Iceland hotels

Party and nightlife in Iceland

The nightlife scene in Iceland presents an exciting array of opportunities for those seeking a vibrant mix of music, dance and social experiences. The capital city of Reykjavik, in particular, is well known for its energetic and somewhat eclectic nightlife. Located within the city centre are clusters of pubs, night clubs, and concert venues where party-goers can expect to dance to pulsing beats long into the early hours.

Laugavegur street in Reykjavik is an ideal place to start, boasting numerous bars and nightclubs catering to diverse musical tastes. Venues such as Kaffi Barinn or Gaukurinn are especially noteworthy, offering a selection of local craft beers and live music performances spanning across genres. Sauntering through this lively street provides a window into the dynamic nightlife culture in Iceland's capital, where exploring different bars and clubs allows for a rich and varied experience.

One must not forget about the grand Harpa Concert Hall, an impressive architectural structure located by the harbour in Reykjavik. This venue is renowned for hosting a range of live performances from classical concerts to rousing rock gigs. Its vibrant glass facade itself is a captivating sight, reflecting the city lights, adding a magical aura to the nightlife in Reykjavik.

Interestingly, the nightlife scene in Iceland is not confined to the capital. In Akureyri, the second largest city in Iceland outside the capital region, nightlife culture thrives with a selection of bars and clubs that can rival Reykjavik. Græni hatturinn, for instance, is a popular spot where live music, mostly alternative or indie bands, keeps the crowd entertained.

Music festivals are another contributing factor to the vivacious nightlife in Iceland. The Secret Solstice Festival in Reykjavik and Iceland Airwaves, spread across multiple locations around the capital, have made waves globally, attracting international visitors with line-ups that include both acclaimed international artists and local talent.

Go shopping in Iceland

Shopping in Iceland provides an immersive experience into the rich culture and traditions of this captivating country. A foray into various shopping options presents ample opportunities to embrace both the contemporary and traditional sides of this vibrant nation.

One of the significant shopping areas in Iceland is Reykjavik, the capital city. Known for its trendy fashion boutiques, Laugavegur Street stands out as one of the noteworthy shopping districts. It is in these stylish establishments where iconic Nordic pieces are often found, with clothing exhibiting clean lines, minimalist designs, yet high functionality that reflect the lifestyle and climate of the region.

Iceland, however, is not solely about high-end shopping. Several budget-friendly options are available for those seeking value for money. Kringlan and Smáralind, two of the biggest shopping centres in Reykjavik, offer a variety of stores ranging from affordable global brands to attractive local shops.

Regarding local souvenirs, there are a few items that capture the essence of Icelandic culture. Hand-knitted ‘lopapeysa’ sweaters, made from native Icelandic sheep wool, are a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Not only are they warm and cosy, but they also carry a sense of tradition and history that is captured in the hearts of their wearers. Icelandic sagas, translated into various languages, are another highly sought souvenir. These epic tales, foundational to Icelandic literary tradition, make for a great keepsake. Artistic portrayals of Icelandic nature, from miniature replicas of lava rocks, puffin-themed merchandise or elegant volcanic rock jewellery, also make for an intriguing souvenir.