Reykjavik Travel Guide

Are you looking for some fun things to do in Reykjavik? The Land of Fire and Ice has plenty of cool activities in Reykjavik. Ride over an ancient glacier and whizz past unique geological formations on a snowmobile. See superheated lava poured right in front of you in a showroom. Enjoy a spa day and bathe in geothermally-heated waters. From spotting whales and puffins in the summer months to witnessing the stunning phenomenon of the Northern Lights in winter, discover the most fun things to do in Reykjavik in this list.

There’s no shortage of fun museums in Reykjavik, whether you want to learn more about Iceland’s fascinating past at the National Museum of Iceland or see how the Vikings once lived at The Settlement Exhibition. Beyond the history, understand more about the Northern Lights at Aurora Reykjavik. As for art, check out contemporary experimental works at The Living Art Museum, or embark on a transformative journey at Chromo Sapiens. With such a wide selection to choose from, here’s a curated list of the best museums in Reykjavik according to your interests.

When it comes to art, Iceland’s capital is the place to be. With an abundance of astounding art museums, from independent alternative art galleries to collections of the country’s most famous artists, there’s something for every art lover in Reykjavik. Explore extensive exhibitions of national and international art at the National Gallery of Iceland, or support local artists and their experimental installations at The Living Art Museum. A variety of styles can be admired at Reykjavik Art Museum, which spans three sites and is home to the largest collection of art in Iceland. And that’s not to mention the colorful street art that can be found on every corner. Whatever your taste, discover the best art museums in Reykjavik in this curated list.

Reykjavik has plenty to offer during its summer months, from kid-friendly activities to interesting places to visit that will help you to understand Icelandic culture. While many opt to visit in the winter in order to see the northern lights, visiting Reykjavik in summer will offer incredibly long daylight hours, making it easier to cram in various activities and create an action-packed vacation to remember forever.

Iceland’s capital may be home to iconic buildings and monuments, but there’s more to the city than meets the eye. Get off the beaten path in Reykjavik and discover the most underrated attractions. Wander the old town streets, see graffiti art on every corner, and taste unusual foods around the city. Skip the popular lagoons and relax in Laugardalslaug Baths. Or journey back into the past at Árbær Open Air Museum, which is a great day out for all the family. Whether you’d like to avoid the crowds or are keen to get off the beaten track, this list of secret places, underrated attractions, and hidden gems in Reykjavik is for you.

Iceland’s capital has no shortage of impressive landmarks and monuments, from architectural masterpieces to natural wonders. Journey back in time and learn how modern Reykjavik came to be at the National Museum of Iceland. Or be transported into the future and admire the futuristic and striking architecture of the award-winning Harpa Concert Hall. Art lovers can enjoy artistic monuments, including the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture depicting a Viking longboat. Outdoorsy types will love exploring the natural landmarks of Faxafloi Bay, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park — once the site of Iceland’s first parliament. Whatever your interest, discover the most famous site in the city with this list of the best landmarks and monuments in Reykjavik.

With tastes tantalizing every tastebud, finding delicious food in Reykjavik is easy. Start the day with a bowl of Skyr, a sweet, strained yogurt that’ll set you up for a day of sightseeing. When searching for lunch food that Reykjavik is known for, succulent Icelandic lamb or a warming bowl of lobster soup is perfect. End the day with a hearty dish of plokkfiskur (fish stew) before finishing it with a sweet treat like ástarpungar or kleinur — lightly spiced fried dough. Whether you’re looking for a multi-course gourmet meal or a quick bite, discover the best food in Reykjavik on this list.

When it comes to romantic things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital has no shortage of exciting activities to do as a couple. If you want restoration, relax with your loved one and visit a geothermally heated spa lagoon, pampering your mind, body, and soul. For adventurous couples, snorkeling through tectonic plates in a volcanic national park is not to be missed. While strolling through Hot Spring Valley and enjoying a picnic in the Botanic Gardens is a lovely laid-back way to spend the day. Whether planning an epic date, seeking anniversary ideas, or looking to celebrate a special occasion, find the most romantic things to do in Reykjavik in this list.

While there’s an endless list of fun activities to do in Reykjavik during the day, it’s nighttime when the city comes alive. Watch the sunset from a geothermal lagoon or head up to the viewing platform at the top of Perlan’s large glass dome. After dark, the summer months see never-ending daylight as the midnight sun refuses to set — the perfect excuse to continue sightseeing in the evening. And if you’re traveling in the winter months, don’t miss out on the once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing the Northern Lights. Start your evening trip planning with this list of the best things to do in Reykjavik at night.

When it comes to fun things to do in Reykjavik with kids, Iceland’s capital is jam-packed with family-friendly activities and attractions to choose from. But where do you start in a city filled with interactive exhibitions and immersive experiences? If you’d like to see Reykjavik’s landmarks and monuments, head to the Hallgrimskirkja clock tower for a panoramic city vista. Outdoorsy families will love Laugardalur Valley, which is great for running around or picnicking. While walking among gentle giants at Whales of Iceland is fun for all the family. Discover fun, educational, and inspiring family-friendly activities in Reykjavik in this complete list.

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