Reykjavik Hotels

Going out and dining in Reykjavik

Reykjavik offers an exciting mix of nightlife and dining options, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking to experience traditional Icelandic dishes or enjoy a vibrant evening at a trendy bar, the city has it all.

• Dining: Reykjavik is home to some incredible restaurants, serving everything from local delicacies to international cuisine. For a taste of traditional Icelandic food, Dill Restaurant is a must-visit, offering a creative take on Nordic cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. If you're in the mood for sushi with a twist, Sushi Social combines Icelandic fish with Japanese and South American flavours, creating a truly unique experience. For a more casual meal, head to Reykjavik Fish, known for its excellent fish and chips.

• Nightlife: When the sun goes down, Reykjavik comes alive with a buzzing nightlife scene. Lebowski Bar is a quirky favourite, themed around the cult film "The Big Lebowski" and famous for its creative White Russian cocktails. For live music, head to The Danish Bar, where you can enjoy a friendly atmosphere and performances every night. If you're seeking craft cocktails in a chic setting, Punk is the spot to go, offering a stylish venue and delicious drinks.

Whether you're exploring Reykjavik’s fine dining options or looking for a laid-back night out, the city’s vibrant food and drink scene has something for every traveller.

Where to stay in Reykjavik

Reykjavik offers a variety of neighbourhoods and accommodation options, each catering to different preferences, whether you're looking for lively areas or quiet retreats.

• Downtown Reykjavik (Miðborg): This is the heart of Reykjavik, perfect for travellers who want to be close to the city’s main attractions, including Hallgrímskirkja church and Harpa Concert Hall. Staying in this area gives you easy access to the city’s best restaurants, bars, and shops. It's ideal for those who enjoy walking and want to immerse themselves in Reykjavik’s cultural and vibrant atmosphere.

• Laugardalur: A quieter, more residential area, Laugardalur is known for its green spaces and family-friendly attractions like the Reykjavik Zoo and Botanical Gardens. It’s a great option for families or travellers looking for a more relaxed stay, while still being a short bus or bike ride from downtown Reykjavik.

• Vesturbær: Located west of downtown, Vesturbær is a peaceful neighbourhood that offers a mix of local life and easy access to attractions. It’s home to the popular Vesturbæjarlaug swimming pool and is perfect for those looking to experience a more local side of Reykjavik while still being close to the centre.

• Hlemmur and Hlíðar: These up-and-coming neighbourhoods are great for budget-conscious travellers. Close to the city centre, these areas are known for their trendy cafés and artistic vibe, making them perfect for younger travellers or those looking for a more laid-back experience.

Whether you’re seeking a vibrant city break or a peaceful retreat, Reykjavik’s neighbourhoods offer diverse options to make your stay unforgettable.

Go shopping in Reykjavik

More than just awe-inspiring natural landscapes, Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, also offers an array of shopping opportunities that merit exploration. The retail landscape of the city, dotted with a mix of boutiques and chain stores, caters to varying tastes and budgets.

Taking pride of place in the city's shopping scene is Laugavegur, known as the fashion hub of Reykjavik. This lively street, also the city's oldest shopping area, is home to an array of local and foreign fashion labels. Coupled with a handful of galleries and shops selling home goods, Laugavegur forms a shopper’s paradise with its extensive selection of clothing, accessories and more.

However, for those interested in items that reflect the spirit and culture of Iceland, Skólavördustígur, a street not far from Laugavegur, is highly recommended. Known for its artsy vibe, this area is filled with stores selling an assortment of Icelandic handmade products. From woollen goods to unique artisan crafts, the variety is notable.

Kringlan and Smáralind are two well-established shopping centres often favourably mentioned in relation to affordable shopping in Reykjavik. They house popular international brands catering to different budgets, making them a go-to destination for cost-effective retail therapy.

In terms of souvenirs, various local handicrafts and food items are quite popular. Woollen goods such as sweaters, blankets and socks made from Icelandic sheep's wool are considered iconic souvenirs. Ingredients peculiar to Icelandic cuisine such as dried fish and Brennivín, a local spirit, are worth considering as well. In addition, unique items like lava rock jewellery and artisanal goods inspired by Icelandic sagas and folklore, make memorable souvenirs.