Reykjavik-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Reykjavik

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church, a stunning example of Icelandic architecture. Take a lift to the top for panoramic views of the city.
  • Breakfast: Head to Café Loki (Hverfisgata 16) for traditional Icelandic breakfast dishes like Skyr (yogurt-like dairy product) and pancakes with cloudberry jam.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the National Museum of Iceland, which provides a comprehensive history of the country from the Viking era to the present day.
  • Lunch: Try some delicious fish soup at Fish Company (Skólavörðustígur 14), just around the corner from Hallgrimskirkja.
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll through the charming Laugavegur shopping street, lined with unique boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Fish Company again (try their seafood buffet) or head to Hamborgarabúlla Tómasar (Laugavegur 31), a popular burger joint.
  • Nightlife: Head to the vibrant Reykjavik nightlife scene, with bars like 11-4 Bar & Club and Bar Anno Domini.

Day 2: Golden Circle and Nature

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the famous Geysir geothermal area, where you can see Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes.
  • 10:30 AM: Stop by the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, a must-see in Iceland’s natural beauty.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at the nearby Kaffi Kr-ringa (Geysir tourist center).
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the historic and mysterious Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Icelandic dinner at Fiskfélagid (Túngata 16), known for their fish dishes.
  • Evening: Relax with a soak in the geothermal waters at Laugarvatn Fontana.

Day 3: Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Coastal Charm

  • 8:00 AM: Drive to the picturesque town of Strokkur (about an hour from Reykjavik) and visit the charming church.
  • 9:30 AM: Explore the beautiful coastal scenery and Kirkjufell Mountain, a stunning backdrop for photos.
  • 11:30 AM: Visit the nearby Black Sand Beach of Djúpalónssandur, with its unique black sand and interesting rock formations.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Hotel Budir (Budir), which serves delicious meals in their restaurant overlooking the ocean.
  • Afternoon: Return to Reykjavik, stopping by any last-minute shops or cafes you might have missed earlier.

Where to Stay:

Reykjavik has plenty of accommodations options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Cabin Downtown (Laugavegur 46): A cozy and centrally-located hotel.
  • Airbnb apartments: Many unique and stylish apartments can be rented in the heart of Reykjavik.

Getting Around:

Reykjavik is a small city, making it easy to walk or bike around. However, if you need to travel further, consider using public transportation or taking taxis.

  • Public Transportation: The city has a convenient bus system (Strætó) that can take you almost anywhere.
  • Car Rental: If you plan on exploring the surrounding countryside, rent a car from companies like Hertz or Avis.
  • Taxis: Available and relatively affordable.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather in Iceland. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes.
  • Currency: The Icelandic Krona (ISK) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred at some places.
  • Tips: Don’t forget to tip your servers, bartenders, or tour guides for good service.

Other Tips:

  • Be mindful of your belongings, as pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting historical sites or attending cultural events.
  • Enjoy the unique experiences that Iceland has to offer – it’s a truly unforgettable destination!

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an amazing trip to Reykjavik!