walking tour in reykjavik

• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Solo Location Guides
• Solo Travel Advice
• Solo Inspiration
• Luxury travel

DESTINATIONS , EUROPE , ICELAND

One day in reykjavik: self-guided walking tour & itinerary.

Reykjavik’s friendly people and cool vibe are just a few reasons why Europe’s northernmost capital city is one of my favourite destinations. And as this is a very walkable city, you can explore it with relative ease, even if you only have one day in Reykjavik.

Hit the ground running with my 1-day Reykjavik itinerary which includes a self-guided walking tour. This covers around five miles and I’ve included a map to help you on your way.

If you have more time in Iceland’s capital, I have suggested bonus things to do and you’ll also find tips on where to stay and how to get around.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

• Climb Hallgrímskirja’s tower
• Stroll around Old West Side
• Visit Harpa
• Watch the sun set at Sólfar
• Check out the street art on Laugavegur

RECOMMENDED REYKJAVIK SELF-GUIDED TOUR : 3 miles (5 km)

BEST WAY TO GET AROUND REYKJAVIK: On foot

RECOMMENDED HOTELS

• Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Center
• Freyja Guesthouse and Suites

IN THIS ARTICLE

Daytime in Reykjavik: Self-Guided Walking Tour

This self-guided walking tour of Reykjavik provides a framework on which to hang your day. Walking between these sights covers a distance of approximately 3 miles ( 5 km ). Without stops, this will take you just over an hour to walk.

Time permitting, I encourage you to go off-piste to discover other corners of the city. As central Reykjavik is not large, this is feasible in one day.

Here’s my Reykjavik walking tour map to get you on your way. For a live map with directions, click here or on the image itself.

Hallgrímskirja

Our 1-day Reykjavik itinerary starts with its most iconic sight,  Hallgrímskirja . Consecrated in 1986, this Lutheran church was built over 40 years and dominates the city’s low-lying skyline.

Its architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, took inspiration from two Manhattan Art-Deco masterpieces: the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building. But he also paid homage to the Icelandic landscape, inspired by the shapes created when lava cools into basalt rock.

Before entering the church, take a moment to look at the statue of  Leifur Eiriksson,  a Viking explorer and the first known European to set foot in America. Once inside Hallgrímskirja’s coolly sparse interior, turn around and look up at the enormous  pipe organ  designed by Johannes Klais of Bonn.

Don’t miss taking the lift to the  observation deck  at the top of Hallgrímskirja. From the lofty position of the tower, 73 meters above the ground, you are treated to 360-degree views of Reykjavik.

Tjörnin Pond & City Hall

Although City Hall is not the most beautiful building in Reykjavik, it is well worth visiting to view the  topographical model of Iceland  displayed on its ground floor. I found this useful when I visited the Golden Circle the following day.

The “ blockhead statue ” facing City Hall represents a faceless bureaucrat on his way to work. Sculpted by Magnús Tómasson in 1994, it is unclear if it was intended to be a tribute or a satire.

Tjörnin Pond , outside City Hall, is home to Reykjavik’s population of vocal ducks, geese and swans. In the midst of winter, the pond completely freezes over and becomes an icy playground for the city’s inhabitants.

But don’t worry about our feathered friends. During these cold months, warm water is pumped into a corner of Tjörnin Pond, creating a bird jacuzzi to keep them toasty.

OLD WEST SIDE

Leafy and quiet Old West Side was once home to Reykjavik’s sailors. It is known for its picturesque houses and gardens. 

Most Icelanders will have an opinion about Harpa, Reykjavik’s harbourside concert hall. Built amidst the turmoil of Iceland’s crippling economic recession, many were outraged at its cost, put at 164 million Euros.

Conceived as a concert venue with retail space, a hotel and luxury apartments, it languished in construction purgatory. In 2009, the Government bailed it out, resulting in an uproar from its citizens.

And it was not only Icelanders who were outraged. On completion, Harpa did not meet the vision of its creator, Olafur Eliasson. It had become, in his words, “a conference centre with some music on the side.”

Ten years later, views have softened and even reversed. Harpa is lauded for its design and for its acoustics, becoming a potent symbol of Iceland’s economic recovery.

Don’t just admire it from the outside. Take the lift to the 5 th  floor to fully appreciate its honeycombed glass walls and ceiling, and to take in panoramic views over Reykjavik harbour.

Sólfar – “Sun Voyager”

The “Sun Voyager”, the next stop on our Reykjavik self-guided walking tour, is a five-minute walk along the harbour from Harpa.

Created by the artist Jón Gunnar Áranson (1931 – 89), Sólfar represents a Viking longship. According to its creator, it was meant to represent a dream vessel floating off to a new beginning towards the setting sun.

Downtown Reykjavik, Laugavegur & street art

The closest that Reykjavik gets to a downtown area is  Laugavegur , the city’s main shopping street, and  Skólavörðustígur , which leads up to Hallgrimskirkja. Amongst this area’s shops, bars and restaurants, keep your eyes peeled for some of Reykjavik’s best  street art.

A fitting place to end your day in Reykjavik. All that remains is to sit down with a refreshing glass of Icelandic craft beer. Skál!

Nighttime in Reykjavik: Northern Lights Tours

Many people use Reykjavik as a base for excursions to see the elusive Northern Lights.

As the notoriously fickle aurora borealis  is reluctant to come out to play if skies are cloudy, check the  Northern Lights forecast  to assess your chances of seeing this spectacle. If you don’t see the Northern Lights on your tour, many operators will offer you a second chance to see them.  

Here are a few  Northern Lights tours that get good reviews from other travellers. If you can, splash out on a small group tour. This will not only be a more intimate experience, but it will also offer more flexibility to chase the lights.

Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik

A four-hour bus tour to search for the Northern Lights. You will be invited to join another Northern Lights tour free of charge if the lights don’t come out to play.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK THIS TOUR

Small-Group Premium Northern Lights Tour

Benefit from a small group size and included refreshments. Again, you will be able to schedule another Northern Lights tour free of charge if the lights don’t appear.

More Than One Day in Reykjavik?

Here are a few options If you have more time in Reykjavik.

VISIT A MUSEUM

Reykjavik has a number of popular museums, including the National Museum of Iceland which charts the country’s history and culture. Reykjavik Art Museum focuses on modern and contemporary art and sculpture, and The Settlement Exhibition allows an insight into early Icelandic life.

However, based on reports from other travellers, I would skip the  Saga Museum ,  Whales of Iceland  and the  Icelandic Phallological Museum , a vast collection of pickled penises!

Go on a whale watching or puffin tour

Whale-watching and   puffin tours set off from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour.

Iceland is home to over half of the world’s Atlantic puffin population. The best time to see puffins is between May and August; for whale watching it’s from April to late September / early October.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR WHALE-WATCHING TOUR OR HERE FOR YOUR PUFFIN TOUR

Visit the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is a hugely popular excursion from Reykjavik. As it’s close to the airport, some people visit as a side trip before or after their flight.

I felt that it was a tourist trap but it was an experience like no other.

READ THIS NEXT: Blue Lagoon, Iceland: Is It Worth It?

Take a tour of the Golden Circle

I took this day tour of the Golden Circle, a 300 km circular route that loops from Reykjavik into central Iceland. It’s a fabulous way to explore Iceland’s otherworldly landscape.

READ THIS NEXT:   Iceland’s Golden Circle: A Day Trip from Reykjavik

What is the Best Month to Visit Reykyavik?

The time of year that you visit Iceland may largely depend on the number of daylight hours with which you feel comfortable, and whether you want to see the Northern Lights.

Feb/March  or  Oct/Nov  are good months to visit Reykjavik. There are enough daylight hours to allow you to sightsee, but you will also be able to see the Northern Lights if they decide to come out to play.

Iceland’s average temperatures are higher than you might expect, thanks to the moderating effect of the Gulf Stream. Reykjavik’s average winter temperature is 0 degrees; in summer this reaches a giddying 12 degrees.

A bigger consideration is the number of daylight hours. In midwinter, the sun doesn’t rise until 11.45 am, setting again at 2.45 pm. Whilst this might be optimal for Northern Lights chasing, it limits daytime activities.

When I visited Reykjavik in March, there were around 11 hours of daylight.

In mid-summer, there is pretty much 24-hour light, with the sun setting at midnight, and twilight persisting until it rises again at 3 am.

Getting to Reykjavik and Getting Around

Keflavik Airport, Reykjavik’s international airport, is 50 km southwest of the city. If you don’t have a rental car you will need to take a taxi or use the efficient airport transfer bus.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR AIRPORT SHUTTLE TRANSFER

As Reykjavik is so compact, the best way of getting around is on foot. There is the inevitable hop-on-hop-off bus but you will not need this to visit the attractions listed in this post.

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

If you want to be in the thick of things, the downtown area of Reykjavik, close to the Laugavegur shopping street, is your best bet. Here you will find most of the museums, restaurants and bars.

However, if you are a light sleeper be aware that there is a high concentration of bars that stay open late at the weekend. But if you are also out burning the midnight oil, this won’t make any difference!

Mid-range – Hotel Frön

I stayed at this 3-star hotel on Laugavegur which is perfect if you are visiting Iceland on a budget but are looking for a bit of comfort. A big bonus was the free breakfast.

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES

Here are some alternatives that I have found that may suit other budgets:

Splurge – Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Center

In an unbeatable location, a 2-minute walk from Laugavegur Shopping Street and 500 meters from Harpa Concert & Conference Center, this stylish 4-star hotel features a fitness centre and a bar.

Budget – Freyja Guesthouse and Suites

To reduce your Iceland trip costs, take a look at this property, a 3-minute walk from Hallgrímskirkja Church. It has excellent online reviews and is a bargain by Icelandic standards.

Solo Travel in Reykjavik

Iceland is a fabulous solo destination .

It is not only one of the best destinations in Europe if you are travelling alone , but it is also one of the best countries in the world for solo travellers . This applies even if you are on your first solo vacation .

Safety is a concern of many solo travellers , especially solo female travellers. The crime rate in Iceland approaches zero and there is little chance you will be robbed, attacked or harassed.

And you need not fear solo travel loneliness. With Reykjavik’s lively bar scene and abundance of organised outdoor activities, meeting other travellers is easy.

READ THIS NEXT: Iceland Solo Travel: Itinerary, Trip Costs & Essential Tips

Thank you for reading my guide to spending 24 hours in Reykjavik

One day is enough to see its main sights with time left to enjoy its bar and restaurants (and maybe take a Northern Lights tour). To explore its museums and other cultural attractions, spend at least two days in Reykjavik.

Pack warm clothing at whatever time of year you are visiting Reykjavik. This means a hat, scarf, gloves, lots of layers and a warm, preferably windproof, coat.

Fnally, don’t forget your refillable water bottle. Icelandic water is pure and delicious straight out of the tap. Just let the water run for a minute before filling your bottle.

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

Best Reykjavik Walking Tours in Iceland

Select starting location

Select dates

Add travelers

Reykjavik Walking Tours

Refine the results by using the filters

Top-Value 24-Hour Reykjavik City Card with Free Entry to Museums, Galleries, & Geothermal Pools

Small Group 2.5 Hour Walking Tour of Reykjavik's History & Culture

Flexible 48-Hour Reykjavik City Card with Free Entry to Museums, Galleries, and Geothermal Pools

Magical 1.5 Hour Folklore Walking Tour of Reykjavik with Tales of Trolls, Elves & Hidden People

Unbeatable 72-Hour Reykjavik City Card with Free Entry to Museums, Galleries, and Geothermal Pools

Small-Group 2-Hour Cat Walking Tour in Reykjavik with Snacks

Reykjavik Food Walk Tour

Guided 2.5 Hour Reykjavik Beer & Schnapps Walking Tour

Small-Group 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour in the Heart of Reykjavik

Appetizing 3-Hour Food And Beer Walk Tour Around Reykjavik's Local Food Destinations

Walk with a Viking 2 Hour Guided Reykjavik Walking Tour

Guided 3 Hour Reykjavik Walking Tour of Iconic Capital City Landmarks

Family-Friendly 2.5-Hour Historical Walking Tour of Reykjavik with Icelandic Meal

Lively 4-Hour Brewery Walking Tour in Reykjavik with Free Drinks | 20+ Year Olds

Private 3-Hour City Walk of Reykjavik with Expert Local Guide and Optional Icelandic Delicacies

Small-Group 3-Hour Traditional Icelandic Food Tour in Reykjavik

Family-Friendly 2-Hour Christmas Walking Tour in Reykjavik

Private 3 Hour Traditional Icelandic Food Tour of Reykjavik with an Expert Guide

Private 2 Hour Guided Walking Tour of Reykjavik’s Landmarks

Private 1.5 Hour Folklore Walking Tour in Reykjavik with an Expert Guide

Guided 2 Hour Reykjavik Walking Tour with Historical Tales in English

Guided 3 Hour Reykjavik Bar Tour with 3 Complimentary Beers & Pub Discounts Included

Engaging 7-Hour Reykjavik City Walking & Sea Angling Tour with Fresh Fish Dinner

Private 2-Hour Sweet-Tooth Food Tour in Reykjavik

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Jennifer Garnett

We really loved this walking tour. It was a nice small group and Stefan really took care in answering our questions and explained the folklore and beliefs in a really engaging way. I would definitely recommend this tour - and ask for Stefan!

Chris Bouwer

It was a great experience to visit many different museums and the zoo in just 1 day.

PEI-WEN CHI

We didn't use the city cards at all due to schedule change (we encountered volcano eruption on the day of arrival and a torm on the 3rd day) but the service center was really helpful and thank you for all the help of rearranging the schedule. We definitely will come back again and choose you again.

Raena Anne Ferguson

This tour was my absolute favorite!! Our tour guide gave us insight into their Christmas traditions, folklore, history and even burial customs. It was so super knowledgeable and interesting. We got a present at the end and we even got to try some authentic Icelandic cuisine. It could not be beat. Highly highly recommend!!!

Exploring the City with Reykjavik Walking Tours in Iceland

Walking tours in Reykjavik City, Iceland, offer an immersive and enriching way to explore this enchanting capital. Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring Icelandic landscapes, Reykjavik boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and historical significance, all of which can be unveiled through these guided strolls.

Led by experienced and passionate local guides, these tours take visitors on a captivating journey through Reykjavik's streets, revealing its hidden treasures, captivating stories, and fascinating landmarks. Whether you're intrigued by the city's Viking heritage, its modern art scene, or its geothermal wonders, there's a walking tour tailored to your interests.

The tours often include stops at iconic sites like the Hallgrimskirkja church, the Harpa Concert Hall, and the colorful houses of Reykjavik's Old Town, providing ample photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the city's unique architecture. Along the way, guides share insights into Iceland's history, folklore, and contemporary life, creating a deeper connection between participants and the city.

With small group sizes, these walking tours offer a personalized and interactive experience, allowing travelers to ask questions and engage with their guide. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, walking tours in Reykjavik promise to leave you with a profound appreciation for this charming and captivating destination.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best reykjavik walking tour in iceland, is it worth it to join a reykjavik walking tour in iceland, what is the cheapest reykjavik walking tour in iceland, what is a reykjavik walking tour, how much does a walking tour in reykjavik cost, how long do walking tours in reykjavik typically last, what can i expect to see on a reykjavik walking tour, are private walking tours available in reykjavik, what should i wear on a reykjavik walking tour, are reykjavik walking tours suitable for children, what language are the walking tours conducted in, are guided walking tours available year-round in reykjavik, are walking tours in reykjavik suitable for all ages and fitness levels, do i need to bring local currency (icelandic krona) for walking tour payments, or can i use credit cards, are there discounts available for students, seniors, or children on walking tours, are there age restrictions for certain walking tours, such as pub crawls or nightlife tours, when was reykjavik founded, why is reykjavik named that.

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Explore an Ice Cave

Visit a Live Volcano

Find the Northern Lights

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

Want to share your culture with travelers from all the world?

Free walking tour near reykjavík, others cities to visit after reykjavík, find other guruwalks in reykjavík, where are you traveling to.

• Partner Tours

FIND YOUR PERFECT TOUR !

Exclusive dinner with a local family

Funky Christmas Myths and Traditions

The Funky Food & Beer Walk

Private Reykjavik Walking Tour

The Funky History Walk - With a local storyteller

The Funky team

Funky Iceland founder and board member. A silent and subtle leader with big ideas. Pays the bills on time and creates Excel sheets for every part of his life. He is the man behind the scenes and runs the house like a cute little dictator.

Funky Iceland founder and a certified tourist guide. He once won the title ‘The Funniest Icelander’ and has a great talent for story-telling. A well of knowledge of all sorts, free spirit and history buff with an unquenchable thirst for information.

Not a founder, but married to the mob. Funky CEO and mother of four who will zip your jacket up and lend you a scarf if she thinks you’re too cold. Knows a thing or two about Reykjavík and loves to talk, and tell stories… and talk… a lot. Little but loveable.

Funky Iceland

We are social, contact info.

Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Reykjavik, Iceland

The capital of Iceland is a quaint, relaxed place with a small-town feel – and it is easy to explore by foot. Use my free self-guided walking tour of Reykjavik to get a feel for this laid-back city and to see the main Reykjavik attractions.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Reykjavik?

I’ve been to Iceland and visited Reykjavik twice. Full disclosure: in my opinion, Reykjavik is not the most exciting part of Iceland. I’m personally far more drawn to the black sand beaches and glacial lagoons of South Iceland – and all the other spots in Iceland with dramatic landscapes.

However, that doesn’t mean Reykjavik is uninteresting to me – it’s just that I think the Icelandic landscape is that much more interesting.

Reykjavik it’s definitely a unique city with some quaint, colourful buildings and attractive landmarks. It is worth a stop if you’re exploring Iceland or driving the Ring Road and it’s a good place to do some whale-watching if you can’t make it up into North Iceland .

It’s also a useful base from which to explore the Golden Circle, the Reykjanes peninsula (where there have been eruptions in recent years and where the Blue Lagoon is) and also the Snaefellsnes Peninsula .

Facts about Reykjavik

• The name Reykjavik means ‘smokey bay’ (reykr = ‘smoke’ and vík = ‘bay’) and is thought to have been inspired by what was actually steam, not smoke, rising from hot springs in the region.
• The Old Icelandic Book Of Settlement indicates Reykjavik was the first permanent settlement in Iceland in ~870 AD.
• As capital cities go, it is one of the smaller ones around the world (166 th out of 240), with 133k inhabitants. However, given that is a third of the population of Iceland as a whole, you can see how much of a major centre it is in the country.
• Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital with a latitude of 64°08′ N (Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, is slightly further north at 64°10′, but Greenland is a constituent country of Denmark, not an independent state).
• Reykjavik’s heating is sourced from geothermal energy derived from the volcanic activity in Iceland (and this is true for 90% of the buildings in Iceland).
• There are no Mcdonald’s restaurants and no Starbucks in Reykjavik, nor in the whole of Iceland! Mcdonald’s left in 2009 after the economic crash and I don’t think Starbucks has ever opened a restaurant there. However, there are plenty of great places to eat and get coffee – I’ll suggest a few in this post.

What’s In This Self-Guided Walking Tour Of Reykjavik

In this walking tour, I’ll share a walking route that will take you to the main sights and attractions in Reykjavik, including:

Hallgrímskirkja

• The Sun Voyager

Harpa Concert Hall

Reykjavik harbour.

• The Rainbow Street

I will also call out some good places to eat in Reykjavik along the way. And I have included a route map at the end, which you can use in Google maps.

How Long Does It Take To Walk Around Reykjavik?

The route I am sharing in this post is 4km (2.5 miles) and would take about an hour to walk without stopping, but obviously, it will take longer because you’ll be stopping, going into some of the places, taking photographs etc. If you give yourself half a day, that’s plenty of time to explore central Reykjavik, including shopping and grabbing something to eat, in my opinion. You’ll need more if you’re doing whale-watching though.

Self-Guided Walking Tour Of Reykjavik – Step By Step

We start this walking tour of Reykjavik at Hallgrímskirkja for two reasons. One, it is one of the most recognisable and prominent landmarks in Reykjavik. And two, it has free parking, which is handy if you are passing through the city by car.

Hallgrímskirkja is the largest church in Iceland and was built in 1986. It is named for the Icelandic poet Hallgrímur Pétursson (the name means Church of Hallgrímur) and the distinctive columnar shapes are inspired by the basalt rock formations found all over Iceland.  

Although it is big, it is not actually a cathedral – it’s a Lutheran church (Church of Iceland). Out front, there’s a statue of Leif Erikson, the 11th Century Norse explorer believed to have been born in Iceland.

The church is a working church with regular services but does also open to visitors , so you can pay to go up the 74.5m / 244 ft tower, which has a panoramic view from the top.

Frakkastígur

From Hallgrímskirkja, head north along Frakkastígur, which will take you downhill towards the sea. Along the way there are several colourful buildings which are typical in Reyjavik; there’s also some street art along here.

If you’re peckish, there are a few good food options on Frakkastígur:

• Víkinga Pylsur is a stand selling an Icelandic favourite: hot dogs, made from lamb and often eaten with mustard
• Grab a bun or a pastry from Brauð & Co , a popular bakery with a colourful shopfront on Frakkastígur.
• Reykjavik Fish is a chain that has a branch on Frakkastígur. The fish & chips are pretty good here (and I say that as a British person)

Sun Voyager

At the end of Frakkastígur, you’ll come to the Sæbraut road (route 41), across which is a metal sculpture commissioned to commemorate the anniversary of Reykjavik. The Sun Voyager was made by Jón Gunnar and unveiled in 1990. He said it ‘symbolizes the promise of new, undiscovered territory’.

To me, the smooth beams and curves of the ship-like structure conjure up the idea of a timeless or futuristic Viking ship. Its location by the sea is perfect – it invokes a sense of adventure as if it is on its way out on an expedition. Made of aluminium, its smooth surfaces reflect the light beautifully.

There are other sculptures along this shore walk, so you could detour eastwards if you are interested in seeing more of them.

If you’re not making the sculpture detour, once you’ve had your fill of the Sun Voyager, head back into town. You could either walk back up Frakkastígur or take Vatnsstígur instead, but either way, our destination is the main shopping street in Reykjavik, Laugavegur .

On this colourful street with games painted on the tarmac (in summer, it is pedestrianised), you’ll find boutiques, bars and restaurants. This can be a good place to pick up some Icelandic products, if you’re in the market for a traditional knitted jumper, for example. There’s also some good eating to be had here:

• Sandholt is another bakery that has great tarts and cakes. You can sit in here – it’s very pleasant.
• Just around the corner from Laugavegur is a café called Grái kötturinn (The Grey Cat) – they are renowned for an indulgent breakfast & brunch menu, including an American pancakes dish called ‘The Truck’, topped with bacon, eggs AND fried potatoes!  I didn’t attempt The Truck, but I did enjoy a hearty breakfast here on my first visit to Iceland. Come hungry.

From Laugavegur, take a right on to Ingólfsstræti, then cut across Arnarholl park, in which you’ll find the Founder Statue, a statue of Ingólfur Arnarson, the Norseman who founded Reykjavik.

Beyond this, you’ll see Harpa Concert Hall , a modern cuboid building which houses a concert hall and conference centre. The architecture is modern and angular, but the patterns in the glass reflect the volcanic basalt columns found around Iceland.

If you’re into ballet or theatre, check out what’s on at Harpa during your trip. They also have a well-rated restaurant there, called Hnoss.

If you’re not so much here for high culture and/or you’re interested in anatomy, you might want to check out The Icelandic Phallological Museum , which is just around the corner from Harpa. They claim to have 215 penises from almost all the land and sea mammals that can be found in Iceland.

From Harpa, head along Geirsgata to the Old Harbour , where there are hardy-looking boats and warehouses. This is where the whale-watching tours depart from – but it’s best to book in advance if this is something that you want to do.

The whale-watching tours often offer a free second trip if you don’t see whales on your first trip. You might not have the time to go out twice, but it’s a statement of their confidence in the visibility of whales. I saw lots of dolphins and several minke whales on my trip – not breaching or flipping their tails or anything dramatic and photogenic, but still, it was wonderful to see them coming up for air. I also just loved being out on the steely cold sea. They will put you in reflective inflatable suits before you go out – just in case you end up overboard!

Whether you go out on the sea or not, you might want to check out Seabaron , a long-standing restaurant at the harbour. It’s a seafood restaurant, but a really old-school one. You queue to order and then take a seat in semi-communal seating; it’s small and cramped but the lobster soup was wonderful!  They also serve whale meat, though, which did put me off.

Centre: Ingólfur Square & Austurvöllur

From the harbour, take Tryggvagata into the Central area of Reykjavik, where you’ll find:

• Ingólfur Square , a small public square named for the founder of Reykjavik
• The Settlement Exhibition , an underground excavation of Viking-age buildings and remains
• Austurvöllur – another public square with a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the leader of the 19th-century movement for independence from Denmark

Skólavörðustígur – AKA The Rainbow Street

Cross Lækjargata and go up Bankastræti until you come to the bottom of Skólavörðustígur, also known as The Rainbow Street due to its colourfully painted tarmac. In good weather, it is, of course, a favourite spot for selfies. Sidebar: for the other famous and photogenic rainbow street in Iceland, you’ll need to go to Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland .

Wander up Skólavörðustígur and check out the shops, including several jewellery stores. Along the way, consider these two eateries

• Kattakaffihúsið is a ‘cat café’ where you can eat vegan cakes as you pet their various feline inhabitants – all rescues who are looking for homes. It is just a block from the Rainbow Street
• Salka Valka is a great restaurant where I had one of my favourite meals in Iceland: Plokkfiskur, a tasty mix of fish, potatoes and white sauce. It might not look like much, but it is delicious! Perfect comfort food on a chilly day.

You can end your self-guided walking tour of Reykjavik back at Hallgrímskirkja, which stands tall at the top of the Rainbow Street.

Map: Self-Guided Walking Tour Reykjavik

Here’s a map showing the walking route and the key stops along this walking tour of Reykjavik.

How To Use This Map : Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one.  If you click the star next to the map’s title, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.

Tips For This Self-Guided Walking Tour Of Reykjavik

• Bring a rain jacket – Weather in Iceland can be changeable and even in summer, it’s not uncommon to have rain. It was pretty drizzly on my first visit to Reykjavik, which was in June
• Get your head around the currency – Iceland uses Krona (ISK), and prices will be in hundreds, thousands and tens of thousands, so it can take a moment to work out what things will cost you in your own currency. Also, be prepared for high prices – to most visitors, Iceland is an expensive place to visit, so check out my tips for exploring Iceland without breaking the bank .

How To Get From Keflavik Airport To Reykjavik

Keflavik Airport is about 50km (30 miles) west of Reykjavik. Use Skyscanner for flight deals.

There are no passenger trains in Iceland, so the only option to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik is by road.

The best way to get around Iceland, in my opinion, is by hiring a car . Try Rentalcars.com to find a deal – and book ahead!

If you’re not driving a rental car, then the cheapest option is a public bus . Bus 55 runs between the airport and the city centre and only costs ISK1,960 (around £12 or US$14), but it is not a fast route: it can easily take an hour and 15 minutes. There’s more information on Straeto.is (NB. You’ll need to enter ‘KEF – Airport’ as the starting point).

Possibly the easiest route is by shuttle bus .   Flybus is a bus service that runs between the airport and Reykjavik city centre. It takes about 45 minutes, you can book it online and it costs ISK3,500 (around £20 or US$25). There’s also an option to stop by the Blue Lagoon.

You can also get a taxi , but this would be very expensive – in the region of ISK22,000 (£130 or US$155).

When Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Iceland

You can visit Iceland all year round, although the weather can be pretty cold outside of the short summer season (June – August), and the days get very short.

The advantages of going in winter (and also Spring and Autumn) are the chance to see the Northern lights. Also, seeing Iceland covered in snow would also be very special.

Both my visits have been in summer because I wanted to see the Icelandic landscape in all its vibrant green finery. Also, the long summer days mean you have plenty of daylight hours in which to explore – which makes up for the higher prices, I think, because you get more exploring done each day.  In Iceland in summer , you also have to worry much less about how the weather will affect the roads and your driving routes.

Where To Stay In Reykjavik

The first time I went to Iceland I stayed in an Airbnb in Reykjavik, which was fine. The second time, I was campervanning around Iceland , so when we stopped in Reykjavik, it was at Reykjavik Campsite, which is a large campsite a little way out of the city centre.

However, we had already driven the entire Ring Road by then, and I was pretty sick of being in the tiny camper van, so for the second night, I booked into the Skuggi Hotel , on Hverfisgata in central Reykjavik. It was so nice! We had a really comfortable room and I slept soooo well!  It’s also very conveniently located close to all the places in the city centre, so I do recommend it.

If you need any more hotel recommendations for your trip to Iceland, check out this post about hotels around the Ring Road .

The Final Word

I hope you enjoy exploring Reykjavik! 

However, if you are at all interested in the exciting Icelandic landscape, I urge you not to stay only in the vicinity of Reykjavik. The capital city, the Reykjanes peninsula and the Golden Circle are great, but they don’t compare with South Iceland in my opinion.

If you can get as far as Vik, you’ll get to see the wild black sand beaches , volcanic rock formations and also some stunning waterfalls. But ideally, you’ll go as far as southeast Iceland, where glaciers flow down the sides of volcanoes and huge icebergs float in serene glacial lakes . It really is spectacular!

The highlands of Iceland are also really exciting to explore, and it’s easy to do on a super jeep tour .

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

Martha Knight

Related posts.

Most Beautiful Streets In Paris To Stroll Down In 2024

Paris Newbies: Things To Do & Tips For Your First Time In Paris In 2024

31 Romantic Things To Do In Paris For Couples In 2024

Iceland In Summer: Why It’s Amazing, What To Expect & Things To Do In 2024

Paris Vs Barcelona: Which City Should You Visit In 2024?

2 Days In Paris: Itinerary To See The Best Of Paris In 2024

4 thoughts on “self-guided walking tour of reykjavik, iceland”.

Reykjavík is a hidden gem of a city with so much to explore. I loved walking along the black sand beaches, trying the local seafood, and visiting the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church.

I agree; the seafood is sooo good in Iceland!

Why it is not possible to download/print the walking tour itinerary???

Interesting question; would a downloadable walking tour of Reykjavik be something you’d be willing to pay for?

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

VIP – Small Group Walking Tour

Small group, small group citywalk.

The VIP CityWalk is a 2-2.5 hour walking tour in a small group designed especially for those who wish to get a more personal touch to their day in Reykjavik. The walk itself starts at the highest point in Reykjavík at the iconic Hallgrímskirkja and is all downhill from there! We pass by the most famous landmarks in Reykjavík such as Harpa concert hall, main shopping street Laugavegur, Þingholt neighbourhood, Arnarhóll hill, PM’s office, Lake Tjörnin, the famous hot dog stand, City Hall, Parliament and many more. You’ll also see some of Reykjavík’s best hidden street art as we introduce you to local habits, do’s and dont’s. You’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.

The VIP tour is a perfect alternative for those who are worried about the Free Walking Tour Reykjavik – click here being to crowded. If your group is 10persons or more we recommend booking a private tour Private Walking Tour – click here Add a food finish at our favourite restaurant with the CityWalk discount: Upon finishing the walking tour, we offer the option to drop you off at one of our favourite restaurants in downtown with an included meal. Please pick one extra, because each extra is served at a different restaurant, the speciality of each spot. The possible options are detailed in a tab further below.

• Price: 5480 ISK
• 2 - 2.5 hours
• Start: Hallgrímskirkja
• Finish: Austurvöllur
• Dates: All year around
• Wheelchair Accessible
• Starting Location
• Key Sites (Attractions)
• Request a Tour
• Optional Extras

You will find your guide at Hallgrímskirkja, next to a statue of a viking, Leifur Eiríksson. Click here for google maps location We are easy to find, clothing marked the CityWalk logo.

Hallgrímskirkja, Skólavörðustígur, Laugavegur, the Concert Hall Harpa, The Old Harbor, lake Tjörnin, Parliament building and often go inside the City Hall. The route changes slightly due to weather.

1. The Famous Icelandic Hot dog, includes gluten. Choose from toppings: ketchup, may, mustard, onions.

2. Vegan meal, soup & Dahl. Our friends grow everything locally

3. Lamb Soup. The traditional iceland Lamb soup has been keeping us warm for generations

4. Panfried Arctic Charr or Salmon, may contain nuts. Only available on weekdays for lunch.

5. The Controversial plate. All legal in Iceland but not commonly eaten. Including a sample of Horse Carpaccio, Smoked Puffin, lightly grilled Minke Whale and Cured Arctic Charr. Small portions of each, but one platter can be shared with two persons.

6. Rye Bread Ice cream, topped with cream and caramelised rhubarb syrup. Ideal desert!

Reserve your spot now!

Please enable javascript in your browser to book

Testimonials

Comments from our previous guests.

Self-guided walking tour Reykjavik Iceland

When you make purchases through links on this website we may earn a commission. Read more .

A self-guided walking tour in Reykjavik is one of the best ways to learn more about this great city at your own pace.  The city is set out perfectly for exploring on foot, and some of the best things to do in Reykjavik are all found within a central and easily accessible area.  This free walking tour can be done in any direction and doesn’t need to be done all at once.  It can be broken down into smaller areas, meaning you can make the most of what you find along the way, like stopping for a drink or an Icelandic hotdog!

• Visiting Iceland

The growth in Iceland’s visitor numbers has been growing at an exponential rate.  Before the turn of the century, visitors to Iceland never reached 100,000 per annum.  Shortly after that, various areas in Iceland were used as backdrops for movie scenes and rock music videos.  The world became alive to the beauty of this country, and visitor numbers started to grow.  In 2008, Iceland suffered a significant blow to its economy with a credit card crash, and the country started to look further afield in its strategic recovery.  

In 2010, Iceland made global headlines when the volcano Eyjafjallajökull erupted, causing disruption to travel plans for weeks on end.  Incentives were offered to airlines to bring the people back to Iceland.  All of this has contributed to a newfound love for Iceland that has not abated.

In 2010 just under 500,000 people flew into Keflavik Airport, showing a marked increase in the number of visitors. By 2016, 1.767m people came to visit Iceland, 39% more than the previous year. That number went north of two million visitors in 2017.

With this number of tourists, almost six times the Icelandic population, the pressure was mounting on locals and their land. Questions started to get raised around the sustainability of such visitor numbers. Iceland was in danger of being loved to death.

But, by early 2020, everything was turned on its head again with the global pandemic. In a very short space of time, arrivals into Iceland dropped by 75%.

Reykjavik – Iceland’s capital city

Reykjavik self-guided walking tour, best things to see and do, how long does it take to do a walking tour, best time to do it, how to get here, getting into the city, where to stay, where to eat, iceland travel resources, more iceland reading, our most popular articles for european inspiration.

Most visitors to Iceland enter by air through Keflavik Airport, located approximately 38km from the centre of Reykjavik.  As the capital of Iceland, most of Reykjavik’s visitors would find themselves here at some point during their stay.  For many, Reykjavik is as far as they get, popping over from other European destinations for a long weekend.  Others, particularly those flying with Iceland Air, use Reykjavik as part of their journey stopover.

 Looking to save money in Iceland? Read these tips for saving money in Iceland .

Reykjavik is a city well worth stopping for, but I don’t believe it needs more than several days.  While noticeably different from many of the world’s big cities, there’s so much diverse and incredible beauty on offer in the rest of Iceland to encourage you to get out from Reykjavik, if only for a few more days.

In a city that can take a toll on your wallet, a free self-guided tour offers the perfect solution.  Reykjavik is an easy city to walk, and you can do it at a pace that is entirely your own.

We took a full day and a half to explore all of these sights and areas below, stopping in at many of the cafes, food stores and coffee shops along the way.

If walking around Reykjavik on your own is not something that suits you, there are plenty of tours available where a guide can talk you through all the key sights, like this private walking tour of Reykjavik.

Looking for a Reykjavik food tour?

Hallsgrimskirkja Church

This famous landmark caught my attention long before I realised what it was.  As we arrived in Reykjavik in the early morning hours, the eerie yellow lights shone brightly from the top and resembled a face.  In the daytime, it can be seen from almost all over Reykjavik.

Like much of the architecture in Iceland, it can be mistaken for being uninspiring.  But, it shouldn’t be compared to the centuries-old beauty of many of the European old Towns.  In a country as remote as Iceland, building materials are harder to source and the structures, therefore, take on a different form.

The beauty lies in the colour and the inspiration behind the designs.  The building of this church commenced in 1945 and was completed in 1986.  It stands at an impressive 74.5 metres.  The design was said to represent the basalt rock columns that can be found along some of the beaches here.

It’s always great to be able to get up high in a new city to get some perspective.  From here a wonderful view is possible over the city and the water, across to the mountains.  On a clear day, the view of the coloured rooftops below is spectacular.

Tickets can be purchased to access the elevator that takes you to the top for this amazing view.  For accurate ticket pricing and opening times, click here .

Tip : If you want a bit more space around you try and go up earlier in the day.

LOCATION : Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík

Einar Jonsson Sculpture Park

If you are visiting the Hallsgrimskirkja Church, then you should also pop by the Einar Jonsson Sculpture Park.  Located close by, there is a great selection of artwork by this well-known Icelandic artist and sculptor.  The gardens are free to walk around and admire the sculptures.  The museum attracts a fee.

LOCATION : Hallgrímstorg 3, 101 Reykjavík

Visit the Phallological Museum

This one is weird, and outside of Amsterdam, I’m not sure anything else exists quite like it.  It is a museum located along Laugavegur dedicated to the penis.  Even if it’s not your thing, keep an eye out as it will most likely be something that jumps into your vision as you walk along Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main street.

LOCATION : Kalkofnsvegur 2, 101 Reykjavík

Visit historically significant buildings

Althingi parliament building.

The Althingishus (Parliament House) was constructed in 1881.  It is now one of the oldest stone buildings in Iceland.  Its main function today is as the place where the 63 elected members of Parliament discuss and pass legislation.

LOCATION : Kirkjutorg, 101 Reykjavík

Culture House

Built in 1906, the Culture House reminds me of a small European palace.  It originally was the home of the National Library and archives but is now actively used for various exhibitions by the museums and the National Gallery.

LOCATION : Hverfisgata 15, 101 Reykjavík

Nearby, Anarholl Park is worth a stroll through, even if it is just to get a better view of the water from up on the hill. 

Menntaskólinn

This is the oldest junior college in Reykjavik.  Dating back to 1056, it’s also one of the oldest schools in all of Iceland.  Most of the country’s politicians have been educated here, including all but four of the nation’s prime ministers.

LOCATION : Lækjargata 5 101, 101 Reykjavík

 Stjornarradid Government House

This seemingly plain building is the office of the Prime Minister of Iceland.  It was interesting to see the lack of security surrounding it.

LOCATION : Lækjargata, 101 Reykjavík

Get water views from the cross streets

Walking along any of the streets that run parallel to the water, a glance down a side street will almost assure you of a view.   Sometimes, depending on where you are, the view will also take in the mountains.

Admire the impressive street art

Street art is everywhere in the world, and Reykjavik is no exception.  Reykjavik has a thriving street art scene, evident all over the main streets of the city. It started with the Wall Poetry project, a campaign developed in 2015 to bring street and musical artists together.   Start at the Gallery Port for one of the finest street art displays. Here an entire building has been covered with an impressive mural by artist Caratoes and inspired by an Icelandic band’s song. It’s the perfect facade for the gallery inside.

Walk around the block down Hverfisgata, and you’ll find several pieces, including one by notable Icelandic street artists, the Ugly Bros.  Even though this street lies just behind the main shopping street of Laugavegur, it’s long been a street of urban decay.  Street art and new construction are now bringing it to life.

Walk further along Laugavegur to discover more street art. At number 34, a simple and practical mural by Gudsteins Eyjolfssonar shows various ways to tie a man’s tie. It’s one of the least vibrant of all street art found here, but it is still interesting. At number 35, a dark and moody piece covers the side of a building.  Painted by US street artist Elle it was one of the first murals painted as part of the initial Wall Poetry campaign. 

At Laugavegur 66, English street artist D*Face painted a mural depicting a love triangle as part of the Wall Poetry campaign.  It’s one of the more famous murals along this street.  If time doesn’t permit further exploring, you can end the tour here.

If you do have time and feel like walking some extra distance, a good place to stop is at Laugavegur 159 for a vibrant mural. Painted by local street artist Raff back in 2012, it represents Iceland’s dependence on the sea.

If you are planning on looking for it, just keep in mind that the street art in Reykjavik is a changing canvas with new murals appearing and old ones disappearing all the time.

Walk Laugavegur Street

Street art and plenty of brightly coloured corrugated iron and painted shop fronts ensure there is colour aplenty in the streets.  Laugavegur Street is full of funky coffee shops, cafes, bars and juice bars.  It’s also the place for some good shopping, especially Arctic winter clothing, fashion and souvenirs.

Walk along the waterfront

Prepare for the wind if you venture down to the waterfront.  Not far out of the main street, you’ll find this expanse of water with a promenade along which you can walk or ride.  Down here, I got my first real insight into what Iceland might be like. Mountains, close enough that you feel you could touch them and still covered in white snowy caps, even though summertime was almost here. Rolling green hills, with houses dotted sporadically across them, and the wind….oh, the wind. How it blows in Iceland.

Stop at the Solfar Sun Voyager Sculpture

The Solfar Sun Voyager sculpture is a striking sculpture and one of the most photographed too.  For good reason, given the connection to Vikings here, most people, including myself, believed this to represent a Viking ship.  Designed by Jón Gunnar Arnáson, another famous Icelandic sculptor, it is, in fact, a dreamboat and is seen as a symbol of hope and light.

See what’s on at Harpa

Harpa is the modern conference and concert centre down on the waterfront in Reykjavik. With its glass exterior designed in a honeycomb formation that is meant to resemble the basalt rock columns found around Iceland, it’s an impressive sight. It’s an ongoing hub for events and functions.

Click here for an up-to-date list of events .

Built from glass and once again representing the basalt rock columns found throughout Iceland, it looks so impressive.  At night, the glass provides the perfect backdrop for a light show. We weren’t able to witness this as there quite simply wasn’t enough darkness!

Most visitors to Reykjavik, however, don’t go inside unless attending a show or an exhibition. However, as a visitor, it’s such a good place to go and have a look around. Harpa is a public building accessible by anyone, not just those who have tickets for an event taking place here. There is no security to prevent access, but security personnel are present to ensure the safety of everyone in the venue.

Climb the stairs inside and position yourself in different areas along the glass exterior. Its design creates individual viewing pods. Move around the building to get an interesting and different perspective of Reykjavik city and the harbour.

While you are here, there’s a great shop on the ground level, selling Icelandic souvenirs and also promotional products relating to the events currently on at Harpa.  Alternatively, take a break at the cafe.

If you have more time to spend, why not take a guided tour around the facility?  By the end of the tour, you will have seen parts of the building not accessible by the public and learned how the Icelandic landscapes inspired the design of this important part of Reykjavik’s cultural hub.

LOCATION : Austurbakka 2, 101 Reykjavík

Visit the Old Harbour

At the end of the waterfront promenade is the Old Harbour.  It mightn’t look like much, but I can forecast that this area will become quite a hub for foodies in the coming years.  Already there are signs of a burgeoning food and providores area down here, and there are some amazing restaurants too.  

Bringing in fish fresh from the trawlers, many of these restaurants also offer stunning views and great food.  It is also the area where most of the whale watching and puffin tours are and is home to the Maritime Museum as well.

Sit and relax by Tjornin Pond

Tjornin Pond is a tranquil area right near the City Hall and the beautiful church of Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík.  It’s typical of the Icelandic churches around the countryside, all white with coloured roofing.

The lake is alive with swans, ducks and various other birds and is also the perfect spot for a walk or run.

Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík Church

Across from the lake is the Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík, an independent church established in 1899.  It is essentially a “free church” which no denomination and was created in opposition to other operating doctrines at the time.

LOCATION : Fríkirkjuvegur 5, 101 Reykjavík

National Gallery of Iceland

Right next door to the Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík Church is the National Gallery of Iceland.  Iceland celebrates its history of amazing artists and sculptors here, focusing on 19th and 20th-century art.  There are regular exhibitions here.

Opening hours and entry prices can be found here.

LOCATION : Fríkirkjuvegur 7, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

City Hall Building

The City Hall building on the lake’s edge is probably close to the ugliest building in Reykjavik.  I couldn’t get any inspiration from the outside, but with the Office of Tourism on the inside, there’s plenty of inspiration to be found there.

LOCATION : Tjarnargata 11, 101 Reykjavík

Explore the back streets on a walking tour of Reykjavik

Like any city, there’s often so much to find if you have the time just to get lost in the back streets.  We found some interesting cafes, quirky little gardens, hidden laneways and plenty of colours.

In the backstreets, you’ll also find Braud & Co, the best bakery in Reykjavik.  They have amazing sourdough and pastries but get here early as once it’s all sold out, there is no more! All products made on-site are produced predominantly with Icelandic ingredients.  The pastries all include yeast, and all bread is made with a sourdough starter.

This type of walk can be done as slowly or as quickly as your itinerary allows.  The Reykjavik walking tour maps below give a general indication of the route we walked, starting from our apartment . It can certainly be done in one day.  We took a little longer as we had plenty of stops along the way to look at the buildings more closely, to take time out along the water and to eat and drink, of course.  Overall, Reykjavik is a very walkable city.  Reykjavik is also a very safe city to walk around on your own and at night.  Like the rest of Iceland.

This map constitutes the main part of Reykjavik.  It is not exclusive, as other parts of Reykjavik are worth seeing but aren’t on this route.

This route took us into some of the back streets so that we could get a feel for more of the local life, away from the business of the main streets.

The weather in Iceland is different to many other parts of Europe, with very long daylight hours in summer and very short hours of light in winter. If you are planning on walking around Reykjavik and seeing all the great things we’ve noted, then the best time to do it is obviously during the summer months. In summer, there is light almost all day. Technically the sun sets around midnight, but it remains twilight until around 3 am when the sun starts rise again.

Conversely, in winter, it’s dark all the time, and of course, it’s much colder. Irrespective of the time of year, remember it’s Iceland, and the weather can change anytime. Always wear comfortable, closed-in shoes for walking and have a rainproof and windproof jacket with you for warmth.

Getting to Reykjavik by air is the easiest way, with many full-service and budget airlines stopping here.  Iceland Air is the national carrier and flies from many European destinations and the USA.  We flew Iceland Air from London Heathrow. While we paid full fare prices, the in-cabin service and size of seats more closely resemble a budget offering.  For a list of airlines that fly to Keflavik Airport, click here .

Keflavik Airport is located just under 50 kilometres west of Reykjavik.

Tip : Buy your duty-free alcohol here if you have a chance, as it will be cheaper than what you can get in Reykjavik.  Remember, everything is expensive in Iceland.

The Flybus operates from Keflavik Airport and is the most convenient and cost-effective way to transit into Reykjavik.  The trip takes around 50 minutes to an hour.  The service is regular with a Flybus there for every international flight that arrives at this airport.  The main destination is the BSI bus terminal, but for an extra fee, the bus has drop-offs at some city hotels. We highly recommend buying your tickets to the Flybus online and ahead of time .

Flybus also runs to the Blue Lagoon, so if you have plenty of time before you fly on the day you leave, this is a good option.

The Airport Express travels from Laekjartorg Square in the centre of Reykjavik to the airport.  Hotel pickup and drop-offs can also be made.  The Airport Express also heads north, with the main stop in Akureyri.

There are also door-to-door shuttle buses that run specific routes between hotels. Alternatively, private transfers may also be booked to take you directly into the city.

Rental cars can also be hired from Keflavik Airport for driving in and around Reykjavik or for a larger road trip.  You won’t actually need a car if you are just planning on staying in Reykjavik.

A car ferry operates weekly from Denmark through to Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland. 

Depending on your budget, there are a variety of hotels, hostels and apartments to stay at.  

City Town Apartments

We stayed at the City Town Apartments at the end of Laugavegur Street, which was an excellent choice, and we would happily stay here again.

You can check out the apartment we stayed at and read our review here

• Centrally located and close to all the major things to see and do in Reykjavik
• Large apartment with one bedroom + sofa 
• Excellent bathroom
• Fully self-contained with a large kitchen and dining space
• Washing machine and dryer
• Netflix and wifi
• Private balcony
• Free private parking
• Flybus has a drop-off from Keflavik Airport closeby 

Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel

• Close to Reykjavik Harbour
• Flatscreen TV, wifi, gym
• Close to Harpa, the promenade and the main street Laugavegur
• Onsite restaurant and bar

Check out more reviews, availability and book on  Trip Advisor

Any foodie visit to Reykjavik should always include Hlemmur , the original food hall in the city. Located inside the former bus terminal, there are a handful of good food outlets here.

Coffee, breakfast items and bread – Reykjavik Roasters and Braud & Co.

Morning tea – Sandholt on Laugavegur.

Snacks – Iceland is known for their hotdogs. Now, they aren’t really anything special, but as far as a hotdog goes, they are ok and great for a quick snack if you are out and about pounding the pavement.

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur (across from the Radisson Blu Hotel) is the most well-known hot dog stand in the city due to an impromptu visit from President Bill Clinton a long time ago. It doesn’t necessarily mean they are the best, so if you want to avoid long queues, our pick is simply known as the Hot Dog Stand .

Lunch and dinner – this city is packed to overflowing with excellent restaurants, ranging from the casual to high-end. Some of our picks include; Messinn for fresh fish, Ostabudin for Icelandic lamb (it’s expensive but it’s divine) and Saigreifinn for lobster soup. Lava is one of the best luxury restaurants to et at. Bookings are essential at most of the city’s restaurants.

Planning on staying a few days in Reykjavik?

While the city is a perfect city for a short stopover, it also makes a great starting point for day trips into other areas of Iceland or a larger road trip.  Having been to all of these areas, we agree that they are some of the best day trips and guided tours from Reykjavik.

Jökulsárlán Glacier Lagoon

• Full day tour starting and ending in Reykjavik
• Visit Europe’s largest glacial lagoon
• See the incredible Diamond Beach
• South coast route with dramatic coastline including the black beach
• Séljalandsdoss waterfall

Check availability and book online

Private tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle

• Thingvellir National Park 
• See the merging of two tectonic plates (and continents)
• Haukadalur Valley geysers
• Lugarvatn’s hot springs
• Visit the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall
• Private tour and guide
• Rick Steves Iceland
• Rick Steves Snapshot Reykjavík
• Lonely Planet Pocket Reykjavik & Southwest Iceland (Travel Guide)

Reykjavik is a great place to start a trip around Iceland.  We travelled around the entire country in a campervan via the Ring Road.  Following is the complete set of our Iceland articles that you might like to read and use for your Iceland travel planning.

• 8-day Iceland itinerary: a self-guided drive of Iceland’s Ring Road
• Driving the Iceland Ring Road? How to get the best campervan rental in Iceland
• Golden Circle Iceland self-drive: Why you shouldn’t miss the Golden Circle
• Iceland South Coast self-drive: Seljalandsfoss to Jokulsarlon
• East fjords Iceland: driving the Ring Road from Jökulsárlón to Seyðisfjörður
• North Iceland highlights; The natural wonders of Dettifoss Falls and Lake Mývatn
• Where to see seals in Iceland plus other great places on the north-west coast
• Why you should see more than the Golden Circle in Iceland’s south-west
• Visit Akureyri: Self-guided walking tours Akureyri
• Parking a campervan in Iceland
• How to spend one day in Sintra Portugal
• Things to do in Bologna – one day to one week
• Lisbon to Porto 8 day road trip itinerary

Book your flight: Flights are an important part of travel and we’re always looking for the best deals. If you can travel mid-week and be flexible, you’ll often find great deals on flights. We use I Want That Flight in Australia (for domestic and international flights deals). We also use Skyscanner and Momondo(US) and Airfare Watchdog is a useful resource for checking flight prices.

Book your accommodation:  We all love to stay in different places. From the comfort of a self-contained apartment or house to a resort or luxury hotel. sometimes we just need something quick, easy and comfortable for an overnight stay. Vrbo is great for holiday rentals of more than seven days and often has great discounts for longer periods. Trip Advisor is perfect for getting reviews, checking availability and pricing comparisons all in one place. For the same reason, we also love Booking.com (they have excellent cancelling and refund options) and Hotels Combined and have often found great savings on their sites.

Book your rental car or motorhome:  We always use Rentalcars.com anywhere in the world for car hire. We recommend Apollo Motorhomes in Hamburg (use our code APDEBEERCROI for €50 off your hire) and Anywhere Campers if you want one-way hire motorhome in Europe. If you’d like to buy your own motorhome in France, we use and recommend France Motorhome Sales .

Book a tour:  We travel independently but occasionally even we find a great tour we are dying to take. If you are looking for advance tickets to an attraction, groups tours or private tours, we use and recommend Get Your Guide and Viator . Both have a great range of tours and flexible cancellation policies. If you are looking to do a food tour in Europe, we also recommend Eating Europe Tours .

Be covered:  We always travel with travel insurance . We did it before the pandemic and it’s even more important for us to do so now. We use Cover-More in Australia. SafetyWing  has great rates for travellers who are away from home for extended periods. World Nomads also has good coverage.

Be ready:  Make sure you pack a few essentials; universal adaptor , power bank , noise cancelling headphones

About The Author

Kerri McConnel

A former corporate business executive, Kerri is the content creator for Beer and Croissants, a trusted source of detailed guides on motorhome travel, road trip itineraries, and destinations.

Together with Stirling, they are motorhome experts, having independently road-tripped their way across much of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand since 1995. Back home in Australia, they own their own motorhome and can always be found on a regional road trips, taking in towns that often no one has heard of.

They are responsible travellers; long, slow trips in motorhomes, spending time in small regional communities where the tourists usually don't wander, and spending money in their small economies. And where possible, they travel in shoulder and off seasons, so they don't add to the tourist rush.

As an Honorary Barge Lady for Barge Lady Cruises and a regular on European Waterways vessels, Kerri is also an expert on luxury barge travel in Europe, having completed five barge cruises in France and Scotland.

Kerri is a Digital Travel Publisher Member and former board member and treasurer of the Australian Society of Travel Writers (2020-2023).

Everything written and produced on this site is our own work. there's no AI and if we've written about it, you can trust we've been there, done that!

Read more about Kerri here

32 thoughts on “Self-guided walking tour Reykjavik Iceland”

what a great idea and so true about saving money. Iceland can get really expensive!

Wow.. it’s such a fascinating place. NO doubt the tourism is at an all-time high in Iceland. I so eagerly want to visit Iceland and probably want a house there if it would ever be possible. The architecture of all buildings is superb and not mention the natural beauty of this place that everyone is aware of.

Reykjavik seems fairly walkable with many attractions to explore! I didn’t know houses there are so colorful. The street arts seem fascinating!

I’ve seen lots of post about Iceland over the last year or so much not so many have focused on the capital so I always thought it must be pretty dull, however this has completely shattered that idea, it really looks like such a fun place!

You made my visualize nearly the entire city through this comprehensive yet concise post. Great summing up…from the waterfront landscapes to the quirky architecture and unusual street art. I suppose 3-4 days is a reasonable time to get a good feel of Reykjavik.

I love Reykjavik, such a modern, fun city. I was there last year I went on the Golden Circle tour and went to the Blue Lagoon, walked around the city and ate lots of lobster soup! I like the way you have put together a self guided tour as it is easy to get around Reykjavik. Love the duck photo!

Loved the pictures and the way you have detailed everything. Arctic winter clothing shopping on my mind now! :)

Totally agree that you can easily tour Reykjavik on foot by yourself – we quite enjoyed getting lost in the city streets, finding quirky museums, colorful homes and stumbling across cool street art. Can’t get lost really, everything is so well structured and leads back to the sea worst case!

Loved strolling the harbor, and walking into shops on Laugavegur Street – awesome summary of the main sights, and then my favorite, wandering the backstreets :D!

Great guide, Kerri. We lived in Reykjavik back in 2010 for a bit and one thing I would also say not to miss is a visit to Perlan. It really has gorgeous views over the city. We also love getting an Icelandic lobster soup from the food truck across from the Harpa and wandering in and out of cafes and shops on the shopping street. In the winter, the pond freezes and you can walk right across it or ice skate. Reykjavik is such a cute town to wander around and it’s definitely the heart of Iceland with more than half of the population living in or around Reykjavik.

I haven’t been to Iceland before, but I’ve been dying to go for years. Your Instagram pictures of the place are always so vibrant and unique. The Hallsgrimskirkja church really is an odd shape. How tall is it? And does it say anywhere that the Solfar Sun Voyager isn’t actually meant to represent a Viking ship?

I am a sucker for street art so those colorful creative walls are very exciting for me. But what I liked most from your guided walk is the metal sculpture – that is so beautiful. I wish all cities in the world build sculptures like that.

Loved this post, Kerri. With a zillion road trip and waterfall posts about Iceland, it was refreshing to see something totally different. I think I would be hanging on Laugavegur Street for my travels. What a colorful and fun neighborhood area. Your pictures are spectacular!!!

I am yet to see Iceland but I have heard great things. Reykjavik definitely seems to have some interesting corners to explore. I find the government buildings less interesting, although it’s noteworthy that the school looks bigger than the parliament building which is kind of cute. What I loved about your story are more the street art places and the hidden corners. I feel there is quite some interesting urban culture to Reykjavik that needs further exploration. Thanks for sharing your experiences!

For us Reykjavik and Iceland are the stuff that our dreams are made of. We would love to visit the country someday and though one of the reasons for our fascination for the place is the Northern Lights, there is obviously much more to it. Reykjavik is indeed charming and its beauty has been captured stunningly by your pictures. A self-guided tour is what we would love as it gives us the flexibility to do things at our own pace. This is something that is going to stand us in good stead when we do get to Reykjavik.

Some really great information. My friend is planning a trip here in 2018. I’ll make sure to tell her about your article.

I really need another trip to Iceland as mine was too short! I was driving around most of the time and spent little time in Reykjavik itself. I don’t regret that – but it would have been nice to explore the city a little more. I did wander through the streets at night and loved how cool it felt – a fun vibe. But it meant I didn’t really get a thorough look at all the landmarks, mainly the shops – and that was because I was on a mission to buy a new NZ-Euro adapter as I’d accidentally thrown mine out on my travels! But fun to explore – next time I would have a couple of days staying within the actual city centre before exploring the rest of the island.

Congratulations! You got the real pulse of the city. I think self-guided tours are the way to go!

You certainly lead an eventful life Ryan. Thailand will be amazing.

I’m missing it now too Kaylene. Glad you loved it also.

Wow fly so regularly there now. It’s definitely worthy of a visit.

Yes on both counts. Always a good opportunity here to look for savings.

Thanks Danik. I agree with everything you have said – top town!

I think walking is the best way to see most cities! And making your own “tours” are the best way to save money in Iceland. I just got back from Reykjavik, and this post definitely makes me miss roaming the streets of this wonderful city. We really enjoyed seeing all the beautiful street art and walking along the waterfront. I was also amazed by the beauty of Harpa, definitely a building you have to go into while in Reykjavik!

Iceland tourism has gotten very popular, and it is now particularly expensive. So a self guided walking tour sounds like a great idea to save money, thank you for the great tips!

I love Reykjavik. It is such a small city but one which all the sights can be done. I love the colourful buildings and the view from the church. They were my highlights. I love your photos in this post. Brings back a lot of memories :)

I actually like the simple architecture of Reykjavik with white washed walls and colorful roofs. We are considering trying a trip to Europe with WOW air and a 1 day stop over there. Your article and walking tour make me want to go ahead and book it.

That top church is one of the more fascinating buildings I have ever seen. Whenever a travel blogger captures it, I am floored. Can’t explain it. Just really really different than other churches.

Iceland is certainly on the travel blogging rounds as it should be. We were thinking of a quick NYC to Iceland trip around the holidays but are gonna chill in NJ; just booked a Thailand house sit in February, so it’ll be here and off to SE Asia again.

Thanks for sharing Kerri.

Maybe one day it will change but it’s nice to think they don’t need it in our world of today.

This is an amazing guide, Iceland looks relaxed. Love the street art, and the government house, so laid back you could pass it for any other building. Interesting though how there is no security.

Ha yes if you don’t like wind this is probably not the place for you :) You are right about the architecture, definitely a bit “brutalist” in parts but the colour more than makes up for it.

That looks a most interesting city. I might get there one day although I’d hate the wind! Architecture is rather stark but modern looking and not unattractive – plenty of colour. Love all the street art and very interesting to see the bedding in your apartment!

Very useful tips, thank you for info

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Adventure Tours
• Culture & Traditions Tours
• Food & Drink Tours
• Geothermal Pools Tours
• Museums & Exhibits Tours
• Northern Lights Tours
• Reykjavik Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Featured Multi-Day Tours
• Other Multi-Day Tours
• Custom Tours
• Guide & Travel Assistance Service
• Íslenskar Upplifanir
• Private Adventure Tours
• Private Culture & Traditions Tours
• Private Food & Drink Tours
• Private Geothermal Pools Tours
• Private Northern Lights Tours
• Private Reykjavik Walking Tours
• Private Sightseeing Tours
• East Iceland
• Golden Circle
• North of Iceland
• Reykjanes Peninsula
• South Iceland
• West Iceland
• Corporate Tours
• Airport Transfers & Transport
• Travel Guides
• Responsible tourism
• North Iceland
• DMC Services
• Transfers & Transport

Walk With A Viking Tour in Reykjavik

Adding item to wishlist requires an account, already a member.

Username or E-mail

Forget Password?

Don't have an account? Create one.

• Duration 2 Hours
• Group Size 12 Person Max
• Meeting Location Ingólfur Square in the center of Reykjavik

Our Popular Iceland Viking Tour

Our Reykjavik Viking Tour is your introduction to Iceland. This tour is designed to help you get your bearings in our capital city and make the most of your stay in Iceland. We recommend this as your first stop in Reykjavik! For more specialist adventures, head over to our Reykjavik Walking Tours to explore further.

We will visit all the highlights of the Reykjavik city centre and also share hidden spots with you, like a visit to a genuine Elf home and other local gems – things easily missed if you didn’t know where to look.

Find out More About our Iceland Viking Tour

What's included.

• Stroller and Wheelchair friendly
• Children 7 to 15 pay half price
• Children 6 and younger are complimentary
• Expert fun loving local guides
• Live tour commentary provided in English
• For all ages but it’s a 2 hour walk
• The first Viking house
• Reykjavik Harbor
• Harpa Concert Hall
• Hallgrímskirkja church
• Reykjavik pond
• The Parliament building
• We will also share hidden, local spots with you like a visit to a genuine Elf home and other local gems – things you’d miss if you didn’t know what to look for.

An Iceland Viking Tour like no other…

Our personal small-group and family-friendly tour brings the history of Iceland to life with exciting stories and Icelandic folklore. For an even more in-depth look at our myths and legends, check out our Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour .

We want you to feel the unique, friendly atmosphere of our quirky city, not just to see the most popular tourist attractions. We’ll even have a small lesson on the Icelandic language – so you not only get to walk with a Viking tour guide but talk like one, too!

Local Food & Fun Recommendations in Reykjavik

We’ll be showing you our favorite places to eat, drink and visit in Reykjavik. We also have an intimate knowledge of happy hour deals that we’re happy to share.

We never have more than 12 of our new friends on this tour, meaning we can answer all of your questions and get to know each other a bit. But if you’d like a smaller, even more personal experience, check out our Private Walk With a Viking option.

If you have any questions about this tour or any of our services, please get in touch .

Related Tours

Whales of Iceland from Land and Sea

Private 4-Hour Airport Transfer & Tour

Free Walking Tour Reykjavik

Free walking tour Reykjavik shows you the capital and largest city of Iceland, located on the southern coast of the island. It is a vibrant and modern city that boasts a unique blend of traditional Icelandic culture and modern European influences. Reykjavik is known for its stunning natural surroundings, including glaciers, hot springs, geysers and more, as well as its thriving arts and music scene. It is also home to many cultural institutions, including museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as an array of restaurants and shops. Reykjavik is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the beauty of Iceland’s natural wonders and its rich cultural heritage.

General information

Meet your guide outside of the Hallgrimskirkja Church

11:00 hrs / 18:00 hrs

Tip only basis

Please remember to check your ticket after booking to ensure you don’t miss any updates from your guide.

Free Walking Tour Reykjavik – Itinerary

Free walking tour Reykjavik starts at the famous Hallgrimskirkja Church, which is one of the tallest structures in Reykjavik and offers great views over the city from the top. From there, visit the Reykjavik City Museum to learn more about the city’s history and culture. Walk through the charming old town, lined with colorful buildings and picturesque streets, and visit the Parliament House, home to the Icelandic parliament since 1944.

Read more...

Next, head over to the Sun Voyager sculpture, a beautiful metal statue that symbolizes hope and freedom, and the nearby Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, an architectural marvel with a stunning glass facade. Finish your tour at the Tjornin pond, a popular recreational area and bird-watching spot, surrounded by parks and cafes.

This 2-hour walking tour will give you a glimpse into Reykjavik’s rich history and culture, as well as its stunning architecture, breathtaking natural beauty, and lively atmosphere.

A Self Guided Walking Tour Of Reykjavík

Drew Robinson | February 14, 2018 August 5, 2017 | Iceland Ring Road

For travelers driving Iceland’s Ring Road, there are a few activity options for their first day after flying into Keflavík airport. Some visit the Blue Lagoon, which is only 20 minutes away from Keflavík. Others head straight to the Golden Circle to begin their adventure. We chose to spend a day in Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavík to decompress from the long flight and ward off any jet lag. Reykjavík is a small and walkable city with around 123,00 inhabitants. In this self guided walking tour, I will provide a map, a downloadable GPX, and a detailed walking guide with photographs and information for the tour highlights.

*My walking tour hits all of the main highlights in Reykjavík for a total distance of 3.7 miles (6km). I will also include extra points of interest on the map that I did not visit.

• Download Walking Tour GPX
• View on Strava

To begin your self guided walking tour of Reykjavik, you’ll want to start close to the center of the city. For those planning on doing the Ring Road, you can find central parking , or book a centrally located hotel. Your other options are public transport or extending your walk.

Hallgrímskirkja

The starting point and first stop for most visitors to Reykjavík is Hallgrímskirkja. Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran church that stands 244ft(74.5m) tall, making it the largest church in Iceland. At first glance, this church didn’t strike me as much to look at. Reading up on it’s design, I began to see the importance of the design language. Architect Guðjón Samúelsson designed Hallgrímskirkja to resemble the basalt columns and trap rocks that are a part of Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes.

Bonus: See my 10 favorite churches and basilicas in Europe

There is an elevator inside of Hallgrímskirkja that allows visitors to enjoy views from the top of the church tower. Tickets are 900kr. ($9 USD) per person, and can be purchased at the gift shop inside of the church. The views of Reykjavik from the top of Hallgrímskirkja are pretty spectacular.

After visiting Hallgrímskirkja, walk west to the next stop of Tjörnin. Tjörnin is a small lake located in Reykjavik. There is a nice walkway that runs along the lake.

Listasafn Islands National Gallery of Iceland

If you’re in the mood to see some art, make sure to check out the National Gallery of Iceland . This gallery is located right next to the lake of Tjörnin. This gallery features a lot of the artwork from famous Icelandic artists.

Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík

Located right next to the National Gallery is Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík. This church was established in 1899 with a congregation of around 600 members. Known as the Free Church of Reykjavik, this church arose as an objection to the national church’s position on certain doctrines.

Reykjavik City Hall

Walking north along Tjörnin, you’ll see a walkway to your left that leads to Reykjavik City Hall. City Hall houses the offices of the mayor and other executive positions in Reykjavik.

Menntaskólinn í Reykjavík

After leaving City Hall, continue north on Lækjargata St to Menntaskólinn í Reykjavík. This building is home to the oldest Community College in Reykjavik, having been established in 1056.

Stjórnarráðið

After leaving Menntaskólinn í Reykjavík, continue north on Lækjargata St and you’ll see Stjórnarráðið. This unassuming building is actually the office of the Prime Minister of Iceland.

Continue north on Lækjargata and you’ll pass by the Central Bank of Iceland. Across the street from the Central Bank, you’ll see the Harpa Concert Hall. This building is used concerts and conferences. There is a gift store and restaurants inside. Like Hallgrímskirkja, the architecture of Harpa was designed to embody the Icelandic landscape.

Sólfarið – Sun Voyager

After leaving Harpa behind, head east along the waterfront and you’ll see the Sólfarið Sun Voyager. This stainless steel sculpture was designed by Jón Gunnar Árnason. The Sun Voyager is a dream boat, designed as an ode to the sun.

After enjoying the sites of Reykjavik, head towards Laugavegur. This street shares it’s name with the most popular trek in Iceland. The two have nothing in common though, as the Laugavegur in Reykavik is known as the place for some of Iceland’s best shopping.

This concludes this walking tour. After shopping and/or eating on Laugavegur you can return to your accomodation or walk the city streets of Reykjavik. There is plenty to see and do, and sometimes it’s fun to just wander freely and without a destination when exploring a new city.

Read More On Iceland’s Ring Road:

A Complete Guide To Iceland’s Ring Road The Ring Road Video: An Adventure in Iceland 7 Ways To Eat On The Cheap And Save Money In Iceland The Ultimate Guide To Renting A Car For Iceland’s Ring Road A Driving Guide For The Snaefellsnes Peninsula A Guide To Driving North Iceland A Guide To Driving Southeast Iceland A Guide To Driving Iceland’s Golden Circle A Guide To The Blue Lagoon A Self Guided Walking Tour Of Reykjavík 40 Photos That Will Make You Want To Explore Iceland’s Ring Road

Share This Post!

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Related Posts You Might Like

40 photos that will make you want to explore iceland’s ring road, a guide to the blue lagoon, 11 thoughts on “a self guided walking tour of reykjavík”.

I loved watching the Harpa change colors at night! I loved Iceland in general, really 🙂

We were hoping to see that as well, but there really wasn’t a “night” during the time that we visited.

A very helpful post, great work!

Great info, thanks!

Thanks, Caroline!

• Pingback: A Guide To Driving Southeast Iceland – Trail to Peak
• Pingback: A Guide To Driving North Iceland – Trail to Peak
• Pingback: A Driving Guide For The Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Trail to Peak
• Pingback: 12 Tips For Driving Iceland’s Ring Road With Babies, Toddlers, And Children - Trail to Peak
• Pingback: 12 Tips For Driving Iceland’s Ring Road With Babies, Toddlers, And Children

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Discover more from Trail to Peak

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Walking in Reykjavík

Discover reykjavík the slow way.

Discovering downtown Reykjavík and its surroundings is best done on foot or bike. This slow form of travel gives you a better exposure to life in the city and what it has to offer. Walking the streets of the city allows for surprises of tucked-away gems and provides an intimacy with the city as you interact with what you experience. Traffic stress is not your concern as you discover Reykjavík on foot.  These walking paths are also mostly bike-friendly , so if you prefer to bike around the city, these trails are excellent paths of discovery.

Reykjavík CLASSIC (2 – 3 hrs. / 2.4 km.)

Starting at Lækjartorg square (1) , follow Austurstræti to the corner of Pósthússtræti. Take a right turn into Pósthússtræti and continue onwards towards the sea and Geirsgata . Once at the harbour, you will find an  old steam locomotive which was used to transport building materials for the building of the harbour. Enjoy the exhibition and sculptures on display and amble along the shoreline towards the Old Harbour Area (2) . A cluster of beautifully restored buildings housing restaurants and souvenir shops line the harbour. Walk along until you get to Ægisgarður and the whale watching huts. Take a left up Ægisgata until you get to Vesturgata . Turn left and continue until you get on Aðalstræti , the oldest street in Reykjavík and at the end of the street you will see The Settlement Exhibition   (3) .

Aðalstræti was the first , and in fact, the only street in the early days of Reykjavik. This is the oldest part of the city and here you can find some of its oldest houses and trees. On the right side of the street is an old well which used to be one of the city’s main water sources until the establishment of the Water Works in 1909. The tiny square at the end of the road used to be a cemetery and you can still see some old gravestones there. Turn right and follow Túngata  up to the Catholic Church (4) at Landakot . Walk through the grounds of the church until you reach Hávallagata . Turn left and proceed to Garðastræti where you take a right to Kirkjustígur . Enjoy the old cemetery (5) , filled with beautiful sculptures, gravestones and aged trees.

Leaving the cemetery, turn right at Suðurgata to Skothúsvegur and enjoy a little detour around the City Pond . Continue along Fríkirkjuvegur and make a stop at the National Art Gallery (6) which is well worth seeing. Proceed towards the City Hall at the pond where you find in the exhibition hall a huge 3D map of Iceland. (Open to visitors on weekdays 08:30–16:30). From there walk up Templarasund to the Alþingi Parliament House (7) and the Cathedral .

From the church, walk onwards to Lækjargata , cross the road and continue in the direction of the Lækjar­torg square. Pass the giant outdoor chess board, the statue Vatsnberinn and Bernhöfts­torfan (8)  , a set of renovated buildings which house gourmet restaurants. Proceed to the statue of Ingólfur Arnarson, the first settler in Iceland, on the top of Arnarhóll (9) . End the tour at Harpa Concert Hall (10) or continue along the shoreline to the impressive sculpture called Sólfarið- Sea Voyager (11) . After taking your selfie with the Sea Voyager, walk up Frakkastígur to Hallgrímskirkja (12)  at the top of the hill. Enjoy this austere cathedral before walking down Skólavörðustígur into Bankastræti and back to Lækjartorg square .

Start your walk at Ingólfstorg square (1)  on Aðalstræti . Walk along the oldest street in Reykjavík until you get to the square on the corner. Turn right up Túngata and follow the road past the Landakot Catholic Church (2) down along Hofsvallagata until you get to the coast at Ægisiða (3) . Turn left and follow the path along the shoreline past the old fishing huts and various other reminders of the city’s fishing heritage.

Continue along the walking path past the domestic airport all the way to Nauthólsvík   (4), a beautiful little beach with white sand where you can bathe in the heated seawater, or maybe, if you are adventurous, paddle out into the sunset on a kayak. The return takes you past the Reykjavík University up the Öskuhlið hill (5), which played an important role during the Second World War . The British Army used it as a military location. Today, this tree-lined hill has all the delights of a forest. It offers excellent walking paths and resting areas. Among the trees you can still find traces of the army “settlement” ; such as shelters and trenches. Afterwards, you can treat yourself to some refreshments at Perlan (6) and take a look at the city from the view point at the top.

From Perlan, walk through the forest to Bústaðarvegur . Cross the road and go down on Litlahlið until you see a roundabout and there continue on Langahlið all the way to the traffic lights on Miklabraut . After crossing the street, turn left and walk near the park Klambratún (7) all the way to Snorrabraut . Turn right, cross the street and go up on Eiríksgata . Take a left on Barónsstígur until you get to Laufásvegur and walk towards Njarðargata . Go down towards Sóleyjargata , turn right towards the park and cross it until you reach the City Pond (8) and go back to the city centre at Lækjartorg square .

This walk starts at the traffic circle near the Saga Museum (1) on Ánanaust street in the Grandi area . This part of the route is wheelchair-friendly and  has also a bike lane in some parts. Follow the walking path along the seaside all the way to the  Grótta Lighthouse viewpoint (2). From here, you have the option to continue all the way to the lighthouse. Just be aware of the tide schedule . At the lighthouse enjoy the wide open ocean of Faxaflói Bay.   Following the path along the seashore, you pass a pond (3) with a vibrant bird population. This path leads to the south side of the peninsula. Continue onto Suðurströnd past a small boat harbour and some impressive villas on the coast. The panoramic views are spectacular on this walk. The path leads you back down to the sea on the north side. Follow the path back to the Saga Museum .

Related items

Reykjavik Art Museum

Reykjavík Art Museum - Ásmundarsafn

Harpa Concert Hall

Reykjavik City Pond

Reykjavík Art Museum - Hafnarhús

Reykjavík Art Museum - Kjarvalsstaðir

The Settlement Exhibition

Kjarvalsstaðir.

Reykjavik, Iceland Travel Guide: Explore The Culture Beyond The Northern Lights

F or a destination that’s equal parts enchanting and otherworldly, look no further than Reykjavik, Iceland. The charming capital city offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes and the ethereal Northern Lights. Nature lovers, art enthusiasts and foodies can all find something to enjoy in this destination.

• Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), October to April (off-season), May to June and September to October (shoulder season)
• Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
• Currency: ISK (Icelandic Króna or kr)
• Noteworthy: Winter Lights Festival (February), Reykjavik Jazz Festival (August), Culture Night or Menningarnótt (August), Reykjavik International Film Festival or RIFF (September), Iceland Airwaves (November)
• Best for: Culture & History, Art & Music Festivals, Adventure Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Northern Lights Chasers

Play: Things To Do In The Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik food walk – local foodie adventure in iceland.

The Reykjavik Food Walk in Iceland is a must for foodie travelers seeking a true taste of Iceland. This 3-hour guided walking tour immerses guests in Reykjavik’s rich culinary local scene. Guests will savor eight or more delectable Icelandic dishes across four to six local spots from food trucks to fine-dining spots. The food walk includes passing iconic landmarks, like Parliament House and the Hallgrimskirkja. Along with the tastings, each walk has a knowledgeable guide that shares local history as guests indulge in Icelandic hot dogs, cheeses, homemade ice cream and more.

Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik with PRO photos

As one of Iceland’s highest-rated tours, the Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik with PRO photos is the ultimate excursion. Visitors will witness the iconic Northern Lights while enjoying complimentary homemade hot chocolate, warm wool blankets and mouthwatering cinnamon buns. Capture memories with free high-quality photos of guests and the lights. With a small family-run company, unmatched service by expert local guides, this tour guarantees the best shot to marvel at the Northern Lights.

The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik

The ultimate Icelandic itinerary has to include The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik. Visitors encounter majestic humpback, orca, blue and minke whales, as they venture into the heart of their natural habitat aboard a cruise. Guided by marine experts, this tour ensures there is minimal disturbance to these remarkable creatures as guests see the Faxafloi Bay’s currents renowned for prime whale watching. There’s no fear of embracing the elements with provided overalls, raincoats and blankets. There’s free WiFi and admission to the Wildlife Exhibition onboard.

Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon Including Admission & Kerid Volcanic Crater

Visiting Iceland means booking a comprehensive day trip to the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon Including Admission & Kerid Volcanic Crater. In a small group, explore Thingvellir, Geysir Hot Spring, Gullfoss waterfall and the stunning Kerid crater. The country’s natural wonders can be seen from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle with free WiFi. The day concludes by unwinding in the rejuvenating geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. While food and drinks aren’t covered, scheduled stops provide opportunities for refreshments and a complimentary drink at the Blue Lagoon.

Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik

The Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik is an exhilarating excursion that connects nature, culture and community. Guests will see the captivating landscapes of Iceland on this guided tour. Ideal for both beginners and experienced riders, this adventure offers a unique way to explore the country’s remote wonders. This tour is thoughtfully tailored to personal riding proficiency. For a comfortable experience, there is coffee, tea or hot chocolate provided. All equipment, including helmets, rubber boots, rain gear, and warm overalls, is complimentary.

Gourmet: Best Restaurants In Reykjavik, Iceland

Matur og drykkur (food or drink).

Matur og Drykkur, Icelandic for food or drink, creates classical Icelandic cuisine with a modern flair. This family restaurant is committed to reinventing recipes sourced from historic Icelandic cookbooks with their own twist. Using only the finest local ingredients, every element of the menu is freshly homemade. It is housed within a historic Salt Fish factory by the harbor, which creates a cultured ambiance. Enjoy the local Icelandic classic by booking a table and indulging in their six-course Chef’s dining experience.

Baka Baka is a two-level bakery and restaurant that shares the best of both worlds with guests. By day, visitors can indulge in delectable pastries and freshly baked bread while sipping aromatic coffee from their bakery. As the sun sets, this spot transforms into a restaurant with delicious fire-baked pizzas, pasta and a selection of exceptional natural wines. From sunrise to sunset, BakaBaka is a culinary journey that’s worth a breakfast or lunch date.

The harmony of the Nordic-Italian fusion concept at Mat Bar in Reykjavik is one-of-a-kind. Nestled in the heart of the city, this chef-driven gem offers seasonal tapas that delight the taste buds. Guests can enjoy a deliciously baked cheese flatbread drizzled with wasabi honey and walnuts, then a mozzarella di bufala tapas with pickled tomatoes and basil, and finish with an indulgent affogato of espresso and vanilla ice cream. The art of blending flavors creates a dining experience that’s unique to Icelandic culture.

Sweet Aurora

With a mission to share French culinary delights, pastry chef and owner Aurora created the delectable fusion of Icelandic charm and French pastry mastery that is Sweet Aurora in Reykjavik. The menu includes classics like lemon meringue tart, Tonka bean cream-filled chocolate eclairs, and apricot macarons with rosemary-white chocolate ganache. There are seasonal twists, like “volcano macarons,” with smoked chocolate ganache. The all-female team also crafts custom seasonal delights to order, like Fraisier cake and strawberry tart.

Kaffivagninn

The heart of Reykjavik’s culinary history can be found nestled in the Old Harbour at Kaffivagninn. Opened in 1935, it’s the oldest restaurant in Iceland. This charming breakfast and lunch spot lets travelers mingle with locals over scrumptious meals. Weekdays offer a 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., breakfast featuring delightful chia porridge. On weekends from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., brunch platters are loaded with savory and sweet variety, or opt for pancake and French toast platters. The menu includes Icelandic specialties, like smoked trout omelets, fish stew gratin and Danish-style butter breads with a selection of traditional spreads.

Stay: Best Places to Stay in Reykjavik, Iceland

Spacious lovely icelandic flat by the sea.

There is a Spacious Lovely Icelandic Flat By The Sea in the highly sought-after Vesturbær neighborhood. This Airbnb spot is a 15 to 20-minute stroll downtown complemented by a walking path across a scenic shoreline. Guests can enjoy easy access to the local swimming pool, coffee houses, restaurants, bakeries and gourmet food stores. The newly renovated apartment has a modern kitchen, an open layout with ceiling-high openings, and abundant natural light. The generous living space and two large bedrooms accommodate single and medium groups of up to 5 people. Guests can easily stay connected with free WiFi and unwind with both Apple TV and Netflix. 

Cheerful Newly Renovated Downtown Apartment

The Cheerful Newly Renovated Downtown Apartment in the heart of Reykjavik is a 3-bedroom Airbnb gem. Mere steps from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, it is a 4-minute walk to top-tier swimming pools and neighbors Iceland’s premier organic bakeries.  All of the city’s finest dining, entertainment and attractions are within walking distance. Preferably, quieter guests looking for a more peaceful stay would enjoy this stay with a serene atmosphere that is family-friendly. Be mindful of the noise restrictions after 11 p.m., and it is a smoke-free environment, so be mindful of that when booking a stay. 

The Kex Hostel is housed in a former biscuit factory and uses salvaged materials and found treasures. The vintage-industrial aesthetics with a contemporary twist adds to the authenticity of the space. They have dorms and rooms for up to 215 guests plus a bar, restaurant, lounge and heated patio for guest use. Local cafes, museums, shops, and music venues are a short walk away from the city center. It is a truly unique stay with an eclectic library and reading lounge, two guest kitchens, a heated outdoor patio and access to 24/7 reception. They have on-site eats, like the brand new pop-up bar & restaurant, FLATUS, and their breakfast buffet called BAXTUR.

Get Away: Getting To and Around Reykjavik, Iceland

By air .

The main gateway to reach Reykjavik, Iceland is Keflavik International Airport. It is located about 31 miles southwest of the city center. Various airlines offer direct flights from major cities worldwide. Before landing, travelers can see truly stunning aerial views of Iceland’s rugged landscapes. There are efficient transportation options from the airport to Reykjavik for easier travel and more sightseeing from the airport.

Navigating Reykjavik, Iceland with a car is simple enough with multiple rental companies available. The well-maintained roads and clear signage make Reykjavik convenient and efficient to get around. The city also is fairly compact, so there’s easy access to cultural sites, cozy cafes and bustling local markets. Having a personal car grants flexibility for unforgettable day trips to natural wonders. Some options to explore are the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and the most mesmerizing Icelandic waterfalls. There’s an unparalleled freedom to venturing out into the city.

By Public Transit

The public transit system in Reykjavik has well-connected bus routes that link to key landmarks, neighborhoods and attractions. Acquiring a Reykjavik City Card grants unlimited access to buses for a more cost-effective and hassle-free trip. The compact size of the city makes it easy to find the more popular points of interest. Visitors can easily immerse in the local culture from museums and galleries to local markets.

Explore Reykjavik, Iceland on Foot

One way to absorb the city’s unique ambiance is by exploring Reykjavik on foot. With a small-town feel and a big-city personality, the region offers architectural gems, cozy cafes, and boutique shops within walking distance of most accommodations. Strolling through the charming street provides an intimate glimpse into local life. The pedestrian friendly streets create a deeper connection to the culture, history and modernity that makes Reykjavik an ideal Northern European destination.

Many airlines have 'stopover' programs that let travelers tour a city between connecting flights, and some will even pay for a hotel — here's how to book them

• Many people intentionally book flights with long connections so they can explore the layover city.
• Airlines capitalize on this trend with "stopover" programs, some even offering free hotels and food.
• These stopovers benefit travelers, airlines, and the carrier's home country by boosting tourism.

A special segment of adventurous travelers will purposely book itineraries with long connections in layover cities just to leave the airport and explore for a few hours or days between flights.

Airlines have jumped on this growing trend with built-in "stopover" programs, which can come with free or discounted hotels, excursions, transportation, and food at the layover destination.

It's basically a vacation within a vacation.

Although it sounds too good to be true, stopovers benefit everyone involved. Travelers get more choices and don't have to be confined to an airport, airlines gain customers who may have otherwise chosen a nonstop option on a competitor, and the carrier's home country sees a boost in tourism.

Plus, the cheap or complimentary accommodations typically come at a small cost to airlines, thanks to partnerships with local hotels or tour companies.

Not all stopover programs are structured with an emphasis on tourism, though, as some were created simply to offer conveniences during long layovers. Still, they are a way to secure a free hotel and explore an extra city.

Here are 22 global airline stopover programs, each lasting anywhere from hours to months.

Many carriers allow stopovers to be added to a regular cash booking, but some are only available via award tickets . This means the flight was paid for using points/miles or a combination of points/miles and cash.

Air Canada has a stopover option built into its Aeroplan loyalty program. It allows customers booking award flights to add a stop on international journeys and explore practically any city the airline flies to outside the US and Canada.

The add-on costs 5,000 Aeroplan points each way and can only be booked if the stop is at least 24 hours, capping out at 45 days.

Air France/KLM

Air France and Dutch carrier KLM's Flying Blue loyalty program offers a stopover of 24 hours or more in a connecting city on either carrier or their airline partners.

The option is free to add to award tickets, and passengers can stay up to a year in the stopover city.

China Southern Airlines

China Southern Airlines offers a free one-night hotel stay for transfer passengers with connection times lasting between six and 30 hours, though there are some time and route restrictions.

Breakfast and transportation are included for eligible travelers.

Copa Airlines

Copa Airlines' Panama stopover program allows customers to spend anywhere from 24 hours to seven days in the nation's capital, Panama City, on their outbound or return trip.

The option is free for the first stopover, but a second stopover can cost up to $250 plus taxes. Copa offers discounted hotels and tours that can be booked via its stopover website.

Emirates allows a stopover in Dubai with the option to add discounted tours or hotel bookings to the itinerary via its website.

The UAE carrier also has a " Dubai Connect " program that gives passengers with layovers between 6 and 26 hours, depending on the cabin, a complimentary hotel, transfers, meals, and any needed visa.

Dubai Connect only triggers if the customer takes the next available flight. Essentially, you can't intentionally book a longer layover to quality for the free stopover hotel.

Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines' transit program gives customers flying via Addis Ababa a free hotel, transit visa, and transfers during layovers lasting between eight and 24 hours.

The hotel on the airline's website is the Ethiopian Skylight In-Terminal Hotel, located inside the airport.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways offers a stopover in its Abu Dhabi hub, which comes with an undisclosed discount at select three-star hotels for up to two nights.

Two and four-night stays can be booked at more luxurious four and five-star hotels at a 40% discount. The minimum stay is 24 hours.

Although Etihad's website says it is temporarily unavailable, the airline used to allow eligible travelers to use a so-called Transit Connect Package that provided a free hotel near the airport for layovers lasting 10 to 24 hours. It is unclear when or if the program is returning.

Fiji Airways

Fiji Airways offers a stopover program in Fiji for those traveling to and from Australia, New Zealand, and other South Pacific nations.

Related stories

Hotels and activities like ziplining and beach resorts can be booked through the airline as part of the stopover package.

Finnair allows passengers to book 6, 12, or 24-hour layovers in Helsinki at no additional fare charge and outlines itinerary ideas and information on its website , like transportation, free walking tours, and restaurants.

Customers can book a hotel through the airline and earn Finnair Plus points.

Iberia customers can plan a stopover in Madrid to or from an international destination for one to six nights at no extra cost.

Discounts on hotels, excursions, and transfers in the Spanish capital are available through Iberia.

Icelandair offers a stopover option for one to seven days in its capital city of Reykjavik on transatlantic itineraries for no additional charge.

The airline offers itinerary help and assistance in booking excursions and tours. Hotels need to be booked separately.

Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines considers itself one of the "most stopover -friendly" carriers in the world.

The stopovers, which trigger at 24 hours, are not limited to JAL's hubs in Tokyo but can be enjoyed in places like Osaka and Kyoto using the airline's multi-city booking tool.

Latam Airlines

Latam Airlines offers stopovers for between one and three days on flights that connect in São Paulo, Brasilia, Fortaleza, Recife, Manaus, Curitiba, and Belem. Only international itineraries that connect in São Paulo.

Hotels and amenities can be booked via Latam, but the stopover booking is free.

Oman Air offers customizable stopover packages to give travelers time to explore the country's capital, Muscat, and beyond. An additional fare charge may be applicable, though the airline does not fly to the US.

Packages and a-la-carte options include discounted hotels for up to three nights, as well as organized tours, meals, and transfers.

Australian flag carrier Qantas offers its stopovers in a similar manner to JAL in that multi-city bookings can be manipulated to add extra days between flights in layover cities, like Bangkok, Osaka, or San Francisco.

This comes at no extra cost on eligible Qantas fares and can be used on its Oneworld partner airlines.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways' stopover program allows passengers with a minimum layover of 12 hours and up to 24 hours to choose from a list of deeply discounted four and five-star hotels. Certain flight itineraries allow for up to four nights.

Nightly hotel rates start at $14 per person for 1 night at four-star standard hotels, with premium five-star beach hotels starting at $30 per person for one night.

Royal Jordanian Airlines

Royal Jordanian Airlines' transit program gives economy and business-class travelers with at least eight and six-hour layovers, respectively, a free hotel room, meals, and transit, assuming certain fare conditions are met.

However, the connecting flight must be the earliest possible — meaning, similar to Emirates, passengers can't intentionally book a longer layover to be eligible for the complimentary perks.

Swiss International Air Lines

Swiss International Air Lines, or SWISS, has a multi-city stopover booking tool on its website that allows passengers to find itineraries with extra days in Switzerland.

The cost of hotels and other perks is on the customer, though.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines' stopover program is available via the multi-city tool, similar to other carriers, where travelers can add hotels, transfers, and activities. The stopover can last one to seven days.

Singapore also offers free transit tours to passengers with layover times between five and a half and 24 hours at Singapore's Changi Airport. It's first-come, first-serve and includes sightseeing around Singapore.

TAP Air Portugal

TAP Air Portugal allows customers to add a stopover in Lisbon or Porto between one and 10 days, offering discounts on hotels, food, and activities.

It also offers 25% off a domestic flight to a second Portuguese destination, like the Azores or Madeira islands, to take during the stopover.

Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines' stopover program gives economy travelers a one-night free hotel stay and business flyers a two-night free stay if the period between their connecting flights in Istanbul exceeds 20 hours.

Those traveling from the US in economy class can stay up to two nights in a four-star hotel, while those traveling in business can stay up to three nights in a five-star hotel.

Watch: Thousands of bags pile up at US airports after flight cancellations

• Main content