Reykjavík
Reykjavík
Visitors to Reykjavík are thrilled by the pure energy at the heart of Iceland’s capital city - be it from the boiling thermal springs underground, the natural green energy, or the lively cultural scene and fun-filled nightlife. The world’s northernmost capital, it's framed by the majestic Mount Esja, which keeps a watchful eye on the city, and the blue waters of Faxaflói Bay. On a sunny day, the mystical Snæfellsjökull glacier appears crystal-like on the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.Hitta resa
Along with some 150 animals from 19 different species, including seals, foxes and reindeers, the zoo also features an amusement park with rides and activities, and offers visitors the chance to ride an Icelandic horse. This is the ideal place for a day out with the family.
Nautholsvik is one of the few places in Iceland where you can take a dip in the sea, which, in most of the other locations, is normally too cold for swimming. Here you can find a thermal beach where natural hot water flows out into the sea and allows Icelanders and tourists to swim in the Atlantic waves.
Take the lift to the top of this 75-metre high and incredibly iconic church for amazing views of the Icelandic capital.
Spread over three different buildings, this museum focuses on modern and contemporary art, featuring the works of some of Iceland’s most famous artists. It is also committed to showcasing new talents. Different exhibitions are held at different times of the year. Info about the three locations: Hafnarhús Tryggvagata 17, 101 Reykjavík +354 411 6400 Open daily 10am-5pm and on Thursdays 10am-10pm Kjarvalsstaðir Flókagata 24, 105 Reykjavík +354 411 6420 Open daily 10am-5pm Ásmundarsafn Sigtúni, 105 Reykjavík +354 411 6430 Open daily: May-September 10am-5pm, October-April 1pm-5pm
This open air museum was established in 1957 and aims to give visitors an idea of Icelandic architecture and the lifestyle on the island in the past.
Watch minke, humpback and killer whales, seals and dolphins on one of the many whale watching tours that depart from Reykjavik, during which you almost always spot some of these magnificent mammals. Find more at: www.whalewatching.is www.specialtours.is
A comprehensive picture of the Icelandic history from the Settlement to the present day. The museum holds up to three thousand objects. Among them you'll find most of the greatest treasures of the Icelandic nation.
The Icelandic horses are sturdy and very strong, the direct descendants of the horses first brought to Iceland in the Viking Age. They have an extra gait which is unique to the breed, and their friendly nature is perfect for first-timers. Horse riding tours are available in beautiful sites on the outskirts of Reykjavík. The trips can be from one hour to a whole day or even longer.
Along with some 150 animals from 19 different species, including seals, foxes and reindeers, the zoo also features an amusement park with rides and activities, and offers visitors the chance to ride an Icelandic horse. This is the ideal place for a day out with the family.
Nautholsvik is one of the few places in Iceland where you can take a dip in the sea, which, in most of the other locations, is normally too cold for swimming. Here you can find a thermal beach where natural hot water flows out into the sea and allows Icelanders and tourists to swim in the Atlantic waves.
This restaurant has an interesting design concept that mixes a warm, modern Icelandic feel with international touches. Pieces of furniture by designer Tom Dixon play the main role. The cuisine focuses on feel good comfort food with a twist on classic cuisine. The menu offers a variety of finger food, salads, fish, steaks and desserts.
Kopar focuses on Icelandic ingredients from both land and sea. The fresh quality products used guarantee a dining experience that reflects the great Icelandic produce.
Ísafold Restaurant is a new and trendy restaurant located at CenterHotel Thingholt. The menu varies around the year to introduce in-season products that make the delicious dishes served at Ísafold Restaurant fresh as possible with local ingredients. The restaurant is located inside the hotel, so the environment is exceptionally alive with its international theme yet with a strong connection to all that is Icelandic.
Grillmarkadurinn is a new and fresh restaurant with an emphasis on Icelandic cuisine. The produces used are of finest quality, seasonal and straight from the Icelandic farms.
Fish Market Restaurant uses Iceland’s freshest ingredients to prepare original fish, meat and sweet dishes with a modern twist. They buy directly from the country’s farmers and fishermen to guarantee the sustainability and quality of the dishes. Fish Market is housed in one of the oldest buildings in Reykjavík's city centre. Head Chef Hrefna Rósa Sætran of the Icelandic National Culinary team has designed a menu using the freshest fish and meat of the season, cooking it simply in modern style. Guests can watch each dish being prepared in the open kitchen, which has the country’s only robata grill, or sit at the raw bar where the chefs create exotic dishes.
Forréttabarinn specialises in starters and is located close to the Old Harbor.
Literally called "The Coal Trail", this modern restaurant uses the best Icelandic ingredients to prepare traditional Meditarranean recipes - an interesting concept. The view from Kolabrautin is fascinating and adds a magical touch to your evening, along with the enticing a la carte menu and ambitious wine list from the New World.
With fresh Icelandic ingredients and spices personally imported from India, this restaurant's creations are simply fabulous.
This restaurant has an interesting design concept that mixes a warm, modern Icelandic feel with international touches. Pieces of furniture by designer Tom Dixon play the main role. The cuisine focuses on feel good comfort food with a twist on classic cuisine. The menu offers a variety of finger food, salads, fish, steaks and desserts.
Kopar focuses on Icelandic ingredients from both land and sea. The fresh quality products used guarantee a dining experience that reflects the great Icelandic produce.
Reykjavík’s main shopping street, Laugavegur, runs through the city centre. On Laugavegur, its side streets and on the neighbouring street Skólavörðustígur, you will find everything from designer labels to streetwear, plus jewellery, arts and crafts, quirky souvenirs and unique Icelandic design products.
As a visitor to Iceland, whenever you buy goods for more than ISK 4,000 in one shop, you are entitled to a partial tax refund. Participating shops normally display a Tax-Free Shopping sticker in the window. When buying the products in the shop you'll pay the full price, but you should ask for a "tax-free" form, which entitles you to a 15% refund on the goods you've just bought. The money can be refunded at the Reykjavík Tourist Information Office in the city centre, or at the airport when you leave.
Watchmaker offering high quality watches and jewellery. Brands include Rolex, Hugo Boss, Diesel and Georg Jensen.
A top-notch gallery for unique Icelandic design artworks and giftware, including clothing, ceramics, jewellery and handbags made from fish skin.
Originally a manufacturer of protective gear for Icelandic fishermen, 66° North offers high quality and versatile outdoor clothing.
Translated as “wise men’s clothing”, Spaksmannsspjarir offers original Icelandic fashion design for women, inspired by Icelandic nature and made of natural materials.
This independent record shop stocks a wide selection of Icelandic music. The helpful staff can help you find the perfect audio souvenir of your visit.
Located just outside the city centre, Kringlan boasts over 150 shops, restaurants and service outlets, including fashion wear, food stores and gifts. It also includes a multi-screen cinema and a food court. Reykjavík City Theatre is part of the same complex.
Reykjavík’s main shopping street, Laugavegur, runs through the city centre. On Laugavegur, its side streets and on the neighbouring street Skólavörðustígur, you will find everything from designer labels to streetwear, plus jewellery, arts and crafts, quirky souvenirs and unique Icelandic design products.
As a visitor to Iceland, whenever you buy goods for more than ISK 4,000 in one shop, you are entitled to a partial tax refund. Participating shops normally display a Tax-Free Shopping sticker in the window. When buying the products in the shop you'll pay the full price, but you should ask for a "tax-free" form, which entitles you to a 15% refund on the goods you've just bought. The money can be refunded at the Reykjavík Tourist Information Office in the city centre, or at the airport when you leave.
Passport / Visa
Iceland can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
Best Time to Visit
In summer you'll find the warmest temperatures (usually in the low 20°C), beautiful green landscapes, and an exciting choice of events - see our dedicated section for more info. As summer is the most popular time to visit, though, expect crowds of tourists. A great attraction of Icelandic summers is the midnight sun: darkness lasts for a very short time, especially in June. Head for the countryside, where there are fewer artificial lights, to get the most ethereal views. July and August, the warmest months, are the best for hikers. May to September is the best period to go whale-watching, peaking in June and July. If you're interested in the Northern lights, visit in February-March or September-October, and remember to pack warm clothes against the less-than-idyllic weather.
Airports
All international flights land at the Keflavík International Airport, located near the town of Keflavík, about 50 kilometres from Reykjavík. Keflavík International Airport +354 425 6000 www.isavia.is/en/keflavik-airport Flybus is the airport shuttle that runs between the Keflavík International Airport and the city of Reykjavík. The shuttle schedule is coordinated with airline flight schedules. The bus stops at many of the larger hotels in the city to drop off and pick up travellers. For further information on the Flybus schedule and fares visit www.flybus.is. Reykjavík’s domestic airport, situated near the city centre, operates flights to other parts of the country and to Greenland and the Faroe Islands. All major towns in the country have their own airports. On certain routes, you can also choose to fly one way, and take the bus the other way. For further information on scheduled domestic flights, contact Air Iceland. Air Iceland Reykjavík Airport +354 570 3030 www.airicelandconnect.com
Public Transport
Reykjavík has an excellent bus system. Most buses run every 10-20 minutes, and every 30 minutes in the evening and on weekends. Bus information is available at the Lækjartorg bus station, at the Reykjavík Tourist Information Centre and on www.bus.is. A flat fare is charged on the buses. You may need to change buses: ask for a skiptimidi (transfer ticket) on the first bus and you will not have to pay again on the second bus if changing within 45 minutes. The Reykjavík Tourist Card, available at the Reykjavík Tourist Information Centre in addition to many hotels, museums and other outlets, offers unlimited bus travel for 24, 48 or 72 hours and unlimited access to most Reykjavík museums and thermal baths. Find more at www.visitreykjavik.is/city-card. A great way to see all the main sites in one go and with an excellent view, is with the hop on - hop off city sightseeing bus operated from May to mid-September. Coaches make regular trips from Reykjavík to various towns and places around Iceland. Tickets are sold at the BSI Coach Terminal, situated close to the city centre. Visit the Reykjavík Tourist Information Centre for information about visiting other parts of the country. BSI Terminal Vatnsmýrarvegi 10, 101 Reykjavík Tel: +354 580 5400 www.bsi.is
Taxi
Several taxi companies operate in Reykjavík. Taxi ranks are dotted around the city and the taxi companies have phone numbers that you can call to get a taxi from anywhere in the city. Some have special offers for transport to and from Keflavík International Airport. All taxis have official mileage meters, and taxi fares are charged at standard rates. There is no need to tip. Hreyfill-Baejarleidir Taxis +354 588 5522 www.hreyfill.is/en B.S.R. Taxis +354 561 0000 www.taxireykjavik.is
Car Hire Service
Many visitors enjoy the freedom of renting a vehicle and seeing the sights beyond Reykjavík at their own pace. Cars of all types and sizes can be rented at Reykjavík’s many car rental agencies. Special offers may be available in conjunction with flight bookings. Check at the Reykjavík Tourist Information Centre. It is in general easy and safe to drive in Iceland. However, driving conditions can be different to what visitors are used to at home and special care must be taken when driving in the highlands. Visitors are advised to always seek information and guidance prior to setting off on their journey. Guides to safe driving can be accessed on the Traffic Directorate’s website: www.icetra.is. Find a selection of car rentals here: Avis Car Rental Holtagarðar Parking, 104 Reykjavík Tel: +354 591 4000 www.avis.is Budget Car Rental Holtagarðar Parking, Holtavegur 10, 104 Reykjavík Tel: +354 562 6060 www.budget.is Hertz Car Rental Flugvallarvegur 5, 101 Reykjavík Tel: +354 522 4400 www.hertz.is
Pharmacy
Find a centrally located pharmacy in Reykjavík at:
Post
Post boxes in Iceland are red and bear the sign "Posturinn". In Iceland, you will find stamps in many souvenir shops, bookstores, and of course post offices. Find a centrally located post office in Reykjavík at:
Passport / Visa
Iceland can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
Best Time to Visit
In summer you'll find the warmest temperatures (usually in the low 20°C), beautiful green landscapes, and an exciting choice of events - see our dedicated section for more info. As summer is the most popular time to visit, though, expect crowds of tourists. A great attraction of Icelandic summers is the midnight sun: darkness lasts for a very short time, especially in June. Head for the countryside, where there are fewer artificial lights, to get the most ethereal views. July and August, the warmest months, are the best for hikers. May to September is the best period to go whale-watching, peaking in June and July. If you're interested in the Northern lights, visit in February-March or September-October, and remember to pack warm clothes against the less-than-idyllic weather.
