Travel guide · Iceland
Reykjavík: what to see and when to go
Reykjavík is the world's northernmost capital and the base for exploring Iceland: geysers, waterfalls, glaciers and black-sand beaches, all within a few hours' drive. In winter you chase the northern lights; in summer the midnight sun lets you explore around the clock.
What to see and do in Reykjavík
The Golden Circle
Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall in a single day.
The South Coast
Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara.
Geothermal lagoons
The Blue Lagoon near the airport, or the Sky Lagoon with ocean views on the edge of the city.
Northern lights
From September to April on clear nights, away from the city lights.
Reykjavík itself
Hallgrímskirkja church, the Harpa concert hall and whale-watching boats from the old harbour.
Best time to go
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 3 hr | ≈ €180 · See flights |
| New York | 6 hr | ≈ €360 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 9 hr, 30 min | ≈ €520 · See flights |
| Dubai | 9 hr, 30 min | ≈ €520 · See flights |
| Singapore | 15 hr, 15 min | ≈ €660 · See flights |
| Sydney | 22 hr | ≈ €810 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €590 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- Iceland
- Currency
- Icelandic Króna
- Good for
- nature · wild · mountains
- How long to stay
- 4–7 days
- Where to stay
- Downtown Reykjavík for restaurants and tour pick-ups; a farm stay on the south coast to break up the drive.Find a place to stay in Reykjavík
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Reykjavík, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €180 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Reykjavík (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
- CarPick it up at the airport (opens in a new tab)
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Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Reykjavík and when should you go?
Average highs range from 2° in January to 13° in July.
How many days do you need in Reykjavík?
4 to 7 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Reykjavík cost?
Accommodation runs at around €140 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €590 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 3 hr.
Where should you stay in Reykjavík?
Downtown Reykjavík for restaurants and tour pick-ups; a farm stay on the south coast to break up the drive.
