It’s no secret that Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital city, has become an increasingly popular layover destination in recent years. Thanks to the city’s compact size, most of the main attractions and sights are all within walking distance to each other. It’s easy to get around and see a lot even if you only have 24 hours in Reykjavik.
I recently did a 24-hour layover in Reykjavik on my way from Vancouver to the UK thanks to Icelandair’s stopover program. This was my second time in Reykjavik and it was so nice to explore more of this Nordic city’s unique architecture, Viking history, and bustling art scene.
I’ve put together this itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Reykjavík. This guide also includes tips on when to go and where to stay, as well as places to visit if you have more time. So whether you’re on a layover or you’re just passing through on your Iceland road trip, here’s how to spend 24 hours in Reykjavik!
Disclaimer: This blog post features some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase. There’s no extra cost to you but it just helps me to keep writing these free guides and itineraries for my readers. Thank you for your support!
24 Hours in Reykjavik: What you need to know
How to get to Reykjavik
If you’re coming from Denmark you can take the M/S Norröna ferry, otherwise you’ll need to fly to Iceland. Keflavík International Airport is Iceland’s main airport and is located about 40km west of Reykjavík. Keflavík is well connected to Europe and North America with over 20 airlines offering regular flights all year round.
A few airlines offer stopover programs for travellers flying between North America and Europe. This means that you can stay in Iceland for up to 7 days before continuing to your final destination for no additional airfare. It’s a great and affordable way to spend 24 hours in Reykjavik. You can read more about Icelandair’s program here.
Keflavík International Airport is a 40-minute drive from Reykjavik. Taxis can be very expensive so I recommend booking an airport transfer with Flybus. You can book a ticket that will drop you at the BSÍ Bus Terminal or the Flybus+ ticket which will drop you at the bus stop closest to your hotel. Here is a list of hotels and their designated bus stops.
How to get around Reykjavik
Walk
Personally, I think the best way to explore Reykjavik is to walk. It’s a very walkable city and a lot of the popular attractions are located close together in downtown. I’ve marked all of the spots in this one-day Reykjavik itinerary on the map so you can easily plan your own walking route – just make sure you have comfortable footwear!
Bus
The Hop-On Hop-Off bus is another great option if you only have 24 hours in Reykjavik. It will take you to most of the main sights and you can simply get on and off wherever you like depending on how much time you have. There is also audio commentary on board so you can learn more about the history of the city and the different iconic sights.
Taxi
Unfortunately, there aren’t any ride sharing services like Uber or Lyft in Iceland. If you don’t have a car and plan to visit some places outside the city centre like the Sky Lagoon, you’ll need to book a taxi. There are plenty of taxis in Reykjavik that you can hail down on the street or book in advance via your hotel. Like most things in Reykjavik, they’re definitely on the pricier side.
Drive
Since you only have 24 hours in Reykjavik, I don’t think it makes sense to hire a car unless you’re planning to venture outside the city. If you’re planning to spend your one day in Reykjavik, I recommend walking or using the Hop-On Hop-Off bus and local buses. There is limited parking in Reykjavik city centre and parking can be quite expensive. That being said, if you want to visit Reykjanes Peninsula or the Golden Circle, hiring a car will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. There are a few car rental companies located at the airport but I recommend booking well in advance to get the best rate.
If you decide to hire a car, check out SAFETRAVEL.IS. It has lots of great information about driving in Iceland, an overview of road signs, and safety tips. It’s also a fantastic resource during your trip for finding up to date information on road conditions and closures, traffic webcams. Other useful websites include:
When is the best time to visit Reykjavik?
I’ve spent 24 hours in Reykjavik in summer and winter and I can honestly say it’s a great city to visit in both seasons. Unlike some places in Iceland, Reykjavik is accessible all year round.
Summer can be quite busy; however the advantage of travelling in summer is that the days are much longer. The sun rarely dips below the horizon in Iceland so you can witness almost 24 hours of daylight. This natural phenomenon is known as the Midnight Sun and is due to a tilt in the Earth’s axis. This is perfect if you only have one day in Reykjavik as you can take advantage of the longer days and fit more into your itinerary.
Winter, on the other hand, is much quieter. I first went to Reykjavik in February and the city centre was empty in the mornings. It was so nice and peaceful and was great for photography. However, the downside to travelling in winter is that it is much colder and the days are short. The sun sets and rises much later and there are days where you may only have 4 to 6 hours of daylight.
If you’re just passing through and will only have 24 hours in Reykjavik, I recommend visiting in spring, summer or fall. That way you can make the most of the limited time that you’ll have in the city. Of course, if you’re planning a visit to see the Northern Lights, you’ll need to go in winter!
Weather in Reykjavik
In Reykjavik, the locals joke that if you don’t like the weather, just wait 5 minutes and it will change! The weather in Reykjavik, just like the rest of Iceland, is notoriously unpredictable and changes very quickly. If you’re travelling in summer, make sure you pack for all four seasons. Pack waterproof clothing and always check the weather forecasts before you go.
The temperature ranges from 1°C to 10°C (34°F to 50°F) in Reykjavik throughout the year. July and August are the warmest months but the average highs are still around 14°C (57°F). Spring and autumn are cooler (around 7–10°C/ 45–50°F) but be prepared for rain showers. From October to April, there’s a good chance of snow in Reykjavik and daytime temperatures are normally between -2°C and 2°C (28°F and 36°F).
Is 24 hours in Reykjavik enough?
While you could easily spend a few days exploring Iceland’s capital city, 24 hours in Reykjavik will give you plenty of time to see the main sights. Despite its size, Reykjavik is filled with art and culture making it a wonderful destination for a layover. There is so much to see but fortunately everything is close together so you can visit a lot of the popular attractions in an afternoon.
One day in Reykjavik is perfect if you’re doing a short stopover on a transatlantic flight or are starting your Iceland road trip from the capital. If you’re lucky enough to have a few extra days, I’ve included some suggestions on how you could spend them later in this blog post. Alternatively, check out some of my longer Iceland guides and itineraries, including my South Coast Iceland itinerary, my three day Iceland road trip itinerary, and my guide to the Golden Circle.
Important information about Iceland
- Currency: Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (ISK).
- Language: The official language of Iceland is Icelandic. While English is widely spoken, especially in Reykjavik, it’s good to learn some of the basic words and phrases before you go.
- Payment method: Most places in Reykjavik accept credit cards, including attractions, shops and taxis. You can take some cash with you but we used our credit cards for everything in Reykjavik without a problem. If you’re venturing outside the city, it’s always good to carry a bit of cash with you.
Where to stay in Reykjavik
Since you only have 24 hours in Reykjavik, I recommend staying in the centre of the city. Miðborg (Midborg) – also known as the 101 – is within walking distance to a lot of Reykjavik’s main attractions. Accommodation here can be more expensive as you’re in the heart of the city; however, you can usually find some good deals.
We stayed at the Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel during our most recent trip to Reykjavik and had an incredible stay. The hotel is located in the heart of the city centre so it’s perfect for those who only have one day in Reykjavik. Not only is it steps from the shops and must-see sights like Rainbow Street, Hallgrimskirkja, and Harpa Concert Hall, it’s also an iconic building in its own right.
It dates back to 1919 (hence the name) and still has some of the building’s original features! We were kindly hosted by the hotel but were so impressed with the staff, hotel amenities and food, that we’re planning to go back next year as paying guests. If you’re looking for a stylish hotel close to the main attractions that offers great value for money, Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel is a great option.
24 Hours in Reykjavik: The best things to do
There are so many incredible things to do in Reykjavik. From historical landmarks and cultural attractions, to beautiful parks and a thriving fart scene, Reykjavik has something for everyone.
Here’s a map with all of the places listed in this guide. To save the map to “Your Places” in Google Maps, just click on the star on the right hand side of the title.
A note on tours
I always recommend booking your tour tickets through Get Your Guide or Viator as you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The weather is so changeable in Iceland so having this flexibility is reassuring. Some tours also let you reserve in advance and pay later.
I do get a very small commission if you book your tickets through my links at no extra cost to you. I only ever recommend service providers that I personally use and trust. Booking from these links helps me keep my blog going and means I can continue providing free travel guides and itineraries. Thanks for your support!
Visit Hallgrimskirkja church
This famous church sits at the top of the hill overlooking the city of Reykjavik. The church is open daily and the tower is open from 9am to 7:45pm in the summer months. It costs ISK 1300 for adults and ISK 200 for children aged 7 to 16 years old. If it’s a nice day, it’s worth paying to take the elevator to the top for 360 degree views of the city. You can find more information on their website.
Go shopping along Skólavörðustígur and Laugavegur
Skólavörðustígur and Laugavegur are the two main streets of Reykjavik. Both streets have a mix of well-known and local clothing stores, as well as souvenir shops, restaurants and bars. If you’re looking for the instagrammable Rainbow Street, that is actually Skólavörðustígur. This vibrant pedestrian street is a popular photography spot thanks to its unique rainbow-coloured design. At the top end of the street, you’ll find the striking Hallgrimskirkja church. The pop of colour from the street is such a contrast against the grey imposing cathedral has become an iconic image.
Go on a walking tour
If you want to make the most of your 24 hours in Reykjavik, I highly recommend joining a walking tour! It’s a great way to see all the sights while learning more about the city’s history and culture. This is one of the most popular city walking tours. Alternatively, the Reykavik ‘Hop-On, Hop-Off’ bus is a great way to see all the main attractions without all the walking.
Visit the Blue Lagoon
Located in the heart of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, the Blue Lagoon may be one of Iceland’s most well-known attractions. The lagoon is known for its warm, mineral-rich waters which are said to have healing qualities. In addition to the spacious lagoon, visitors can also enjoy an in-water mask bar, a sauna, and steam room.
As it’s situated about 45 minutes from Reykjavik, you’ll either need to drive or book a tour. There are lots of great tours which provide transportation to and from the lagoon. I recommend booking this in advance and trying to get the earliest time slot. This is a very popular attraction and it can get incredibly busy. Your best bet is to go there first thing in the morning and then head back to Reykjavik for the afternoon.
Experience FlyOver Iceland
While one day in Reykjavik won’t give you enough time to venture outside the city, that doesn’t mean you can’t see more of Iceland. FlyOver Iceland is an immersive, virtual flight experience which uses state-of-the-art technology to give you the feeling of flight. You’ll soar across Iceland’s most breath-taking scenery and see natural wonders such as glaciers, waterfalls and canyons.
Although it’s only a 10-minute ride, it’s an exhilarating experience thanks to the special effects. You’ll feel wind and mist and smell different scents throughout the flight. There are a couple of pre-ride shows which will tell you about the role nature, time and humankind has played in shaping Iceland. I recommend booking your tickets in advance as it’s a popular attraction, especially on a rainy day in the summer.
FlyOver Iceland is located in downtown Reykjavik in the Grandi neighbourhood just past the Old Harbour. You can easily walk here from other attractions or you can catch the #14 bus that services the Grandi neighbourhood. You can plan your route using the local bus website: www.straeto.is
Soak at the Sky Lagoon
As lovely as the Blue Lagoon is, when you only have 24 hours in Reykjavik, driving 45 minutes each way will take up a lot of your day. If you want to experience one of Iceland’s geothermal pools, another, much closer, option is the Sky Lagoon. It’s only a 10-minute drive from Reykjavik and has beautiful views looking out over the ocean. The facilities are lovely and clean and their 7-step ritual experience was so relaxing. My favourite part was actually the sauna where you can sit and gaze at the ocean!
You can take a taxi to the Sky Lagoon or you can book transportation through a tour company. My recommendation is to buy a ticket for the Sky Lagoon that includes a bus transfer. Try and go first thing in the morning if you can as it’s quieter and the light is so pretty. You can check opening hours here.
Sample local cuisine on a food tour
Trying out all of the amazing restaurant and cafes will be tough if you only have 24 hours in Reykjavik! A food tour is a great way to sample a variety of Iceland dishes and drinks in a short space of time. The Reykjavik Food Walk meets in front of the Ingolfur Square and will take you to a number of the city’s best culinary spots. The tour typically lasts around 2 to 3 hours and is a fun way to get acquainted with the city while learning about the history of Icelandic cuisine. You’ll get to sample local specialities including the famous Iceland hot dogs so make sure you don’t eat beforehand!
Check out Harpa Concert Hall and Sun Voyager
The Harpa Concert Hall is one of Reykjavik’s most recognisable landmarks. This impressive glass building changes colour throughout the day depending on the light and is especially beautiful at sunset. The nearby Sun Voyager is another iconic spot. The steel sculpture is located along the waterfront and resembles a Viking long-ship.
Check out the Saga Museum
Step back in time in the Saga Museum and learn about the country’s exciting history. If you only have time to visit one museum, I would suggest this one. You’ll get to learn all about Iceland’s first settlers – the Vikings – and their incredible sagas (hence the name). It’s an immersive museum which recreates key moments in Icelandic history and how Icelanders have overcome eruptions, earthquakes and other natural disasters.
The museum is open every day from 10am until 5pm. You’ll be guided through the museum with an audio-guide which is available in a number of languages. You can book tickets here.
Visit the Maritime Museum
Located just steps away from the Saga Museum is another popular attraction – the Maritime Museum. As you only have 24 hours in Reykjavik, you may not have time to visit both museums. If you’re more interested in the ocean and wildlife than history, opt for the Maritime Museum instead.
The museum has a number of interactive exhibitions and events explore Iceland’s dramatic relationship with the sea. You can also take a guided tour on board the Óðinn, a 900-ton coastguard ship with its own stories to tell. The museum is open every day from 10am until 5pm.
Walk along Tjörnin Lake
This picturesque lake is located in the heart of the city. It’s a lovely place to sit and enjoy a coffee or a quick bite to eat. Close by, you’ll find the Monument to the Unknown Bureaucrat, Reykjavik City Hall, and Parliament House.
Go whale watching
It might be a short trip, but if you get the chance I highly recommend booking a whale watching tour! It was one of the best things we did during our first trip to Reykjavik. We saw dolphins and humpback whales – one came right up next to our boat which was incredible!
The best time for whale watching in Iceland is from April to late September-early October, but the summer months are peak whale watching season. There are a few tours to choose from but if you’re travelling in June or July, I would book this Midnight Sun whale watching tour. It departs from the Whale Watching Centre near the Old Harbour and lasts about 2.5 hours so you’ll be back around 11pm. The crew are very knowledgeable and will be on the lookout for humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises.
Chase the Northern Lights
If you’re planning to spend 24 hours in Reykjavik in the winter months, a Northern Lights tour is a must! The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is in winter as the nights are dark and long, giving you the best conditions to see this magical display. Northern lights tours run in Iceland from September to April and many offer a guarantee that if you don’t see the lights, they’ll take you on another tour. This offer never expires so although you’ll only have one day in Reykjavik to try and see the lights, you can go for free on your next trip if you don’t manage to see them.
There are lots of tours on offer but I recommend this family-run tour by Reykjavik Outventure. They are very friendly and dedicated to finding the lights. You’ll also get hot chocolate, cinnamon buns, and a warm blanket to keep you cozy while you wait.
Where to eat
As you only have 24 hours in Reykjavik, you’ll have to be very selective with where you eat. This might be tough as Reykjavik has a flourishing food scene so you’ll be spoilt for choice! Here are a few of my tried and tested suggestions:
- Reykjavik Fish Company: This is a chain but don’t let that deter you! They serve some of the best fish in the city! They have a few locations around the city but I love the one down by the harbour (Tryggvagata 8, 101). Food can be very expensive in Reykjavik but the Fish Company is great value for money.
- Steikhúsiðk: We stumbled upon this steakhouse by chance on our first trip to Reykjavik. It’s located right next to the Reykjavik Fish Company by the harbour which is how we found it and I’m so glad we did. It’s an exceptional steakhouse and was so good that we went back again on our recent trip.
- Brút Restaurant: Located in the Radisson Blu 1919, this high-end causal restaurant serves some amazing local dishes and cocktails. The hotel is in one of the oldest and most prestigious buildings in Reykjavik so it’s a lovely place to have dinner.
- Pallet: This quirky coffee shop is located in the vibrant little harbour town of Hafnarfjörð just outside of Reykjavik. I had to include it here though because the food is amazing and the staff are so friendly. The coffee shop is filled with antique books and trinkets so it’s fun just to look around while you enjoy some of their home-baked goods.
Extending your trip
If you only have 24 hours in Reykjavik, I recommend staying in the city as there is so much to see. However, if you have longer, you should definitely plan a couple of day trips or even a mini road trip. If you need some inspiration, check out my Iceland itineraries:
The great thing about Reykjavik is its proximity to some of Iceland’s best attractions. The Golden Circle, the South Coast, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula are all accessible from the capital city by car or guided tour. Here’s a quick overview of each one:
Golden Circle
This 155-mile circular drive will take you to three of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions; Gullfoss, Geysir and Þingvellir National Park. However, there are lots of other interesting places to see along the way. The Golden Circle route is just a few hours away from Reykjavik so it’s a popular day trip. While it can be very busy, the upside is that there are plenty of guided tours available. This is great if you only have a few days in Iceland as renting a car can be more hassle than it’s worth. There are some fantastic tours that run from Reykjavik to the Golden Circle and you can usually get some good deals. Here are a few tours I highly recommend:
- Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater: This highly rated tour leaves at 8am or 12pm. Pickup and drop off is from Tour Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg (on Þórunnartún) or selected locations.
- From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full Day Tour: This tour has three departure times; 8am, 10am or 12pm. It departs from Reykjavik Terminal, Skógarhlíð 10.
- Reykjavik: The Golden Circle Day Tour: This 6.5 hour tour starts at 12:30pm from BSÍ Bus Terminal.
Here’s everything you need to know about exploring the Golden Circle >
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often referred to as a miniature Iceland as you can see all of Iceland’s diverse, natural elements in one place.Located on the western tip of the country, the 93-mile drive takes about 2 hours from Reykjavik. Although it’s a long drive, the route is very scenic. If you’re doing a self-drive tour, I’d recommend exploring the Peninsular anti-clockwise because most day tours do the opposite. This should help you avoid the crowds if you’re travelling in peak summer months.
If you don’t have a car, there are plenty of great tours to choose from. These tours start early in the morning so you’ll have a full day to explore this beautiful part of Iceland. The bonus is that you don’t have to worry about driving and can sit back and enjoy the scenery from the comfort of the coach! Here are a few tours that I’d recommend looking into:
- Snaefellsnes Peninsula & Kirkjufell Mountain Full Day Tour from Reykjavik: This full day tour is really good value and covers a lot of the Peninsula’s scenic highlights. The tour starts from Tour Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg, Þórunnartún 1.
- Small-Group Day Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula Natural Park: This tour follows a similar itinerary to the first one but instead of visiting Lóndrangar View Point, you’ll stop at Saxholl Crater instead. Both are beautiful places to see so it will come down to personal preference. The nice thing about this tour is that it’s a smaller group and transfers from your Reykjavik hotel are included.
South Coast
Iceland’s incredible South Coast stretches from the greater Reykjavik area all the way to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in the east. There is so much to see in this region, from raging waterfalls and mossy canyons, to black sand beaches and towering glaciers. While you can see quite a lot of the South Coast in one day, you would need a few days to see all that this region has to offer. You can find a full itinerary in my 6-Day South Iceland road trip guide.
If you only have time for a day trip, there are a number of tours that will take you to all the best locations on the South Coast. Here are a few tours to think about:
- Full-Day Tour to the South Coast of Iceland: This is my top recommendation if you’re looking to do a tour of the South Coast for two reasons; 1) You’ll be travelling with a small group not an entire coach tour, and 2) You get a good amount of time (45 minutes to 1 hour) at each location. The tour will take you to Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Vik, Reynisfjara Beach, and Solheimajokull Glacier so you’ll get to experience the best of the South Coast.
- Classic South Coast Full-Day Guided Tour in Iceland: This group is slightly larger (maximum 19 people) and you don’t get as long at locations. However, it covers quite a few places and isn’t as rushed as a lot of the South Coast tours. Instead of stopping at Solheimajokull Glacier, it will take you to Dyrhólaey Peninsula which is where the puffins nest in summer.
- South Coast and Katla Ice Cave Tour in Iceland: If you’re looking for something more adventurous, this is a fantastic tour. Again, it’s with a small group (maximum 12 people) and gives you a good amount of time at each location. You’ll stop at Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss and Gljufrabui waterfalls, as well as Reynisfjara Beach, before doing a guided tour of Katla Ice Cave.
What to pack for 24 hours in Reykjavik
The weather is very changeable and unpredictable in Iceland, even in the summer months. I’m currently working on a complete Iceland packing guide but here are a few items that you should pack regardless of when you visit:
Insulated jacket
I recommend packing at least one warm insulated jacket such as the Patagonia Down Jacket or Nano Puff Jacket.
Waterproof coat
A waterproof jacket is essential for Iceland! In summer, something like my Patagonia waterproof shell is perfect as it can easily go on top of my Patagonia puffy jackets. However, in spring or fall, something warmer like a parka is a better choice. I took my Columbia South Canyon Sherpa and it kept me dry and cozy.
Sweaters/ Fleeces
For mid-layers, you’ll probably want some sweaters and fleeces. One of my favourite breathable mid-layers is the Patagonia Snap-T Fleece Pullover.
Waterproof hiking boots
As you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking, bring a comfortable and sturdy pair of hiking boots. You’ll want something waterproof and lightweight. I took my Keen Hiking Boots and they were perfect for all the walking we did.
Swimwear
If you’re planning to visit any of Iceland’s hot springs, don’t forget your swimsuit!
Backpack
Choose a bag with hip and chest straps to reduce the strain on your back and neck. I have an Osprey daypack which is really comfortable and spacious. Patagonia also has a great selection.
Stay tuned for a comprehensive Iceland packing guide!
24 Hours in Reykjavik: Final thoughts
Reykjavik is one of my favourite cities in the world. It is such a vibrant place with lots of history and culture, as well as natural attractions. The lovely thing about the city is that it’s very walkable so you can cover a lot even if you only have 24 hours in Reykjavik. Just don’t forget to bring your camera and your comfy walking shoes!
Love from Steph
SAVE FOR LATER
