Right off the coast of Iceland is Reykjavik– the country’s capital, surrounded by stunning and scenic nature, full of life, rich in history and exuberance. The city itself may be small, but it comes packed to the brim with its own quirks and ingenuity.
From indulging at the local trendy bars and restaurants Reykjavik has to offer to visiting the many outlandish and wacky museums in and around the city, or spending the afternoon with some cute and friendly wildlife– 24 hours may seem like little time to enjoy all that this city has to offer, but we are here to guide you to get the most out of your day.
Here is your curated itinerary to spending the day in Reykjavik like a local.
Sort Out Breakfast and Take a Stroll down Downtown Reykjavik
Start the day off on the right foot by heading out for a hot coffee in downtown Reykjavik at Braud and Co. the ever-trendy local cafe serving up hot brews and freshly baked bread and pastries in the heart of the city. There are now 6 locations of the popular bakery in Reykjavik, however, the original spot that started the craze is hard to miss– littered with graffiti and art, the building itself is hard to miss against the city's surrounding hills and nature. Slather on some butter on a slice of Scandinavian rye or try a traditional Icelandic Cinnamon Bun to really enjoy the morning like a local. The best thing about Downtown Reykjavik? It's only a short walk over to Hallgrimska Church! With your cup of joe in tow, head on over to this futuristic and iconic attraction that is truly a sight for sore eyes.
Spend The Afternoon With Some Cute and Friendly Faces
Now that you're caffeinated and ready to take on the rest of the city, head on over to the pier and catch the short ferry ride over to the neighbouring islands of Lundey and Akurey– quite literally Puffin Island– to visit some of the smallest and friendliest locals of Southern Reykjavik!
The Islands of Lundey and Akurey house a local colony of puffins with which visitors are able to observe in their natural habitat. These birds are highly sociable and intelligent– just make sure not to stand too close as to not disturb the colony.
While you are away from the hustle and bustle of the inner city, albeit for a few hours, take some time for yourself to enjoy the scenic natural views off the coast of Iceland.
Museums Galore
Known for its rich ancestral background and history, Reykjavik is home to dozens of quirky and outlandish Museums and artefacts that may stun and shock even the most seasoned traveller. Take your pick at visiting one (or more), of the many museums that the city has to offer to explore the country's rich history even further. Whether you choose to visit the old Viking settlement, explore the myths of the Icelandic sea monster or want to get your giggles in at the Phallological Museum, Reykjavik surely won’t disappoint.
Have Lunch at a Local Favourite Hotspot
After treading along exploring the city sights, I’d bet you’d surely be tired and hungry. What better way to experience the city like a local than to eat like one! There are plenty of options to really indulge and immerse yourself into the Icelandic culture– like trying the infamous national dish of fermented shark for example– but ask a local for their lunch suggestion? Hotdogs.
It may seem random and not-so-traditional, but the Icelandic people love their hotdogs. Made from primarily lamb and pork, this quick and satisfying lunch option has a distinct taste. Coupled with the local fix-ins of raw white onion, ketchup, sweet brown mustard and remoulade, this lunch makes for a unique cross-bred Icelandic/American cuisine experience. We suggest visiting the notorious Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur stand (which coincidentally is a short 2-minute walk from the Phallological Museum) to grab yourself an affordable and easy lunch before heading out to explore more of the island.
Icelandic Horseback Riding
Burn off those post-lunch calories by booking a horseback riding tour to enjoy all of the natural wonders that Reykjavik has to offer. These majestic creatures are native to the island, having roamed freely in the Icelandic country many years ago. There is absolutely no better way to explore the natural sights and beauty of Southern Reykjavik than to be guided by some of the city's oldest patrons.
While riding steadfast on your steed, let yourself be guided into the Icelandic countryside and visit some of Iceland’s many natural wonders.
Bursting at the seams with hundreds of geological sites, Iceland is known for its natural and hauntingly beautiful landscape. Littered with geological thermal springs, volcanoes, waterfalls and black sand beaches- Reykjavik is the perfect place to find your perfect zen and capture its beauty both on film and in your memories forever.
Visit the Sun Voyager
While making your way back to downtown, head on over to the harbourside to visit this public street art rendition of the Sun Voyager ship. Cast out of wrought iron and steel, this depiction of the Sun Voyager Viking ship is both beautiful to look at and serves as a reminder of the Viking settlement hundreds of years ago.
End the Day Off With Another Local Favourite and a Night-cap
Downtown Reykjavik boasts a huge gastronomic scene but we suggest ditching the lines and appetizers and simply capping the day off by having a local fave for dinner.
There is simply no better place to enjoy some fresh seafood on an island than at an ocean-side stall serving up fresh, organic seafood. Fish and chips is a favourite for many locals as a quick and tasty supper. You will find people from all walks of life, families and children huddled around picnic tables at this stall, enjoying their meal while taking in the sounds and view of the ocean. Top the meal off with a pint of Icelandic Ale while you’re at it!
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