Reykjavik-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik

  • Morning: Arrive at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and take the Flybus shuttle bus to your hotel in Reykjavik. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take a taxi.
  • 10:00 AM: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up. We recommend staying at:
    • Hotel Cabin: A modern, budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
    • Hotel 101: A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Reykjavik.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Hallgrímskirkja church, a striking Lutheran church that’s one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of Reykjavik.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at:
    • Fish Company: A seafood restaurant with fresh catches and a cozy atmosphere.
    • 101 Bar & Restaurant: A modern bistro serving Icelandic cuisine with a twist.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the vibrant Harpa concert hall, known for its stunning glass architecture. Take a guided tour to learn more about the building’s design and history.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at:
    • Dill: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Icelandic cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
    • 3 Frakkar: A cozy seafood restaurant with a wide selection of fish dishes.

Day 2: Golden Circle

  • 8:00 AM: Start the day with breakfast at your hotel or grab something to go from a nearby café.
  • 9:30 AM: Visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the site of Iceland’s first parliament. Explore the park’s unique geological features and historical significance.
  • 11:00 AM: Stop by Geysir geothermal area, where you can see Strokkur geyser erupting every few minutes. Take a guided tour to learn more about the geology and history of the area.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at:
    • Kaffibarinn: A cozy café serving sandwiches, soups, and salads with a focus on local ingredients.
    • Fosshotel Glacier Hotel’s restaurant: A modern bistro serving Icelandic cuisine with stunning views of Vatnajökull National Park.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit Gullfoss waterfall, a breathtaking sight that’s sure to leave you in awe. Take a short hike around the area for stunning views.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at:
    • Fish Market: A seafood restaurant with fresh catches and a lively atmosphere.
    • Laekur: A modern bistro serving Icelandic cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 3: Reykjavik City

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day with breakfast at your hotel or grab something to go from a nearby café.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the National Museum of Iceland, which tells the story of Iceland’s history and culture. Explore the exhibits on Viking Age, medieval times, and modern-day Icelandic society.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at:
    • Café Loki: A cozy café serving sandwiches, soups, and salads with a focus on local ingredients.
    • 101 Bar & Restaurant: A modern bistro serving Icelandic cuisine with a twist.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Reykjavik Art Museum, which features a collection of Icelandic art from the 19th century to the present day. Explore the museum’s exhibitions and learn more about Icelandic art history.
  • 3:00 PM: Take a stroll through Laugavegur shopping street, where you can find unique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at:
    • Dill: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Icelandic cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
    • 3 Frakkar: A cozy seafood restaurant with a wide selection of fish dishes.

Day 4: Blue Lagoon

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day with breakfast at your hotel or grab something to go from a nearby café.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa nestled in a stunning lava field. Relax and rejuvenate in the milky-blue waters and explore the surrounding area.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at:
    • The Blue Lagoon’s restaurant: A modern bistro serving Icelandic cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
    • Fish Company: A seafood restaurant with fresh catches and a cozy atmosphere.
  • 3:00 PM: Return to Reykjavik and spend the rest of the day exploring the city or visiting any attractions you missed earlier in your trip.

Day 5: Departure

  • 8:00 AM: Check-out of your hotel and grab breakfast at a nearby café or bakery.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Reykjavik Tourist Information Centre to get information on your onward journey. You can also take a guided tour or rent a car for your next destination.
  • 10:00 AM: Depart for Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and fly back home.

Transportation

  • Flybus shuttle bus: A convenient and affordable way to get from the airport to Reykjavik city center. Book in advance to ensure availability.
  • Taxi: Available at the airport and throughout the city.
  • Car rental: Rent a car for your stay in Iceland, which will give you more flexibility and freedom to explore.

Tips

  • Be prepared for unpredictable Icelandic weather with layers of clothing and waterproof gear.
  • Try some traditional Icelandic cuisine like fish stew or Skyr (a thick, creamy yogurt-like product).
  • Visit during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for fewer tourists and lower prices.
  • Bring a good camera to capture the stunning landscapes and natural wonders.

Other things of interest

  • Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure: A unique experience that allows you to snorkel between two continental plates. Book in advance with a reputable tour operator.
  • Whale watching: Take a guided boat tour from Reykjavik harbor or Akureyri harbor to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine wildlife.
  • Visit the Viking Museum: Learn about the history of the Vikings and their impact on Icelandic society.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, nature, and adventure for your 5-day stay in Reykjavik. Enjoy your trip!