City centre Reykjavik blends vibrant culture with historic charm in Iceland's capital city. The iconic Hallgrímskirkja church towers over colourful corrugated-iron houses and cobblestone streets. Museums showcase unique Icelandic heritage while the glass-fronted Harpa concert hall reflects stunning harbour light. Visitors can explore the area entirely on foot, with most attractions just minutes away. The lively Laugavegur street offers authentic wool jumpers and local crafts. After dark, experience the energetic nightlife scene where bars and music venues feature talented Icelandic artists.
Vesturbær blends student energy with peaceful coastal charm in western Reykjavik. The University of Iceland campus creates a youthful vibe with affordable cafes and cultural events. Stunning Atlantic Ocean paths offer photographers dramatic views of Mount Esja across Faxaflói Bay. Colourful Nordic homes and modern university buildings define this authentic area. Locals vastly outnumber tourists along the rocky shoreline walking paths. The area maintains a genuinely Icelandic atmosphere with easy bus connections to city centre Reykjavik.
Hallgrímskirkja church towers over the residential area of Hlíðar, where local life unfolds away from Reykjavik's tourist crowds. Charming streets climb steep hills, offering panoramic city views and authentic Icelandic culture. Small museums dot the landscape alongside cosy cafes and budget-friendly guesthouses. This peaceful district provides a genuine glimpse into everyday Icelandic rhythms. Efficient bus connections make city centre attractions easily accessible within minutes. Travellers appreciate the quiet evenings and moderate prices compared to central Reykjavik. The Einar Jónsson Museum showcases fascinating sculptural works for art enthusiasts.
Laugardalur stands as Reykjavik's green heart, where steaming geothermal pools meet botanical gardens bursting with Arctic flora. Families splash in naturally heated waters while others stroll through winding garden paths. The national football stadium and Family Park add recreational variety to this peaceful district. This welcoming area balances authentic Icelandic daily life with tourist-friendly attractions. Visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters at Laugardalslaug pool complex or explore seasonal plant collections. Wide pathways connect major sites throughout this spacious area, making it perfect for those seeking natural relaxation away from city centre crowds.
Háaleiti gives you an authentic glimpse of everyday Icelandic life away from tourist crowds. This peaceful residential area offers quiet streets, clean Nordic design, and local bakeries with fresh bread aromas. The nearby Fossvogur Valley provides scenic walking trails through natural meadows. Several area parks create green retreats within this suburban district. Kringlan Shopping Mall anchors the area with essential services. While dining options are limited, the tradeoff is genuine local interactions and a serene atmosphere just a short drive from central Reykjavik.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Reykjavik
Reykjavik Harbour
9.2/10 (8,713 reviews)
Reykjavík's historic harbour pulses with maritime culture amid colourful repurposed fishing buildings. Embark on whale watching or Northern Lights cruises while enjoying panoramic views of Faxaflói Bay and Mount Esja.
Laugavegur
9.4/10 (6,657 reviews)
Reykjavik's main thoroughfare pulses with colourful boutiques, Icelandic design shops, and lively cafés. Wander between art galleries and cosy restaurants before experiencing the street's legendary nightlife scene.
Hallgrimskirkja
9.2/10 (7,612 reviews)
Hallgrímskirkja rises like Iceland's basalt columns in concrete form, dominating Reykjavik's skyline. Take the lift to the observation tower for sweeping city views framed by distant mountains.
Harpa
9.2/10 (5,664 reviews)
Harpa's geometric glass façade reflects Iceland's volcanic landscape and Northern Lights, creating a dazzling waterfront landmark. Experience world-class performances or tour this architectural masterpiece from within.
University of Iceland
8.2/10 (984 reviews)
The University of Iceland, the nation's oldest academic hub since 1911, blends modern and historic architecture. Visitors can explore the campus and discover the National and University Library's literature collection.
Landakotskirkja
8.8/10 (523 reviews)
Check out the gleaming gray-stone façade and tall tower of this neo-Gothic cathedral and its interior illuminated by beautifully colored windows and candlelight.
Perlan
9.2/10 (3,292 reviews)
Perlan's glass dome houses an actual ice cave and immersive Northern Lights planetarium show. Explore Iceland's natural wonders while enjoying 360-degree views of Reykjavík from the observation deck.
Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool
9.2/10 (1,108 reviews)
Immerse yourself in Reykjavík's largest geothermal swimming complex with hot tubs from 38°C to 44°C. Experience the unique saltwater hot tub or brave the cold plunge pool for an authentic Icelandic ritual.
"Great hotwl near the airport.
Clean and nice with an equiped kitchen.
Great accommodations with staff for arrival and departure. Definitly a place to stay!"
"Such a cute place to stay! Very quiet, clean, and has a great view of the ocean from every view of the property. The horses at the entrance of the property were a pleasant surprise! I would definitely stay here again.
The door was a little confusing on how to lock, but it’s my fault for not reading the instructions word for word that were right in front of my face lol"
"This hotel was very unique in the best way. Very safe and secure. The shared bathrooms were very clean and each stall for shower/toilet had a locked door. The rainfall showerhead and Dyson hairdryer was the best perk. I would definitely stay here again."
"The room was very small, but still had basic amenities like a coffee maker. The hotel is located in between two pretty busy roads though, and one has larger vehicle traffic earlier in the morning and into the evening. The room was very clean though and the self check-in process was pretty easy. Lots of parking too."
"So this hotel does not have staff onsite. You need to check in oinline and you will get an access code. It works perfectly fine. The rooms are clean and the listed amenities are all there. The hotel was perfect for the purpose and the cost was very reasonable compared to other options."
"The breakfast was included and it was exceptional! The jacuzzi, sauna and cold plunge are found in the gym next door, a little strange to get to but wonderful facilities. The location was perfect for starting and finishing our trip to Iceland."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You can snap up a holiday package to this popular destination on Expedia. However, how much your holiday to Reykjavik costs will depend on your hotel choice, season and length of stay.
What are the cheapest months to go to Reykjavik?
January, February and April are great times to look for cheap Reykjavik holiday packages. Opting to travel in quieter periods means you can typically find lower prices on flights and accommodation.
How many days is enough for Reykjavik?
With about 3 days, you'll have plenty of time to visit popular neighbourhoods such as Downtown Reykjavik and Tún during your Reykjavik holiday. Remember to also add Saga Museum and Reykjavik 871 +/- 2 The Settlement Exhibition to your sightseeing itinerary. In the mood for more adventures? Consider venturing outside of Reykjavik on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Reykjavik?
Whether you're looking to check out key attractions like Reykjavik Harbour and Hallgrimskirkja on your Reykjavik holiday, or coming for its great nightlife, culture and festivals, there's something for everyone here. With so much to see and do, you'll soon find out why so many visitors think Reykjavik is a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Reykjavik package deals?
Use Expedia's handy filters to help you find some terrific Reykjavik package deals. When you begin your search, just set your maximum budget and then order the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your adventure for midweek, or search for Reykjavik package deals in the off-peak season. Switch up your travel dates and you may score even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to book your holiday package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Reykjavik holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to make your money go further. Bundle your hotel, car rental and flight into one great-value price and you could save hundreds of dollars. You'll generally score a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still enjoy the freedom to create a tailored Reykjavik holiday by choosing your preferred accommodation type, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Reykjavik?
If you've got your Reykjavik travel dates finalized, book as early as you can to snap up some fantastic deals. With Expedia, you can typically reserve some flights up to one year ahead of time. Prefer spur-of-the-moment getaways? Our last-minute deals are ideal for impromptu escapes.
How to plan a trip to Reykjavik?
Pick the best time to travel: Your schedule, favourite season and the type of weather you like can all impact your decision on when to go to Reykjavik.
Plan your budget wisely: As well as the price of your accommodation, you'll need to factor in other expenses too. These include flights, transportation and food. Also, set aside a little extra for unexpected costs that could crop up during your trip to Reykjavik.
Decide how many days away: Start by compiling a list of the attractions you'd like to experience in Reykjavik. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, including any travel time.
Bundle your hotel and flights: Epic destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left is to find a Reykjavik holiday package that brings all your bookings together.
In Reykjavik, you can visit Kringlan Shopping Mall for a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. Smaralind, located 6.4km away, offers a similar experience. If you're up for a drive, Ullarselid - The Wool Hut, 46.7km distant, is perfect for unique Icelandic wool products.
Recreation
Experience the rejuvenating Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering warm waters and relaxation. For golf lovers, Grafarholt and Korpa Golf Courses provide scenic outdoor settings to enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Adventure
At Skalafell Ski Area, experience exhilarating skiing on pristine slopes surrounded by stunning views. For a refreshing adventure, the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula Jogging Path offers scenic trails perfect for jogging, allowing you to immerse yourself in Iceland's beautiful landscapes just 1.6km from Reykjavik.
Nightlife
In Reykjavik, the nightlife is vibrant, with lively streets like Laugavegur and Hverfisgata full of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Experience unique pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and energetic dance spots that keep the city buzzing until the early hours.
Find the best attractions in Reykjavik
Reykjavik offers a delightful blend of outdoor, family, and eco-friendly experiences. Explore the city's rich culture and history through its museums, iconic churches, and picturesque harbour. Ideal for travellers seeking unique adventures, Reykjavik's attractions promise memorable moments for all ages. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the city's famous landmarks and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.
Reykjavik Harbour: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Reykjavik Harbour, where you can stroll along the waterfront, enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and indulge in local seafood at charming cafés. The harbour is a hub of activity, with boat tours offering a unique perspective of the city from the water.
Iceland Phallological Museum: Delve into the peculiar yet fascinating world of the Iceland Phallological Museum, which showcases an extensive collection of phallic specimens from various species. This quirky museum provides a humorous yet educational insight into Icelandic culture and folklore.
National Museum of Iceland: Immerse yourself in Iceland's rich history at the National Museum, featuring comprehensive exhibitions that trace the nation's heritage from the Viking Age to modern times. The museum offers a captivating look into Icelandic culture, art, and traditions.
Best time to go to Reykjavik
The best time to visit Reykjavik can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Reykjavik falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Reykjavik falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Reykjavik
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Reykjavik.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January, April and November) for more affordable package holidays to Reykjavik.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.