How to Spend One Epic Day in Reykjavik, Iceland

Are you planning a trip to Iceland and wondering how to make the most out of one day in Reykjavik?

Iceland’s vibrant capital is packed with cultural experiences, natural beauty, and unique flavors, making it more than just a starting point for adventures beyond the city.

For those planning to explore Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, dedicating at least one full day to Reykjavik before you head out is a must!!

On my recent winter trip to Iceland, my husband and I spent four nights in Reykjavik and realized this city has so much to offer beyond its charming streets and cozy cafes.

In this itinerary, I’ll cover exactly how to spend one day in Reykjavik, including stops at iconic landmarks, a bit of relaxation, and incredible food along the way. With this itinerary, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running as soon as you arrive in Iceland!

Iceland Trip Planning at a Glance

Don’t have a lot of time? Here’s a quick mini guide to Iceland to help plan your epic adventure!

Where to Stay:
– Hotel Von (Budget/Moderate)
– Canopy by Hilton (Moderate)
– Tower Suites Reykjavik (Luxury)
– Igloo Hotel (ICONIC!!)

Places to Eat & Drink:
– Messinn for seafood
– Fjallkonan for cocktails
– Kol for a gourmet meal
– Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur for the famous Icelandic hot dogs!

Things to Do:
– Chase the Northern Lights
– Visit the South Coast waterfalls
– Drive the Golden Circle
– Hike to an ice cave
– Go on a food tour in Reykjavik

Morning: Breakfast, Sky Lagoon, and the National Museum of Iceland

Breakfast at Café Loki or Brauð & Co.

Your one day in Reykjavik will be go-go-go, so make sure to start with a big breakfast!

Depending on how adventurous you’re feeling, you can either start your day with a true taste of Iceland or a more typical American breakfast if that’s more your style.

Café Loki is a cozy spot next to Hallgrímskirkja Church, offering traditional Icelandic dishes like oyster omelettes and Icelandic pancakes. They also have bacon and eggs, biscuits, and oatmeal for the less adventurous travelers!

We didn’t get to eat here for breakfast unfortunately but instead visited on our Reykjavik Walking Tour (more on that later!). However, our tour guide said it’s a must visit for breakfast!

If you’re looking for something more familiar and lighter, you have to check out Brauð & Co. This sourdough bakery, which focuses on old traditions and emphasizes first-class raw materials, might have been my husband’s favorite part of the trip.

They have a collection of pastries and sandwiches, however they are best known for their giant cinnamon rolls. My husband (a self-proclaimed cinnamon roll connoisseur) said it was the best one he has ever had.

This is a great option if you are looking for a quick pastry and coffee before starting your day!

Relax at the Sky Lagoon

After breakfast, start your day with a relaxing soak at Sky Lagoon, Reykjavik’s geothermal spa located just 10-15 minutes from downtown.

Sky Lagoon is very easy to get to if you have a rental car. However, if you don’t, you can easily book a ticket to Sky Lagoon that includes round trip transportation from downtown Reykjavik!

While the Blue Lagoon may be more famous than Sky Lagoon, it’s also 45 minutes away from Reykjavik, so it’s not super convenient to get to, especially if you only have one day in Reykjavik.

In my opinion, Sky Lagoon also has a more luxurious, adults-only vibe than Blue Lagoon. My husband and I visited in February, so it was a bit chilly, BUT we were blown away by the vibes at Sky Lagoon.

There was thick steam rising from the water, and the whole spa is surrounded by snowy rocks — it seriously felt like something out of Game of Thrones.

The lagoon’s “7 Step Ritual” experience adds to the relaxation, with a sauna, cold plunge, mist, and steam elements. We also loved the swim-up bar, waterfall, infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Plus, there are little alcoves and private spots around the lagoon.

And, unlike the Blue Lagoon, you can get your hair wet here without any worries!

Opening hours vary by season at the Sky Lagoon, so make sure to check their website for the most accurate information!

However, no matter what time of year you are visiting, I highly recommend booking your ticket in advance. You have to select a specific time slot, and the early ones go quickly!

Check pricing and availability for Sky Lagoon tickets here! 🧖🏼‍♀️❄️

National Museum of Iceland

Once you’re refreshed from the Spa, it’s time to dive into Icelandic history at the National Museum of Iceland.

To get here from the Sky Lagoon, you can either drive your rental car or take your pre-booked transportation back into Reykjavik and then walk or take the bus to the Museum!

This museum offers a fascinating look at Iceland’s history, from its Viking origins to the present day, with everything from ancient artifacts to interactive exhibits that bring Iceland’s unique culture and heritage to life. Entry tickets are less than $20!

My husband and I aren’t typically “museum people,” but we wanted to get a deeper understanding of Icelandic history, something we definitely are lacking as Americans!

The museum is filled with unique exhibits that were very engaging, like Viking weaponry, traditional Icelandic clothing, and beautifully crafted artifacts.

While most museums take forever to get through, this one was the perfect size, and we ended up spending about two hours exploring it. It’s a must visit, even with only one day in Reykjavik!

Book your tickets for the National Museum of Iceland here! 🇮🇸

Afternoon: Lunch, Aerial Views, and Shopping

Lunch in Reykjavik

Once you’ve finished at the Museum, it’s time to head back into downtown Reykjavik and refuel with lunch!

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely sit-down meal, Reykjavik has plenty of options.

If you’re after something casual, I highly recommend Reykjavik Fish and Chips. Known for its fresh fish and chips and yummy sauce options, this cozy spot is perfect if you want a quick lunch before jumping back into sightseeing.

Visiting on a cold day? Meira Ramen Momo offers a cozy setting with flavorful ramen bowls that are perfect for warming up! It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a comforting meal with an Icelandic twist.

Or, for a more upscale experience, Kol Restaurant offers Nordic-inspired dishes with a creative flair. Known for its elegant plating and unique flavors, it’s an excellent choice if you’re in the mood to sit down and enjoy a fancier lunch.

Reservations are recommended here to avoid wait times!

Personally, I would recommend hitting Reykjavik Fish and Chips for lunch and saving Kol for a dinner if you have another night in Reykjavik (this is what we did!). If not, go to Kol for lunch!

Hallgrímskirkja Church

After lunch, it’s time to head over to Hallgrímskirkja Church, Reykjavik’s most iconic landmark. You’ve probably noticed this church towering over downtown Reykjavik!

The most notable part of the Church is its beautiful design. Created by architect Guðjón Samúelsson, the design was inspired by the shapes and textures of Iceland’s basalt columns, reflecting the country’s volcanic landscapes.

The exterior alone is impressive, with its towering structure visible from many parts of the city. Inside, the church has a minimalistic, serene design that draws attention to its stunning pipe organ—a 49-foot tall masterpiece with 5,275 pipes.

Our favorite part, however, was taking the elevator to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Reykjavik’s colorful rooftops, coastline, and surrounding mountains, a perfect spot for photos. Just be aware of the bell that rings inside the tower – it scared me to death!

Entry to the church itself is free, but there is a fee of around 1,000 ISK (about $7 USD) to take the elevator to the top.

The area around the church also offers some great spots for photos, especially with the statue of Leif Erikson, Iceland’s most famous Viking, standing proudly out front.

Shopping and Rainbow Street

After you’re done at Hallgrímskirkja Church, head down the street right in front of it, Skólavörðustígur.

Once you’ve walked a few blocks down, you’ll find the famous and colorful Rainbow Street, one of the most photographed spots in all of Reykjavik!

The rainbow-painted pavement was created to celebrate diversity and inclusivity, symbolizing Reykjavik’s welcoming spirit and LGBTQ+ pride. It was originally painted as part of Pride in 2015, but the city of Reykjavik decided to keep it permanently!

It makes the perfect photo stop with a beautiful view of the church in the background!

From there, continue exploring the many areas of downtown Reykjavik and make your way over to Laugavegur Street, Reykjavik’s main shopping avenue.

This bustling street is the perfect place to find unique Icelandic keepsakes, from cozy wool sweaters to handcrafted jewelry made from volcanic rock.

You’ll find a mix of local boutiques, specialty shops, and outdoor gear stores, as well as trendy cafés and bakeries if you need an afternoon pick-me-up.

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Evening: Harpa, Food Tour, and Optional Northern Lights Tour

Harpa Concert Hall

After you’ve gotten your fill of shopping, make your way toward the Harpa Concert Hall.

To get here, I recommend walking along the Sculpture & Shore Walk, a scenic path that offers incredible views of the sea and surrounding mountains.

Don’t miss the Sun Voyager sculpture, an iconic, steel piece of artwork resembling a Viking ship, symbolizing Iceland’s rich seafaring history.

Once you reach Harpa, take a moment to appreciate one of Reykjavik’s architectural gems. With its striking glass façade again inspired by Iceland’s basalt landscapes, Harpa reflects the harbor and cityscape beautifully!

You can even check out the events schedule if you have more time in Reykjavik, as Harpa regularly hosts concerts, art shows, and other cultural events.

We personally didn’t have time since we focused on the food walk and trying to see the Northern Lights!

Reykjavik Food Walk

Next on the list is one of our favorite things we did during our 5 days in Iceland – the Reykjavik Food Walk!!

This guided tour is the #1 rated food tour in Iceland and is the perfect way to explore Reykjavik’s culinary scene and get a true taste of Icelandic culture! The tour pick-up location for us was at the Harpa, so you’re already in the right place.

Led by a knowledgeable local, the tour takes you through some of the best spots in town to sample iconic Icelandic dishes, from lamb and seafood to local treats unique to Iceland.

My husband and I had an absolute blast on this tour—not only was the food amazing, but it was also a fun, interactive way to learn about Iceland’s unique culinary traditions, history, and culture.

The tour is full of surprises, including a stop to try fermented shark, a famously adventurous Icelandic delicacy. Fermented shark, or hákarl, is actually toxic if not prepared correctly, and the fermentation process neutralizes the toxins, making it safe (though definitely an acquired taste!).

As Floridians, we loved the different fish dishes we got to try and learned the names of them so we could order them again on our trip!

Other highlights of the tour included traditional Icelandic hot dogs and sampling local craft beers at a cozy pub.

Overall, the tour was an incredible way to learn about Iceland directly from a local, who added insights from her upbringing in Iceland, stories of her grandparents, and more!

Note: This tour is extremely popular, so be sure to book tickets in advance to secure your spot!! 🎫

Bonus: Northern Lights Tour

If you’re visiting Reykjavik between September and April, you can’t miss the chance to see the Northern Lights, Iceland’s most magical winter experience. (This is specifically why we planned a trip to Iceland in February).

Most tours depart from downtown Reykjavik and drive about an hour outside the city to escape light pollution, so it’s the perfect addition to this one day Reykjavik itinerary! However, if you plan to do both the Reykjavik Food Walk and a Northern Lights tour in the same evening, check timings carefully, as they may overlap.

You can read my full guide about going on a Northern Lights tour here, but below are my top tips!

Make sure to choose a tour with a “No Lights Guarantee” so you can rebook for free if the Lights aren’t visible on your first night. This policy really came in handy for us!! After a clouded-out night with no lights, we were able to join another tour for free the following night.

In addition, we really preferred the “super jeep” tour instead of the standard bus tour, as we were able to do some off-roading in the snow and get to the more remote spots!

Make sure to dress warmly for the tour, as you’ll be standing outside in the cold for multiple hours. I wore several layers, ski pants and jacket, gloves, hand warmers, a hat, and a face gaiter!! For a full list on what to bring, make sure check out my Iceland Winter Packing List!

I also highly recommend bringing a tripod and professional camera (if you have one). Sometimes your camera can see the Lights even if you can’t!

Overall, going on a Northern Lights tour is the best way to end your one day in Reykjavik, especially if you end up seeing the Lights! Remember, it is nature, and they are not guaranteed 🙂

MY TOP PICK

Arctic Adventures bus with Northern Lights in the background — *Photo from GetYourGuide*

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour with Arctic Adventures

Price: Starting at $195 per person
Duration: 4 hours
Rating: 4.2/5 stars ⭐
Includes: Hot chocolate, blankets, photos, and more!

book it here!

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Before we wrap up this guide on how to spend one day in Reykjavik, I wanted to touch on where to stay in Iceland’s capital!

Overall, I highly recommend staying in the main downtown area (especially if you are visiting Iceland in winter), so you are able to walk to the main sites!

In terms of specific hotel recommendations for Reykjavik, here are a few options!

Hotel Von: This is where we stayed, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience! Hotel Von is located right in the heart of Reykjavik, offering easy access to everything on this itinerary. It’s affordable, and the friendly staff went out of their way to make our stay enjoyable. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, well-situated home base in Reykjavik.
Center Hotels Plaza: Located in Reykjavik’s main square, Center Hotels Plaza offers a blend of comfort and convenience. It’s within walking distance of major landmarks like Harpa Concert Hall and Laugavegur Street. The hotel also has a breakfast buffet, making it a solid option for travelers wanting a central, easy start to their day.
The Reykjavik EDITION: If you’re seeking a more luxurious stay, The Reykjavik EDITION offers modern rooms, an incredible spa, and beautiful views of the harbor. Located near Harpa Concert Hall, this hotel combines sleek design with Icelandic hospitality, ideal for travelers looking to indulge a little.

Getting Around Reykjavik

As noted throughout this itinerary, Reykjavik is a very walkable city, especially in the downtown area. There are some parts of this itinerary that will be easier to get to if you have a rental car, like the Sky Lagoon and the National Museum.

We personally chose to rent a car since we were doing other day trips around Iceland from Reykjavik, like driving the Golden Circle and hiking to the Katla Ice Cave.

While you can absolutely do these activities via an organized tour, we wanted the flexibility of doing them on our own! We also stayed one night in Hella in a glass igloo, so we needed a rental car to get there!

However, you don’t need to rent a car for just one day in Reykjavik and can rely on private transportation or public buses instead.

For those that do rent a car, you’ll need to consider parking in downtown Reykjavik. Reykjavik has a zone-based parking layout, with the most central streets costing the most money. This Reykjavik parking guide does a great job explaining the layout, how to pay, etc.

We personally didn’t have any issues finding parking, and the daily rate wasn’t too pricey, even though we were in the highest zone!

P.S. You can read my full guide to Renting a Car in Iceland in Winter here! 🚙

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore Reykjavik in one day?

Yes! This itinerary is designed to pack in the top cultural, culinary, and relaxation experiences in Reykjavik for a memorable day. You’ll see iconic sights, enjoy Icelandic cuisine, and even have time to relax at Sky Lagoon.

How do I get around Reykjavik?

Reykjavik is a walkable city, especially within the downtown area where many key attractions are located. For spots a bit farther out, like Sky Lagoon, consider renting a car, taking a taxi, or using local bus services. If you book Sky Lagoon in advance, you can also opt for transportation included with your ticket.

What is the best time to visit Reykjavik for a one-day trip?

Reykjavik has something to offer year-round. For those wanting to see the Northern Lights and experience the winter landscapes, visit between September and April. Summer (May-August) offers milder weather and longer days, allowing you to see more of the city. However, this is peak season, so prices will be higher!

Is the Reykjavik Food Walk worth it?

Absolutely! The Reykjavik Food Walk is the top rated food tour in Iceland and was one of our favorite experiences we had in Reykjavik. It’s an excellent way to try authentic Icelandic food while learning about local culture from a knowledgeable guide.

How far in advance should I book attractions?

For popular attractions like the Sky Lagoon and the Reykjavik Food Walk, I recommend booking at least a few weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

What’s the difference between Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon?

Sky Lagoon is located just 10-15 minutes from downtown Reykjavik and offers a more exclusive, adults-only experience. The Blue Lagoon, closer to Keflavik Airport, is better suited if you’re coming directly from or heading to the airport.

Final Thoughts

That wraps up my guide on how to spend one day in Reykjavik! As you can see, Reykjavik is so much more than a quick stopover; it’s a destination worth exploring and embracing on its own.

Whether you’re starting your Iceland adventure or winding it down, spending one day in Reykjavik on either end of your trip is a must.

This itinerary lets you experience the best of Reykjavik’s culture, relaxation, and unique flavors in a single action-packed day—from soaking in the Sky Lagoon’s thermal waters to exploring Iceland’s rich history at the National Museum and savoring local dishes on the Reykjavik Food Walk.

If you have more time in Iceland than just one day in Reykjavik, there are so many things to do around the country. You can either explore outside Reykjavik on your own with a rental car or via organized tours!

➡️ Check out my Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland During Winter to help you decide which option is right for you!

Don’t forget to pin this post for future planning!