Reykjavík City Guide

Sitting at a latitude of 64°09’N, Reykjavík is the most northerly capital in the world. Two-thirds of Icelanders live in the city and its surrounding districts although by international standards this is still like a small town. It is friendly, compact and easy to explore on foot.

The city is located on the Seltjarnes peninsula with Grótta Lighthouse standing proud on the tidal island at the far end of the peninsula. The city fronts onto Faxaflói Bay, home to whales and seals. The Sculpture and Shore Walk follows the coast along the bay from Skarfabakki Harbour to the Old Harbour close to the city centre.

The city has a beautiful mix of old, colourful buildings with multi-coloured facades alongside landmarks and tree-lined parks. It is the perfect place to start your Iceland adventure with just a few days needed to see the highlights of the city.

History

Reykjavík boasts a rich history that dates back to the Norse settlers in the 9th century. The city’s name translates to “Smoky Bay” in Icelandic, derived from the steam rising from the geothermal hot springs in the region. Initially, a small fishing village, Reykjavík began to grow in prominence during the 18th century as a trading center. In 1918, Iceland gained sovereignty from Denmark, and Reykjavík became the capital of the newly established Republic of Iceland.

Geology and Geography

Reykjavík’s location is influenced by Iceland’s unique geological setting. The city is situated on the southwestern part of the island, positioned along the shores of Faxaflói Bay. Iceland itself is a volcanic island formed by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a tectonic plate boundary that runs through the Atlantic Ocean. Reykjavík lies within a geothermal hotspot, resulting in the presence of numerous hot springs and geysers in the surrounding area.

The city’s landscape is characterised by a combination of rugged coastlines, volcanic hills, and lush greenery. Mount Esja, a prominent mountain just north of Reykjavík, adds to the city’s scenic backdrop. The abundance of geothermal activity not only influences the geography but also contributes to the city’s unique character and the availability of renewable energy.

Nature and Wildlife

Faxaflói Bay is a hub for marine life and seabirds. Boat excursions from the city’s harbour provide opportunities to observe whales, seals, and puffins. Nearby islands like Lundey, Papey, and Akurey host significant bird colonies.

Within the city limits, green spaces such as Tjörnin with the large lake and the Botanical Gardens showcase Reykjavík’s commitment to urban biodiversity. These areas provide refuge for native flowers and birds and contribute to the city’s appeal as a wildlife-friendly urban environment.

When is the best time to visit REykjavík?

The best time to visit Reykjavik largely depends on individual preferences and what you are visiting to see. The busiest time is during the summer months, from June to August. This period offers relatively mild temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), and extended daylight hours, providing ample time for exploring.

Summer brings vibrant green landscapes, accessibility to highland areas, and the chance to witness unique events like the Midnight Sun, where daylight persists throughout the night. This season is ideal for outdoor activities, including hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the city’s cultural festivals. This is also the time when wildlife is most abundant and from April until early August, you can see puffins and other nesting seabirds.

On the other hand, if the Northern Lights are a priority, the winter months, from September to March, are recommended. Despite colder temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F), this period offers clear, dark skies, enhancing the visibility of the Aurora Borealis. This time of year can bring unpredictable weather so planning is essential to make the most of your time in the city and stay safe.

How long should I spend in Reykjavík?

You could easily spend a week or two exploring the city and not be disappointed. However, I would advise putting that extra time towards exploring outside of the city including the Golden Circle, South Coast and Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

A long weekend (60-72 hours) is a great amount of time if you want to visit some of the most iconic places in the city and have time to explore a little further afield.

Personally, I would say 36-48 hours is the minimum amount of time you would want to spend here. You can fit several sights into one day but the experience would be rushed and you won’t be able to enjoy the wildlife and nature that the city offers. Two days gives you time to fit in some museums, take a whale watching trip and walk the shoreline.

If you are looking for Northern Lights give yourself as many nights as you can and start your search on your first night in the city.

How to get to and around REykjavík

Reykjavík’s strategic location on the southwest coast provides easy access to both domestic and international travel. Keflavík International Airport, the country’s main gateway, is located approximately 50 kilometres southwest of Reykjavík.

Getting to Reykjavík from Keflavík Airport

Airport Shuttle

The most convenient and popular way to reach Reykjavík from Keflavík Airport is by using the Flybus or other shuttle services. These services operate regularly and have designated stops in Reykjavík, including the main bus terminal (BSÍ) and various hotels. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the specific destination.

Taxi

Taxis are available outside the airport, providing a direct and comfortable option to reach Reykjavík. The journey typically takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and your exact destination in the city. They can be expensive for solo travellers but for groups may be more cost-effective than the shuttle

Rental Car

For those preferring flexibility, rental cars are available at the airport. The drive to Reykjavík is straightforward, taking approximately 40 minutes via Route 41.

Getting Around Reykjavik

Walking

Reykjavík’s city centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an excellent way to explore the downtown area. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within reasonable walking distance of each other.

Public Transportation

Reykjavík has an efficient and reliable public bus system operated by Strætó. Bus routes cover various parts of the city, and the main bus terminal is at BSÍ. Visitors can purchase single tickets or travel cards for unlimited rides during their stay.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Reykjavík and can be booked through local taxi companies or your hotel. While they are more expensive than public transportation, taxis provide a convenient option, especially for reaching destinations not well-served by buses.