Named the land of fire and ice, Iceland is a magical destination to explore – from the vast amount of wildlife, natural wonders, and geological features. It is a perfect place to experience the beauty of nature. So if you only have 4 days here, this is your 4 day itinerary for Reykjavik, Iceland to get the most out of your time.
I went to Reykjavik in January and loved the chilly experience. This is one of the best times to see the Northern Lights as there are longer nights and frequently clear skies. If you go in the summer, there are probably only two activities you won’t be able to do (Northern Lights and a Glacier hike). Nonetheless, you will have a fantastic time in Reykjavik.
Curious if Iceland is a Scandinavian or Nordic Country? Read about it here
Transportation from KEF Airport to Reykjavik: The airport is around 90 mins away from the actual city center. So the best option to get there is bus 55 which leaves from the airport regularly. Buy a ticket (~$14) once you get out of security and you’re good to go no matter what time you arrive. You can also take a taxi, but it is crazy expensive.
Where to Stay in Reykjavik: I was solo on this trip so I opted to stay at Loft HI Eco Hostel and absolutely loved it. It was centrally located, clean, and was so much cheaper than hotels in the area.
How Expensive is Reykjavik: Reykjavik is relatively expensive. I heard that locals only eat out 4 times a year and the restaurants are mainly for tourists – a big reason being the prices. Although compared to certain places in the U.S., prices are around the same for most things. Just decide how you want to spend your money.
Explore the City of Reykjavik
Day 1
Go to Sandholt Bakery to grab breakfast and a coffee. Their baked goods and breakfast items are so so good. I would have gone here everyday if I didn’t want to try new places.
Take a free walking tour. CityWalk and GuruWalk are great options!
Walk the Rainbow Street. Reykjavik is extremely progressive in terms of inclusion and diversity, so this street represents their support for Pride.
Go to the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church in the middle of town. Buy a ticket to go to the top, it’s worth the 360 views you get.
See the Sun Voyager sculpture. A lovely walk along the water to see this stunning metal sculpture.
Go to a cafe like Baka Baka to get shakshuka with sourdough bread. Is Iceland known for shakshuka? Heck no, but they are known for their tomatoes. Since not much grows in Iceland, they use state of the art greenhouses to grow this produce.
Take a tour to see the Northern Lights. It’s important to do this on your first night, because most tours will let you book another night for free if you don’t see any during your tour.
Go Out in Nature
Day 2
Take a tour or rent a car and go around the Golden Circle. GetYourGuide is great for booking tours. See the geysers, various waterfalls, or go on a hike
Swim in the famous geothermal waters of The Blue Lagoon. Yes it’s touristy, but such a cool experience. Sky Lagoon is also supposed to be great! Make sure to not get your hair in the water and take all your jewelry off as the high amount of silica in the water can ruin both.
Pro tip: bring a waterproof phone pouch if you want to bring your phone in and take pictures.
Learn about the History & Nature
Day 3
Go to some of the numerous museums such as:
- The Aurora Borealis Museum: I loved this one, you will learn all about the science of the Aurora Borealis.
- Whales of Iceland: Educational museum dedicated to whales found in Icelandic waters. There are lifesize replicas of certain species
- National Museum of Iceland: See the journey from 1200 years ago to modern day Iceland.
- The Settlement Exhibition: A modern museum to learn about the history of Iceland from vikings and ruins to the present day.
- Árbær Open Air Museum: See how Icelandic people used to live in this replica village museum.
- If you’re feeling real wild, go to The Icelandic Phallological Museum. A museum dedicated to the male reproductive organ.
Get an Icelandic hot dog from one of the hot dog stands. These are better quality than the ones you may be thinking about, they’re made with Icelandic lamb, pork, and beef.
Go Back out into Nature
Day 4
Take a glacier tour. GetYourGuide has great ones to book. Most of them you will get up close and personal with an actual glacier: hike it, ice pick it, or sled down them. Choose your own adventure, but no matter what it will be a once in a lifetime experience and so beautiful.
Go to a Public Swimming pool. Similar to the Blue Lagoon, but less flashy and more accessible/affordable. Public swimming pools are all over Iceland and the best part is that they are all heated from geothermal energy. So whether you’re there in winter or summer, go to a public pool and swim with the locals. Laugardalslaug and Sundhöll Reykjavíkur are two great options in the city.
