W E L C O M E TO TH E
G O O D L I F E
I N
R E Y K J A V I K
P L A N N I N G
Reykjavik rewards thoughtful pacing.
Its compact size means you can easily explore the city on foot, but pairing cultural highlights with excursions into the surrounding nature offers the best of both worlds.
Base yourself in the downtown area to maximize your access to Reykjavik’s classic spots, restaurants, and nightlife.
Be sure to pack for the weather—Iceland’s climate is famously unpredictable, and layering is essential.
M U S E U M & S I T E B O O K I N G
Hallgrímskirkja requires no advance booking, but its tower is a popular attraction—early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid crowds.
For those planning trips to the Blue Lagoon, booking in advance is essential.
Likewise, tours of the Golden Circle, whale watching, and Northern Lights excursions should be reserved early, especially during peak seasons.
S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A R Y P O I N T S
DAY I
Explore the City
Start your day at Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavik’s iconic church, where a trip to the top of the tower provides sweeping views of the city’s colorful rooftops and surrounding landscapes.
From there, make your way to Harpa Concert Hall, a masterpiece of modern architecture with its striking glass façade inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns.
Continue along the waterfront to the Sun Voyager sculpture, a poetic ode to Iceland’s seafaring history, before stopping for lunch at a cozy café in the city center.
In the afternoon, turn your imagination loose on Iceland’s past at the Viking World Museum.
As the day winds down, enjoy a traditional Icelandic dinner at a downtown restaurant and end the evening with a nightcap at one of Reykjavik’s inviting bars.
DAY II
The Golden Circle & Geothermal Wonders.
Embark on a full-day exploration of the Golden Circle, one of Iceland’s most famous routes. Begin at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, creating a dramatic rift valley steeped in history.
Next, visit the Geysir geothermal area, where steaming vents and erupting geysers showcase Iceland’s volcanic heart.
Along the way, stop for lunch at a countryside restaurant, savoring fresh Arctic char or locally raised Icelandic lamb.
Conclude the day's activities at Gullfoss, a breathtaking waterfall that cascades into a glacial canyon.
Return to Reykjavik in the evening and unwind with a visit to the Sky Lagoon, a luxurious geothermal spa offering ocean views and a serene atmosphere close to the city.
DAY III
The Northern Lights & Marine Life.
Begin your morning with a whale-watching tour from Reykjavik’s harbor, where humpback whales, minke whales, and playful dolphins often make appearances against the stunning backdrop of Mount Esja.
Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of Reykjavik’s many charming cafés, followed by an afternoon spent exploring the city’s vibrant art scene or relaxing at your own pace.
As night falls, venture out on a Northern Lights tour, whether by boat or coach, to witness the ethereal dance of auroras in Iceland’s clear, dark skies—a fitting end to your Reykjavik adventure.
You might also decide to stay longer, and here’s why we think you should:
For those with extra time, consider a day trip to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in miniature” for its diverse landscapes, or a multi-day journey along the south coast, where black sand beaches, glaciers, and dramatic waterfalls await.
DAY IV
M E E T Y O U R G U I D E
All of our guides can offer you a spectacular experience. As each person has a slightly different look at the world, due to their own unique interests and specialties, we'd encourage you to read a few profiles.
