Destination guide

Reykjavík

Reykjavík is a compact capital with a strong sense of place: harbour walks, distinctive architecture and museums sit close to cafés and local pools. It is also a base for wider Iceland travel. Keep the city visit distinct from long excursions so you can enjoy both rather than spending every day on the road.

Reykjavík, view from Hallgrímskirkja (2)
Reykjavík, view from Hallgrímskirkja (2) · Olga Ernst · CC BY-SA 4.0. Displayed with cropping.
Make the most of the visit

Best things to do in Reykjavík

Hallgrímskirkja

The church is a distinctive landmark above the city. Check access to the interior and tower separately if you want an elevated view.

Harpa and the waterfront

Explore the harbour-side architecture and walk towards the Sun Voyager sculpture. Wind and rain can change how comfortable an exposed coastal route feels.

Museums and local swimming

A museum or a local pool provides a different introduction to Icelandic life. Check visitor etiquette and current access before joining a swimming session.

When to visit

Long summer days suit outdoor plans; winter has short daylight and different weather demands. Northern lights and wildlife sightings depend on conditions and are never guaranteed.

Suggested stay: 2–3 city days, with extra time for excursions.

What does a day cost?

These traveller-reported daily averages are a planning benchmark, rather than a quote for your dates.

Budget
ISK 14,579
per person / day
Comfortable
ISK 37,426
per person / day
Upscale
ISK 110,731
per person / day

Includes accommodation with a shared-room allowance, meals, local transport and sightseeing. Excludes international flights, visas, insurance and major excursions. Your dates and room choices may change the total. Budget Your Trip methodology and reported costs · consulted 5 October 2026.

Ready to plan the days?

The companion guide covers where to stay, transport, food and a day-by-day plan.

Read the Reykjavík travel guide →

Airport and arrival planning

Reykjavik, Iceland

City search code: REK. Time zone: Atlantic/Reykjavik. A city code can cover multiple airports; check the exact airport on your selected ticket.

  • Keflavik International Airport · KEF
  • Reykjavik International Airport · RKV

Build a practical arrival plan

Before you book, match the arrival airport to your accommodation address and check transport for your actual arrival time. Include luggage collection and any connection requirements. If your itinerary uses separate tickets, check who handles a missed connection and leave a suitable buffer.

Compare a private transfer, shared service or public transport against the number of travelers, luggage and pickup conditions. Confirm current schedules, pickup instructions and the complete cost with the operator. A city-level search result does not guarantee that an airport is convenient for your stay.

How should I compare travel dates?

Use the local dates and times displayed on the booking itinerary. Check overnight journeys and the date you will reach your accommodation. The time zone above helps identify the location; the offset can depend on the travel date. Use your actual ticket and current operator information for timing.

Directory facts: Travelpayouts city directory and airport directory. Independently confirm the airport and conditions with the booking provider.

Booking partners

Compare your options

Search with our partners. We may earn a commission from eligible bookings.

Expedia

Compare flights and places to stay.

Plan it

Build the trip from here.

Start with the city, then move naturally into flights, hotels, current offers and a day-by-day plan.

Live deals

Offers for this market

Emirates
GLOBAL · Promo code
Up to 10% off Economy

Emirates student fares: up to 10% off Economy

Full-time students aged 16–31 with Emirates Skywards membership can use STUDENT for up to 10% off selected Economy fares, or up to 5% off Premium Economy and Business. Taxes and surcharges excluded. Student ID or acceptance letter required at check-in. Extra baggage excludes journeys to/from the US and Canada. New bookings through 31 March 2027; fare conditions apply.

AirHelp
Global · Travel deal
11% off

Save 11% with AirHelp

Use the partner offer to explore AirHelp flight disruption assistance. Check the current discount, eligibility, fees and terms with AirHelp.

LIVE DEALGet deal ↗
ezybook UK
GLOBAL · Promo code
Save up to 25% on airport parking

SAVE25 code - up to 25% off

Get up to 25% off airport parking with code SAVE25 at checkout. Conditions: Applies to qualifying airport parking bookings; discount may vary by supplier and dates.

Tours and experiences

Things to do in Reykjavík

Browse available activities with GetYourGuide. Prices and availability depend on your dates.

Explore Reykjavík activities on GetYourGuide ↗

Affiliate partner: we may earn a commission from eligible bookings.