10 Things I Love to Do in Reykjavík

Local journalist Jenna Gottlieb tells us about the 10 things she loves to do in Reykjavik. Use this guide to create your own special Reykjavik day! 

Reykjavík may be a compact capital city, but there‘s so much to do and see, from exploring art galleries to sipping delicious coffee in charming cafes. And while Reykjavík can seem quite urban with its shops and restaurants, nature is never too far away. Here are 10 of my favorite things to do in Reykjavík.

Enjoy a coffee at one of Reykjavík‘s fantastic cafes

Iceland is a nation of coffee drinkers, and the options for a quality cup of java increase every year. Hands down, my favorite place to get a coffee in the newly opened Kaffi-Ó-le, which serves coffee from what I think is the best coffee roaster in Iceland, Kaffibrugghúsið. Other cafes to check out are Mikki Refur, Reykjavík Roasters, and Mokka.

Go record shopping

Reykjavík is a musical city and has birthed some international crossover artists like Sigur Rós, Kaleo, Of Monsters and Men, and of course, Björk. But, there are a lot of other local bands and artists to check out, and 12 Tónar is an excellent place for that. This is a landmark, a cultural institution, and you can enjoy a coffee or a beer when browsing for music. Check out Reykjavík Record Shop, Lucky Records, and Smekkleysa (Bad Taste) as well.

Take a dip in a pool

Swimming is a central part of Icelandic culture, and if you don’t visit a pool or two during your stay in Iceland, you’re missing out. Each pool has its character and local flavor, and, for roughly $8, it’s a great way to spend a few leisurely hours. When in Reykjavík, check out Sundhöllin, Vesturbærlaug, or Laugardalslaug.

Visit Grótta Lighthouse

Northwest of Reykjavík sits Grótta, a lovely lighthouse you can walk to during low tide. Grótta has its charms in any season. In the summer, it‘s a beautiful place to spend some time walking around, watching birds, and sitting by the sea. However, on a winter night, however, Grótta is ideal for spotting the northern lights in favorable conditions. There‘s nothing quite like watching the lights flicker and dance in the sky.

Walk around Tjörnin

Tjörnin is a small body of water, rich with birdlife, situated next to Reykjavík City Hall. When the weather is nice, a walk around the pond is delightful, about 1.5 kilometers around. Sculptures and benches dot the perimeter.

Roam Þúfa hill

Near Grandi, an interesting structure that is fun to walk on and photograph, Þúfa. The large, grassy dome was designed by Icelandic artist Ólöf Nordal and featured a narrow footpath that leads to the top. When in Grandi, you can stop by Omnom Chocolate or Valdís for some ice cream or buy freshly roasted coffee from Kaffibrugghúsið.

Grab some drinks

Reykjavík may be small, but its nightlife is epic, and there‘s a downtown pub to suit all tastes. Some favorites are Röntgen, Kaffibarinn, and Kaldi.

Hike Esja

Esja looms over Reykjavík and is a favorite among locals and the subject of thousands of photographs snapped by tourists. At nearly 3,000 feet, it‘s an easy climb with beautiful views on a clear day.

Catch some live music

An inherently musical city, Reykjavík has several venues to check out everything from DJs to rock bands to jazz concerts. There‘s something for everyone. Mengi is an excellent spot for experimental music, Gaukurinn for rock or a fun drag show, Skuggabaldur for jazz, and Harpa for more established artists. And Iceland Airwaves in November is always a favorite!

Check out some art

There‘s never a dull moment in the city‘s art scene. From established museums to hole-in-the-wall galleries, there‘s a lot to see. A current favorite is the Nullið art gallery, which holds exhibitions in what used to be the public toilets downtown, and the small space has been transformed to host interesting shows from time to time. I also love the Einar Jónsson sculpture park close to Hallgrímskirkja, and it‘s especially lovely in the winter.