Top 10 things to do in Reykjavík

1. Hunt for the Northern Lights

One of the best things to do from Reykjavík is hunt for the Aurora Borealis, the infamous natural phenomenon that causes the sky to light up with streaks of dancing colours. The effect is caused by solar particles ionising in the Earth’s atmosphere and while green is the most common colour spotted in the sky, you could be lucky enough to see purples, reds, pinks, oranges, and blues take over the heavens too. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is between September and April on a dark and cloudless night. You’ll want to escape from the light pollution of Reykjavík but tours from the capital can be easily arranged.

2. Explore the Golden Circle

A popular sightseeing route within easy reach of Reykjavík is Iceland’s Golden Circle, a tour of some of the best attractions in the southwest of the country. Famous sights such as the historical Þingvellir National Park, the awe-inspiring Geysir Geothermal Area, and the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall are all situated on this route - none are further than a two-hour drive from the capital. Whether you choose to rent a car and enjoy a self-guided adventure or sign up for a tour to learn as much as possible about the region, the Golden Circle makes for a memorable and scenic road trip.

3. Book a Whale-watching Tour

There’s no better place to book a whale-watching tour than Reykjavík; boats leave daily from the old harbour, just minutes from the centre. The main types of whales that are usually spotted in Faxaflói Bay are minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, humpback whales and harbour porpoises - sightings of these majestic creatures are most likely during the summer months. The best whale-watching tours in Iceland are small, personable, and follow the IceWhale’s code of conduct for responsible whale-watching: Let the animals approach rather than the other way around. Spotting these beautiful mammals in their natural habitat is a truly humbling experience.

4. The Blue Lagoon and geothermal hot springs

Some say that no trip to Iceland is truly complete without a dip in the healing waters of a geothermal hot spring. Just a 30-minute drive from Reykjavík, the world-famous Blue Lagoon doubles up as a spa, consisting of warm, mineral-rich geothermal water that does wonders for the skin. Contrary to popular belief, the Blue Lagoon is no natural phenomenon. This attraction was created back in the 1970s from the excess water of a power plant, designed to drill for steam and hot water. The water is clean, and natural, as it is constantly streaming into the lagoon, completely replenished every 48 hours. The geothermal pools of Reykjadalur, or ‘Steam Valley’, can also be found near Reykjavík, while Gamla Laugin, otherwise known as ‘The Secret Lagoon’, is a 90-minute drive from the capital.

5. Take in the views from a Helicopter

Fancy viewing the glorious landscapes of Iceland from the air? A helicopter tour from Reykjavík provides a magnificent bird’s eye view of the craggy mountain peaks, volcanic craters, steamy geothermal zones, and cascading waterfalls that surround the Icelandic capital. Whether you opt for a 20-minute experience or a two-hour tour with sparkling wine, you can choose from a selection of specially designed trips to ensure you take in all the top sights on your things to do in Reykjavík list.

6. Ride an Icelandic Horse

The hardy Icelandic horse is a unique breed of smaller-sized equines that arrived in the country with the first settlers from Norway 1100 years ago. A variety of horse-riding tours can be booked from Reykjavík, from those that require a higher level of skill to those for complete beginners. Ride through the mysterious lava fields, tour the glorious countryside, or head to the hot springs on horseback – you’ll never want to drive again!

7. Try Paragliding

This thing to do in Reykjavík is for the adrenaline junkies yet is simultaneously a calm and serene experience once in the air. Paragliding in Reykjavík allows you to see Iceland from a new and exhilarating perspective. Even those with no prior experience can enjoy this dynamic activity – just opt for a tandem flight with a qualified instructor. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride.

8. Check out the viewing deck of Perlan

Take your camera to the viewing deck where you can enjoy a full panoramic view of the greater Reykjavík area. Once you’ve taken in all the views that the city has to offer, head to the new Perlan Museum and explore the Glaciers and Ice Cave Exhibition.

If you’re keen to discover facts about nature, history, and the arts in Iceland, discover the top 8 museums in Reykjavík with their fascinating exhibitions and displays.

 

9. Take a dip in a local swimming pool

Make like the locals and spend a morning, afternoon, or evening relaxing and socialising at one of Reykjavík’s excellent swimming pools. Icelandic public pools are first-rate with an assortment of hot tubs, steam rooms, saunas, and even water slides for the young at heart. Laugardalslaug is the largest pool in Reykjavík and located a short walk from Hotel Reykjavík Grand, while Vesturbæjarlaug, repeatedly voted ‘Iceland’s best pool’ by locals, is just a 10-minute drive or 30-minute walk from Fosshotels Baron and Lind.

10. Climb the tower of Hallgrímskirkja

The Lutheran parish church Hallgrímskirkja is one of the most iconic landmarks of Reykjavík – its unique spire can be spotted from almost anywhere in the city. Designed by the late Guðjón Samúelsson in 1937, who found inspiration in the fascinating shapes created by molten lava as it cooled into basalt rock, this visual spectacular is also the largest church in Iceland at 74.5m high. Visitors can take an elevator up into the spire to admire the views but to reach the highest platform, you’ll need to climb the last 30 steps.

Ready to take on the capital of Iceland? If your itinerary is ready, you’ll need somewhere to rest and relax between activities! Browse our selection of fantastic hotel locations in the capital for a tantalising stay.