Reykjavik 7 Day Itinerary
Reykjavik 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive in Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland
- Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Fosshótel Reykjavík or similar
- Breakfast: Grab a coffee and pastry at Café Babalu
- Explore:
- Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and take in the stunning views from its tower
- Walk through the vibrant streets of Laugavegur, exploring shops, galleries, and cafes
- Stop by the Reykjavik City Hall (Ráðhúsið) for a glimpse into the city’s history and culture
- Lunch: Enjoy traditional Icelandic cuisine at 3 Frakkar
- Afternoon:
- Visit the National Museum of Iceland to learn about the country’s rich history and heritage
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Botanical Garden (Grasagarður Reykjavíkur)
- Dinner: Savor seafood at Fishmarkaðurinn
- Evening:
- Take a walk along the waterfront, enjoying the harbor views and sea air
- Explore the lively nightlife of Reykjavik, with many bars and clubs to choose from
Day 2: Golden Circle and Geothermal Spa
- Morning: Visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique geology and historical significance
- Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch or grab a bite at Friðheimar, a farm-to-table restaurant
- Afternoon:
- Explore Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser
- Visit Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders
- Relaxation: Unwind at Laugarvatn Fontana, a geothermal spa with stunning views
- Dinner: Feast on Icelandic lamb at Lamb Street Food
- Evening: Return to Reykjavik and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere
Day 3: South Coast Adventure
- Morning: Drive along the scenic South Coast (approx. 1-hour drive)
- Stop:
- Visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind the falls
- Explore Skógafoss waterfall and its picturesque surroundings
- Stop at Reynisfjara black sand beach, known for its unique rock formations and powerful waves
- Lunch: Grab a bite at Skógar, a café and souvenir shop
- Afternoon:
- Visit the charming village of Vik, with its stunning coastal views
- Take in the breathtaking scenery of Dyrhólaey, with its unique rock formations and birdlife
- Return: Drive back to Reykjavik (approx. 1-hour drive)
- Dinner: Enjoy seafood at The Fish Company
- Evening: Relax in your accommodation or explore the city’s nightlife
Day 4: Reykjanes Peninsula and Blue Lagoon
- Morning: Drive to the Reykjanes Peninsula (approx. 45-minute drive)
- Stop:
- Visit the Bridge Between Two Continents, a unique geological feature
- Explore the scenic coastal views and birdlife at Krýsuvík and Seltún
- Relaxation: Unwind at Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa nestled in a stunning lava field
- Lunch: Enjoy a meal at the Blue Lagoon’s restaurant, Lava
- Afternoon:
- Take a scenic drive back to Reykjavik (approx. 45-minute drive)
- Stop at the Perlan Museum, offering panoramic views of the city
- Dinner: Savor Icelandic cuisine at Apotek
- Evening: Enjoy live music or comedy at Húrra, a popular cultural venue
Day 5: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Morning: Drive to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula (approx. 2-hour drive)
- Stop:
- Visit Arnarstapi, a charming fishing village with stunning coastal views
- Explore Hellnar, a picturesque cove with unique rock formations
- Stop at Djúpalónssandur beach, known for its scenic views and birdlife
- Lunch: Grab a bite at Fosshótel Hellnar, a cozy hotel restaurant
- Afternoon:
- Visit the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier, made famous by Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth
- Take in the breathtaking scenery and birdlife at Öndverðarnes, a scenic coastal area
- Return: Drive back to Reykjavik (approx. 2-hour drive)
- Dinner: Enjoy seafood at Harbour
- Evening: Explore the city’s nightlife or relax in your accommodation
Day 6: Reykjavik’s Cultural Delights
- Morning: Visit the Harpa Concert Hall, a stunning example of modern architecture
- Explore:
- The Reykjavik Art Museum (Listasafn Reykjavíkur), featuring Icelandic contemporary art
- The National Gallery of Iceland (Listasafn Íslands), showcasing Icelandic art from the 19th century to present day
- Lunch: Grab a bite at Bergsson Mathús, a popular bakery and café
- Afternoon:
- Visit the unique Laundromat Café, where you can wash your clothes while enjoying a snack or meal
- Explore the vibrant street art scene in Reykjavik’s city center
- Dinner: Savor Icelandic cuisine at Matur og Drykkur
- Evening: Enjoy live music or comedy at Húrra, a popular cultural venue
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring Reykjavik’s city center
- Departure: Return to Keflavík International Airport (approx. 45-minute drive) for your departure flight
Transportation
- Rent a car for Days 2-6, as public transportation in Iceland can be limited
- Book airport transfers or use the Flybus shuttle service between Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavik city center
Tips and Essentials
- Pack layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes for outdoor exploration
- Don’t forget your camera, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Exchange some currency to Icelandic króna (ISK) or use credit cards widely accepted in Iceland
- Learn some basic Icelandic phrases, such as “hello” (halló), “thank you” (takk), and “goodbye” (bless)
- Respect Iceland’s fragile nature and unique cultural heritage
Accommodation Options
- Hotel Fosshótel Reykjavík: A comfortable, centrally located hotel with modern amenities
- Guesthouse Sunna: A cozy, family-run guesthouse with a warm atmosphere
- Airbnb options: Choose from a range of apartments, studios, or houses in Reykjavik’s city center
Restaurants and Cafes
- 3 Frakkar: Traditional Icelandic cuisine in a cozy setting
- Fishmarkaðurinn: Fresh seafood in a lively, modern restaurant
- Café Babalu: Delicious pastries and coffee in a charming café
- Bergsson Mathús: A popular bakery and café serving traditional Icelandic treats