Reykjavik
Iceland
Attractions & Events in Reykjavik
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Reykjavik, Iceland
Top Attractions
Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum
A collection of historical buildings relocated to form a village, depicting Icelandic life in the past.
Tips: Join a guided tour to hear fascinating stories behind each building.
Austurvöllur
A public square adjacent to the Parliament House, often used for gatherings and surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
Tips: Ideal spot for a coffee break and people-watching, especially during sunny days.
Grotta Lighthouse
Located on a small island accessible during low tide, offering scenic views and a chance to see the Northern Lights in winter.
Tips: Check tide schedules before visiting to ensure safe access.
Hallgrímskirkja
A towering Lutheran church known for its unique architecture inspired by Iceland's basalt landscapes, offering panoramic city views from its observation tower.
Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photographs.
Harpa Concert Hall
A striking glass building hosting concerts and events, renowned for its unique architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
Tips: Check the event schedule in advance to attend a performance or guided tour.
Imagine Peace Tower
A memorial to John Lennon from Yoko Ono, emitting a beam of light into the sky during certain times of the year.
Tips: Best viewed at night; check the lighting schedule before visiting.
Kolaportið
Iceland's only flea market, offering a variety of goods from vintage clothing to local delicacies.
Tips: Open only on weekends; arrive early for the best selection of items.
Laugardalur Park
A recreational area featuring a botanical garden, zoo, and the city's largest swimming pool.
Tips: Perfect for families; bring swimwear to enjoy the geothermal pools.
Laugavegur
Reykjavík's main shopping street, lined with boutiques, cafes, and bars.
Tips: Explore side streets for unique shops and less crowded cafes.
National Museum of Iceland
Offers a comprehensive overview of Iceland's history from settlement to modern times.
Tips: Don't miss the 'Making of a Nation' exhibition for an in-depth understanding of Icelandic heritage.
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach
A man-made beach with heated seawater, offering a unique bathing experience.
Tips: Bring a towel and swimsuit; changing facilities are available on-site.
Perlan
A landmark museum featuring the 'Wonders of Iceland' exhibition, including a 100-meter-long ice cave and a 360° observation deck with views of Reykjavík.
Tips: Allocate at least two hours to fully explore the exhibits and enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant.
Reykjavík Art Museum
The city's largest art museum, showcasing contemporary and modern Icelandic art across three locations.
Tips: Purchase a combined ticket to access all three venues for a comprehensive art experience.
Reykjavík Botanical Garden
Home to over 5,000 plant species, providing a peaceful retreat within the city.
Tips: Visit the on-site cafe for a relaxing break amidst the greenery.
Reykjavík City Hall
An architectural landmark housing a large 3D map of Iceland and hosting various exhibitions.
Tips: Free entry; a good starting point to gather information about the city.
Reykjavík Maritime Museum
Dedicated to Iceland's maritime history, featuring exhibits on fishing and seafaring traditions.
Tips: Consider a guided tour to gain deeper insights into Iceland's relationship with the sea.
Reykjavík Old Harbour
A bustling area with restaurants, shops, and departure points for whale watching tours.
Tips: Book whale watching tours in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Saga Museum
Brings Icelandic history to life with realistic wax figures and interactive exhibits.
Tips: Audio guides are available in multiple languages for a more immersive experience.
Sun Voyager
A stainless steel sculpture resembling a Viking ship, symbolizing the promise of undiscovered territory.
Tips: Visit at sunset for stunning photo opportunities with the sculpture against the ocean backdrop.
Tjörnin
A central lake surrounded by picturesque walking paths, popular for birdwatching and relaxation.
Tips: Bring some bread to feed the ducks and swans; it's a favorite local pastime.
Events & Festivals
Innipúkinn Music Festival
A 3-day annual music festival held in Reykjavik during the first weekend of August.
When: August
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance and explore the lineup to plan your festival experience.
Reykjavík Culture Night
An event created and enjoyed by city residents, taking place across central Reykjavik with celebrations in the streets, squares, museums, businesses, and residential gardens.
When: August
Tips: Explore various events throughout the city; the night concludes with a fireworks display over Tjörnin Pond.
Reykjavík Jazz Festival
A festival hosting performances in a variety of styles, from contemporary jazz and the avant-garde to Latin jazz, gospel, and big bands.
When: August
Tips: Check the schedule for performances and venues; some events may require tickets.
Reykjavík Pride
A colorful event bringing tens of thousands of people into the city center to show solidarity and have fun with the LGBTQ community.
When: August
Tips: Join the parade and festivities; wear colorful attire to show support.
New Year's Eve in Reykjavík
An unforgettable epic display of fireworks created by the people of Reykjavik, with celebrations throughout the city.
When: December 31st
Tips: Join locals at popular viewing spots like Hallgrímskirkja Church for the best views of the fireworks.
Winter Lights Festival
A festival that illuminates the long winter days of darkness in Reykjavík with various light installations and cultural events.
When: February
Tips: Explore the city to experience various light installations and participate in cultural events.
Dark Music Days
An annual music festival that has lit up the darkest period of the Icelandic winter in Reykjavík for over 40 years, offering high-quality music and world-class performers.
When: January
Tips: Dress warmly and check the schedule in advance to attend performances that interest you.
Reykjavík International Games
An annual event held in January to increase the competitiveness of Icelandic athletes by attracting strong foreign competitors.
When: January - February
Tips: Check the event schedule for specific sports competitions and venues.
Reykjavík Arts Festival
A biennial multidisciplinary festival with a special focus on new commissions and the creative intersection of the arts.
When: June
Tips: Plan ahead to attend performances and exhibitions that interest you; some events may require tickets.
Reykjavík Fringe Festival
A celebration of all art forms, featuring local and international artists performing in various venues across the city.
When: June
Tips: Check the festival program for performances and venues; some events may require tickets.
National Day of Iceland
Celebrated annually on June 17th, marking Iceland's independence with parades, concerts, and traditional dances.
When: June 17th
Tips: Join the locals in the city center for parades and festivities; arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Iceland Airwaves
A critically acclaimed international music festival showcasing the hottest new international bands and the best up-and-coming Icelandic artists.
When: November
Tips: Buy tickets early, as the festival is popular; explore different venues to experience a variety of performances.
Reykjavík International Film Festival
A 10-day event featuring a selection of the year’s best in world cinema, including film classics, premieres, retrospectives, seminars, and workshops.
When: September - October
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance and plan your schedule to attend screenings and events of interest.