Top 10 Things to do in Reykjavik

Things to do in Reykjavik

Welcome to Reykjavik, the stunning capital city of Iceland! This vibrant and colourful destination is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, hot springs, and glaciers. But there’s more to Reykjavik than just natural wonders. From art installations to shopping malls, there are plenty of exciting things to do here that will keep you entertained throughout your stay.

1. Sun Voyager

Perched on the edge of Reykjavik’s shoreline, the Sun Voyager is a magnificent sculpture that has become one of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks. This stunning piece of art was created by Jon Gunnar Arnason and resembles a Viking ship sailing towards the sun.

The sculpture was unveiled in 1990 to celebrate Reykjavik’s 200th anniversary and has since become a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take a stroll along the nearby walking path, which offers breath-taking views of Mount Esja and Faxaflói Bay.

Whether you’re an art lover or not, the Sun Voyager is definitely worth checking out during your visit to Reykjavik. The sleek lines and smooth surfaces make for some amazing photo opportunities against the backdrop of Iceland’s beautiful scenery.

As you stand before this impressive sculpture, allow yourself to be swept away by its beauty and significance as a symbol of hope, progress and adventure. It truly embodies everything that makes Iceland such an incredible destination!

2. Kringlan Mall

Kringlan Mall is a popular shopping destination in Reykjavik. The mall has over 150 stores, offering various products ranging from fashion to electronics and groceries. It’s an ideal place for tourists who want to shop for souvenirs or enjoy some retail therapy.

The mall also houses several restaurants and cafes, making it a great spot to grab a bite after a day of exploring the city. You can choose from fast food chains or more upscale dining options that serve traditional Icelandic cuisine.

One unique feature of Kringlan Mall is its greenery-filled atrium, which offers visitors the opportunity to relax amidst lush plants and trees while enjoying natural light filtering through the glass ceiling. This makes it an excellent place for those looking for some downtime during their trip.

Besides shopping and dining, Kringlan Mall also hosts various events throughout the year like concerts, art exhibitions, and book fairs. Check out their website before your visit to see if any events are happening during your stay.

Kringlan Mall is not just another shopping centre but rather a vibrant hub where you can spend quality time with friends and family while indulging in some retail therapy or cultural experiences.

3. Laugavegur

Laugavegur is Reykjavik’s main shopping street and a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the city’s vibrant culture. The street is lined with an array of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars that cater to all tastes and budgets.

As you stroll along Laugavegur, you’ll come across some unique stores selling everything from Icelandic woollen sweaters to handmade jewellery. If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to take back home with you, this is the perfect place to find them.

Apart from shopping, Laugavegur also offers plenty of opportunities for people-watching and soaking in the local atmosphere. You can sit down at one of the many cafes on the street and enjoy a cup of coffee while watching locals go about their daily lives.

At night, Laugavegur transforms into a bustling nightlife hub with numerous bars and clubs that stay open until late hours. Whether you want to enjoy live music or dance till dawn, there’s something here for everyone.

Visiting Laugavegur is an essential part of any Reykjavik trip as it provides insight into Iceland’s colourful culture and lifestyle.

4. Leidarendi Cave

Leidarendi Cave is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers in Reykjavik. This cave system, located just outside of the city, offers an unforgettable underground experience.

Upon entering the cave, visitors are immediately transported to another world. The walls and ceiling of the cave are adorned with unique formations created by centuries of volcanic activity.

As you make your way through the twisting tunnels and narrow passageways, you’ll feel like a true explorer discovering something new. And don’t worry about getting lost – experienced guides lead groups on tours that highlight all the best features of this stunning natural wonder.

One particularly impressive feature is the “cave cathedral,” where visitors can marvel at soaring ceilings and intricate rock formations that seem almost too beautiful to be real. It’s no wonder Leidarendi Cave has become a popular spot for photographers looking to capture truly breath-taking shots.

Whether you’re interested in geology or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Leidarendi Cave is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

5. Lake Tjornin

Lake Tjornin is a beautiful and serene body of water located in the heart of Reykjavik. Surrounded by charming houses, quaint cafes, and lush greenery, this lake is an oasis in the middle of the bustling city.

Walking around Lake Tjornin gives visitors a chance to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape while also observing various bird species that call it home. In fact, many locals come here just to feed the ducks and swans that swim in its waters.

One can also enjoy boating on Lake Tjornin or take part in some fishing activities throughout the year as it is stocked with trout every spring. The calmness and tranquillity make this lake one of Reykjavik’s most peaceful attractions, making it perfect for picnics or afternoon strolls.

Visitors will also be impressed by sculptures placed around Lake Tjornin like The Pond King sculpture created by Ásmundur Sveinsson which adds another layer to its beauty.

Visiting Lake Tjornin should definitely be on your list when you visit Reykjavik if you want to experience nature at its best while enjoying alluring scenery.

6. Whales of Iceland

Whales of Iceland is a unique museum located in Reykjavik that showcases the magnificent giants of the ocean. The museum provides an immersive experience where visitors can learn about different species of whales and their habitats.

The museum features life-sized models of various whale species, including the massive blue whale, which is truly awe-inspiring to see up close. What’s even more impressive is that these models were created based on real measurements and data from actual whales.

Visitors can also watch educational videos about these gentle giants and take part in interactive exhibits that simulate whale watching tours. The staff at Whales of Iceland are knowledgeable and passionate about marine conservation, making it an excellent place to learn more about the importance of protecting our oceans.

Whales of Iceland makes for a fascinating and unique visit for anyone interested in marine life or looking for something different to do while in Reykjavik.

7. Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is a must-visit destination situated about 40 km away from Reykjavik. This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds significant historical and geological importance in Iceland. The park lies between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which divide at a rate of 2 cm per year.

The rift valley showcases the visual contrast of two continents drifting apart with stunning rock formations and crystal-clear water bodies. Experience snorkelling or diving in Silfra fissure, where you can swim between two continents while admiring the underwater landscape.

Apart from its geological significance, Thingvellir was also home to Iceland’s first parliament in AD 930. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Althingi – an open-air assembly area where people would come together to discuss laws and issues of their time.

Nature enthusiasts will love hiking trails like the Flosagja fault line that leads through stunning landscapes filled with wildflowers, moss-covered lava fields, and hidden streams. Don’t forget to visit Oxararfoss waterfall located near Thingvallavatn Lake for picturesque views.

Thingvellir National Park offers visitors breath-taking experiences encompassing history, geology, nature hikes, and water sports all within one place!

8. Mount Esja

Mount Esja is a popular hiking destination located just outside Reykjavik. Its dramatic landscape, stunning views of the city and challenging trails make it an ideal spot for adventure seekers.

The mountain has several different routes to choose from, ranging in difficulty and length. The most popular route is the one that starts at the parking lot near Mógilsá river, which takes about 4-5 hours round trip. It’s important to note that some parts of the trail can be steep and rocky, so proper footwear is essential.

As you ascend Mount Esja, you’ll be rewarded with breath-taking views of Reykjavik and its surrounding areas. On clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of Snafellsjokull glacier in the distance.

At the summit, there’s a guestbook where hikers can write their name and country. This tradition dates back decades and serves as a testament to how many people have conquered this magnificent mountain over time.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for some outdoor adventure while visiting Reykjavik, Mount Esja should definitely be on your itinerary!

9. Hofdi House

Hofdi House is a historic building located in northern Reykjavik, Iceland. It was built in 1909 and has since been the site of many important events in Icelandic history. One such event was the Reykjavik Summit, which took place here in 1986, where Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev met to discuss nuclear disarmament.

Aside from its historical significance, Hofdi House is also known for its beautiful architecture. The building itself features elements of both Swiss chalet-style and Arts and Crafts design. Its intricate woodwork and stained-glass windows make it a must-see attraction for architecture enthusiasts.

Today, Hofdi House serves as a venue for various cultural events and conferences throughout the year. Visitors can take guided tours of the house to learn more about its history or attend one of the many events held on-site.

Whether you’re interested in history or simply appreciate beautiful architecture, Hofdi House is definitely worth a visit during your time in Reykjavik.

10. Saga Museum

Visiting the Saga Museum is like taking a step back in time and experiencing Iceland’s rich history. The museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts, lifelike wax figures, and hands-on exhibits that depict some of the most significant events in Icelandic history.

From Viking age to modern times, visitors can learn about the country’s struggles and successes as they walk through different sections of the museum. You’ll get to see how Icelanders used to live, work, dress up and even witness a full-scale replica ship from Eriksson’s voyages!

Reykjavik has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in architecture or nature or just want to explore new cultures; there are plenty of things to do here that will keep you entertained all day long. So, pack your bags, book your tickets and get ready for a fantastic adventure!