This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Planning a trip to Reykjavík? You’re in for an adventure!
Iceland’s capital is a vibrant city packed with history, culture, and some truly unique experiences. Whether you’re here to chase the Northern Lights, soak in a geothermal spa, dive into the local food scene, or explore Iceland’s wild landscapes, Reykjavík is the perfect base for exploring Iceland!
Having visited multiple times, we’ve rounded up the must-do activities in Reykjavík—from epic day trips and thrilling adventures to incredible food and history. So bundle up, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to the Land of Fire and Ice!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Reykjavik was this Silfra snorkeling tour! Floating between two tectonic plates in some of the clearest water in the world was absolutely unreal.
There’s literally nowhere else on Earth like this snorkel spot!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland
- 1. Discover Reykjavik’s unique food scene with a local guide
- 2. Go snorkeling between tectonic plates
- 3. Visit iconic waterfalls and black sand beaches on a South Coast tour
- 4. Visit the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and Kerid Volcanic Crater in one day
- 5. See the top city sights on a walking tour
- 6. See the Northern Lights
- 7. Spot wildlife on a whale-watching excursion
- 8. Explore the Lava Tunnels
- 9. Go horseback riding through Iceland’s rugged landscape
- 10. Witness a Lava Show in Reykjavik
- Where to Stay in Reykjavik, Iceland
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Europe
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland
1. Discover Reykjavik’s unique food scene with a local guide
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times available
- Highlights: Visit 4 to 6 Reykjavik eateries, sample local specialties and street food, walk by some of Reykjavik’s most famous landmarks, and learn about Icelandic food culture
- Inclusions: Local tour guide, 8+ food samples
- Rating: 5 stars (check out 15,800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Let’s be real—visiting Iceland isn’t exactly cheap, so when it comes to food, you don’t want to waste your money on overpriced, mediocre meals. That’s exactly why we booked this Reykjavík walking food tour, and honestly, it was the best decision we made!
This tour wasn’t just about eating incredible food—it was also a walking tour through Reykjavík’s charming streets, giving us a local’s perspective on the city’s history, culture, and hidden gems.
Our guide, Alfei, was fantastic—full of humor, fascinating stories, and expert foodie knowledge. He took us to top-rated restaurants, family-run spots we’d have never found on our own, and even a few food trucks!
Now, let’s talk food. We sampled over eight different dishes, including melt-in-your-mouth Arctic char and the surprisingly delicious rye bread ice cream (seriously, don’t knock it till you try it!). Every bite came with an interesting backstory, and by the end, we felt like we had a real understanding of Icelandic cuisine.
Best of all? We left stuffed, happy, and armed with insider recommendations for the rest of our trip. If you want to eat like a local, explore Reykjavík on foot, and learn a ton along the way, this tour is a no-brainer. There’s a reason it has over 15,000 5-star reviews!
Check availability for this popular Reykjavik food tour here!
2. Go snorkeling between tectonic plates
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times available
- Highlights: Snorkeling tour of Silfra fissure, swim between two tectonic plates and continents, admire the underwater world through crystal clear water, enjoy hot chocolate and cookies afterward
- Inclusions: Guide, hot chocolate and cookies, entrance fees, all necessary equipment (including a warm and dry suit!)
- Rating: 5 stars (check out 6,800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Did you know that Iceland is home to one of the top dive sites in the world? And no, you don’t need a scuba certification to experience it! Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure is an absolutely surreal experience—where else can you float between two tectonic plates and two continents at the same time?
Located in Thingvellir National Park, Silfra’s glacial water has been filtered through lava rock for decades, making it some of the purest and clearest water on Earth. The visibility here stretches over 100 meters/328 feet!
We were worried we’d be freezing, but the provided dry suits kept us warm and buoyant. Not that we were thinking about the cold once we dipped our heads underwater—the deep blues, shimmering greens, and dramatic rock formations were mesmerizing!
Our guides were fantastic, keeping things fun, engaging, and totally safe. When we got out of the water, they gave us hot chocolate and cookies, which was the perfect way to warm up and reminisce on the epic experience we just had!
If you’re up for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, snorkeling in Silfra is an absolute must while in Iceland! Trust me, the photos don’t even come close to doing it justice!
Read the thousands of 5-star reviews and secure your spot on our favorite tour here!
3. Visit iconic waterfalls and black sand beaches on a South Coast tour
- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Marvel at the Eyjafjallajökull Volcano and Sólheimajökull Glacier, see the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, and visit a black sand beach
- Inclusions: Downtown Reykjavik pick-up/dropoff, tour guide, comfortable transportation
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out 5,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Iceland’s South Coast is packed with some of the country’s most jaw-dropping landscapes, and this full-day tour is the perfect way to see it all—without stressing over driving in unpredictable Icelandic weather.
We hopped into a comfortable minibus and set off with our fantastic guide, who kept us entertained with stories of Viking legends, Icelandic folklore, and fascinating geology as we cruised past glaciers, volcanoes, and endless open landscapes.
First up was Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading water (yes, you’ll get misted, but it’s 100% worth it!). Then came Skógafoss, a powerful 60-meter/197-foot waterfall that looked straight out of a fantasy movie.
But my favorite part had to be Reynisfjara, Iceland’s famous black sand beach! With its towering basalt columns, crashing waves, and dramatic sea stacks, it felt like something from another planet. We also made a stop at Sólheimajökull Glacier, where we got up close to its icy blue crevasses and rugged terrain.
This tour packed in all the South Coast’s must-see spots, with plenty of time to explore, snap photos, and take it all in. If you want to experience Iceland’s wild beauty without the stress of planning, this South Coast adventure is an absolute must!
If you’re ready to explore Iceland’s South Coast, reserve your spot here!
4. Visit the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and Kerid Volcanic Crater in one day
- Duration: 11 hours
- Time: 8:30 am or 9:30 am
- Highlights: Visit Thingvellir National Park, marvel at erupting Geysirs, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Kerid’s Crater, enjoy a therapeutic bath in the Blue Lagoon
- Inclusions: Comfort or premium admission tickets to the Blue Lagoon (depending on option selected), entry fee to the Kerid Volcanic Crater, air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out 4,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Trying to fit Iceland’s must-see sights into a short trip? We get it. The first time we visited, we had just one day to explore and wanted to pack in as much as possible, so we booked this Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon tour and can’t recommend it enough!
Our day kicked off at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can literally walk between two continents. From there, we headed to Strokkur Geyser, which erupts like clockwork every few minutes, sending boiling water shooting into the sky.
Next up was Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls, where we stood on the edge and felt the mist hit our faces. Then, just when we thought we’d seen it all, we arrived at the Kerid Volcanic Crater—the lake inside had some of the bluest water I’ve ever seen!
But the real highlight for me was relaxing in the Blue Lagoon after a full day of exploring. Floating in the steamy, milky-blue water with a drink in hand was pure bliss!
If you want to check some of Iceland’s most iconic sights off your list, this tour is the easiest and most fun way to do it. It’s no wonder it has thousands of 5-star reviews!
Book your spot here and receive FREE 24-hour cancellation!
5. See the top city sights on a walking tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10 am or 2 pm
- Highlights: Small-group walking tour, see the city’s top attractions such as Hallgrímskirkja, learn about the city, and get insider knowledge from your guide
- Inclusions: Local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out 4,800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Reykjavík is an amazing city, but if it’s your first time visiting, it can be tough to know where to go and what’s actually worth seeing. That’s exactly why we booked this walking tour, and it turned out to be the perfect way to get familiar with the city while uncovering hidden gems we’d have totally missed on our own.
From the moment we met our guide, Olof, we knew we were in for something special. As we strolled through Reykjavík’s colorful streets, we checked off all the major landmarks—Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and Parliament Square—while hearing stories that brought them to life.
But what really made this tour stand out was the little details. From hidden shortcuts and quirky street art to the offbeat local history you won’t find in a guidebook, this experience gave us a whole new appreciation for the city.
Since it’s a small-group tour, there were no crowds or rushing, and we could ask as many questions as we wanted. Olof also gave us fantastic recommendations for the best places to eat, drink, and explore afterward.
If you’re visiting Reykjavík for the first time, this tour is hands down the best way to get your bearings, learn about the city’s history and culture, and start your trip feeling like a local!
Secure your spot on this popular walking tour here before it sells out!
6. See the Northern Lights
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9 pm, 10 pm, or 11:30 pm
- Highlights: Visit the best spot for Northern Lights viewing with a local guide, get cozy with blankets, sip on hot chocolate, and enjoy professional photographs to take home with you
- Inclusions: Professional local driver-guide, homemade hot chocolate, pickup and drop-off at your accommodation (or closest bus stop if downtown), WiFi on board, cinnamon buns (the best in Iceland!), wool blanket, professional high-quality photos
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check out 2,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is one of those bucket-list experiences, but let’s be real—it’s not as simple as just looking up at the sky and hoping for the best. That’s why we booked this small-group Northern Lights tour, and it made all the difference!
Our guide was an absolute pro at reading the forecasts and knew exactly where to take us for the best chance of seeing the aurora. Instead of standing in a crowded viewing spot near Reykjavík, we drove out into the Icelandic countryside, away from the city lights, for the perfect dark-sky conditions.
After some anticipation (and a lot of hopeful sky-gazing), the lights finally appeared—shimmering greens and purples swirling across the sky. It was one of the most surreal and breathtaking things we’ve ever seen!
And just when we thought the night couldn’t get any better, our guide pulled out steaming cups of Icelandic hot chocolate and fresh cinnamon buns. Watching the aurora while sipping a warm drink was absolute perfection!
This tour also included professional photographs, so we had some amazing, high-quality photos to take home as a souvenir. So, if you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland, this tour is the best way to do it—trust us, it’s worth every penny!
Secure your spot on this tour here, and don’t pay until just before you go!
Related Read: For help planning an epic trip to Reykjavik, check out our detailed 3-day itinerary full of the highlights, hidden gems, and best places to eat!
7. Spot wildlife on a whale-watching excursion
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times available
- Highlights: Cruise the coast to see whales in their natural habitat, learn fascinating facts about the whales from onboard guides, spot other marine life, including dolphins and sea birds
- Inclusions: Cruise, live guide, Wildlife Exhibition admission, WIFI onboard, raincoats, overalls, and blankets
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check out 2,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Did you know that Reykjavík is one of the best places in the world for whale watching? The nutrient-rich waters of Faxaflói Bay attract humpback and minke whales, dolphins, and even orcas, making this whale-watching tour an absolute must for nature lovers!
We set off from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour on a spacious and comfortable boat, bundled up and ready for an adventure. As we cruised into the open waters, our guide shared fascinating facts about Iceland’s diverse marine life and the country’s deep connection to the sea.
Then, out of nowhere, two humpback whales breached right in front of us! Seeing these gentle giants in their natural habitat was absolutely surreal. We also spotted playful white-beaked dolphins leaping through the waves and riding alongside the boat.
But here’s the best part—90% of tours have whale sightings, but if you don’t see anything, you can come back for another cruise free of charge. So, no matter what, you get another shot at this incredible experience!
If you’re looking for an epic wildlife adventure in Reykjavík, this tour is a must-do. Just bundle up, grab a hot drink on board, and get ready for an unforgettable day on the water!
Check availability and pricing for this whale-watching tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
8. Explore the Lava Tunnels
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: Multiple departure times available
- Highlights: Visit Raufarhólshellir to see one of the country’s largest lava tunnels and learn insider facts and stories from your guide as you go
- Inclusions: Helmet, lights, guide
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 1,900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Iceland’s landscapes are stunning, but did you know there’s an entire world beneath the surface waiting to be explored? The best way to experience it is on this 1-hour guided tour through Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel, one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland!
Just 40 minutes from Reykjavík, this tour took us deep into a tunnel formed by a massive volcanic eruption over 5,000 years ago. As we stepped inside, we were mesmerized by the vibrant red, orange, and yellow mineral deposits lining the walls—evidence of the lava’s raw power frozen in time!
Our guide was fantastic, pointing out fascinating rock formations, explaining how the tunnel was created, and even showing us sections where the ceiling had collapsed. The beams of natural light streaming in gave the whole place an eerie glow!
Unlike technical caving adventures, this tour is beginner-friendly, with a well-maintained walkway making it easy to explore. We were still given helmets and lights, but no prior experience was needed—just our sense of adventure!
If you’re looking to experience Iceland’s volcanic history in a totally unique way, this lava tunnel tour is a must—it truly feels like stepping into another world!
Read all of the amazing reviews and book your tour here!
9. Go horseback riding through Iceland’s rugged landscape
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times available
- Highlights: Guided Icelandic horse ride through lava-laden scenery past mountains, lakes, and moors, refuel with coffee, tea or hot chocolate after your ride
- Inclusions: Guide, all equipment, coffee/tea/hot chocolate, hotel pick up (if option selected)
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Iceland’s landscapes are breathtaking, but experiencing them on horseback takes the adventure to a whole new level! This Icelandic horseback tour was the perfect way to explore the lava fields and countryside just outside Reykjavík while riding one of the country’s famous purebred Icelandic horses.
Our tour began at a family-run horse farm, where we were greeted by friendly guides and given all the necessary riding gear. After a short instructional video, we saddled up and learned how to ease our horses into the famous tölt, which made for a smooth and incredibly comfortable ride.
Our guide watched us ride and then split the group into three levels—beginners, intermediates, and experienced riders—so that everyone could ride at a pace that suited them. The route took us through black lava fields, rolling meadows, and scenic riverbanks, making for an absolutely breathtaking ride.
Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced equestrian, this tour is an amazing way to connect with Iceland’s landscapes and experience the country like a true Viking. If you’ve never ridden an Icelandic horse before, trust us—this is the place to do it!
Don’t miss out, reserve your spot here before it books up!
10. Witness a Lava Show in Reykjavik
- Duration: Around 1 hour
- Time: Multiple times available
- Highlights: Get up close to real molten lava in a controlled environment, enjoy an educational video explaining Icelandic volcanism, and a Q&A session at the end of the show
- Inclusions: Live host, admission, premium experience (if option selected)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 2,200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Iceland is famous for its volcanoes, but unless you happen to be here during an eruption (not exactly ideal!), seeing real flowing lava up close isn’t easy. That’s what makes this Lava Show in Reykjavík such an epic experience—it’s the only place in the world where you can safely watch molten lava pour right in front of you!
The experience kicks off with a short video explaining Iceland’s volcanic history and some of the country’s most powerful eruptions. Then, the real excitement begins!
We watched as lava, heated to over 1,900°F/1,100°C, was poured onto ice, recreating the dramatic fire-and-ice interactions that have shaped Iceland for millennia. We could even feel the intense heat radiating from the molten rock!
If you want to take things up a notch, we recommend upgrading to the premium experience for front-row balcony seats, a backstage tour, access to the exclusive Premium Lounge, a drink, and even a lava sample to take home!
Whether you’re a science enthusiast, a volcano lover, or just looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, this show is an absolute must while in Reykjavík. It’s the closest you’ll ever get to a real volcanic eruption—without the danger!
If you’re ready to see lava up close, secure your spot here!
Related Read: Visiting Reykjavik in winter? Follow our 3-day Reykjavik winter itinerary here to experience the best seasonal sights, cozy cafes, and Northern Lights!
Where to Stay in Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik may be small, but when it comes to places to stay, it has something for every traveler. Whether you want a luxury stay with stunning harbor views, a stylish mid-range hotel in the heart of downtown, or a budget-friendly spot that keeps you close to all the action, you’ll find plenty of great options.
To make your search easier, I’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in Reykjavik—so you can spend less time planning and more time soaking up this one-of-a-kind city!
Luxury – $$$
Set in the heart of Reykjavik, The Reykjavik EDITION is a 5-star luxury hotel that seamlessly combines Icelandic minimalism with modern elegance. Overlooking the scenic harbor and just steps from Harpa Concert Hall, this sleek hotel offers stylish rooms and suites, an indulgent spa, and a rooftop bar with panoramic city views. Guests can enjoy world-class dining at Tides, the hotel’s signature restaurant, or unwind with a drink in the sophisticated lounge.
Prices vary depending on the season and room category, typically ranging from ISK 60,000–ISK 150,000 per night. Explore the options and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Center Hotels Plaza is a great mid-range choice in the heart of Iceland’s capital. Located downtown, it’s just a short walk from Harpa Concert Hall, Laugavegur shopping street, and Hallgrímskirkja Church. The hotel features spacious, stylish rooms with free Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, and modern Scandinavian decor. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet and relax in the cozy lobby bar after a day of sightseeing.
Room rates range from ISK 20,000–ISK 45,000 per night, depending on the season. Check availability for your dates on Booking.com!
Budget – $
For budget-friendly accommodation in Reykjavik, Nordic Hostel is a fantastic choice! Conveniently located in the city center, this modern and minimalist hostel offers a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Guests can choose from dormitory beds or private rooms with shared bathrooms. The common areas, including a well-equipped kitchen and cozy lounge, make it easy to meet fellow travelers, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Bunk bed costs start at around ISK 6,800 per bed. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
For more options, see all of Reykjavik’s hotels listed here!
Related Read: For a full breakdown of the best areas and hotels to stay in, check out our Where to Stay in Reykjavik guide here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL15”
What’s an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.
In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
💡 Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:
Thanks for reading!
That’s our full guide to the best things to do in Reykjavík! We know you’re going to have the best time exploring. Whether you’re snorkeling between tectonic plates, chasing the Northern Lights, or diving into Iceland’s unique food scene, this city is packed with adventure.
If you’re planning more travels near this incredible country, check out our other Europe blogs! Or, take a look at some of our top picks below to help plan your next trip.
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Reykjavik, Iceland: 3-Day Itinerary
10 BEST Things to do in Dublin, Ireland