Reykjavík blends urban charm with wild nature. It has a compact and vibrant feel. Expect colourful streets, geothermal pools, and northern lights chasing. Here are ten top picks for 2025—unique, current, and ready to explore.
1. Ascend Hallgrímskirkja Church
This towering cathedral, finished in 1986, is an iconic Reykjavik symbol . Take the elevator to its 74 m-high observation deck for sweeping city and mountain views. Watch for bell chimes playing every 15 minutes—so Icelandic.
2. Marvel at Harpa Concert Hall
Opened in 2011, Harpa is Reykjavík’s glass-and-steel beauty by the waterfront . Catch a concert or just roam inside to see Olafur Eliasson’s light installation. Its faceted façade mirrors the basalt cliffs that shape Iceland’s landscape.
3. Explore Perlan – The Pearl
Perched on Öskjuhlíð hill, this former hot-water tank complex houses a planetarium, an ice cave, and a natural history museum . Don’t miss the 360° deck. It’s ideal for spotting the northern lights or midnight sun at different times of year.
4. Stroll the Old Harbor
Reykjavik’s harbour hums with activity. Here, you’ll find whale-watching tours, colourful fishing boats, maritime museums, and seafood restaurants . A walk here gives you local life, nature, and stunning sea views all in one.
5. Relax at Sky Lagoon
For a modern twist on Icelandic bathing, Sky Lagoon offers a seven-step spa ritual and cliff-side infinity pool just outside town . It’s a sublime way to unwind after exploring the city.
6. Dive Into Museums & Art
- Saga Museum – Experience Viking settlements through lifelike wax figures and audio narration
Both locations offer deep cultural insight and an Icelandic artistic pulse.
7. Snap the Sun Voyager & City Lake
Head to Sæbraut by the waterfront at sunrise or sunset. The Sun Voyager steel sculpture frames Mt. Esja behind it—a popular Icelandic symbol . Nearby Tjörnin lake is perfect for wandering, bird-watching, and savoring cafés on its banks.
8. Soak in the Blue Lagoon & Golden Circle
Though just outside Reykjavík, these are too good to skip:
- Blue Lagoon: Iconic mineral-heavy geothermal spa, perfect for wellness seekers
- Golden Circle: A classic day tour with Þingvellir Rift, Strokkur geyser, and Gullfoss waterfall
Both trips offer dramatic natural beauty and cultural history in one go.
9. Hunt Northern Lights & Whales
2025 promises brighter auroras—perfect for Northern Lights tours that head out from Reykjavík under dark skies . In summer, whale-watching boats cruise Faxa Bay, where humpbacks and minkes feast
10. Wander the Vibrant City Centre
Downtown Reykjavík (101 and beyond) is packed with life.
- Shop colourful boutiques along Laugavegur.
- Sip craft beer or inventive cocktails in bars & cafés
- Grab famous Icelandic street food, like the beloved hot dog from Bæjarins Beztu.
- Visit Austurvöllur square, buzzing with locals near Parliament
