Waymark

Iceland · Capital Region

Reykjavík travel guide

A small, colourful capital at the edge of the Arctic

Hallgrímskirkja church, Reykjavík. Photo: Steinninn, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

2h 45mflight from London
KEFnearest main airport
11° in Julwarmest month
0° in Jancoolest month

Reykjavík is the world's most northerly capital and small enough to walk around, with colourful houses, the soaring Hallgrímskirkja church and the glassy Harpa concert hall.

Most visitors base themselves here for day tours. The Blue Lagoon is on the way to the airport at Keflavík.

Good forDay toursFoodNightlifeHot springs

What Reykjavík is known for

  • Hallgrímskirkja

    A church shaped like lava columns.

  • The Blue Lagoon

    Milky-blue geothermal spa.

  • Northern lights

    Often seen from the city edge.

  • Harpa

    A glass concert hall on the harbour.

Top things to do in Reykjavík

  1. 1

    Hallgrímskirkja tower

    Views over the coloured rooftops.

    Find tours and tickets
  2. 2

    The Blue Lagoon

    Book ahead; go on arrival or departure day.

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  3. 3

    Sky Lagoon

    An ocean-edge infinity pool.

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  4. 4

    Whale watching

    Trips from the Old Harbour.

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See all tours and tickets in Reykjavík

Where to stay in Reykjavík

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Best time to visit Reykjavík

Best value: Jan–May, Sep–Nov. June to August for long days; September to March for the northern lights.

  • Best valueGood weather, smaller crowds
  • PeakBusiest, highest prices
  • QuietCheapest, cooler or wetter
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Bar height is the average temperature in Reykjavík, °C, 2001–2025 (NASA POWER).

Getting there and around

About 2h 45m from London to KEF, and flights from most UK airports.

Walk the centre. Flybus links Keflavík airport in 45 minutes. Tours pick up from hotels.

Find flights to Reykjavík (KEF)

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Good to know

  • Iceland is expensive, so stock up at Bónus supermarkets.
  • Tap water is excellent.
  • Hot dogs are a cheap local favourite.
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Reykjavík FAQ

How many days in Iceland?

Four or five for Reykjavík and day tours.

Can I see the northern lights from Reykjavík?

Yes, on clear dark nights.

More places in Iceland

Back to the Iceland travel guide + Add Reykjavík to your bucket list