Reykjavik-6-day-itinerary

6 Day Reykjavík Itinerary:

Accommodation: Consider staying in the city center for easy access to attractions. Hotels like Hotel Borg, Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre, or Airbnb apartments offer great options.

Transportation: Walking is ideal within Reykjavík. For day trips, consider renting a car or utilizing public buses (Strætó).

Things to Know: Iceland uses the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash for smaller purchases is useful.

Day 1: City Exploration & Northern Lights Hunt

  • Morning: Arrive at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and transfer to Reykjavík (Flybus or taxi). Check into your accommodation and leave your luggage.
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming city center. Visit Hallgrímskirkja church for panoramic views, walk along Laugavegur shopping street, and browse the National Museum of Iceland.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Icelandic restaurant like Sægreifinn (seafood) or Íslenski Barrinn (local cuisine). Afterwards, join a Northern Lights tour if conditions are favorable.

Day 2: Golden Circle & Geothermal Wonders

  • Full Day: Rent a car and embark on the iconic Golden Circle route. Visit Þingvellir National Park, witness the Strokkur geyser erupt, and marvel at the Gullfoss waterfall.
  • Afternoon: Relax and soak in the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa (pre-book tickets). Enjoy dinner at the Lava Restaurant overlooking the lagoon.

Day 3: Whale Watching & Museums

  • Morning: Join a whale watching tour from Reykjavík harbor. Spot majestic whales like humpbacks, minke whales, or even orcas depending on the season.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Whales of Iceland museum for an interactive experience about these fascinating creatures. Explore the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre with its unique architecture.

Day 4: Reykjanes Peninsula & Viking History

  • Full Day: Drive along the scenic Reykjanes Peninsula. Visit the Bridge Between Continents, explore the geothermal area of Gunnuhver, and admire the dramatic cliffs at Hafnir.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant in Keflavík like Fiskfélagið or Sjónaríkið.

Day 5: Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Kirkjufell Mountain

  • Full Day: Drive to the picturesque Snæfellsnes Peninsula, known as “Iceland in miniature.” Visit the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and waterfall, explore the charming fishing village of Stykkishólmur, and marvel at the black church Búðakirkja.

Day 6: Departure & Last-Minute Souvenirs

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café like Sandholt or Braud & Co.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through Laugavegur for last-minute souvenir shopping (wool products, handcrafted items). Transfer to Keflavík International Airport for your departure.

Tips:

  • Pack layers as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable.
  • Bring waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes.
  • Be aware of daylight hours which vary greatly depending on the season.
  • Embrace Icelandic culture by trying local dishes like lamb soup, skyr yogurt, and hot dogs with all the toppings.
  • Download offline maps for navigation as internet access may be limited in some areas.

Enjoy your adventure in Reykjavík!