The Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Eat, and See from Reykjavik to the South Coast

There are bucket list trips… and then there’s Iceland.

The kind of destination that feels otherworldly from the moment you land. Dramatic volcanic landscapes. Glaciers that look frozen in time. Waterfalls that don’t even seem real. And locals so warm they make you forget you’re in one of the coldest places on earth.

This winter, I celebrated another trip around the sun by taking my first solo trip abroad to the island of ice and fire, and it quickly became one of my favorite birthday adventures to date. For five and a half days, I road-tripped through the Golden Circle and along the South Coast, stopping at every iconic landmark, snorkeling in glacial waters, eating the freshest tomato dishes inside a greenhouse, and hiking one of Europe’s oldest glaciers.

It was the kind of trip that shifts something in you. The kind that stays with you long after you leave. And now? I’m already dreaming about seeing it again this time under the midnight summer sun.

Number of Days to Stay: 5-14 Days

Budget Range: $$ – $$$$ (Flexible depending on hotels, excursions, and dining preferences)

Best Time to Travel:

November – April

• Northern Lights
• Ice caves & winter activities
• Limited access to the Highlands
• Shorter daylight hours

May – August

• Puffins & whale sightings
• Select ice caves & Highland access
• Nearly 24 hours of daylight

Jump To Section:

• Where To Stay
• Where To Eat
• Sightseeing & Hiking
• Excursions & Lagoons
• Museums
• Nightlife
• Transportation

Where to Stay:

Reykjavík – Reykjavík is Iceland’s capital and the most popular base for travelers. If you prefer staying in one place and doing day trips, you could easily spend your entire trip here; just be prepared for longer drives to the Golden Circle and especially the Southeast region.

The city is extremely walkable, particularly if you stay downtown or toward the western side. I stayed just outside the heart of downtown, about a 20-minute walk from the main shopping streets and famous landmarks. As a New Yorker, I didn’t mind it at all, but taxis and buses are readily available if you prefer convenience.-

Vík – Vík í Mýrdal is the most well-known town along the South Coast thanks to its prime location and proximity to iconic landscapes. While I stayed about 30 minutes west near Skógafoss, Vík itself is a charming and convenient base. Smaller and quieter than Reykjavík, Vík offers multiple hotels, restaurants, a grocery store, shops, the iconic hilltop church overlooking town, and its own dramatic black sand beach. It’s the perfect stop if you want to break up the drive along the South Coast.

Golden Circle – Staying within the Golden Circle gives you a completely different experience, one that feels more rural, immersive, and uniquely Icelandic. I stayed at Hotel Geysir, located steps away from the famous geothermal area of Geysir. Being centrally located helped break up long driving days and made it easier to maximize sightseeing and excursions without constantly relocating hotels.

Depending on where you stay within the Golden Circle, you’re typically 1–2 hours from Reykjavík and around 2 hours from the South Coast. It’s also one of the best areas to chase the Northern Lights, or even see them from your hotel property if conditions align.

South East Iceland – If you don’t want to drive 2–5 hours from Reykjavík to reach the glacier lagoons and southeastern landmarks in a single day, staying overnight along the South East coast is a game-changer. Accommodations range from cozy hostels to elevated luxury stays, and drive times to major attractions are often between 20 minutes and one hour, depending on your location. It’s the smartest way to reduce road fatigue and actually enjoy this stretch of the country, rather than rushing through it.

Where to Eat:

One thing that pleasantly surprised me while traveling through Iceland was the food scene. From cozy family-run farms along the Golden Circle to bakeries in Reykjavík and seafood spots along the South Coast, there are so many unique places to stop and eat while exploring the country.

• Efstidalur Restaurant II, Laugarvatn Golden Circle ($$)– This family-run restaurant and farm is one of the most unique dining experiences on the Golden Circle. Not only is it part of a hotel and working dairy farm, but you can actually see the cows from the restaurant while you eat.

The first floor is where you order their famous house-made ice cream, made with milk from their own cows. The restaurant itself is upstairs with communal-style seating. After ordering at the counter, you receive a number, and your food is brought to the table.

I stopped here between excursions and ordered the pan-fried trout with a coffee, which was fresh and flavorful. Although I don’t eat beef, they are also well known for their burgers. Before leaving, I grabbed a chocolate ice cream downstairs, which was the perfect sweet treat before heading to my next stop.

• Black Crust Pizza, Vik ($$) – Located right on the main road in the small town of Vík, this pizza spot was an unexpected highlight of my trip. As someone who loves New York pizza, I was honestly surprised by how good it was. Their signature feature is the “black crust” pizza, made with activated charcoal to resemble the volcanic ash and famous black sand beaches of Vík.You can choose between black crust, sourdough, or gluten-free dough. I ordered the four-cheese pizza, which was delicious and perfectly crispy. They also serve soft drinks and alcohol, making it a great casual dinner stop while driving the South Coast.

• Northern Light Bite Food Truck, Jokulsarlon ($$) – Located near the famous glacier lagoon, this small food truck serves some of the best fish and chips I had in Iceland. The cod was fried perfectly golden and crispy, with great seasoning and flavor. It’s simple food done really well. They also serve grilled ham and cheese sandwiches, fries, beer, and soft drinks. There are picnic tables nearby, making it a great casual stop while visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

• Friðheimar, Reykholt Golden Circle ($$) – One of the most famous restaurants on the Golden Circle, Friðheimar is a greenhouse farm that specializes in tomatoes. Thanks to geothermal energy and artificial lighting, the farm produces two tons of tomatoes per day, even during Iceland’s long winters. Their most popular dish is the unlimited tomato soup served with freshly baked bread, which you can refill yourself. I ordered the soup along with a Bloody Mary, chicken skewer, and seafood skewer. While the chicken skewer wasn’t my favorite, the soup and seafood were incredibly fresh and flavorful.

• Kattakaffihúsið, Reykjavik ($) – This cozy cat café in downtown Reykjavík is both vegan-friendly and incredibly charming. When I visited, one of the cats was peacefully sleeping while guests enjoyed coffee and pastries. The cats in the café are available for adoption, and the café also accepts donations for a local shelter. I ordered the grilled pesto sandwich and an Americano, which were both fresh and delicious.

• Faxi Bakery, Hvolsvöllur ($-$$) – This bakery was probably my favorite place I ate during the entire trip. It was so good that I stopped here twice. Faxi is known for its incredible cinnamon rolls and fresh pastries. On my first stop, I grabbed a Biscoff cinnamon roll to eat on the go while continuing my drive along the South Coast.

The second time, I stopped for lunch and enjoyed a grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup, a latte, and another cinnamon roll to take with me. I chose the banana nut flavor, and it was still delicious hours later when I ate it as a snack. This family-run bakery is a popular stop along the South Coast drive, and it’s absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.

• Hereford Steak House, Reykjavik ($$$) – I discovered this restaurant while walking around Reykjavík looking for a dinner spot with protein options. While the restaurant is known for its steaks, they also offer a three-course Icelandic tasting dinner that includes minke whale and puffin. Unfortunately puffin wasn’t available the night I visited, so I ordered the lobster soup instead, which was fantastic. The whale was served medium rare with potatoes and vegetables, and I added a Caesar salad on the side. Surprisingly, the whale tasted very similar to steak. By the time dessert came, I was full and had to skip it. If you’re interested in trying traditional Icelandic specialties or simply want a great steak dinner in Reykjavík, this is a memorable place to visit.

• Hotel Geysir Restaurant, Haukadalur ($$$) – Since I stayed at Hotel Geysir, I had dinner at the restaurant both nights, and it quickly became one of my favorite dining experiences in Iceland. The restaurant offers an à la carte menu featuring local Icelandic ingredients and seafood dishes.

My first night, I ordered: focaccia with sweet onion dip, lobster soup, and matcha lava cake. The lobster soup was beautifully presented as the server poured the broth into the bowl at the table, where the lobster was already prepared.

The second night, I ordered the beet carpaccio and mushroom risotto, which were recommended by the waitress and paired perfectly together. The restaurant also has an excellent international wine list, and I enjoyed a glass of white wine imported from Portugal.

• Hotel Skogafoss Restaurant, Skogafoss ($$) – This restaurant is located right next to Skógafoss waterfall, making it a convenient place to grab a meal after visiting the falls. I ordered the potato and leek soup, which I loved, along with a mushroom pasta that, unfortunately, wasn’t my favorite. While there are better food options nearby, this is still a good stop if you’re short on time while exploring the South Coast.

• Braud & Co, Reykjavik ($) – This famous Reykjavík bakery is known for its colorful exterior and incredible pastries. I tried a pistachio bolla, a traditional Icelandic cream bun filled with whipped cream and jam, and topped with chocolate icing. It was delicious with a coffee to go. They are also very well known for their cinnamon rolls, which I regret not trying during my visit.

• Sandholt, Reykjavik ($$) – Sandholt is a famous family-run bakery and brunch restaurant in Reykjavík. When I tried to visit around 10 AM, it was completely packed, always a good sign. They are known for their sourdough breads, pastries, handcrafted sodas, and local craft beer. The menu also includes brunch favorites like waffles, avocado toast, eggs, and sandwiches. It’s also very vegan-friendly and open until 7:30 PM.

• Ingólfsskáli Viking Restaurant, Efstaland ($$$) – If you’re looking for a true Viking-style dining experience in Iceland, Ingólfsskáli is one of the most unique restaurants you can visit. Located about 40 minutes from Reykjavík, this traditional Viking longhouse offers an immersive dinner experience inspired by historic Icelandic cuisine. The restaurant is open for dinner from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with the kitchen closing at 9:00 PM. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the busy summer tourist season, as it’s a popular spot for both tour groups and visitors looking for an authentic Viking meal. The Viking longhouse setting combines traditional dishes with modern culinary touches. One of the most popular options is the three-course “Ultimate Feast,” which must be ordered for the entire table. The feast typically includes smoked trout to start, followed by a large steak platter featuring beef tenderloin, lamb fillet, pork belly, and other meats. It’s served with hearty sides like potatoes, Brussels sprouts, vegetables, and salad, and the meal ends with baked cheesecake for dessert. If you’re visiting solo or not dining with a large group, the restaurant also offers an à la carte menu with options like a tasting plate, the Jarl’s platter, and their traditional beefloaf. Dining at Ingólfsskáli is more than just a meal; it’s a memorable cultural experience that gives you a taste of Iceland’s Viking heritage.
• Svarta Kaffid, Reykjavik ($-$$) – Famous for soup served in bread bowls.
• 2 Guys, Reykjavik ($-$$) – One of the best burger spots in the city.
• Kol Restaurant ($$$-$$$$) – A great splurge restaurant featuring Icelandic cuisine with international fusion.
• Sjávargrillið, Reykjavik ($$$-$$$$) – A fantastic seafood restaurant known for lobster tacos, shellfish soup, and tasting menus.
• Seabaron, Reykjavik ($$-$$$) – Also known as the Sea Baron, a small fisherman’s hut famous for lobster soup.
• Café Loki, Reykjavik ($$-$$$) – A traditional Icelandic restaurant located across from Hallgrímskirkja, serving classic dishes like lamb, fish, and fermented shark.

Vegetarian/Vegan Recommendations:

Iceland is actually very vegetarian and vegan-friendly, especially in Reykjavík and along the Golden Circle. Many restaurants offer plant-based options even if they are not fully vegan.

• Kaffi Krús, Selfoss ($$-$$$)
• Hrauneyjar Highland Center, Hella ($$-$$$)
• Emilie and the Cool Kids, Reykjavik ($-$$)
• Blue Lagoon Café ($$-$$$)
• Momo Ramen, Reykjavik ($-$$)
• Loving Hut, Reykjavik ($$)
• Garðurinn, Reykjavik ($$)
• Gulfoss Falls Café($$)
• Mama, Reykjavik ($$)

What to Do:

Sightseeing & Hiking

Iceland is one of those places where every stop feels like something out of another world. From tectonic plate rifts to waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes, these were some of the most memorable places I visited along the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Reykjavík.

Thingvellir National Park – One of the most important historical and geological sites in Iceland, Þingvellir National Park is part of the Golden Circle route and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also where you can literally walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

• Almannagjá – Walk directly between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which slowly drift apart by about 2.5 cm per year.
• Peningagjá – A beautiful water-filled fissure where visitors traditionally throw coins and make wishes for good fortune.
• Snorri’s booth – H A historic Viking landmark believed to have connections to Snorri Sturluson, one of Iceland’s most famous historians.
• Lögberg – The historic site where one of the world’s earliest parliaments, the Alþingi, met beginning in 930 AD.
• Drekkingarhylur – A natural pool with a darker history—this was once used as a drowning site for executions during Iceland’s early legal system.
• Öxarárfoss – A beautiful waterfall cascading into the Almannagjá gorge, making it one of the most scenic spots in the park.
• Langistígur – A walking trail through the park that was also used as a filming location for the tv show “Game of Thrones.”
• Þingvellir Aurora Viewpoint – One of the best places in the Golden Circle to watch for the Northern Lights, thanks to minimal light pollution.
• Dead Man Walk – A short trail with a dark past that was once used for punishment walks during Iceland’s early legal history, but today offers peaceful scenery.

Golden Circle Waterfalls & Natural Sites

• Brúarfoss – Small waterfall in the Golden Circle, but it has the bluest water! There are safety warnings here as the currents are strong.

• Þórufoss – A smaller waterfall, but famous for having some of the bluest water in Iceland. Be cautious when visiting; currents here are extremely strong.
• Gullfoss Waterfall – Arguably one of the most famous and photographed waterfalls in Iceland, Gullfoss plunges dramatically into a rugged canyon.

• Faxi Waterfall – A smaller but powerful waterfall along the Golden Circle. During the summer months, a nearby café sells coffee and snacks.

• Kredi Crater – A stunning volcanic crater lake with deep red rock walls and bright blue water. Visitors can view it from the rim or walk down to the shoreline via a staircase.

South Coast Waterfalls & Landmarks

• Seljalandsfoss – One of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, and unique because you can walk behind it during the warmer months. A short 10-minute walk nearby leads to the hidden waterfall Gljúfrabúi.

• Skogafoss – One of the most powerful waterfalls in Iceland. Visitors can climb 500+ steps to a viewing platform above the falls where the river begins its journey toward the ocean. It was also featured in Game of Thrones.

• Wrecked DC-3Plane – An abandoned US Navy DC-3 aircraft wreck located on the black sand plains. Visitors can walk about 2 miles round-trip, take a shuttle, or join an ATV tour to reach the site.

Glaciers, Lagoons & Canyons

• Svartifoss – A unique waterfall surrounded by dark basalt lava columns, located in Vatnajökull National Park.

• Diamond Beach – One of the most photographed places in Iceland. Ice chunks break off nearby glaciers and wash onto the black sand beach, sparkling like diamonds.

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Here you can see massive floating glaciers up close, along with seals swimming through the lagoon. There are food trucks nearby, and the lagoon sits just across the road from Diamond Beach.

• Fjallsjökull Glacier Lagoon – A dramatic canyon with a river running through it and multiple scenic viewpoints along the hiking trail. It was also featured in Game of Thrones.

South Coast Beaches & Rock Formations

• Gígjagjá (Yoda Cave) – A cave formation that resembles Yoda’s silhouette, which many now say looks more like Grogu (Baby Yoda) from The Mandalorian.

• Dyrhólaey Beach & Viewpoint – A scenic viewpoint featuring massive sea arches, dramatic cliffs, and a lighthouse. From here, you can also see Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach in the distance.

• Reynisfjara (Black Sand Beach) – One of Iceland’s most famous beaches, known for its black volcanic sand and basalt sea stacks. Be cautious of the powerful “sneaker waves,” although that part of the beach is no longer accessible as it is eroded.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon – A dramatic moss-covered canyon that was featured in Game of Thrones. Visitors can walk along the top of the canyon and follow the trail to several viewpoints, ending at a beautiful waterfall overlook. I visited during sunset, and the golden light over the canyon made the entire landscape even more stunning.

Reykjavík Highlights

Skólavörðustígur Rainbow Street – One of Reykjavík’s most colorful streets leading directly to the famous church at the top of the hill.

• Hallgrimskirkja – The second-tallest building in Iceland and one of the country’s most recognizable landmarks. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of Reykjavík.

• Northern Light View Point Reykjavik – Several darker areas along the city coastline offer opportunities to see the Northern Lights without leaving the city on nights with strong activity.

Excursions

One of the best parts about visiting Iceland is the variety of unique excursions you can experience in just a few days, from geothermal lagoons and glacier hikes to snorkeling between tectonic plates. These were some of the most memorable excursions I did (or researched) during my trip.

Geothermal Lagoons

• Sky Lagoon – Located about 20 minutes outside of Reykjavík, Sky Lagoon is a geothermal spa known for its seven-step wellness ritual, which combines Icelandic bathing traditions with modern spa experiences.

The lagoon overlooks the ocean and includes several amenities such as:

• A café
• A swim-up bar inside the lagoon
• Locker rooms
• Saunas and steam rooms
• Cold plunge pools

Guests can complete the seven-step ritual once during their visit, but you are free to enter and exit the lagoon as many times as you like while you’re there. It’s a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploring Iceland.

• Blue Lagoon – The Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous attractions in Iceland and was named one of the 25 Wonders of the World. Located near an active volcanic area, the lagoon recently underwent renovations and remains one of the most sought-after experiences in the country.

Depending on the package you book, your entry typically includes:

• Access to the lagoon
• One or more silica face masks
• A complimentary drink

Within the lagoon area, you’ll also find saunas, steam rooms, and cold plunge pools that you can move between freely. There are locker rooms to store your belongings and showers that guests must use before entering the lagoon.

Tip for women: I highly recommend applying the conditioner provided in the showers before entering the lagoon, as the silica-rich water can leave your hair feeling very dry.

• Secret Lagoon – The Secret Lagoon is the oldest geothermal swimming pool in Iceland, dating back to 1891. It’s also the third most popular lagoon on the island, though many tourists skip it in favor of the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon. The lagoon is naturally heated by nearby hot springs and geysers, which supply 100% of the water.

Unfortunately, it was closed during my visit, but it’s a great option if you want to avoid the larger crowds. It’s conveniently located between the Geysir area and Selfoss along the Golden Circle route.

Hours vary by season:

• Winter: 10 AM – 7 PM
• Summer: 10 AM – 8 PM

The lagoon is family-friendly, welcoming both adults and children.

Adventure Excursions

• Silfra Snorkeling (Into the Blue) – This was easily one of the most unforgettable excursions of my entire trip, and also the coldest experience I’ve ever had. At Silfra, you snorkel between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in crystal-clear glacial water that stays around 35°F (2°C) year-round. The snorkeling portion lasts about 30 minutes, and the tour company provided all necessary gear, including:

• Dry suit
• Snorkel gear
• Head covering
• Gloves and fins
• A warm insulated suit to wear under the dry suit

I highly recommend wearing thermal layers underneath and leaving all jewelry at home.

Interestingly, it actually felt colder waiting outside the water than it did once we were in it. I did this excursion in February, and for anyone who gets cold easily or is claustrophobic, I would suggest doing this activity in the summer instead of winter. My GoPro actually died from the cold, but thankfully, the instructor took photos before, during, and after the snorkel. Even though it was freezing, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I’m so glad I did.

• Glacier Snowmobiling & Ice Cave Tour (Geysir Area) – This was probably the most thrilling excursion I did in Iceland. During this tour, we rode snowmobiles across Langjökull Glacier, the second-largest glacier in Iceland. We spent about one hour snowmobiling across the glacier, with stops along the way to take photos of the incredible landscape.

Most snowmobiles are shared by two people, and riders can switch drivers halfway through so both people get the experience. Since I was traveling solo, I paid a small extra fee to ride alone. Driving the snowmobile honestly felt like riding a jet ski on snow, which made it even more fun.

During the tour, we also visited an ice cave within the glacier, where the guide explained how ice caves form. The caves change every year because the glacier melts during the summer and refreezes during the winter, meaning new caves have to be discovered or carved out each season.

• Skaftafell Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour – This excursion took place on Vatnajökull Glacier, which is the largest glacier in Europe. The tour lasted about four hours and began in Skaftafell, where we met our guides, received equipment, and went over safety instructions.

The gear included:

• Crampons for walking on ice
• Helmet
• Ice axe
• Harness and other safety equipment

Since I only had snow boots with me, I rented hiking boots from the tour provider, which I would definitely recommend. After a 20-minute bus ride to the glacier, we began our hike. I chose the easier glacier hike, which was perfect for beginners like me. Along the way, the guides explained how the glacier forms and how the landscape has changed dramatically over the past 20 years. We also explored a blue ice cave during the hike, which was absolutely stunning.

Even though I’m not usually a big hiker, this was one of my favorite experiences in Iceland, and next time I would love to try one of the more advanced glacier hikes.

• Katla Ice Cave & Super Jeep from Vík – This is one of the most popular ice cave excursions in Iceland. Visitors meet their guide in Vík, where they board a Super Jeep that drives across rugged terrain to reach the ice cave. After arriving, guests hike into the cave while guides explain how the glacier and ice formations developed.I decided to skip this tour because I had already planned two other ice cave experiences, but it’s an excellent option if you’re staying in Vík or exploring the South Coast. Lava Tunnel Evening Tour & Northern Lights Excursion from Reykjavík. This is a two-in-one excursion offered by Arctic Adventures and one I wish I had time to include on my trip.
• Lava Tunnel & Northern Lights Tour (from Reykjavík) – The tour begins with pickup in Reykjavík, followed by a visit to a natural lava tunnel just outside the city. Guides take you through the cave while explaining how it formed during a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. After exploring the lava tunnel, the tour continues into the countryside to hunt for the Northern Lights. Most Northern Lights tours offer a free rebooking if you don’t see the lights, so I would recommend scheduling this earlier in your trip rather than on your final night.

Museums

While Iceland is best known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and glaciers, the country also has several fascinating museums that tell the story of Icelandic culture, agriculture, and volcanic history. These museums are great stops if you want to learn more about Iceland’s heritage or need a break from outdoor activities, especially during colder months or rainy days.

• The Arnessysla Heritage Museum – Located just outside the Golden Circle in South Iceland, this museum focuses on the history of rural life in Iceland. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight traditional fishing culture, view a preserved former merchant’s house, and learn about how Icelandic communities lived and worked in earlier centuries. One of the most unique parts of visiting is that the museum also has an on-site creamery, where guests can end their visit with a sweet treat.
• The Skyrland Exhibition – The Skyrland Exhibition explores the agricultural and culinary history of Iceland, with a special focus on the country’s famous dairy product: skyr. The museum explains how skyr has been produced for centuries and how dairy farming has shaped Iceland’s food culture. Visitors can also learn how dairy products are celebrated in local festivals, holidays, and traditional Icelandic cuisine.
• The Skogar Museum – Located near the iconic Skógafoss waterfall, the Skógar Museum is one of the oldest and most comprehensive museums in Iceland. The museum contains more than 18,000 artifacts, many dating back to the Viking Age. Exhibits showcase traditional Icelandic homes, tools, and everyday objects that illustrate what life was like in Iceland’s countryside throughout history. It’s a great stop to pair with a visit to Skógafoss while exploring the South Coast.
• The Eldheimar Museum – The Eldheimar Museum tells the story of the 1973 volcanic eruption on Heimaey in the Westman Islands, one of the most significant natural disasters in Iceland’s modern history. Often compared to Pompeii, the museum is built around a home that was buried by volcanic ash during the eruption. As you walk through the exhibits, you’ll learn how residents were forced to evacuate and how the community eventually rebuilt their town and reclaimed their homes after the eruption.
• Lava Centre – The Lava Centre is one of the most popular interactive museums in Iceland, especially when the weather interrupts outdoor sightseeing. This museum offers immersive exhibits that explain Iceland’s volcanic activity, earthquakes, and tectonic plate movement. Through interactive displays, visitors can experience what it’s like to stand near a volcano without actually having to get close to one. It’s an excellent stop along the South Coast, particularly on days when strong winds or storms cancel outdoor plans.

Nightlife

Most of Iceland’s nightlife is centered in Reykjavík, where you’ll find everything from lively cocktail bars and craft breweries to cozy pubs with live music. Once you head out into the countryside, nightlife becomes much quieter, often limited to local breweries or enjoying a drink at your hotel after a day of exploring. If you’re planning a night out in Reykjavík, these are some of the best bars and breweries to visit.

• Hús máls og menningar (The Bookstore Bar) – One of the most unique nightlife spots in Reykjavík, this bookstore-turned-bar hosts live music performances every night from the Bookstore Band. The band plays popular songs from multiple decades and even takes requests from the crowd, which makes the atmosphere incredibly fun and interactive. Guests often get up and dance while the band performs from 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM.I recommend arriving before 8:00 PM if you want a table, as the two-floor venue fills up quickly. I ended up spending about three hours here, sipping espresso martinis and trying some of their local Icelandic IPAs and craft beers.

• Einstok – A great place to sample local Icelandic craft beer, including IPAs, lagers, and seasonal brews. The relaxed atmosphere makes it an easy stop if you’re looking for a casual drink while exploring Reykjavík.
• Sky Lounge & Bar – A stylish rooftop bar offering panoramic views over Reykjavík. It’s a great spot for cocktails, especially around sunset when you can watch the city lights begin to glow.
• Apotek – Located inside a historic building that once served as a pharmacy, this apothecary-inspired cocktail bar and restaurant is known for its creative drinks and elegant atmosphere.

• PERLAN – Perlan features a glass-domed revolving restaurant and cocktail bar with incredible panoramic views of Reykjavík. It’s more upscale than most nightlife spots and perfect if you’re looking for a special evening out.
• ROK – Located near Hallgrímskirkja, ROK is a very lively spot where visitors often grab drinks before or after dinner. It’s known for its creative cocktails and energetic atmosphere.
• Lebowski Bar – Inspired by the cult classic The Big Lebowski, this is one of Reykjavík’s most famous dive bars. The bar is known for its huge White Russian menu, fun atmosphere, and lively crowd. It’s a great stop if you’re looking for a casual night out.
• Jungle cocktail – This tropical-inspired cocktail bar brings a lush jungle vibe to the land of fire and ice. The greenery-filled interior and creative cocktail menu make it one of the more unique places to grab drinks in Reykjavík.

• Öldur Meadery – A great stop for something a little different. Öldur Meadery specializes in mead, a traditional honey wine. They offer brewery tours and tastings where visitors can learn about the history and brewing process while sampling different varieties made on site.
• Smiðjan Brugghús – If you’re staying along the South Coast, this is one of the few places to enjoy a lively evening out in Vík í Mýrdal. Smiðjan Brugghús is known for its excellent burgers and craft beer, making it a popular stop for travelers driving the South Coast.
• The Drunk Rabbit – A lively Irish pub in Reykjavík with a fun atmosphere, reasonable drink prices, and a great crowd. It’s a perfect place to meet fellow travelers and locals alike.
• The Brothers Brewery –  A vibrant craft brewery offering beer tastings and occasional talks about the brewing process. It’s a great place to try a variety of Icelandic beers while enjoying a laid-back nightlife experience.

Transportation:

Getting To Iceland

Airport – Most travelers flying from North America or Europe arrive at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), the main international gateway to Iceland. The airport is located about 45 minutes to one hour from Reykjavík.

If you’re planning a longer European trip, one of the great perks is that Icelandair allows travelers to add a stopover in Iceland at no additional airfare cost, making it easy to explore the country for a few days before continuing your journey.

Transportation from the Airport

• Airport Bus Transfers – Airport buses typically depart 35–45 minutes after each arriving flight and cost around $28–$38 USD. These buses are one of the most popular options for travelers staying in Reykjavík.
• Rental Cars – Most rental car companies are located just outside the airport, making it easy to pick up a vehicle as soon as you land.
• Taxi or Private Transfer – Taxis and private transportation services are available at the airport, though they are more expensive than buses.
• Hotel Transfers – Some hotels offer scheduled airport pickups, but these usually need to be arranged in advance.

While in Iceland

Public Transportation –

• Buses: Strætó Iceland’s public bus system, Strætó, operates primarily within major towns and cities. While it’s useful for getting around Reykjavík and nearby areas, it does not extend to many remote sightseeing locations, especially along the South Coast or highland regions.

Travelers can check schedules on the Strætó website and purchase tickets through the Klapp mobile app. If you’re not renting a car, the easiest way to visit major attractions like waterfalls, glaciers, and national parks is by booking guided tours or private transportation.

• Highland & Hiking Buses – Special Highland and hiking bus routes operate during warmer months to transport hikers to popular trekking destinations such as: Þórsmörk and Landmannalaugar

These buses are designed for travelers exploring Iceland’s remote highland hiking areas.

• Ferries – Ferries are another way to explore some of Iceland’s islands and fjords. During the summer months, some ferry routes also operate as sightseeing experiences.

Popular ferry routes include:

• Reykjavík → Viðey Island
• Stykkishólmur → Flatey Island → Brjánslækur
• Ferries to Grímsey Island
• Ferries to Hrísey Island
• Ferries to the Westman Islands

Taxi/Uber/Private Car Service –

Taxis are available in major cities like Reykjavík, but they can be expensive—especially for long-distance trips. Unlike many countries, Uber and rideshare services are not available in Iceland. Travelers typically find taxis at designated taxi stands throughout Reykjavík. If you don’t plan to rent a car but still want flexibility, hiring a private driver or a private tour company is another good option for visiting Iceland’s major sights.

There is also a local carpooling platform called Samferda, where travelers can request rides and potentially connect with others traveling to the same destination.

Renting ATVs / Cars / Scooters –

For most travelers, renting a car is the best way to explore Iceland. It allows you the freedom to visit destinations on your own schedule, especially along scenic routes like the Golden Circle or the South Coast.

I rented my car just outside Keflavík Airport and began my Iceland road trip from there.

Winter Driving Tips

If you’re visiting during the winter months, keep in mind:

• Weather conditions can change quickly
• Black ice can occur on roads
• Snowstorms may affect visibility

Interestingly, when I visited in mid-February, I experienced surprisingly mild weather with no snow or major storms, which is fairly unusual. The only challenging moment was a brief hailstorm in Vík í Mýrdal and driving in the dark early in the morning from Skógafoss to Skaftafell for an excursion.

Important Tips for Renting a Car

• Always purchase rental car insurance, as companies can charge for even small scratches or damage.
• Download the SafeTravel app to monitor weather and road conditions.
• Gas stations are located throughout the country and are self-service. Most accept credit cards.
• In winter, it’s recommended to rent a 4×4 or SUV for better traction in snowy conditions.

Even as a solo traveler, renting an SUV made me feel much more comfortable driving around Iceland.

Traveling through Iceland truly feels like stepping into another world. From snorkeling the tectonic plates at Þingvellir National Park to chasing waterfalls along the South Coast and relaxing in geothermal lagoons like the Blue Lagoon, every day in Iceland brings a new adventure.

What makes Iceland so special isn’t just the dramatic landscapes; it’s also the experiences in between. Whether it’s trying new dishes like whale in Reykjavík, hiking across glaciers in Vatnajökull National Park, or warming up with a cinnamon roll from Faxi Bakery, the country offers unforgettable moments at every stop.

No matter the season, Iceland is a destination that continues to surprise you. One moment you’re standing in front of a powerful waterfall, the next you’re watching the Aurora Borealis dance across the sky from your hotel balcony.

If Iceland is on your travel bucket list, I hope this guide helps you plan your trip and discover some incredible places along the way. And if you’ve already visited, chances are you’re already dreaming about your next return to the land of fire and ice.

With Appreciation,

Iceland