Your Trip Story
In Reykjavik, start your journey with a friendly greeting at Maggie's Be Café in Old Harbour. The scent of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the salty sea air. Afterward, unwind at Hygeia Bath House, where the warm embrace of geothermal waters washes away travel fatigue. As night falls, expert guides lead you on a Northern Lights tour, where the sky dances in shades of green and purple. On your second day, savor a morning coffee in Vesturbær, overlooking the sea. The quiet streets of Seltjarnarnes invite a leisurely stroll with your camera ready to capture the ethereal Northern Lights once more. As the day ends, find warmth and stories at a cozy bar, where locals share tales over drinks. Your final day takes you to Laugardalur for a taste of Vietnamese coffee that surprises with its bold flavors. Lunchtime brings a hearty meal at Reykjavík Kitchen, where local ingredients shine. As evening approaches, the sound of live music beckons from Rúblan bókakaffi. Surrounded by books, the city's culture comes alive through song and stories. Each day in Reykjavik offers its own rhythm, from the soothing baths to the vibrant night skies. Come explore this city where every corner holds a new experience.
The Vibe
- Calm and cozy
- Relaxed and cozy
- Leisurely exploration
Insider Secrets
- 01The secret geothermal pool at Sellfoss is a quiet spot for relaxation.
- 02Visit the unmarked speakeasy behind a bookcase at Dillon Whiskey Bar.
- 03The Grótta Island Lighthouse is deserted at dawn, perfect for solitude.
The Research
Before you go to Reykjavik
Neighborhoods
Reykjavik's downtown area, particularly around Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur, is vibrant and packed with unique shops, cafes, and street art. Explore the cozy coffee shops like Te & Kaffi for a warm drink and pop into local boutiques like Kasa for Icelandic design. Don't miss the vibrant arts scene in the nearby Þingholt neighborhood, where you can find galleries showcasing local artists.
Food Scene
For an authentic taste of Iceland, head to the Icelandic Street Food in the city center for their traditional lamb soup or try the lobster soup at Sjávargrillið, both under 2000 ISK. If you're craving a sweet treat, visit Brauð & Co. for their famous cinnamon rolls, especially the one topped with cardamom, which is a local favorite.
Getting Around
Reykjavik is very walkable, but if you need public transport, the local bus system (Strætó) is efficient and costs about 490 ISK for a single ticket. Consider getting the Reykjavik City Card for unlimited bus rides, free entry to various museums, and discounts at local attractions—prices start at 3,900 ISK for a 24-hour card.
Where to Stay
Your Basecamp
Select your home base in Reykjavik, Iceland — this anchors your journey and appears in the navigation above.
The Splurge
$$$$Where discerning travelers stay
The Reykjavik EDITION
The Reykjavik EDITION offers a blend of modern luxury and Icelandic charm, featuring stylish rooms a
Try: Book in advance for best rates
The Vibe
$$$Design-forward stays with character
Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, offers a blend of modern comforts
Try: Book in advance for best rates
The Steal
$$Smart stays, prime locations
Reykjavík Marina - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
Reykjavík Marina - Berjaya Iceland Hotels offers stylish budget accommodations with a vibrant atmosp
Try: Book in advance for best rates
Day by Day
The Itinerary
Relaxation
Reykjavik's Quiet Retreat
Start your day at Maggie's Be Café with a warm cup in hand. The café is small and intimate, with staff who greet you like an old friend. After a leisurely morning, head to Two Tigers Coffee for lunch. The worn wood tables add charm, and the coffee is strong enough to wake even the sleepiest traveler. In the afternoon, unwind at Hygeia Bath House & Spa. The swim spa and soaking tubs offer a quiet haven from the world outside. As night falls, join Aurora Experts for a northern lights tour. The guides know their craft, ensuring you catch the elusive lights dancing across the sky.
Maggie's Be Café
Maggie's Be Café
Maggie's Be Café sits on 28th Ave in Hudsonville. The staff greets each customer with a smile. The café offers a simple menu of coffee, pastries, and light bites. The decor is cozy, with mismatched furniture and warm lighting. You can hear the whir of the espresso machine and the chatter of patrons enjoying their meals.
Maggie's Be Café
A short walk down the main road, about 10 minutes.
Two Tigers Coffee
Two Tigers Coffee
Two Tigers Coffee sits on a busy street corner. Inside, the wood tables show signs of wear. The baristas make strong lattes and serve dog treats for your furry friends. The atmosphere is casual, with a mix of locals chatting and working on laptops. Light streams in through the large windows, creating a warm spot to start your day.
Two Tigers Coffee
A short walk down the main road, about 10 minutes.
Hygeia Bath House & Spa
Hygeia Bath House & Spa
Hygeia Bath House & Spa offers a simple yet effective retreat. The swim spa and soaking tubs provide a chance to unwind. Visitors can book various treatments, including Watsu sessions, which focus on relaxation in water. The space feels clean and well-maintained, with a calming atmosphere throughout.
Hygeia Bath House & Spa
A quick taxi ride, 5 minutes away.
Aurora Experts - Iceland
Aurora Experts - Iceland
Aurora Experts - Iceland offers northern lights tours led by knowledgeable guides. Located at Kristnibraut 63 in Reykjavik, this travel agency focuses on providing a genuine experience. Customers praise Heimir and his team for their expertise and dedication to finding the best viewing spots for the auroras.
Aurora Experts - Iceland
Leisure
Quiet Day in Reykjavik
Start your day at Arna Ís og Kaffi in Seltjarnarnes. The coffee is hot, the pastries fresh. The view over the sea is clear, seagulls calling. For lunch, head to Torfan veitingahús. The lamb is tender, the vegetables crisp. In the afternoon, explore the photo spots with Northern Light Photo. The guide knows the angles, the light. End the day at Litli Barinn. The beer is cold, the bar cozy. Locals chat quietly. The night sky may reveal the aurora if you're lucky.
Arna Ís og Kaffi
Arna Ís og Kaffi
Arna Ís og Kaffi sits in Seltjarnarnes, a short drive from downtown Reykjavik. The cafe serves coffee and light meals. Families and business people fill the space. You can see the mountains across the bay from large windows. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a good spot to unwind.
Arna Ís og Kaffi
Start here
Torfan veitingahús
Torfan veitingahús
Torfan veitingahús sits on Amtmannsstígur in Reykjavik. The restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. Gluten-free options are available. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.
Torfan veitingahús
A short walk away
Northern Light Photo - Iceland Photo Spots
Northern Light Photo - Iceland Photo Spots
Northern Light Photo offers guided tours to some of the best photography spots in Iceland. Located at Skólabraut, the place is run by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about the landscape and photography techniques. You will find a friendly atmosphere where you can learn and capture the beauty of Iceland's nature.
Northern Light Photo - Iceland Photo Spots
A short walk away
Litli Barinn
Litli Barinn
Litli Barinn sits on Ránargata in Reykjavik. The space is small and intimate. Wooden tables fill the room. A bar lines one wall, stocked with local beers and spirits. The menu features simple yet creative dishes. Diners enjoy lamb sausage and rich risotto, both made with care.
Litli Barinn
Culture
Coffee, Books, and Lights
Start your day at Trung Nguyen E - Coffee Iceland. The coffee is strong and the lighting is bright. It's a simple space, but the flavors are bold. After coffee, head to Reykjavik Kitchen for lunch. The dishes are hearty, the atmosphere cozy. You might meet locals here, chatting at nearby tables. In the afternoon, explore tour options at Hot Sheep Deals on Tours. The staff is helpful and offers tours to see the northern lights. End your day at Rúblan bókakaffi. Browse the books, listen to live music. If you're lucky, the sky will clear for a glimpse of the aurora.
Trung Nguyen E - Coffee Iceland
Trung Nguyen E - Coffee Iceland
Trung Nguyen E - Coffee Iceland serves Vietnamese coffee in a simple, bright space. The café features wooden tables and a small retail section with coffee beans for sale. Free parking is available right outside on the street, making it convenient for visitors.
Trung Nguyen E - Coffee Iceland
Start your day here. It's a short walk from most downtown hotels.
Reykjavík Kitchen
Reykjavík Kitchen
Reykjavík Kitchen sits on Rauðarárstígur in a simple building. Inside, the atmosphere is cozy and relaxing. The menu features fresh, local ingredients. The coffee-cured salmon stands out, showcasing a balance of flavors. You can watch the kitchen staff at work while enjoying your meal.
Reykjavík Kitchen
Walk ten minutes to Reykjavík Kitchen for lunch.
Hot Sheep Deals on Tours
Hot Sheep Deals on Tours
Hot Sheep Deals on Tours offers a variety of outdoor excursions in Reykjavik. Located on Laugavegur, the shop features friendly staff and detailed tour options. You can book anything from whale watching to glacier hikes, all while enjoying their attentive service.
Hot Sheep Deals on Tours
After lunch, head down Laugavegur to find Hot Sheep Deals.
Rúblan bókakaffi
Rúblan bókakaffi
Rúb.án bókakaffi is a cafe and bookstore on Laugavegur. The walls are lined with shelves of books. You can find a mix of locals and travelers sipping coffee and browsing titles. Occasionally, a band plays covers of American rock music. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with simple wooden tables and chairs.
Rúblan bókakaffi
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers over 800 square miles of forest, streams, and wildlife. Visitors can explore a vast network of trails, some leading to waterfalls and mountain overlooks. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including black bears and wildflowers. Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season.
Try: Hike the Alum Cave Trail to reach Mount LeConte for panoramic views.
Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River
Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River lies in the Reykjadalur Valley, surrounded by hills and streams. The trail to the hot spring is steep and can be challenging. Hikers enjoy the view of the valley and the sound of bubbling water as they approach the warm river. The water temperature varies, providing a natural spa experience amid rugged landscapes.
Try: Take the hike to the hot spring and soak in the thermal river.
Before You Go
Essential Intel
Everything you need to know for a smooth trip
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik?
How can I get around Reykjavik efficiently?
What is a typical daily budget for Reykjavik?
Where can I find budget-friendly meals in Reykjavik?
Are there any local customs I should be aware of?
What are some lesser-known spots in Reykjavik?
Is it necessary to tip in Reykjavik?
What's the best way to book Northern Lights tours?
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