Travellers visiting Reykjavik during the warm Icelandic summer can enjoy the buzzing nightlife, with the many bars that entice visitors to relax and sample Nordic cuisine with a glass of schnapps or delicious locally brewed beers.
Areas like the Old Harbour are ideal for a romantic break, with festivals hosted in the world’s northernmost capital throughout the year, from the Winter Lights Festival in February to the Secret Solstice Festival in June. Guests can catch a boat from the harbour area to explore the surrounding seas, spotting humpback whales, dolphins and even elusive orcas.
In the snowy winters, Reykjavik comes into its own. It forms a fantastic base as part of a Northern Lights tour, soaking up the culture and ambience while indulging in the Icelandic hospitality hotels are so well known for.
Unique Things to Do on a Summer Reykjavik City Break
Whatever time of the year you decide to visit Reykjavik, the modern capital never fails to delight, with an exceptional range of historical attractions and museums, alongside trips further afield to experience the Golden Circle or even travel into a volcano.
Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is small enough to explore on foot, with walking tours during the summer temperatures a great opportunity to learn some of the city’s secrets. The warm waters of the geothermal hot springs and wild beaches along the Atlantic coastline are a must-see, with Iceland’s oldest public bathing pool, Sundholl Reykjavikur, in central Reykjavik.
Downtown Reykjavik also hosts an ice-skating rink, botanical gardens, a family park, the Reykjavik Zoo and the Sculpture Museum. Art lovers can visit the Sun Voyager sculpture or Solfar, a gleaming steel structure resembling an ancient Viking longship on the waterfront close to many museums.
Reykjavik Holidays for Families and Couples
Reykjavik holidays offer a wealth of things to see and do. The many five-star hotels in Reykjavik provide a relaxed pace from which to venture throughout the city, or tour Iceland's natural wonders, including Thingvellir National Park, the mineral-rich waters of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, or of course, travelling away from the light pollution to see the Northern Lights in the night sky.
The Harpa Concert Hall has an exciting calendar of events throughout the year, close to cosy cafes and independent boutiques throughout the cultural centre of Iceland that are a great way to enjoy some retail therapy.
After a busy day, visitors can settle down for the evening in a local cocktail bar, where happy hour is always a popular time, or watch the sun setting over the Old Harbour as they wind down from the hustle and bustle of the top attractions.
Creating Your Perfect Icelandic City Break Itinerary
Reykjavik truly has something for everyone, from the colour and music of Reykjavik Pride to the fascinating museums. Car rental is widely available for travellers who wish to travel to the Blue Lagoon, less than one hour’s drive, or can forgo car hire and participate in a Golden Circle tour, one of the most in-demand day trips.
The city centre is cosmopolitan, and from late August, the festive atmosphere begins to gather pace, where the streets are often blanketed in snow. Return flights travel from the nearby international airport, with hotels in Reykjavik for every budget, ensuring you make the most of your time in the vibrant city.
Our expert travel advisers are on hand to provide further assistance crafting your perfect holidays in Iceland, with ATOLL-protected travel and local expertise to ensure that, whichever sights you see or attractions you choose to visit in Reykjavik, your experience will be one you never forget.