament begins with mass at Dómkirkjan Cathedral, followed by a procession to Parliament House. Dómkirkjan, consecrated in 1796, is Reykjavík’s oldest church and the principal Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland. Admire the painted altarpiece adorned with a vine of gilded silver and Icelandic agate. The baptismal font was designed by Danish-Icelandic sculptor Albert Thorvaldsen, known for his work in Rome.
From the northwest corner of Austurvöllur Square, walk to Ingólfur Square, in the core of the City Centre. Named after Iceland’s first settler, Ingólfur Arnarson, the square is at the intersection of two of Reykjavík’s oldest streets, Austurstræti and Aðalstræti. Surrounded by a mix of restaurants and cafés, the square serves as a popular meeting point and hosts various seasonal events, including an ice rink during winter. It’s the perfect spot to stop for a meal or just take a break.
Opposite the square is the city’s oldest house, built in 1762, which is part of Reykjavík City Museum’s Aðalstræti.
City Centre Museums and Galleries
Reykjavík’s city centre is home to a diverse range of museums and galleries that offer a look at Icelandic history and culture.
Aðalstræti – the Settlement Exhibition begins at Aðalstræti 16 and runs underground to Aðalstræti 10. The exhibits explore Reykjavík’s early history from a settlement period farmstead to the present city. The archaeological remains of a 10th-century Viking longhouse, dating from approximately 930 to 1000 AD, is a museum highlight. We highly recommend visiting Aðalstræti if you have limited time.
Continue north on Aðalstræti, follow the curve and take the first right onto the short street Grófin. At the end of the street, across from each other, are the Museum of Photography and the Reykjavík Art Museum’s Hafnarhús.
Each Reykjavík Art Museum (there are 3 throughout the city) has a different focus. At Hafnarhús find modern, progressive art by both Icelandic and international artists. The works of Erró, a renowned Icelandic visual artist and painter, are permanently on display. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, showcasing emerging talents and established artists alike.
These are the museums and galleries in Reykjavík’s City Centre and Downtown.
| Name | Known For |
| Aðalstræti – Settlement Exhibition | Interactive exhibition showing growth of Reykjavík from a small farmstead to a city, includes archaeological remains of a 10th-century Viking longhouse (a Reykjavík City Museum). |
| RAM Hafnarhús | Contemporary exhibitions housed in former harbour warehouse. Local and international artists and features Erró’s permanent collection. |
| National Gallery of Iceland | Icelandic and international art collection spanning 19th to 20th century works, in different formats. |
| National Museum of Iceland | Permanent exhibition ‘Making of a Nation’ showcasing 1200-year story of the development of Iceland’s culture and heritage. |
| Icelandic Phallological Museum | Houses the world’s largest collection of phallic specimens, featuring over 300 items from 100+ mammalian species. Exhibits are presented in a humorous yet educational manner. |
| Reykjavík Museum of Photography | Extensive archive of 6 million photographs documenting Iceland’s history and culture, some dating back to around 1870 (a Reykjavík City Museum). |
To the north of the City Centre is the harbour.
Reykjavík Old Harbour
The Old Harbour has evolved from a traditional fishing port into a dynamic destination. We walked along the waterfront on the Sculpture and Shore Walk, a pedestrian and cycling path, and discovered a variety of museums and attractions along the way.
Start at the Einar Jónsson’s Looking Seawards statue. The figure gazes contemplatively toward the ocean, symbolizing Iceland’s historic connection to the sea.
Old Harbour House, at Ægisgarður, is the departure point for several boat excursions. Enjoy delicious meals and handcrafted drinks. If you have extra time in Reykjavík, we highly recommend booking a whale watching tour.
The pedestrian walk continues west to two of the most popular museums in the area.
The Reykjavík Maritime Museum showcases Iceland’s seafaring history, in a former fish freezing factory. The museum features interactive displays, a permanent exhibition entitled “150 Years of Fisheries” and maritime exhibitions from settlement through to the late 20th century. Moored outside the museum, the Coast Guard vessel Óðinn is open for guided tours. The museum is part of the Reykjavík City Museum.
Saga Museum is across the street, on the south side of Grandagarður. History is brought to life using life-like silicone figures depicting scenes from the Icelandic sagas. These immersive exhibits cover key moments in Icelandic history from the late 800s to the Reformation. Dress as a Viking in the museum’s costume studio.
We continued following the waterfront, on Grandagarður. Grandi Mathöll is one of Reykjavík’s great food halls featuring diverse cuisines from a number of vendors.
The street passes industrial lots formerly used by the fishing industry and ends at Marshall House. This former fish meal factory is a cultural centre housing several art exhibitions, a boutique shop and a beautiful restaurant.
One street to the west along Fiskislóð, find the Lava Show, Aurora Reykjavík and FlyOver Iceland. We continued west and enjoyed a sunny walk along the ocean on the Shore Walk which runs along the top of the seawall. Away from city lights, this is a great place to spot the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis on clear nights.
On our way back to the city centre, we discovered the Vesturgata Street Art. This neighbourhood is filled with colourful buildings and an ever-evolving collection of murals and graffiti.
This is a list of the many Old Harbour attractions which showcase the city’s maritime history and culture. There is something for everyone.
| Name | Known For |
| Reykjavík Maritime Museum | Iceland’s maritime history and fishing industry is presented in this former fish factory (a Reykjavík City Museum). |
| Saga Museum | Recreates key moments in Icelandic history and Viking sagas using life-like silicone figures. |
| The Living Art Museum | Contemporary and experimental art space in Marshall House featuring rotating exhibitions. |
| Lava Show | The only live lava show in the world featuring molten lava. Experience the power of volcanic eruptions. |
| Aurora Reykjavík | Interactive displays dedicated to the science and mythology of Northern Lights. |
| FlyOver Iceland | An immersive flight simulation over Iceland’s stunning mountains and glaciers with sensory effects. |
| Whales of Iceland | Europe’s largest whale exhibition featuring life-sized models of 23 species with interactive exhibits. |
Harpa Concert Hall
The distinctive glass façade of the Harpa Concert Hall resembles a honeycomb. The building is a shimmering architectural masterpiece on the waterfront which changes colour as the light changes.
This is the home of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra. The three large concert halls and smaller multifunctional hall have exceptional acoustics, a perfect setting for the concerts, operas and other performances which are held here year-round. Guided tours of the back-of-house areas are available.
Blue Lagoon
Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa, the Blue Lagoon is on most visitors’ must-do lists. The man-made lagoon features milky-blue seawater, rich in silica, algae and minerals at a comfortable 37 to 39°C. The healing properties of the water were discovered in the late 1980’s and early 90’s. The Blue Lagoon spa opened in 1992 and has evolved over the last decades into a world-renowned venue.
Relax in the lagoon and enjoy their signature silica mud masks. We enjoyed a glass of wine, from the swim-up bar, as we soaked in the lovely warm water. In addition, the complex includes a restaurant, gift shop, and premium spa.
The Blue Lagoon is conveniently located between Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík. Due to its popularity and limited capacity, be sure to book your entry tickets in advance. For those staying in Reykjavík, there is a ticket option which includes bus service to the lagoon.
For those staying in Reykjavík, the city has a variety of local thermal spas and pools, providing additional opportunities to relax and enjoy Iceland’s unique geothermal waters.
Reykjavík Thermal Spas and Geothermal Pools
Although the Blue Lagoon is larger and more famous, the newer Sky Lagoon offers a spa experience conveniently located closer to downtown Reykjavík. Enjoy the Sky Lagoon’s seven-step ritual experience, including a cold plunge pool and sauna with ocean views.
Iceland is known for its bathing culture. For those seeking a less touristy, more authentic bathing experience, the three local geothermal swimming pools noted below can also be enjoyed by tourists.
| Name | Known For |
| Sky Lagoon | Luxury spa featuring infinity pool with ocean views, steam rooms and various spa experiences. |
| Laugardalslaug Pool | Iceland’s largest outdoor thermal complex. Very popular with multiple pools and hot tubs fed by a geothermal spring. |
| Sundhöllin Swimming Pool | Historic indoor pool with hot tubs and art deco architecture. |
| Vesturbæjarlaug | Local favourite. Outdoor geothermal swimming pools, including one for kids, plus hot tubs and a sauna. |
Downtown Reykjavík Restaurants
After a day of exploring, indulge in the diverse culinary scene of downtown Reykjavík. From quick bites to fine dining, enjoy a meal at one of these fantastic restaurants in the area.
| Name | Known For |
| Café Loki | Authentic Icelandic home-style cuisine. |
| 101 Bistro | Fish & chips, pizzas, and local specialties. |
| Fish Company | Innovative and creative seafood presentations. Try their exceptional sushi. |
| Apotek Restaurant | Upscale dining in a historic pharmacy building with a fun ‘medical’ cocktail menu. Full course menus including lamb and duck confit. |
| Icelandic Street Food | Meals with authentic local soups and hearty stews served in a casual environment. |
| Messinn | Popular seafood restaurant specializing in pan-fried catch of the day. |
| Íslenski barinn | Traditional Icelandic dishes including lamb soup, fermented shark and reindeer. |
| 101 Reykjavík Street Food | Modern take on traditional Icelandic street food favorites, including Icelandic meat and seafood soups, fish & chips. |
| Sjávargrillið | Traditional grilled seafood and meat dishes. |
| Sandholt | Artisanal bakery and café known for its exceptional pastries and delicious sandwiches. |
| Old Iceland | Classic Icelandic cuisine serving traditional recipes of fish and meat. |
| Reykjavík Kitchen | Contemporary Nordic cuisine focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients in a friendly atmosphere. |
For a very unique experience, try Magic Ice Reykjavík. Enjoy the ice-art gallery with sculptures and a bar, all made in crystal clear ice. The drinks are even served in ice glasses.
Reykjavík Food Halls
Discover the culinary landscape of Reykjavík through its food halls. These gathering spaces combine the best of local and international cuisine. Sample a variety of foods all under one roof.
| Name | Known For |
| Pósthús Food Hall & Bar | Upscale dining hall with global cuisine including sushi, Indian, and Italian in historic City Centre post office. |
| Hafnartorg Gallery Food Hall | Contemporary food court offering diverse Scandinavian, French, Japanese, and gourmet street food, near Harpa Concert Hall. |
| Grandi Mathöll Food Hall | Korean, Thai, Italian, and seafood street vendors, located in the Old Harbour. |
| Hlemmur Food Hall | Italian, Vietnamese, Mexican dishes, fish and chips and more, city’s first food hall (2017) in a 1970’s former bus terminal, outside the downtown area. Local favourite. |
Reykjavík Whale Watching
With more time in Reykjavík, be sure to book an unforgettable whale watching tour.
Elding Adventure at Sea, the original whale tour operator in Reykjavík, offers a 3-hour, guided adventure with knowledgeable experts. It’s a chance to see minke whales, humpback whales, and white-beaked dolphins in Faxaflói Bay.
Beyond Downtown Reykjavík – More Museums and Galleries
With more time, explore these exceptional museums and galleries beyond downtown Reykjavík.
| Name | Known For |
| Perlan Natural History Museum | Interactive exhibits showcase Iceland’s natural wonders. Check out the ice cave exhibition and the stunning 360° viewing platform in the futuristic glass dome. |
| The House of Collections | Medieval manuscripts and contemporary art, showcasing Icelandic culture, in an elegant early 20th-century building (National Gallery). |
| Árbær Open Air Museum | A collection of historic buildings with costumed guides demonstrating crafts and traditional Icelandic life (a Reykjavík City Museum). |
| RAM Kjarvalsstaðir | Modern art museum, includes paintings and sculptures from several artists, but primarily dedicated to the works of Jóhannes S. Kjarval. |
| RAM Ásmundarsafn | Sculptures and artwork of sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson, housed in his former studio and a beautiful garden setting. |
| Viðey Island | A unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance including two of the country’s oldest buildings, with trails and rich birdlife, and a number of art installations. The ferry to the island runs in the summer and is free with the Reykjavík City Card. |
| Reykjavík Park and Zoo | Find Icelandic animals and a few from around the world. There are rides for all in the park. |
| Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum | Modern art museum exhibiting Sigurjón Ólafssons’s sculptures in his former home and studio on the waterfront near the cruise terminal. |
| National Gallery – Ásgríms Jónssonar House | Home of Jonssonar, bequeathed to the city along with his art. His art was merged into the National Gallery collection and his house is open for tours at times through the year. |
If you only have time for one museum beyond downtown, we recommend the Perlan. Enjoy fascinating exhibits along with fine dining and an excellent cocktail bar.
Reykjavík Accommodations
Looking for a hotel in Reykjavík?
Make Reykjavík your home base while exploring the surrounding area, including the Golden Circle. Check out these great options in the city:
- Hotel Lotus – A Superb Hotel in downtown Reykjavík
- Black Pearl Apartment Hotel – A Luxury apartment hotel in the heart of Old Reykjavík Harbour.
- Explore more great hotels in Reykjavík.
Know Before You Go – Visiting Reykjavík
How many days do you need in Reykjavík?
In one day, you can visit key attractions like Hallgrímskirkja Church and some City Centre museums. To properly explore Reykjavík, it’s best to allocate 2 to 3 days. This allows ample time to visit more museums, enjoy the local thermal pools, and try traditional cuisine.
For many, including us, Reykjavík serves as a starting point for a longer journey around Iceland’s Ring Road, so a one-day visit is a great introduction to the country.
Best Time to Visit Reykjavík?
For most visitors, the best time to visit Reykjavík is during the summer months (June through August). This period offers mild weather (around 10 to 15°C), the midnight sun, and optimal conditions for outdoor activities.
A winter visit provides opportunities to see the Northern Lights and experience winter activities, though daylight hours are limited and temperatures are typically around 0°C.
How do I get from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík City Centre?
The most convenient way to reach central Reykjavík from Keflavík Airport is via the Flybus. Alternatively, rental cars are available at the airport. The distance is approximately 50 kilometres and takes about 45 minutes.
The Flybus runs in connection with all flight arrivals. The buses depart right outside the terminal building.
Is Reykjavík a walkable city? Can I get around Reykjavík without a car?
Yes, Reykjavík’s downtown and city centre are very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. Most major attractions are within a 20 to 30 minute walk of each other.
For longer distances, public buses are available. Strætó, Reykjavík’s public bus system, offers comprehensive coverage of the city.
While a car is not necessary for visiting the city itself, it is useful if you plan to explore areas beyond the capital region.
Is Reykjavík an expensive city?
Yes, Reykjavík is considered one of the most expensive cities in Europe. Accommodation, dining out, and activities tend to come with premium prices. For example, a basic meal like fish and chips can cost nearly double what you might pay in other countries. Be sure to budget accordingly to make the most of your visit.
Is English widely spoken in Reykjavík? Do you tip in Restaurants?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Reykjavík, so you’ll have no trouble communicating. As for tipping, it is not expected in restaurants, as service charges are included in the bill.
Reykjavík City Card
The Reykjavík City Card is a convenient pass that provides visitors with free entry or a discount to many of the city’s museums and galleries, unlimited access to all public swimming pools in the city, and free travel on the local bus system. Available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, the card offers an economical way to explore Reykjavík’s attractions while enjoying discounts on various tours and activities. It is worth buying if you plan to visit 2 or more museums during your stay.
Explore All of our Iceland Road Trip Guides
Discover our complete series of detailed Iceland Guides to help you plan your perfect 7 to14 day adventure.
Main Article: 7 to 14 Day Iceland Road Trip
Part 1: Reykjavík – Explore the Capital City (You’re reading this guide now!)
Part 2: Golden Circle – Geysers, Waterfalls, and Ancient History
Part 3: Westman Islands – Puffins and Volcanic Wonders
Part 4: South Coast Iceland – Black Beaches, Glaciers and Waterfalls
Part 5: Northern Iceland and the Diamond Circle – Geothermal Wonders and Mighty Waterfalls
Part 6: Akureyri – Capital of the North
Part 7: West Iceland – Mystical Landscapes and Hidden Gems
