Reykjavik 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Downtown Reykjavik

  • Arrival: Keflavík International Airport is the main gateway to Iceland. You can reach Reykjavik by bus (Flybus) or taxi.

  • Accommodation: Stay at CentreHotel Midgard or Hotel Borg, centrally located and within walking distance of major attractions.

  • Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at Sandholt Bakery, offering a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and coffee.

  • Morning: Visit Hallgrímskirkja, the iconic Lutheran church, and climb to the tower for a panoramic view of Reykjavik. Nearby, find the Viking Statue and the Pearl (Perlan) with its unique glass dome offering views over the city.

  • Lunch: Dine at Kaffivagninn, a colorful truck serving traditional Icelandic food.

  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant downtown area, including Laugavegur Street, filled with boutique stores, art galleries, and cafes. Don’t miss Harpa Concert Hall, a unique architectural marvel.

  • Dinner: Try Fish Market Restaurant for fresh seafood or Matur og Drykkur for Icelandic cuisine with a twist.

  • Evening: Relax at one of the many geothermal pools in Reykjavik, such as Laugardalslaug or Vesturbæjarlaug.

Day 2: Sightseeing & Nature

  • Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Café Loki, offering traditional dishes.

  • Morning: Drive to Thingvellir National Park (45 minutes from Reykjavik), a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Continue to Geysir Hot Springs (30 minutes) and Gullfoss Waterfall (15 minutes).

  • Lunch: Pack a picnic or dine at one of the restaurants near Geysir.

  • Afternoon: Head to Þórsmörk Valley (45 minutes from Geysir), known for its glaciers, volcanoes, and beautiful landscapes. If time is limited, opt for a Golden Circle tour with a local operator.

  • Dinner: Back in Reykjavik, dine at Dill or Apotek Restaurant, both offering contemporary Icelandic cuisine.

Day 3: City Sightseeing & Shopping

  • Breakfast: Have breakfast at Braud & Co, famous for its bread and pastries.

  • Morning: Visit the Reykjavik Art Museum (Hafnarhús) and the Saga Museum to learn about Iceland’s rich history and culture.

  • Lunch: Try a hot dog at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a local institution.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Sun Voyager sculpture by the sea, then take a stroll through the Whale Museum or the Maritime Museum of Iceland.

  • Shopping: Pick up souvenirs from the Kolaportid Flea Market (open on weekends) or visit the Design March store for unique local crafts and designs.

  • Dinner: Enjoy your last meal in Reykjavik at Fiskfélagið, a seafood restaurant with excellent views of the harbor.

Things to Know:

  • Icelandic Krona is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • The weather can be unpredictable; pack layers and waterproof clothing.
  • Tap water in Reykjavik is safe to drink.
  • Emergency numbers: Police (112), Fire Department (112), Ambulance (112)

Transportation:

  • Bus: Strætó bus service covers the entire city and surrounding areas. Single tickets can be purchased on board or from kiosks.
  • Taxis are readily available, but prices can add up quickly. App-based services like Taxi.is or Leynishjálfirinn offer fixed rates.
  • Car rental is also an option for those wanting more flexibility to explore at their own pace. Remember to drive on the right side of the road and observe speed limits.

Tips:

  • Try local specialties like Skyr (yogurt), Hákarl (fermented shark), and Brennivín (black death schnapps).
  • Respect Iceland’s natural wonders by staying on designated paths, not picking flowers, and leaving no trace.
  • Learn a few Icelandic words to interact with locals and appreciate the local culture.