Things to do in Reykjavik

Iceland's capital and largest city is Reykjavik, a surprisingly walkable tourist destination with a buzzing, cosmopolitan atmosphere. It's popular with those trying to get a glimpse of the beautiful Northern Lights natural phenomenon and is growing as an alternative Christmas break destination. Reykjavik is also regularly ranked as one of the safest and cleanest cities in the world, making it an ideal city break for solo travellers and families.

Ice and water

The snow-topped mountains that surround the city are perfect for skiing, snowboarding and ice skating. Go angling and fishing to catch some salmon or brown trout, or take a day trip to the top of Mount Esja via one of the clearly signposted hiking routes. Enjoy a dip in the warm waters of the naturally heated pools and spas all around Reykjavik. Access is free with a 24-Hour Reykjavik City Card.

Vibrant nightlife

One of the main tourist attractions in Reykjavik is the sheer number of bars and nightclubs. The city doesn't seem to sleep, carrying the party on well into the early hours. If you want to stay out for a round or two, bear in mind that the legal drinking age throughout Iceland is 20. Icelandic schnapps can be very strong, and there are many locally brewed beers to choose from. Bars tend to stay open for longer on Thursday nights.

Iceland tours

Tour Iceland packages give you a chance to see more of this fascinating volcanic island, including ice caves, secret lagoons, and incredible glaciers.

Festivals

Festivals are held in Reykjavik all year round. Whether you love art, music, comedy or food, there's an event for you. The Reykjavik International Film Festival is in the autumn, the Secret Solstice Festival is in the summer, and the Children's Culture Festival takes place every spring. At least one festival should be on your list of things to do in Reykjavik. There are various music and art festivals held throughout the year, plus the Secret Solstice Festival in June and the Winter Lights Festival in February.

Things to see in Reykjavik

The Northern Lights 

Seeing the Reykjavik northern lights on a city break is a must and will surely become one of your most incredible memories. Iceland vacation packages for northern lights tours include boat trips to get the best view of this natural phenomenon.

Whale watching

Tours are run all year round with April to October being the best season for spotting minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, humpback whales, and, if you're very lucky, killer whales.

Art galleries and museums

Reykjavik has many galleries and museums, including Gallery i8 with contemporary work from Icelandic artists, and the Settlement Exhibition which displays the earliest evidence of humans in the city. Entrance is free to many museums with a 24-Hour Reykjavik City Card.

How to get there

Flights to Reykjavik are available from many cities in the UK, and take just three hours or less. City breaks to Reykjavik from Manchester or Edinburgh have direct flights to save time and money and make your journey fast and convenient.

Public transportation

When planning city breaks to Reykjavik Iceland, be sure to buy a Reykjavik City Card for unlimited bus travel. There are regular buses all around the city, download the Straeto app for easy journey planning.

Typical food and gastronomy

During city breaks to Reykjavik try out some Icelandic cuisine, such as fish stew, lamb paté, and oat and rhubarb crumble. Reykjavik City Card holders can get discounts off meals at many restaurants.

What is the Best time of the year to visit Reykjavik?

City breaks from Edinburgh to Reykjavik don't take much travelling, but the cities couldn't be more different. In the winter, Iceland is a winter wonderland and in the summer it is light for almost 24 hours a day. The best time to see the Northern Lights is between October and March, however the cheapest time to fly to Iceland is usually May.

Weather & Climate 

The warmest months in Reykjavik are July and August with a high of 14°C. Surprisingly, winter isn't too cold with temperatures between -3°C and 3°C in December - February. You're most likely to find cheap city breaks to Reykjavik from January to May.

Visas and other essential information

To visit Iceland there are no visa requirements or entry fees for European passport holders. Your passport must be valid for three months after departure from Iceland.

What language is spoken in Reykjavik?

Icelandic is the main language, however most people can speak English too. If you're taking Reykjavik city breaks from London or elsewhere in the UK, you shouldn't have any problems communicating.

Accommodation in Reykjavik

Booking city breaks to Reykjavik from Edinburgh, Manchester or London airports gives you the best value for money from our Iceland package holidays collection. However, if you prefer to book accommodation separately rather than one of our Reykjavik city break deals, visit our Reykjavik hotels page.

Extra tips

At lasminute.com, we have flights to Reykjavik from London and around the UK, as well as other destinations you may be interested in:

• Northern Lights Holidays
• Oslo Holidays
• Helsinki Holidays
• Stockholm Holidays