Things to do in and around Reykjavík: Activities, Attractions & Local Tips
Reykjavík might be one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to culture, creativity, and things to do. Whether you’ve got a full week or just 24 hours before hitting the Ring Road, the city delivers a mix of art, geothermal relaxation, and nightlife — all with views of the ocean and nearby mountains.
Day Tours & Experiences from Reykjavík
Think of Reykjavík not just as Iceland’s capital, but as your launchpad to a wild variety of one-day adventures. From volcanic ice caves to slow-simmering geothermal pools, these curated tours take you straight from the city streets into the island’s rawest, realest terrain — all in a day’s reach.
Ice Caves & Glacier Adventures
This 12-hour day tour combines the major attractions of the South Coast with an adventurous excursion to the Katla Ice Cave. Highlights include visiting the iconic waterfalls Seljalandsfoss (walk-behind) and Skógafoss, exploring the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach (basalt columns), and an included journey via Super Jeep to the Katla Ice Cave. This unique activity allows travelers to witness the stunning blue ice and volcanic ash layers inside a naturally formed glacier tunnel, offering an efficient blend of sightseeing and high-adventure activity.
From Reykjavík
12 hours
Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included
Easy to moderateThis 12-hour day trip from Reykjavík provides a focused itinerary covering geological and natural landmarks along the South Coast. Key attractions include a walk-behind experience at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, the majestic Skógafoss Waterfall (where you can climb to the top), a hike on the Sólheimajökull Glacier (with all necessary safety equipment provided), and a visit to the volcanic Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, home to basalt columns and Atlantic waves.
From Reykjavík 12 hours Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included Easy to moderateGolden Circle Tours
This 11-hour day tour combines the classic geological marvels of the Golden Circle with a relaxing visit to the renowned Blue Lagoon geothermal spa (Comfort admission included). Highlights feature the historic Þingvellir National Park (where you stand between two continents), the erupting Strokkur geyser at the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the powerful Gullfoss waterfall. Unlike many other tours, it also includes a stop at the vivid Kerid Volcanic Crater Lake, providing a complete and luxurious sightseeing experience.
From Reykjavík 11 hours Included
All YearThis 10-hour tour combines the major attractions of the Golden Circle with a guided snorkeling session in the Silfra Fissure.
From Reykjavík 10 hours Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included All YearThis 8-hour day tour provides a complete experience of the classic Golden Circle attractions, enhanced by two additional, unique natural sites. Highlights include the geological and historical wonders of Þingvellir National Park (tectonic rift), the erupting Strokkur geyser at the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the powerful Gullfoss waterfall. The tour also visits the secluded, sapphire-blue Brúarfoss Waterfall and the strikingly colored volcanic lake inside the Kerid Crater.
From Reykjavík 8 hours Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included All YearPeninsula & Scenic Drives
This 12-hour day trip from Reykjavík explores the diverse landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as "Iceland in Miniature." Highlights include the chance to see a seal colony at Ytri-Tunga Beach, visiting the historic Búðakirkja Black Church set in lava fields, exploring the dramatic coastal cliffs of Arnarstapi, viewing the unique Lóndrangar basalt pinnacles, and seeing the famous Kirkjufell Mountain (featured in Game of Thrones). This tour is an efficient way to experience a wide array of Iceland’s geology, history, and wildlife in a single day.
From Reykjavík 12 hours Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included All Year斯奈山（Snæfellsjökull）是位于冰岛西部斯奈山半岛上的一座壮丽火山，山顶被冰川覆盖，高度约1446米。这座火山以其神秘的自然景观和神话传说而闻名，甚至被称为“冰岛的圣山”。斯奈山冰川火山不仅是冰岛最具代表性的地标之一，还因法国科幻作家儒勒·凡尔纳的小说《地心游记》而闻名。斯奈山半岛也是大多数专业摄影师必去的地方。斯奈山半岛在1500万到700万年前曾是火山活动极为频繁的地区，如今它正逐渐成为好莱坞电影最常拍摄的冰岛景点，出现在《权力的游戏》《美国队长》和《白日梦想家》等电影中。
From Reykjavík 12 hours Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off includedReykjavík City Tours & Cultural Experiences
Would you like to experience the pinnacle of Icelandic cuisine? Well then this is definitely the way to go! The Reykjavík Food Walk is a fantastic way to start your trip to Iceland - either as a solo traveler or travelling in a group.
From Reykjavík 3.5 Hours All Year EasyYou’ll get the history of Iceland in a nutshell as well as recommendations on restaurants, bars and museums. The idea is to lay the foundation for the ideal trip to Iceland or to wrap up a journey of a lifetime with answers to the questions that have arisen during your stay. By the end of the walk, you’ll have a local friend and you’ve felt like you’ve seen the city in a different light.
From Reykjavík 2 Hours Easy All YearWitness Real Molten Lava in Reykjavík
From Reykjavík 1 Hour Not Included All YearActivities in Reykjavík
- Geothermal Spa & Pool Hopping Start with the locals’ favorite pastime: soaking. Visit the iconic Sky Lagoon for oceanfront views, the architectural Blue Lagoon (just outside the city), or go full Reykjavík-style at neighborhood pools like Sundhöllin, Laugardalslaug, or Vesturbæjarlaug — complete with hot pots and steam.
- City Walking Tours & History Trails Join a walking tour to uncover the city’s history, folklore, and street art. Free walking tours start from Austurvöllur, and themed walks (food, photography, Viking lore) offer a deeper look.
- Food Tours & Tasting Experiences Sample Icelandic specialties like lamb soup, rye bread ice cream, fermented shark (if you're brave), and fresh seafood. Bookable tours take you across the culinary scene — from fine dining to hot dog stands.
- Museum Visits & Exhibits Must-visits include:
- The National Museum of Iceland – for Viking history
- Perlan – Wonders of Iceland – includes a real ice cave and planetarium
- Reykjavík Art Museum – three locations, contemporary & classic
- Árbær Open Air Museum – historic houses & traditional life
- Whale Watching & Puffin Tours (seasonal) Departing from the Old Harbour, these boat tours get you close to minke whales, dolphins, and in summer, puffins.
- Reykjavík by Bike or E-Scooter Cover more ground and explore coastal paths, sculpture gardens, and downtown in under a few hours.
- Live Music, Bars & Comedy The city’s nightlife is bold and intimate — from jazz basements to techno clubs. Check out KEX Hostel, Húrra, or Gaukurinn, or catch local stand-up at English-friendly comedy nights.
Must-See Attractions in Reykjavík
- Hallgrímskirkja Church Reykjavík’s best-known landmark offers panoramic views from the tower. The design was inspired by Icelandic basalt columns.
- Harpa Concert Hall A striking glass building by the harbor — attend a show, explore the gift shop, or just enjoy the architecture.
- Sun Voyager Sculpture This stainless steel sculpture looks out over the ocean and Mt. Esja — a perfect photo stop and sunset spot.
- Old Harbour & Grandi Area Once industrial, now hip — this area is home to design stores, food halls, and attractions like the Whales of Iceland museum and FlyOver Iceland ride.
- Tjörnin Pond & City Hall A peaceful place to watch ducks and geese, with walking paths and city art. Stop inside City Hall for exhibitions and a giant topographical map of Iceland.
- Street Art & Public Murals Reykjavík is covered in large-scale murals — explore areas like Laugavegur and Hverfisgata for hidden gems and photo ops.
Reykjavík Photo Gallery: Explore Iceland’s Capital in Pictures
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a trip to Reykjavík? Find answers to the most common questions about things to do in Reykjavík, the best time to visit, where to eat, and how to explore Iceland’s capital. From day tours to local tips — everything you need to know before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reykjavík is the launchpad for several of Iceland’s top-rated day tours. You can head out to the Golden Circle, Katla Ice Cave, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Blue Lagoon, or South Coast & Glacier Hike — all reachable within a day. Most tours include pick-up from downtown accommodations.
Absolutely. Many ice cave and glacier hiking tours include roundtrip transfers from Reykjavík. Katla Ice Cave and Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike are among the most accessible options for car-free travelers.
Yes — very. The city center is compact, pedestrian-friendly, and packed with cafés, museums, boutiques, and landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa, and the Old Harbour. If you enjoy walking tours, try the VIP Reykjavík Walking Tour or the Reykjavík Food Walk.
Ice caves, Northern Lights, snowmobiling, and super jeep adventures.
- Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours, mild temps, perfect for outdoor tours, festivals, and whale watching.
- Winter (Nov–March): Northern lights, ice caves, snowy landscapes, and a cozy city vibe. Reykjavík is a year-round destination — your travel goals should guide your timing.
The Blue Lagoon is the most famous and just under an hour away — often visited as a standalone trip or part of a combo tour. For a more local vibe, consider Sky Lagoon, located right in the capital area.
Yes. It’s one of the most popular day trips from Reykjavík. Most Golden Circle tours include stops at Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss, often with extras like Brúarfoss, Kerið Crater, or a dip in the Blue Lagoon.
Think local, fresh, and a little bold — from Icelandic lamb and Arctic char to rye bread ice cream. For a taste of it all, the Reykjavík Food Walk is a top choice. Bonus: many spots also cater to vegan and gluten-free diets.
Sometimes! You’ll need cold, clear skies and minimal light pollution. For better odds, consider a Northern Lights tour that takes you just outside the city — many offer last-minute alerts and free re-bookings if conditions aren’t right.
Yes, select tours are available in languages like German, French, Chinese, and Spanish. Be sure to check the language section when booking. For example, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour is offered in both English and Mandarin.
Got More Questions?
Our team of Iceland experts is just a message away. Whether you’re curious about tour details, weather prep, or which adventure suits you best, we’re here to help. Chat with us or Contact our support team and let’s plan your perfect Iceland experience.
Featured Reykjavík Adventures (Watch & Explore)
Beyond Skaftafell: Vík Adventures Await
Are you ready to turn into an adventurous "Ice-cave Explorer Troll" 🧌 ? Come join our Tröll Expeditions team on an extraordinary journey to the majestic Katla Ice Cave. This unique experience is perfect for those who are seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure away from the crowds and looking forward to being lost in the wild, breathtaking landscapes of Icelandic nature. Our experienced glacier guides will lead you through the mysterious wilderness in a Super-jeep from Vik, sharing fascinating tales about the area, interesting facts related to the Katla volcano, and geological insights along the way. Safety is always our priority: our guides will provide you with helmets, headlamps, and crampons to ensure a smooth journey. Witness the awe-inspiring combination of fire and ice as you explore the volcanic glacier outlets of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, a remote location inaccessible to most. With panoramic views, stunning ice formations and tunnels, and the chance to see real Game of Thrones Dragon-Glass, this tour is one of Iceland's best-kept secrets.
Vik 3 Hours Easy All YearExperience an exclusive adventure into the heart of Iceland's volcanic wilderness. Join our Tröll Expeditions team for an extraordinary private tour to the majestic Katla Ice Cave. This is a truly off-the-beaten-path journey, perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the wild, breathtaking landscapes of Iceland with their own group.
Vik Super jeep from Meeting Point Easy 3 HoursExperience the only show in the world where you can safely witness real flowing lava at a temperature of 1100°C (2000°F). Highlights include a dramatic simulation of a volcanic eruption as molten rock is poured over ice, recreating the elemental battles of the famous Eyjafjallajökull and Katla volcanoes. This 50-minute educational display allows you to feel the radiant heat, hear the crackling of cooling minerals, and see the transition of liquid fire into volcanic glass in the heart of Vík, South Iceland.
Vik 1 Hour Not Included All YearMulti-day trips
Embark on a comprehensive 6-day guided tour from Reykjavík to Akureyri, exploring Iceland's diverse natural wonders. This immersive trip includes all the iconic highlights of the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Mývatn Region. Your expert guide will lead you to breathtaking sights like Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and on thrilling adventures, including a Whale Watching boat trip and a unique Ice Cave tour. Book your stress-free journey to experience the very best of Iceland, from south to north.
Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included
Included: 5 Nights & Breakfast Summer 6 DaysThis 8-day guided tour is the perfect way to discover Iceland’s incredible variety of natural wonders. The comprehensive journey takes you from the capital of Reykjavík all the way to the ‘Capital of the North,’ Akureyri, and beyond. Your adventure begins on the famous Golden Circle, where you'll visit the stunning Gullfoss waterfall, the erupting Geysir geothermal area, and the historic Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included Included: 7 Nights & Breakfast Winter 8 DaysEmbark on the ultimate 8-day summer adventure around Iceland's iconic Ring Road and the mystical Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This comprehensive journey is your perfect opportunity to witness the country’s most beautiful and popular spots under the glow of the Midnight Sun. Discover breathtaking natural wonders, from the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and the unforgettable Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to the thunderous power of Dettifoss Waterfall. This tour provides a complete and stress-free way to experience the very best of Iceland’s diverse landscapes in the magical summer light.
Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included Included: 7 Nights & Breakfast Summer 8 DaysThis fully guided, 6-day minibus tour offers a pragmatic and comprehensive exploration of Iceland, covering all major regions—the Golden Circle, South Coast, East Fjords, and North Iceland—in a single trip.
Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included Included: 5 Nights & Breakfast Winter 6 Days