Things to do in Reykjavik

Reykjavik · 2.4km from downtown

The Icelandic Phallological Museum

7.9

4.5/5

24 reviews

The Icelandic Phallological Museum is located in the center of Reykjavik. It is one of the few museums in the world dedicated to specimens of reproductive organs, founded by Sigurður Hjartarson. This seemingly bizarre museum actually combines biological research with cultural interest, making it one of Iceland's unique popular science attractions. The collection covers hundreds of specimens from over a hundred mammal species, ranging from cetaceans, walruses, seals, and polar bears to native species like Icelandic horses and reindeer. A sperm whale specimen over one m long exudes an imposing presence, while the bone of a hamster's reproductive organ is only millimeters in size and requires a magnifying glass to see clearly. The specimens are systematically preserved in formaldehyde jars or mounted on walls. Human specimens are another highlight: the museum waited years for a suitable donated human specimen, and this story was even documented in a film; a set of silver sculptures modeled after Iceland's national handball team, which won silver at the Beijing Olympics, is also often talked about.

No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Iceland

Reykjavik Whale Watching

7.7

Reykjavik · 3km from downtown

12 reviews

Participate in the Reykjavik whale watching activity and sail on one of Iceland's whale watching boats. Our large and sturdy whale watching boat Andrea offers you extra comfort, fantastic interiors and rest areas, large outdoor viewing decks, a safe family-friendly environment, and an onboard café and souvenir shop. Our professional guide and friendly crew will welcome you aboard, share interesting information about the different types of whales and seabirds you may hope to see during your trip, and teach you how to spot whales in the bay. With whale teeth, bones, baleen, plankton nets, and microscopes on display, this tour is also a floating whale watching classroom with educational and interactive significance.

No. 1 of Night Attractions in Iceland

Perlan

7.6

4.7/5

86 reviews

Perlan in Reykjavik is an iconic landmark in Iceland's capital, blending natural wonders with modern technology to create a comprehensive attraction that combines sightseeing, education, and entertainment. Located atop Öskjuhlíð Hill, Perlan captivates visitors from around the world with its distinctive dome design and breathtaking panoramic views. The heart of the structure features six massive hot water storage tanks covered by a glass dome, housing an observation deck, exhibition space, and restaurant. Visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of the city and surrounding natural scenery from the observation deck, overlooking Reykjavik's urban area, coastline, and distant mountains. The view becomes particularly unforgettable at night when the aurora borealis and city lights create a mesmerizing interplay. The natural museum and ice cave exhibition at Perlan offer a rich educational experience, showcasing Iceland's geological wonders and natural history. Interactive exhibits and multimedia displays allow visitors to gain an in-depth understanding of Iceland's volcanic activity, glacier formation, and ecosystem. Perlan in Reykjavik is not just a sightseeing spot but also a place that sparks curiosity and learning. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family of visitors, or someone seeking unique experiences, it offers rich knowledge and unforgettable memories, making it an ideal destination to explore Iceland's nature and culture.

Reykjavik · 1.3km from downtown

No. 4 of Night Attractions in Iceland

Hallgrimskirkja

7.2

Reykjavik · 1.7km from downtown

198 reviews

Hallgrimskirkja sits on a hill in the capital of Iceland and is named after the 17th-century Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson. The church was designed by Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, with a design inspired by the natural forms of Iceland's basalt columns, featuring hexagonal pillars reaching upward. The tapering wings on both sides of the tower resemble a giant pipe organ standing on the city skyline when viewed from a distance. Construction began in 1945 and was completed in 1986, spanning over 40 years. The tower is approx. 73m high and is a prominent landmark on the Reykjavik skyline. Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck at the top of the tower to overlook the city's colorful rooftops and the bay and mountains in the distance. The interior of the church is towering and minimalist, with a large pipe organ featuring over 5,000 pipes spanning above the entrance. It is one of the largest pipe organs in Iceland, making the church an important music venue in Reykjavik that regularly hosts organ concerts.

No. 10 of Best Things to Do in Iceland

Aurora Reykjavík - The Northern Lights Center

Aurora Reykjavík - The Northern Lights Center

7.1

Reykjavik · 3.3km from downtown

49 reviews

Aurora Reykjavik, located in the old port of Reykjavik, was founded by four local young people with big brains. Their original intention was to popularize the aurora for tourists who came from the original way. Knowledge, stories and legends, understand the science behind Aurora, and learn how to take better aurora photos. The center also exhibits aurora works by excellent photographers in Iceland and around the world. At the same time, a projection hall is also set up in the center, which plays the high-definition time-lapse impression of the aurora in a loop, accompanied by the graceful music, sit in front of the screen and feel the charm of the aurora.

No. 11 of Best Things to Do in Iceland

Golden Circle

7.1

Blaskogabyggd · 79.6km from Reykjavik

25 reviews

Golden Circleis a classic, iconic tourist route in Iceland that connects three natural and historical landmarks northeast of Reykjavik into a small loop that most travelers can complete in one day. Thingvellir National Park is situated on the rift valley at the boundary of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, serving as both the site of Iceland's ancient parliament and a place where you can walk along trails between the fissures to intuitively experience the geological wonder of the two plates slowly drifting apart; in the Haukadalur geothermal valley, Geysir is the source of the English word "geyser," while its neighbor, Strokkur, is more active today, sending scalding columns of water into the air every few minutes; and Gullfoss waterfall concludes the itinerary with its majestic two-tiered cascade and canyon scenery. Each of the three stops offers something unique, allowing you to take in geology, geothermal activity, and water features all in one day, making it the perfect introductory route for experiencing the essence of Iceland's nature and history.

No. 12 of Best Things to Do in Iceland

Lava Show

6.9

4.7/5

24 reviews

The Lava Show in Reykjavik is an educational and entertaining performance that offers visitors a breathtaking visual experience. The show takes place in a pitch-black exhibition hall where audiences can witness rocks being heated to extreme temperatures until they melt into honey-like magma. During the performance, massive amounts of lava pour from an inclined channel into a reservoir at the end, while a live host provides commentary, sharing facts about volcanoes, lava, and eruptions to help viewers better understand lava's properties and volcanic processes. Additionally, visitors have the unique opportunity to feel the intense heat and observe the flowing state of lava up close. Beyond the spectacular show, the Lava Show also features a behind-the-scenes viewing session, allowing guests to delve deeper into the stories and production process behind the performance. Whether for adventure-seeking visitors or those fascinated by natural science, the Lava Show is a must-visit attraction in Reykjavik.

Reykjavik · 3.3km from downtown

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Western Region

Route 1

6.3

4.8/5

57 reviews

Route 1is Iceland's national main road, also known as the Ring Road because it circles the entire island. Completed in 1974, it has a total length of over 1,300 km and connects major towns such as the capital, Reykjavik, and the Capital of the North, Akureyri. It also connects most natural scenic spots, excluding the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes, making it a classic route for a self-drive tour around the island. Most sections of this road are two-way paved roads with good road conditions. Summer days are long, making it suitable for first-time visitors to plan an itinerary of about one week around the island. In winter, there is a chance to encounter the aurora along the way, but be aware of potential temporary road closures due to icy and snowy weather.

Olfus · 20.5km from Reykjavik

No. 20 of Best Things to Do in Iceland

Lake Tjornin

6

Reykjavik · 2.4km from downtown

50 reviews

Lake Tjorninis a shallow lake in the center of Reykjavik. Its Icelandic name literally means the pond, and many people simply call it the duck pond. Whooper swans, greylag geese, eider ducks, mallards, and various types of seagulls gather on the lake year-round. The return of the Arctic terns every summer is seen by locals as a signal that summer has arrived. Feeding the birds by the lake is a long-standing tradition, and because so much bread is tossed in, the lake has even earned the nickname bread soup. In winter, the lake surface usually freezes solid, and locals still walk or skate on the ice. Only the corner of the lake near the City Hall, where geothermal warm water is injected, remains unfrozen. The overwintering waterfowl gather in this area, creating a particularly lively scene on the lake in the depths of winter.

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Experiences you can't miss in Reykjavik

Featured Day tours in Reykjavik

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From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour

4.5/5

· 134 reviews

Duration: 6.5 hrs

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From£58.58

Iceland northern lights Chinese/English tour 1-day tour | Free retry if not seen | Daily departures/Optional photography transfer

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Iceland northern lights Chinese/English tour 1-day tour | Free retry if not seen | Daily departures/Optional photography transfer

4.0/5

· 9 reviews· 210 booked

Duration: 2.7 hrs

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From£63.80

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Iceland Golden Circle one-day tour|Contains crater lake|Northern Lights Night Tour can be added

4.5/5

· 24 reviews· 613 booked

Duration: 7.1 hrs

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From£69.73

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Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon - With Transfer

Duration: 24 hrs

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From£108.68

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Half-Day Whale Watching Tour with Elding in Iceland|Multiple boat types and various activities|No free option available

4.8/5

· 5 reviews· 187 booked

Duration: 3.2 hrs

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From£85.54

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Golden Circle and Langjökull Snowmobiling

Duration: 24 hrs

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From£236.57

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Northern Lights

Duration: 24 hrs

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From£61.03

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Northern lights night tour in Reykjavik, Iceland | Free retry if no aurora sighting

3.8/5

· 4 reviews· 91 booked

Duration: 3.5 hrs

English

Free cancellation

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From£59.51

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Featured Culture & history in Reykjavik

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Small group Golden Circle tour with Kerið crater and Friðheimar farm

4.6/5

· 2 reviews

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From£71.96

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Reykjavík City Card

4.6/5

· 200 reviews

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90% of travelers recommend

From£36.82

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Saga Museum: Entry Ticket

3.0/5

· 1 review

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From£24.46

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Reykjavik City Card: Entry to Museums + Public Transport

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From£29.29

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Aurora Reykjavik Northern Lights Center: Entry Ticket

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From£23.84

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Whales of Iceland Museum Admission

Duration: 2 hrs

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From£12.25

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Iceland Golden Circle, tomato farm and Kerið Crater Lake 1-day tour (departing from Reykjavik)

Duration: 9 hrs

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From£153.12

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Whales of Iceland: Entry Ticket

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Featured Food & drink in Reykjavik

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Dill Restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland - Restaurant Reservation Service

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From£6.11

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The Reykjavik Christmas Food Tour

Duration: 3 hrs

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From£79.53

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Reykjavik: food walking tour led by a local, including 6 tasting activities (small group of up to 14 people)

Duration: 3 hrs

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From£134.28

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Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour - Traditional Icelandic Food

Duration: 3 hrs

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Reykjavik, Iceland Matur og Drykkur popular restaurant reservation service

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From£6.11

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Weekend Reykjavik Food Tour (Reykjavik Flea Market stop)

Duration: 3 hrs

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From£108.79

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The Icelandic Sweet Tooth Tour

Duration: 2 hrs

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Reykjavik, Iceland Óx Restaurant Reservation Service

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From£6.11

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Featured Outdoor & sports in Reykjavik

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Pure Blue Ice Cave Experience in Vatnajökull Glacier, Iceland with Optional Super Jeep and Departure from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

4.5/5

· 2 reviews· 44 booked

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From£129.16

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Iceland Katla volcano ice cave experience [Reykjavik city transfer + English guide]

64 booked

Duration: 11 hrs

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From£208.02

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Iceland Horse Riding Experience (Mystical Icelandic Horses + Optional Reynisfjara Beach Ride or Reykjavik City Transfer + Combine with ATV or Lava Cave Exploration for More Adventure)

5.0/5

· 1 review· 38 booked

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From£109.75

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Vatnajökull Glacier: Guided Tour with Transport from Skaftafell

Duration: 4 hrs

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Iceland Langjokull Glacier snowmobile riding tour: includes equipment/optional meeting point/city transfer

Duration: 2.8 hrs

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From£78.62

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Solheimajokull glacier hiking or ice climbing experience [self-drive or optional Reykjavik pickup]

5.0/5

· 2 reviews· 23 booked

Duration: 4 hrs

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From£91.56

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2-Hr Reykjavik Twin Peaks ATV Tour

Duration: 2 hrs

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Iceland Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hiking & Reykjanes Peninsula 1-day Tour with Transfer/Professional Guide

Duration: 5.8 hrs

English

From£111.06

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Reykjavik Cruises

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12 days · Southampton - Belgium - Netherlands - Norway - Faroe Islands - Iceland - Reykjavik

3/5 · 4 reviews

Norwegian Cruise Line ·

Norwegian Prima4

From GBP 1,702

12 days · Southampton - Belgium - Netherlands - Norway - Iceland - Reykjavik

3/5 · 4 reviews

Norwegian Cruise Line ·

Norwegian Prima4

From GBP 1,578

22 days · Southampton - United States - Canada - Iceland - Norway - Southampton

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4.7/5 · 4,488 reviews

Princess Cruises ·

Majestic Princess4

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From GBP 1,481

Private Tours in Reykjavik

8D7N • Aurora Tour + Blue Ice Cave Adventure + Hot Spring Experience + Aurora Cruise

EnglishGuaranteed departureTour guide includedDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Multiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Private groups for all sizes. Listed price is per person for 2 guests. Larger groups enjoy better rates. One vehicle throughout. · Fully equipped rooms, some with geothermal hot springs, provide a comfortable and reliable stay for your Iceland tour. · Covers Reykjavik, Snaefellsnes, Golden Circle & South Glaciers, with churches, volcanoes, glaciers and guided visits to discover Iceland's special volcanic, glacial and geothermal landforms.

From GBP 5,953

8D7N • Customize your trip: Iceland: Seljalandsfoss Waterfall + Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach + Vik + Gullfoss Waterfall + Strokkur Geysir + Þingvellir National Park + Whale Watching from Reykjavík

EnglishGuaranteed departureDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Private Tours

Tour Iceland's five classic routes, visiting volcanoes, glaciers, and a plane wreck. Enjoy ample time for sunrise-to-sunset photography at well-known filming sites. · Hotels are well located in the towns on your tour, with convenient transportation. Fully furnished rooms and geothermal facilities ensure a comfortable, reliable stay throughout your Iceland trip. · Choose a private tour for any group size. The listed price is per person based on 2 guests, and larger groups enjoy better rates, with the same vehicle used throughout the trip.

From GBP 4,278

8D7N • Customize your trip: Norway + Iceland: Reykjavik Whale Watching Cruise + Akershus Fortress + Diamond Beach + Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon + Seljalandsfoss

English/MandarinGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Multiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Visit Norway and Iceland. Explore fjords, ride the Flam Railway, see Black Sand Beach, Golden Circle and enjoy whale watching. · Optional 4-star hotels with underfloor heating, breakfast and full amenities. Well-located along the route with good reviews for your selection. · We offer private groups of any size. The price shown is per traveler based on a 2-person group, with better rates available for groups of 4-6.

From GBP 5,429

10D9N • Iceland + Denmark: Glacier Hiking + Highland Off-Road Safari + Whale Watching Cruise + Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa + Snæfellsnes Peninsula + Leisure Free Time in Copenhagen

English/Mandarin/CantoneseGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Private Tours

Experience glacier hiking, highland off-road safari, whale watching and Blue Lagoon spa in one trip. Explore Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. · Two well-located accommodations in Iceland avoid frequent luggage transfers. Centrally-located Danish hotels offer convenient transport, comfort and Nordic design for a restful stay. · Private groups of any size are available. The displayed price is based on 2 travelers, with better rates for groups of 4–6. One vehicle throughout.

From GBP 4,298

15D13N • Finland + Norway + Iceland + Sweden: overnight polar train + aurora cabin + reindeer sleigh ride + whale watching cruise + Blue Lagoon geothermal spa + ice cave exploration

English/Mandarin/CantoneseGuaranteed departureNonstop flightOptional transferPrivate Tours

Chase the magical northern lights, stay in glass igloos in Levi and aurora cabins in Saariselkä, enjoy dog sledding and reindeer sleigh rides, and explore the blue ice caves of Icelandic glaciers. · Curated diverse distinctive accommodations: two styles of aurora-themed cabins for northern lights chasing, exclusive overnight polar train experience. · We offer private groups of any size. The price shown is per traveler based on a 2-person group, with better rates available for groups of 4-6.One vehicle throughout.

From GBP 10,226

10D9N • Norway + Sweden: Glacier Hiking + Blue Lagoon + Vasa Museum + Snæfellsnes Peninsula + Golden Circle + Jokulsarlon + Whale Watching Cruise

English/MandarinGuaranteed departureDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Excellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Covering Iceland and Sweden, this tour offers glacier adventures, Blue Lagoon, Jokulsarlon, whale-watching, plus Stockholm's Vasa Museum and City Hall, mixing wild nature and Nordic culture. · Flexible hotel selection throughout the trip. Experience urban boutique hotels, cozy apartments, southern Iceland lodges and seaside stays, balancing convenience and local charm. · We offer private groups of any size. The price shown is per traveler based on a 2-person group, with better rates available for groups of 4–6. One vehicle throughout.

From GBP 4,898

6D5N • Custom Private Iceland Trip: Blue Lagoon accommodation, timeless scenic spots and unspoiled natural landscapes, flexible bespoke itineraries

EnglishGuaranteed departureDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Multiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Soak in Blue Lagoon's sapphire silica pools, trek ancient glaciers and watch whales surface with sweeping tails. · Enjoy a premium stay at Silica Hotel for a cozy trip. · Itinerary duration, activities, hotels, and vehicle upgrades can all be customized prior to booking.

From GBP 3,435

5D4N • Customize your trip: Iceland: Seljalandsfoss Waterfall + Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach + Gullfoss Waterfall + Strokkur Geysir + Þingvellir National Park + Whale Watching from Reykjavík

English/MandarinGuaranteed departureDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Private Tours

Admire Iceland's waterfalls, volcanic shores, geothermal views and rift-valley landforms. Sail North-Atlantic to meet sea giants and enjoy Iceland's raw land-and-ocean charm. · Well-selected 4-star accommodation with a great location and full facilities. Thoughtful service, spacious tidy rooms and cozy decor grant you a rest-assured pleasant stay. · Private groups for all sizes. Listed price is per person for 2 guests. Larger groups enjoy better rates. One vehicle throughout.

From GBP 3,316

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Free things to do in Reykjavik

Hallgrimskirkja

7.2

Reykjavik · 1.7km from downtown

198 reviews

Golden Circle

7.1

Blaskogabyggd · 79.6km from Reykjavik

25 reviews

Route 1

6.3

4.8/5

57 reviews

Olfus · 20.5km from Reykjavik

Lake Tjornin

6

Reykjavik · 2.4km from downtown

50 reviews

Sun Voyager

5.7