The world’s most northerly capital combines colorful buildings, quirky, creative people, eye-popping design, wild nightlife and a capricious soul.

Reykjavík has a vibrant cultural and design scene, with plenty of exciting adventure tours, vivid nightlife, modern museums, world-class restaurants, galleries, shops, bars and clubs for you to explore throughout your stay.

Iceland’s capital city is also a terrific base from which to experience some of the island’s breathtakingly beautiful natural wonders, such as the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, The Northern Lights or The Golden Circle; where you’ll witness spouting geysers, waterfalls, rift valleys and more. Whatever way you choose to spend your time in Reykjavík, this is one city break that is truly unique.

In our detailed guide, you will learn everything that is important and useful for planning your stay in Reykjavík. After a brief history lesson, we’ll set you up with tips of must-see places and must-do activities, including all of the things you can do for free. We’ve also listed a bunch of helpful recommendations on where to eat and drink in the capital area. Welcome to our lovely capital of Reykjavík!

Food & Nightlife

Reykjavík is strikingly cosmopolitan for its size. It’s merely a town by international standards, compared with London or Paris, yet it’s loaded with captivating art, rich culinary choices, and cool cafes and bars. The capital has seen a recent surge in restaurant openings, many of the highest standard, and expressing all manner of culinary creativity.

Art & Design

The capital’s art museums, shops and galleries are a perfect insight into contemporary city life. They include outstanding exhibition spaces, such as the Reykjavík Art Museum and National Gallery, as well as shops featuring cutting-edge Icelandic design. Edgy contemporary art galleries such as those in the Marshall House showcase emerging and internationally famous Icelandic artists. Reykjavík also presents the chance to see Icelandic cinema with English subtitles. Or, wander the streets photographing creative graffiti and public art installations, like the ever-popular seaside Sun Voyager sculpture, which changes guises along with the light.

The Great Outdoors

Even if you come to Reykjavík for a short visit, be sure to take a trip to the countryside. Tours and services abound, and understanding Reykjavík and its people is helped by understanding the vast, raw land they anchor. The majority of Icelanders live in the capital, but you can guarantee their spirits also roam free across the land. Absorb what you see, hear, taste, smell — all part of Iceland’s rich heritage.

From a vibrant art and music scene to a treasure trove of world renowned cultural and historical attractions, Reykjavík boasts endless opportunities for fun and adventure.

At XcelTrip you could book “100 Iceland Hotel” and explore Iceland. With a stay at 100 Iceland Hotel in Reykjavik (Reykjavik 101), you’ll be a 4-minute drive from Hallgrimskirkja and 7 minutes from Perlan. This hotel is 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from Reykjavik City Hall and 1.8 mi (2.9 km) from the National Museum of Iceland.