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Front view of Verzlanahöllin thrift shop in Reykjavík with rainbow decorations and secondhand clothes in the window.

Best Thrift Shops in Reykjavík for Vintage and Local Finds

Discover some of Reykjavík’s best thrift and vintage shops, from quirky boutiques to community-driven secondhand stores. Whether you’re after bold retro pieces or sustainable fashion finds, this guide highlights the top spots, all within walking distance of Center Hotels, for an authentic and stylish Icelandic shopping experience.

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View of Reykjavik across Tjörnin Lake with autumn leaves in the foreground.

Things to Do in Reykjavik in October

October in Reykjavik, Iceland, brings shorter days, crisp air and a vibrant cultural scene. From the lighting of Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower and the Sequences Art Festival to opera performances, circus shows and beer tastings, the city is alive with events. It’s also prime season for spotting the Northern Lights and experiencing the First Day of Winter, an ancient Norse tradition. Whether you’re exploring exhibitions, enjoying local flavors or chasing auroras, Reykjavik in October offers unforgettable experiences.

White summer flowers in the foreground with Reykjavík city and Hallgrímskirkja church visible across Tjörnin pond under a bright blue sky.

Our Local Guide to Reykjavík

Reykjavík may be small, but it’s full of surprises, where colourful streets meet cool cafés, geothermal pools and breathtaking views. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa, soaking in a local pool or tasting your way through Icelandic flavours, there’s always something new to discover. With Center Hotels located across the city, you’ll never be far from your next Reykjavík adventure.

Busy Rooms header _ Reykjavik nature spots

Our Favourite Attractions in Reykjavík

The Icelandic countryside is beautiful, but Reykjavík itself has more than enough to keep you inspired and entertained, no glacier hikes required. Indeed, Reykjavík is packed with cultural sights, harbour views, and unique history. If you’re staying in downtown Reykjavík area, you’re in the ideal spot to explore the city’s top attractions.

Sunny day in downtown Reykjavik with a small glass greenhouse, benches, and people relaxing near a clock tower.

Things to Do in Reykjavik in September

September in Reykjavik brings a mix of festivals, live performances, and cultural events. From international film screenings and music festivals to comedy nights and variety shows, the city is alive with activity. As the nights grow longer, there’s even a chance to catch the northern lights, making September an ideal time to explore Reykjavik, Iceland.

A panoramic view of downtown Reykjavík featuring Hallgrímskirkja, a tall white church with a pointed tower. The city is surrounded by colorful houses and green trees. In the background, the b

Culture Night Events in Reykjavík

Join the city-wide celebration on August 23rd with a full day of music, food, art, and fireworks. From the Reykjavík Marathon and brunch beats at Jörgensen to jazz at Grandi and rooftop views at SKÝ Lounge, we’ve got your perfect Culture Night itinerary.

A wide-angle view of the Westman Islands in Iceland, with dark blue ocean in the foreground and scattered green islands under a bright blue summer sky with light clouds. A few seabirds are fl

Verslunarmannahelgi or Merchant Weekend 2025

Verslunarmannahelgi, or Merchants’ Weekend, is Iceland’s biggest summer holiday. Held the first weekend of August, it’s packed with music festivals, camping, fireworks, and family fun across the country—from Reykjavík to the Westman Islands and Akureyri. Whether you’re up for live music or a peaceful nature getaway, this long weekend offers something for everyone.

A colorful summer meadow with purple and white wildflowers in the foreground, and the Seljalandsfoss waterfall cascading down a green cliff in the background under soft sunlight.

August in Reykjavík – Festivals, Pride and Cultural Fun

August in Reykjavík is packed with color, music, and celebration. From the epic Verslunarmannahelgi festival and vibrant Reykjavík Pride to the city-wide joy of Culture Night and the smooth sounds of the Jazz Festival, this month offers something for everyone. Whether you're running the Reykjavík Marathon or just soaking up the summer vibes, it’s the perfect time to explore Iceland’s capital.

Winter view of downtown Reykjavík with snow-covered rooftops, Hallgrímskirkja church in the center, and leafless trees in the foreground.

A Winter Day in Reykjavík: Local Tips and Hidden Gems

Snow-dusted streets, cozy cafés, and a chance to see the Northern Lights. Winter in Reykjavík is nothing short of magical. Start your day with freshly brewed coffee and a cinnamon roll at one of the city's charming cafés, wander by the serene Tjörnin pond and explore colorful shopping streets like Laugavegur and Rainbow Street. Warm up in geothermal pools like Sundhöllin or the luxurious Sky Lagoon, then wind down with a hearty Icelandic meal and a scoop of local ice cream, yes, even in winter! If you're lucky, your night will end under a sky painted green by the Northern Lights. Reykjavík in winter? Unforgettable.

Soak Up the Summer: July Highlights in Reykjavik

Looking for ideas to make the most of July in Reykjavik? Whether you're into sunset cocktails, live music, outdoor adventures, or hidden art gems, the city is full of exciting ways to enjoy the summer. We've rounded up some of our favorite things to do in and around Reykjavik this month—from jet ski safaris and mountain climbs to intimate concerts and powerful festivals. Get inspired and plan your perfect July day (or night) in the city.