Reykjavik: Cafés, Northern Lights, and More
Calm and cozyRelaxed and cozyLeisurely exploration

Reykjavik: Cafés, Northern Lights, and More

Reykjavik, Iceland3 Days12 Places

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

01

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.

02

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.

03

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
1/3

The Reykjavik EDITION

4.5

The Reykjavik EDITION offers a blend of modern luxury and Icelandic charm, featuring stylish rooms a

Try: Book in advance for best rates

ModerateCheck-in typically from 3 PM

The Vibe

$$$

Design-forward stays with character

Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
1/3

Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

4.7

Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, offers a blend of modern comforts

Try: Book in advance for best rates

ModerateCheck-in typically from 3 PM

The Steal

$$

Smart stays, prime locations

Reykjavík Marina - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
1/3

Reykjavík Marina - Berjaya Iceland Hotels

4.5

Reykjavík Marina - Berjaya Iceland Hotels offers stylish budget accommodations with a vibrant atmosp

Try: Book in advance for best rates

ModerateCheck-in typically from 3 PM
|Browse all hotels

Day by Day

The Itinerary

Reykjavik's Quiet Retreat
Day1
01

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.

The AreaQuiet and welcoming
VibeCalm and cozy
Dress CodeWarm and casual
01
Maggie's Be Café

Maggie's Be Café

5

Maggie's Be Café

walk
807 min|395.8km

A short walk down the main road, about 10 minutes.

Add coffee break
02
Two Tigers Coffee

Two Tigers Coffee

5

Two Tigers Coffee

walk
818 min|401.4km

A short walk down the main road, about 10 minutes.

Add activity
03
Hygeia Bath House & Spa

Hygeia Bath House & Spa

5

Hygeia Bath House & Spa

taxi
9156 min|4570.0km

A quick taxi ride, 5 minutes away.

Add pre-dinner drinks
04
Aurora Experts - Iceland

Aurora Experts - Iceland

4.9

Aurora Experts - Iceland

Quiet Day in Reykjavik
Day2
02

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.

The AreaQuiet residential with ocean views
VibeCalm and cozy
Dress CodeWarm layers and sturdy shoes
01
Arna Ís og Kaffi

Arna Ís og Kaffi

4.8

Arna Ís og Kaffi

other
20 min|2.4km

Start here

Add coffee break
02
Torfan veitingahús

Torfan veitingahús

4.9

Torfan veitingahús

walk
21 min|2.7km

A short walk away

Add activity
03
Northern Light Photo - Iceland Photo Spots

Northern Light Photo - Iceland Photo Spots

5

Northern Light Photo - Iceland Photo Spots

walk
20 min|2.3km

A short walk away

Add pre-dinner drinks
04
Litli Barinn

Litli Barinn

4.9

Litli Barinn

Coffee, Books, and Lights
Day3
03

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.

The AreaQuiet, friendly, with a touch of local charm
VibeRelaxed and cozy
Dress CodeWarm layers, waterproof boots
01
Trung Nguyen E - Coffee Iceland

Trung Nguyen E - Coffee Iceland

4.9

Trung Nguyen E - Coffee Iceland

walk
23 min|1.4km

Start your day here. It's a short walk from most downtown hotels.

Add coffee break
02
Reykjavík Kitchen

Reykjavík Kitchen

4.8

Reykjavík Kitchen

walk
14 min|685m

Walk ten minutes to Reykjavík Kitchen for lunch.

Add activity
03
Hot Sheep Deals on Tours

Hot Sheep Deals on Tours

5

Hot Sheep Deals on Tours

other
8 min|175m

After lunch, head down Laugavegur to find Hot Sheep Deals.

Add pre-dinner drinks
04
Rúblan bókakaffi

Rúblan bókakaffi

4.8

Rúblan bókakaffi

Customize

Make This Trip Yours

19 more places to explore

Browse by category

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

4.9

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.

Busy but worth it.Visit in late spring or early fall. The weather is mild, and the scenery is particularly appealing.
Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River

Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River

4.7

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.

ModerateVisit in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and the warm light of sunset.

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?

Coming Soon

Build Your Own Trip

Create your own personalized itinerary with our AI travel agent. Join the waitlist.

Join the Waitlist