One day in Reykjavik Iceland – best itinerary

I arrived in Iceland for the first time late at night, around 1 AM. But surprise: it was still bright outside. The sky looked like a sunset, but it was deep into the night. A magical start for one day in Reykjavik and a northern adventure I’ll never forget.

 

From the airport to Reykjavik it takes about 40 minutes. We took a bus, the classic transport option between the airport and accommodation in Reykjavik. It dropped us off somewhere downtown, and from there we walked about 20 minutes with our suitcases, through an almost empty but daylight-lit city.

 

There was a perfect stillness, a few birds over a lake, and a pleasant chill in the air. I paused for a few seconds to realize: I’m really here. In Reykjavik. In Iceland. One of the places that had been on my list for years.

 

 

 

We came to Iceland for a 10-day Northern Europe cruise, and Reykjavik was the departure point. We only had one day in Reykjavik, but trust me, it was enough for the city to steal my heart.

 

It’s a small, friendly, and walkable city. Ideal for anyone looking to quickly check off the top Reykjavik attractions in just a few hours. In this article, I’ll show you exactly what to visit in Reykjavik, how to plan your time, and what’s worth seeing if you only have 1 day in Reykjavik.

 

 

Essential Things to Know About Reykjavik

 

• Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and the largest city in the country. It’s located on the southwest coast, near the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by water, mountains, and volcanic fields.
• It was founded in the 9th century by Norwegian Vikings, and its name means “Bay of Smokes,” due to the geothermal steam rising from the ground.
• Although it looks peaceful, Reykjavik is the starting point for many adventures and a key stop on any Reykjavik itinerary or Iceland road trip.Beyond its strategic location, Reykjavik is also famous for its unpredictable weather. The weather in Reykjavik can switch from mild sunshine to rain and wind within the hour. So layer up and maybe pack a rain poncho, just in case.
• Tourist-wise, this is a city where you can see a lot in a short amount of time. The most important Reykjavik attractions are all centrally located and easy to reach on foot.
• It has a population of about 130,000 people, which means roughly half the country lives right here.

 

 

Accommodation in Reykjavik

 

No matter how much you search, accommodation in Reykjavik is far from cheap. Trust me, I tested every filter possible and impossible.

 

We ended up staying at a hostel – Student Hostel Reykjavik. And yes, it may sound like a school trip gone wrong, but it was actually super clean, quiet, and even a bit cozy. In Reykjavik, a hostel is often the smartest option if you don’t want to blow your entire Iceland budget on a single night.

 

Here are a few solid accommodation choices, depending on your budget. The first one is where we stayed:

 

• Low budget: Student Hostel Reykjavik – close to downtown, clean, Wi-Fi, bus stop nearby

• Mid-range: Hotel Muli – great location, breakfast included, spacious rooms, Wi-Fi, free parking, laundry

• Luxury: Hotel Reykjavík Saga – perfect location by the lake, restaurant, fitness center, Wi-Fi, modern rooms

 

 

One day in Reykjavik Iceland – best itinerary

 

Hallgrimskirkja Church – The Most Iconic Landmark in Reykjavik 

 

The first stop during our one day in Reykjavik was Hallgrimskirkja, the church that had been on my list for years. I had seen it in countless photos, and its shape, inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns, always fascinated me.

 

Standing at 74.5 meters tall, it’s the highest building in town and can be seen from almost anywhere. It’s undoubtedly one of the most famous Reykjavik tourist attractions and it truly deserves the praise.

 

We arrived on foot, passing by Lake Tjörnin, where we were greeted by silence, birds, and that crisp, fresh weather in Reykjavik that makes a morning walk feel like a spa treatment.

 

 

We took the elevator to the top (the ticket was 1400 ISK) and enjoyed a spectacular 360° view of the colorful rooftops, snow-capped mountains, the ocean, and our cruise ship patiently waiting in the harbor.

 

Inside, the church is minimalist, very Icelandic, but it hides a massive pipe organ with over 5000 pipes and an impressive sound used during concerts and special services.

 

In front of the church stands the statue of Leif Erikson, the explorer believed to have reached America before Columbus. A powerful historical symbol and a gift from the USA to Iceland, given a few years before construction of the church began.

 

We stayed for almost an hour, but it was the kind of place that fills you with emotion, not just pretty pictures.

 

 

Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden – Unexpected Art Beside the Church

 

Right next to Hallgrimskirkja, in a peaceful green courtyard, you’ll find a place you should definitely not miss: the Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden.

 

Even if you don’t enter the museum (there’s a separate ticket for that), the garden is free to explore and full of surprises. Here you’ll discover several bronze statues by Einar Jónsson, Iceland’s first professional sculptor.

 

His style is intense and symbolic: twisted human figures, mythological beings, religious themes, and a haunting atmosphere. Many of the sculptures make you stop and wonder what story they’re telling.

 

Since it’s just steps away from the church, it’s easy to include in any Reykjavik itinerary, even if you only have 1 day in Reykjavik. And while it’s not always listed among the classic Reykjavik tourist attractions, trust me, it’s absolutely worth a visit.

 

 

Sweet Break at Brauð & Co – Reykjavik’s Most Colorful Bakery

 

Just a few steps from Hallgrimskirkja, you’ll spot one of the most colorful and Instagrammable buildings in the city – and inside, one of the best bakeries in Reykjavik: Brauð & Co.

 

It’s not the only good bakery in town, but this one truly deserves the stop. You can smell cinnamon before you even open the door, and the display is filled with pastries that scream “eat me.”

 

I highly recommend the cinnamon roll, but honestly, anything you try here will be delicious. The dough is soft, fresh, and full of flavor, the perfect little break between two Reykjavik tourist attractions.

 

Plus, it’s the kind of place where you can warm up for a few minutes, soak up the local vibe, and maybe rethink your Reykjavik itinerary while nibbling on something sweet and buttery.

 

 

Laugavegur Street – The Best Shopping and Souvenir Spot in Reykjavik

 

I still don’t know how to pronounce it right, but Laugavegur is the most tourist-friendly street in Reykjavik and the perfect spot for a laid-back walk.

 

Here you’ll find every type of souvenir imaginable: magnets, mini Viking figurines, reindeer hats, and all kinds of quirky treasures. If shopping is on your list of what to visit in Reykjavik, this is the place.

 

I even found a super cool bookstore with books in English and Icelandic, plus tons of guides on things to do in Iceland and Iceland’s most stunning locations.

 

 

 

Laugavegur also has plenty of clothing stores, and not just any clothes: gear made specifically for weather in Reykjavik, much of it designed and produced in Iceland. If you packed too light, now’s your chance to fix that.

 

It’s a vibrant, colorful street, with lovely buildings and friendly faces. Take your time, walk slowly, and enjoy the details. It’s definitely one of the top Reykjavik tourist attractions that doesn’t require a ticket but leaves a lasting impression.

 

 

 

A Walk Along the Oceanfront and a Stop at Sun Voyager

 

After exploring the city center, we headed toward the ocean – the ideal spot for a relaxing walk, with stunning views of the harbor and the mountains.

 

That’s where you’ll find Sun Voyager, a modern sculpture that draws in lots of tourists. To be honest, it didn’t move me much emotionally, but it’s definitely something to check off your list, especially since it’s become a symbol of the city.

 

The sculpture was created by artist Jón Gunnar Árnason and represents a stylized Viking ship, facing west. It’s said to symbolize dreams, hope, and freedom, a tribute to the Icelandic spirit of exploration.

 

You’ll find it right by the seafront, on the route connecting the port to the city center. The area is modern and airy, filled with newly built residential blocks, tall buildings, and panoramic ocean views. It’s one of those Reykjavik tourist attractions that you can see while simply enjoying a walk – perfect if you only have one day in Reykjavik.

 

 

Harpa Concert Hall – The Modern Glass Landmark by the Port

 

We passed by it and it immediately caught my eye. Harpa is the kind of building that stands out even if you have no idea what it is. With its glass façade and geometric shapes reflecting light from every angle, it looks like something from the future.

 

Turns out, it’s Reykjavik’s concert hall and conference center. It opened in 2011 and was meant to symbolize Iceland’s rebirth after the financial crisis. Its architecture is inspired by Icelandic nature, and the glass façade was created in collaboration with a Danish artist.

 

Even though I didn’t go inside, it’s a visual highlight of the city and definitely belongs on any list of modern Reykjavik tourist attractions. If you love architecture or just want a cool photo stop, it’s totally worth it.

 

Right in front of Harpa, I also noticed a few small geothermal pools steaming away, a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic heart. Nearby, there’s also an interesting statue of a famous Icelandic cellist, Erling Blöndal Bengtsson.

 

 

Austurstræti – Handmade Souvenirs and Great Coffee

 

Austurstræti is a small pedestrian street in downtown Reykjavik. It’s not very long, but it has a special charm. I found a few stalls with handmade souvenirs and a relaxed vibe, with people strolling slowly and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

 

If you need a break, I highly recommend grabbing a coffee from Te & Kaffi. I had one there and I swear it was one of the best coffees I had in Iceland: strong, hot, and just what I needed after walking around and checking off what to visit in Reykjavik.

 

You can sit outside if you’re brave enough to face the chill, or stay inside where it’s warm and cozy. A great stop to refuel during your one day in Reykjavik.

 

 

Austurvöllur Square – A Peaceful Green Spot and Instagram Gem

 

Austurvöllur Square is a calm little plaza with benches, greenery, and cafés all around. It’s the perfect spot for a short break between city strolls.

 

I really liked a bench with a “Reykjavík” sign – super Instagrammable! I’m not sure if it’s always there or just a temporary setup, but it was such a cute touch.

 

It may not be a major landmark, but it adds a charming local vibe to your list of Reykjavik tourist attractions.

 

 

Dómkirkjan í Reykjavík – A Small But Lovely Cathedral

 

Right next to Austurvöllur sits Dómkirkjan, the city’s cathedral and one of Reykjavik’s oldest buildings. I stepped inside for a few minutes and found it peaceful, intimate, and charming.

It’s not as big or dramatic as Hallgrimskirkja, but if you’re nearby, it’s worth a visit. Plus, it adds a subtle historical layer to your one day in Reykjavik itinerary.

 

 

Lake Tjörnin – Birds, Flowers, and Urban Calm

 

Tjörnin is the lake in the heart of Reykjavik. It’s not large, but it’s incredibly photogenic and tranquil, surrounded by cozy little houses. I kept thinking how lucky the people are who wake up every morning to this view.

 

You’ll always spot birds here: ducks, geese, pigeons, seagulls. Some will even waddle right up to you if they sense snacks nearby.

It’s a perfect place for slow walks, whether in the soft morning light or during golden afternoon hours. The flowers and plants around the lake give it the feel of an urban botanical garden.

 

 

There are a few more places to see along the lake’s edge: the Lutheran Free Church, a simple white building with Nordic charm, and the Fríkirkjan Pavilion, an elegant space hosting events and exhibitions.

 

And right in the lake, you’ll spot a mermaid sculpture subtly integrated into the scenery. Together, all of this turns Tjörnin into a poetic, green retreat, definitely one of the must-sees on any list of Reykjavik tourist attractions.

 

 

Best Tours and Experiences in Reykjavik

 

If you’re spending more than one day in Reykjavik, I strongly recommend going beyond the main city sights and trying a few organized tours. They’re top-rated, easy to book, and give you access to places in Iceland you might otherwise miss.

 

I’ve gathered here some of the most popular and well-reviewed experiences; you can explore the options right below in the widget and pick what suits you best:

 

Top-Rated Reykjavik Tours and Experiences

 

• The Famous Blue Lagoon   – One of the most famous attractions in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is a natural spa with milky-blue geothermal water that looks surreal and feels like heaven. It’s located about 45 minutes from Reykjavik and is perfect if you want to relax and recharge after a day of sightseeing.

• Golden Circle Tour   – This full-day tour takes you to some of the most spectacular sights in southern Iceland: the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, the bubbling geothermal area of Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park – where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates literally meet.

• Whale Watching Tours   – Reykjavik is one of the best places in Europe for whale watching, especially in the summer months. Hop on a boat and try your luck spotting minke whales, humpbacks, or even dolphins just off the coast. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Reykjavik if you love nature.

 

 

 

Things to Know Before Visiting Reykjavik

 

How much time do you need to visit Reykjavik?

 

Reykjavik is small and airy. One day in Reykjavik is enough to see the main highlights, but if you have 2–3 days, you can easily include day trips outside the city. Everything is walkable and stress-free.

 

 

How to get from the airport to Reykjavik?

 

Iceland’s main airport, Keflavík International, is located about 45 km from Reykjavik.

The easiest way to reach the city is by taking an airport transfer bus. The most popular companies are Flybus and Airport Direct. Buses leave after every arrival and also run during the night.
A one-way ticket costs around 3,500 ISK (approx. 25-30 EUR). If you want a direct hotel drop-off, you’ll pay a bit extra (about 1,000 ISK).

The ride takes 40–45 minutes, and you can buy tickets online or directly at the airport.

It’s a comfortable and efficient option, especially since taxis in Iceland are really expensive.

 

→ Verifica aici preturile si disponibilitatea

 

How to get around Reykjavik?

 

Walking is the best way to get around, the city is compact and easy to navigate. For longer distances, local buses work well, and Google Maps is very accurate for schedules and routes.
Taxis are expensive and honestly… I wouldn’t recommend them.

 

 

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

 

It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want milder temperatures and somewhat stable weather in Reykjavik, then the summer months (June – August) are ideal.

There’s daylight almost all the time, which means you’ll have plenty of hours to explore the best Reykjavik tourist attractions without rushing.

If you’re chasing the Northern Lights, you’ll have to come between September and March. But be prepared for long nights, cold weather, and a bit of luck.

Iceland is spectacular year-round, but these are the two main seasons offering very different experiences.

 

 

What should you wear in Reykjavik?

 

The weather is super unpredictable. Whatever your weather app says, subtract 2–3 degrees, just in case. The wind is a regular guest, and rain might join any moment. Layer up, bring a waterproof jacket, a rain poncho, and yes, maybe even an umbrella.

 

Weather in Reykjavik

 

The weather in Reykjavik can switch from sunshine to fog to rain in under an hour. In summer, there’s light nearly 24/7. In winter, it’s the opposite, nearly full-time night. Keep this in mind when planning your trip or choosing your travel dates.

 

 

Is Reykjavik an expensive city?

 

Yes, Reykjavik is expensive. But not everything is outrageous. For example, supermarkets have decent prices, and if you’re on a budget, they’re your go-to for snacks or simple meals.

 

How do you pay in Reykjavik?

 

Card is all you need. You can pay by card everywhere — on buses, at food stalls, even at markets. Cash is almost useless, though having a bit on hand isn’t a bad idea. Iceland’s currency is the Icelandic króna.
1 Romanian Leu = approximately 28 ISK.

 

 

Best Places to Eat in Reykjavik

 

Food is pricey, but worth it. Try local soups, fish, lamb burgers, or the famous Icelandic hot dog. If you’re on a low budget, the supermarket will become your best friend.

And cafés? They’re the perfect spot for a warm and sweet little break during your Reykjavik itinerary.

 

 

 

Conclusion – Reykjavik, a Small City with a Big Heart

 

Although it’s a small city, Reykjavik truly stole my heart. I loved the colorful houses, the kind people, the quiet air, and the relaxed, clean vibe all around.

I was also amazed by how much urban flora there is. I saw flowers I’ve never seen before, bursting in color against the cool, northern sky. Without a doubt, Reykjavik is the perfect starting point, whether you’re heading on a Northern Europe cruise or setting out to explore Iceland properly, it all begins here.