Ah Reykjavík, one of the coolest, chillest cities I’ve ever been to. I’m talking both temperature and culture-wise. This Nordic hotspot is the capital of Iceland, home of viking folklore, and usually the beginning and end of your trip to Iceland. (More about all the fun things you can do in the middle to come.)
But I’ll get this out of the way now, the WORST thing about Iceland is how expensive it is. When I tell you that one night we spent $300 USD on snacks in a glorified 7-11, I am not lying. That actually happened.
So I’ve rounded up the things you should do if you’re like me. Just a gal or guy trying to have fun without hitting up the nicest restaurants in all the land, or paying for crazy expensive tours.
Hit up these spots, and by the time you get back home you’ll be one of those Insta girls captioning throwback photos: “#TBT Reyk me back.” (It’s me. I’m Insta girls.)
Where to Grab a Latte:
It’s cold in Iceland — (hence the name), so pop into Reykjavik Roasters for a warm cup of joe in a cozy atmosphere. The bites are equally delicious, and the menu changes seasonally.
Take a Picture At:
One of the first things you’re likely to be greeted with when arriving in Reykjavik is the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church — It looks like something out of Neverending Story with its towering grey steeple inspired by Iceland’s waterfalls.
Harpa Concert and Conference Hall
Another of one Iceland’s most photogenic architectural landmarks is Harpa Concert and Conference Hall. The space houses concerts, exhibitions, weddings, and festivals, and sits at the heart of the city overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean.
Dance the Night Away Here:
Want to get out of the cold? Well you can’t — but you can escape to Pablo Discobar, a tropical oasis where you can dance the night away. Unique craft cocktails, pink flamingos, disco balls, and amazing dj sets await you at this bar located in the center of Reykjavik’s downtown area.
Pop music… dancing… the occasional drag show — KiKi Queer Bar is the best gay bar in Reykjavik, and fun for all. Iceland is a pretty welcoming country in general, but you’ll be made right at home the minute you walk through the doors and hear Rihanna playing.
Have a Beer At:
I’m not a beer drinker, but my travel buddies love to find local beers in each country we go to. Kaldi Bar serves Icelandic microbrewery beers, but also has a full bar and the largest gin and tonic collection in Iceland.
Tell Your Friends (Or Don’t) About:
The Icelandic Phallological Museum
I was a little skeptical at first, but I have to admit that I really had a ball at the Icelandic Phallological Museum, which houses — yep, the world’s largest display of penises. While this may not be where you want to go on a family trip, if you’re with your friends and looking for a way to make some big (or little) memories, this is a weiner. I mean winner.
Take a Day Trip To:
If you’re on Instagram, by now you’ve surely seen pictures of the famed Blue Lagoon. And while many have said that they were disappointed to find that the lagoon is actually entirely man-made and pretty pricey, I will tell you that after days of hiking in grimy clothes, a spa day where you can drink wine with Weird Al Yankovic is just what the doctor ordered. (Yes, that dream actually came true on my trip — see left side of the above photo.)
Have a Quick Bite at:
My friend Sara says that this is her second favorite Thai restaurant after the one in New Orleans. Oh, and this is a girl that has BEEN TO THAILAND. Krua Thai is cheap and delicious, and those are the only two standards I judge my Pad See Ew by.
Icelandic Hot Dogs are definitely a “thing,” and I’m honestly not sure why. But this stand is touted as the best. In fact, the name means “Towns Best Sausages.” — Which ironically could have also been the name for the Phallological Museum.
This was recommended to me as another way to warm up after a chilly day. Think Panera Soup in a Sourdough Bread Bowl, but way better, and set above the bustling streets of Reykjavik. Oh, and as a plus — it’s affordable.
If You’re There in Winter:
See the Northern Lights
OK, this one I’ll admit, I have still not done. BUT if you go to Iceland between September to March you must see the Northern Lights! Apparently when conditions are right you can see them from pretty much anywhere in Reykjavik, but the best view will be down by the coastline.
