So, you’re planning to spend just one day in Reykjavik and want to know what to see, what to do, and how to cram in the most within 24 hours?
As someone who has traveled to Iceland 7 times, the colorful capital is probably one of the most interesting cities I’ve visited. There’s something about the graffiti-lined streets, Scandi architecture, and proximity to natural wonders that keep me coming back for more!
Close to the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and pick-up spots, each time I’ve visited Iceland, Reykjavik has been my home base for exploring and taking day trips around the rest of the country. With a population of just over 100,000, most travelers think of the city as a quick stop-over for cafes and bars- but there’s so much more to explore.
If you’re in Reykjavik for one day before taking on the Ring Road or booked one of Iceland Air’s long layovers to see the city, then this one day in Reykjavik guide will help you squeeze in as much as possible. From quirky museums to traditional food halls, there’s a lot to see.
If you want to spend one week in Iceland, view my complete guide!
How to Spend One Day in Reykjavik: A Mini Guide
We’ve all experienced the anxious feeling of only having one day somewhere, and trying to decide what to do in such a short amount of time. As someone who likes to see as much as possible, this one day in Reykjavik itinerary is packed with activities to do from day to night!
Before we dive in, be sure to check your flight times!
Most flights from the U.S. arrive in the early morning (I’m talking around 4-6am), so if you’re staying at a hotel in Reykjavik it’s best to ask them ahead of time if an early check-in is available. In the past, I’ve even booked for the night before so the room is empty upon arrival.
Get my list of the best Boutique Hotels in Reykjavik: Options for all budgets!
Bakery Buys & Breakfast in Reykjavik
If you’re out of luck getting into your hotel early and want to get going, then you’ll need a full belly and energy to power through your one day in Reykjavik. Most breakfast places in the city open after 7:30 am, so if you’re on one of the super early flights, then I’d recommend bakery hopping to pass some time!
The bakery scene in Reykjavik is no joke. A social space for meeting friends and family or enjoying a moment of downtime before the work day- it’s always a buzzing place to be.
Using traditional methods, Braud & Co is a popular spot in the city- not only for its vibrantly decorated exteriors, but also for their fresh sourdough bakes. Open at 6:30 am daily, it’s the best place to start an early morning in Reykjavik! There’s very minimal space inside, so most people just stand around inside/out.
So, you’re on a roll (no pun intended) with the bakeries? The next stop should most definitely be Sandholt, located on the main shopping street, Laugavegur. Open at 7:30 am daily, the cafe has ample seating and even offers sit-down breakfast options. Get here early if you want to snag a spot and spend some time before more things open.
If you’re in the mood for a full breakfast option in a cozy setting, then venture along the Rainbow Road to Cafe Babalu. Open daily at 8:30 am, you won’t miss the exterior with its orange and blue-painted facade. Locals and tourists don’t just visit this spot for the comfort foods. Walking into Babalu is like walking into someone’s living room- trinkets, antiques, and collectibles can be found on every level (with a cute upstairs patio area!)
Find the best cafes in Reykjavik for digital nomads!
Unwind at the Sky Lagoon
With almost everyone booking the Blue Lagoon, dare to be different during your one day in Reykjavik, and visit the Sky Lagoon instead (only 15-minutes or so from the city).
The Blue Lagoon IS amazing, but since it’s 45-minutes outside of Reykjavik, it’s easiest to visit as soon as you land or right before departure on the way back to the airport.
Getting to the Sky Lagoon with a rental car is super easy and there’s plenty of parking, but they also offer convenient pick-ups around the city.
- Book on Get Your Guide: Includes admission and the 7-step ritual and round-trip rides from the BSI Bus Terminal (located a short walk out of the city)
- Book directly online: Includes admission and round-trip rides. Pick up is operated by Reykjavík Excursions (www.re.is) from your hotel or a bus-stop nearby, and starts 30 minutes before your selected start time to BSI terminal then onto the Lagoon.
A luxurious setting overlooking the ocean, the Sky Lagoon is gorgeous year round. Personally, I’ve never done the 7-step ritual, but if you want the full experience then it’s best to book ahead. It’s easy to spend a few hours wading through the warm waters, exploring the caverns, indulging in a drink or two at the swim-up bar, or relaxing under the waterfall.
When you check in you’ll be given a bracelet for a locker and to add your credit card on incase you want to make some purchases at the bar. Towels are provided.
Lunch in the Old Harbor
One day in Reykjavik isn’t complete without a visit to the Old Harbor. Pop into Reykjavik Fish and Chips for a quick lunch if you want to try some of the freshest fish. If you’re visiting Iceland in the warmer months, you’ll find the bright red food truck option located along the harbor.
Looking for more options? Visit Grandi Matholl food hall for an array of culinary options. If you’re on the hunt for Icelandic lamb, then Lamb Street Food is your place. Pizzas, falafel, salads, and wraps.. They somehow have it all (with vegan options too!)
It’s not a local experience without washing down lunch with a brew. The beer scene is popular in Iceland with many brew pubs and restaurants serving their craft creations. Amidst a mostly male-dominated industry, Lady Brewery has decided to do things a little differently, creating a distinctive personality and flavors. Check their social accounts for hours/updates- especially in the off-season!
Museum Hopping and Sites
With a belly full of food, it’s time to make the most of the Old Harbor area and your one day in Reykjavik! Luckily, there’s a lot to do in the neighborhood to keep you busy.
If you’d rather learn about marine life from a distance, the Whales of Iceland Museum is a fun place to go. Around $30 for an adult entry, you’ll learn the history of the species, observe life-sized models, and see enormous bone structures- it’s well worth a visit!
🎟️ Book your tickets for the Whale Museum here!
For a museum experience that’s quite unique, the Iceland Phallological Museum is sure to muster up a few laughs, and admission is around $24.
Side note. If you have time, walk to the top of the Þúfa art piece- a man-made, 8-meter, grass-grown mound in the Old Harbor. It has amazing views of the city and harbor!
Other Museum options around the city:
- Aurora Reykjavik – Northern Lights Center
- The Living Art Museum
- Reykjavik Maritime Museum
- The Saga Museum
- Museum of Photography
- Reykjavik Art Museum
- The Punk Museum
Wind Down for the Evening
Whether you’re visiting during the midnight sun or during the chillier winter months, evenings in Reykjavik are always buzzing with a contagious atmosphere and the chatter from local bars.
Pop into Einstok Bar for a pint or two before venturing to the cozy vibes of Kaldi Bar. Both are local favorites and the bartenders love giving recommendations.
Contrary to popular belief, Reykjavik can actually be done on a budget– so make the most of bar happy hours to get extremely cheap drinks and food specials! Most happy hours start at 4pm and end around 6pm or 7pm.
In the mood to try Icelandic delicacies like fermented shark, reindeer, and fish stew? Islenski Barinn is one of my all time favorite restaurants in Reykjavik! The wooden furniture and cozy setting make it feel as though you’ve stepped into a camping lodge. Local brews, food, and full of locals? It’s a win.
Is it a bar, music venue, or library? Hús Máls og Menningar has all three! The perfect way to end your one day in Reykjavik- singing with the Icelanders. The best seat is the second-floor veranda to get a birds-eye-view of all the fun down below. Check their socials and website- events change weekly!
If you have time and want to squeeze in multiple bars/restaurants, then I’d recommend doing the Reykjavik Walking Food Tour! I did it my first time visiting, and it’s a great way to meet new people and visit a few places if you’re short on time.
Where to Stay in Reykjavik For One Day
Midborg spans from the coastal walk to Reykjavik International Airport. Here you’ll find the famous Hallgrimskirkja church, Braud bakery, and the National Museum of Iceland. The heart of Reykjavik, locals frequent this area often- especially during the city’s happy hour times. Icelandic restaurants and quaint bars line the streets of the city center.
⭐ Find the Best Boutique Hotels in Reykjavik for all Budgets here!
Home to few hotels, rentals, and hostels, Hlidar is steps from the city center without the business. On the very edge of Reykjavik’s shopping street of Laugavegur, everything is nearby. Tree-lined streets provide a hideaway from the evening liveliness of Reykjavik. The main bus stop is also in this area, if you want to figure out the Icelandic bus system!
Trendy and historic, Vesturbaer has seafood shacks, traditional architecture, and boat tours, there’s no shortage of things to do in this area. Encompassing the Old West Side and Harbor area, most of the Whale Watching tours leave from here, allowing guests to experience nature’s beauty by day, while Northern Light tours provide a magical experience to witness a true wonder of the world.
Accommodations For Every Traveler
- Center Hotels Laugavegur
- Midgardur by Center Hotels
- Center Hotels Plaza
- Local 101 Hotel
- Grandi by Center Hotels
- Thingholt by Center Hotels
- Kex Hostel Reykjavik
- Loft HI Hostel
