Curator’s statement
Reykjavík surprised me in the best way. It’s a city that feels small and personal, yet it carries a strong creative energy shaped by nature, design, and Icelandic culture. What stood out most during my time here was how effortlessly it balances adventure and stillness—one moment you’re walking colorful streets, the next you’re soaking in geothermal waters overlooking the Atlantic. For travelers beginning their Icelandic journey, Reykjavík offers a grounding introduction to the country’s rhythm, blending culture, wellness, and raw landscapes in a way that feels authentic rather than overwhelming.
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Things to do in Reykjavík
Not gonna lie—I could’ve stayed in Sky Lagoon all day.
Reykjavík Food Walk: A guided food walk is a great way to experience Reykjavík through its flavors while learning about local culture and history. These small-group walks stop at several local restaurants and cafés, offering a mix of traditional Icelandic dishes and modern Nordic cuisine while helping you get familiar with the city on foot.
Wonders of Iceland & Northern Lights planetarium show (Perlan): For travelers wanting to understand Iceland’s landscapes before heading deeper into the country, the Wonders of Iceland experience at Perlan offers an immersive introduction. The exhibitions explore glaciers, volcanoes, and nature through interactive displays, ending with an 8K Northern Lights planetarium show that explains the science and mythology behind the aurora in a visually stunning way. It’s a great indoor option for when the weather shifts or for gaining deeper context about Iceland’s natural environment.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula day trip: For travelers wanting to experience Iceland’s landscapes beyond Reykjavík, a day trip to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers a condensed look at the country’s dramatic scenery—often called “Iceland in Miniature.” The route typically includes stops like Kirkjufell Mountain, black-sand beaches, coastal cliffs, and small fishing villages, giving you a deeper sense of Iceland’s raw natural beauty without committing to a multi-day journey.
Golden Circle day trip: For travelers wanting to see Iceland’s iconic natural highlights without venturing too far from Reykjavík, a Golden Circle day trip offers an easy introduction to the country’s landscapes. Most routes include Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, combining history, geology, and dramatic scenery into one memorable day outside the city.
Sky Lagoon with transfers: For travelers staying in Reykjavík without a car, visiting Sky Lagoon with round-trip transfers makes the experience easy to fit into your itinerary. Located just outside the city, this oceanfront geothermal spa blends modern design with Icelandic bathing traditions, including the signature 7-Step Ritual—a sequence of hot, cold, and steam elements designed to help you slow down and fully unwind.
Places to eat & drink in Reykjavík
Some of the best meals in Iceland happen when you least expect it. This was one of them.
Brauð & Co: Bright murals outside, incredible pastries inside. Their cinnamon rolls became a daily ritual and offered a glimpse into Iceland’s evolving bakery culture.
Baka Baka: I appreciated how this space shifts from relaxed bakery mornings to lively evenings. It reflects Reykjavík’s laid-back approach to dining.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: Simple, iconic, and deeply local. Trying an Icelandic hot dog here feels like participating in a small Reykjavík tradition.
Café Loki: A reliable stop for traditional flavors near Hallgrímskirkja, especially if you want a cultural food experience without formality.
Dill: Innovative and sustainability-focused, Dill represents Reykjavík’s modern culinary direction.
OX: An intimate dining experience that showcases the creativity of Iceland’s evolving food scene.
Need to know
Reykjavík is incredibly easy to navigate on foot, which makes it an ideal introduction to Iceland. Weather can shift quickly, so layering and waterproof gear are essential no matter the season. Geothermal pools are a major part of Icelandic culture, so packing a swimsuit isn’t optional—it’s part of the experience. I also noticed how respectful locals are toward nature, and travelers should approach the landscape with the same mindset by staying on marked paths and following signage.
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Sennett Goodwin
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Reykjavík page.