What to See in Reykjavík, Iceland’s Capital and the Northernmost City in Europe

Just below the Arctic Circle, Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a city where nature truly takes center stage. It’s the perfect destination for adventurous travelers eager to discover new places. Reykjavik is not only the capital of Iceland, but also the northernmost capital in Europe. With a population of just 120,000, it’s a lively and intriguing city worth exploring.

A green and atmospheric place, Reykjavik shines with long daylight hours in summer and plunges into deep darkness in winter. The city’s sunrises and sunsets are absolutely breathtaking. In this guide, we take you through Reykjavík’s magical sights and highlight what to see in Reykjavik.

What to Visit in Reykjavik: Top Attractions

There are so many things to do in Reykjavik. Here’s our pick of the must-see experiences.

1 Hallgrim Church

Hallgrim Church is Reykjavik’s main church and its most iconic landmark. Also known as Hallgrímskirkja, it can be seen from virtually anywhere in the city.

2 Icelandic National Museum

The Icelandic National Museum is the city’s premier art and history museum, displaying artifacts from the 9th century to today, including several Viking ships. It’s one of the most important “things to see in Reykjavik.”

3 Reykjavik Old Harbour

Reykjavik Old Harbour is the heart of the city and a great starting point for exploring the capital’s main sights on foot.

4 Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum is located near Reykjavik Old Harbour and grows in importance every year. Inside, you’ll find exhibitions dedicated to Iceland’s maritime history.

5 Perlan Museum

Perlan Museum is a unique, modern structure topped with a dome that offers panoramic views over Reykjavik. It houses one of the city’s major museums, the Viking Saga Museum. Visiting Perlan ranks high among the “Top things to do in Reykjavik.”

6 Austurvollur Square

Austurvollur Square is Reykjavik’s main square, surrounded by gardens and trendy bars and restaurants.

7 Adalstraeti Museum

The Adalstraeti Museum occupies one of the oldest buildings in Reykjavik’s historic center, instantly recognized by its entirely black façade.

Reykjavik also stands out for its natural wonders. Here are three must-do excursions to include in your “what to do in Reykjavik” list.

8 Top Things to Do in Reykjavik

• Visit the Blue Lagoon: This incredible geothermal spa is located 40 km from central Reykjavik and is among Iceland’s top attractions—an unforgettable experience!
• Photograph Lake Tjörnin: A small but famous lake, which becomes the perfect spot for photos at sunset.
• Walk in the Laugardalur Valley: Explore the geyser area, about 100 km outside Reykjavik. The area is fenced due to boiling hot springs—an absolute must on your Icelandic tour.

For day trips, the best way to get around is to take advantage of Reykjavik rent car services, allowing you to easily and independently reach your chosen destinations.

Travel Tips: Where to Stay, How to Get There, What to Eat.

9 How to Get Around Reykjavik

If you’re wondering how to get around Reykjavik, we recommend exploring on foot to truly appreciate the city’s unique character and details.

10 How to Reach Reykjavik

Upon arrival at Reykjavik airport, you can quickly reach the city center using one of two bus companies or by taking a taxi. The distance is about 50 km.

11 Where to Eat in Reykjavik

We recommend dining in traditional restaurants to savor authentic Icelandic cuisine in Reykjavik. Don’t miss specialties like pylsur, Icelandic street food’s classic hotdog; Fiskisúðpa, a delicious fish soup and Icelandic favorite; and Skyr, a dairy product similar to yogurt.

12 Where to Stay in Reykjavik

For your hotel in Reykjavik, we suggest the Old Harbour area, which allows easy access to the city’s major attractions.

Given the frequent rain and cool temperatures in Reykjavik, be sure to plan your wardrobe before you go, so you can enjoy your Icelandic adventure in comfort.