3-Day Itinerary for Reykjavík: What to See and Do
Have 3 days in Reykjavík? You can see a lot without rushing.
Some itineraries tell you to leave the capital right away. But if you skip Reykjavík, you miss a big part of Iceland. This is the best place to learn the culture, try local food, and visit geothermal pools. You’ll also find museums, good cafés, and modern architecture that shows Iceland’s past and present.
Reykjavík is small and easy to walk around. And if you want nature, you don’t have to drive far. Waterfalls, volcanic areas, and other famous sights are close enough for a short day trip from Reykjavik.
This 3-day itinerary helps you do both: enjoy the city and see nearby nature without long drives or changing hotels.
Day 1: Exploring the City Center
Reykjavík’s center is easy to get around in. You don’t need to rent a car for your first day. Most major sights are located in the downtown area known as “101.”
Morning: Landmarks and Local Streets
Start your day at Hallgrímskirkja, Iceland’s most recognizable church. Its design reflects basalt columns found in volcanic landscapes. You can take an elevator to the top for views over the city, coastline, and mountains.
From the church, walk down Skólavörðustígur, often called Rainbow Street. The street is lined with independent shops, cafés, and galleries. It connects directly to the city center.
Local Tip: A popular stop is Brauð & Co for a cinnamon bun. They are baked fresh and best eaten warm.
- Where to stay (central location): Center Hotels Skjaldbrei offers a welcoming base right on Laugavegur, close to Hallgrímskirkja, shops, and inviting cafés. Staying here lets you easily enjoy a stroll-first itinerary, no car required.
Lunch: The Famous Hot Dog
For lunch, choose a quick, casual option and stop at Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur near the harbor to try an Icelandic hot dog. This small red stand has been serving hot dogs since 1937. It’s made with a blend of lamb, pork, and beef; the lamb gives them an unforgettable taste.
Be adventurous, order one with everything! In Icelandic, say "eina með öllu" to get it all: raw onions, crispy fried onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade. It's affordable, wonderfully messy, and bursting with flavor.
Afternoon: The Waterfront and Glass Hall
After lunch, walk toward the ocean along the waterfront. You will pass the Sun Voyager, a steel sculpture inspired by a Viking ship. On clear days, Mount Esja is visible across the bay.
Continue along the water to Harpa Concert Hall. The glass façade changes appearance depending on light and weather. Admission is free, and the lobby is open to visitors. On a windy day, it’s also a welcoming place to warm up during your stay.
Where to stay (near the waterfront): Center Hotels Arnarhvoll is a practical option if you want to stay next to Harpa and the harbor. It also has a top-floor bar with views over the water.
Evening: Dinner Downtown
Reykjavík offers plenty of dining choices, especially in the downtown area near Austurvöllur Square by the Parliament building. This area is packed with restaurants and is a great place to enjoy your evening.
Once you're downtown, try the local seafood, caught fresh every day. Arctic char and cod are favorites, prized for their delicate flavors. If you prefer meat, try the world-famous Icelandic lamb, which is renowned for its tenderness.
Where to Stay in the Center: If you want to be close to everything, choose Center Hotels Plaza. It is right on the main square, so after dinner at any downtown restaurant, your hotel is only a short walk away.
Day 2: The Golden Circle, Nature and Relaxation
On your second day, experience Icelandic nature. You have two main choices for your day trip: tour the Golden Circle or head to the coast.
Option A: The Golden Circle (The Classic Choice)
The Golden Circle, a famous loop route, visits three massive natural sights. You can rent a car or join a bus tour, expect the trip to last about six to eight hours.
Stop 1. The Þingvellir National Park: A significant UNESCO World Heritage site where Vikings established their first parliament over 1,000 years ago.
You can stand atop between two tectonic plates, the North American and Eurasian, and walk between continents. This plate drifts apart right beneath your feet.
Stop 2. The Geysir Geothermal Area: This area is full of steam and bubbling pools. The main attraction is a geyser called Stokkur.
It is very active. Every six to ten minutes, it shoots boiling water into the air. It goes up to 20 meters high. It is exciting to watch. Just make sure you stand upwind so you don't get wet.
Stop 3. Gullfoss Waterfall: This is called the "Golden Falls." It’s massive and very powerful as the river drops down into a deep canyon, and the water creates mist. If the sun shines, you'll see a rainbow. In winter, parts freeze into ice.
- Where to Stay for Tours: If you take a bus tour, stay at Center Hotels Laugavegur, located on the main street. The hotel is stylish and comfortable. Many tours pick up right near here. It makes your 3 days in Reykjavik easier to manage.
Option B: South Iceland and Black Sand Beaches
If you have already seen the Golden Circle, try driving along the South Coast instead. You will find Skógafoss, a giant waterfall that is definitely worth a visit. You can walk right up to the splash zone, just make sure to wear a raincoat and boots! If the sun is out, you will probably spot a beautiful rainbow shining in the mist.
Just 30 minutes drive from Skogafoss is the black-sand beach Reynisfjara, where the sand is made of crushed lava. It’s an amazing spot for photos, just keep a safe distance from those unpredictable waves!
Evening: Hot Springs and Relaxation
After a long day of sightseeing, the evening is the perfect time for relaxation. Visiting Iceland is not complete without soaking in geothermal water. You have two great options tonight.
Option 1: Experience at Sky Lagoon, just minutes from downtown Reykjavik, which feels even more exclusive than the famous Blue Lagoon.
The infinity pool overlooks the ocean, so you can soak while gazing at the waves. Try the Seven-Step Ritual. It includes a cold plunge and a sauna. You will leave feeling refreshed.
Option 2: Visit a public pool like Sundhöllin, the city’s oldest, located right downtown. Admission is much more affordable than luxury lagoons, and you’ll find outdoor hot tubs, a steam room, and a swimming pool. This authentically local spot attracts real Reykjavik residents.
- Where to stay for wellness: Center Hotels Miðgarðurr is a practical option if you want on-site spa access. The hotel has a spa area with hot tubs and relaxation facilities, which can be convenient after a day trip.
- For a Boutique Feel: You could also choose Center Hotels Þingholt, which is a boutique hotel, with a dark and stylish, lava-inspired design, and a nice spa that feels very private.
Day 3: Wildlife and Hidden Gems
On the final day of your 3 Days in Reykjavik, explore the "cool" side of the city and maybe see some animals.
Morning: Whale Watching and the Harbor
Begin your day with a walk to the Old Harbor, where whale-watching boats depart right from the downtown pier. Keep an eye out for minke whales, humpbacks, or even dolphins.
If you’d rather stay on land, visit the Whales of Iceland exhibition with life-sized models, or explore the Grandi area with museums, shops, and food halls. The Lava Show is another nearby option, featuring a live demonstration of molten lava.
Nearby, the Perlan Museum offers a surprisingly realistic indoor ice cave, perfect if you’re curious about glaciers without heading out to one.
- Where to Stay by the Harbor: If you like this modern, industrial area, stay at Center Hotels Grandi. It is stylish and fits the harbor vibe perfectly.
Lunch: Try the Best Lobster Soup
Stay by the harbor for lunch and stop at Sægreifinn (The Sea Baron), a cheerful green shack right on the pier. You can sit on lobster buoys at shared tables, adding to the charm.
Their world-famous lobster soup is a must, which is creamy, rich, and filled with tender langoustine. Pair it with a skewer of freshly grilled fish from that morning’s catch, and enjoy a simple, wonderfully Icelandic moment.
Afternoon: Shopping and History
After lunch, walk back to Laugavegur, the main shopping street, to browse souvenir shops. If you want something practical, look for an Icelandic wool sweater called a lopapeysa. Many shops along the street sell them in a range of styles and prices.
If history sparks your curiosity, step into the Settlement Exhibition. This underground museum is built around the remains of a real Viking house from 871, using modern technology to bring Iceland’s earliest settlers vividly to life.
- Where to Stay for Shopping: Center Hotels Klöpp is a great base for shoppers. It offers simple comfort in the middle of downtown, is practical and clean, and lets you drop off your shopping bags and keep walking.
Evening: A Final Farewell
For the final evening of your 3 days in Reykjavik, enjoy the city's atmosphere with a fun nightlife. Visit the Kaldi Bar, a local favorite with a snug, cabin-like atmosphere and excellent draft beer. If craft cocktails or a refreshing White Ale tempt you more, Einstök Bar just down the street is another delightful choice.
If you’re visiting in winter, remember to look up. On a clear night, the sky itself may put on a farewell show. For the best view, walk out to the Grótta Lighthouse at the edge of the city. It’s away from the streetlights, making it the perfect dark spot to watch for the Northern Lights.
Where to Stay for Groups: Are you traveling with family or friends? Þingholt Apartments is a great choice. You get more space and a small kitchen. It’s also a nice place to relax before you fly home.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Getting to Keflavík International Airport takes about 45 minutes, and the journey is easy to plan. Taxis are available but costly. The Flybus is a better choice. It is reliable, comfortable, and more budget-friendly, letting you start and end your trip with ease.
Iceland can be expensive, but planning helps. The tap water is clean and free, so there’s no need to buy bottled water. You can also save by buying alcohol at the airport duty-free shop. Visiting casual cafés and public pools is a good way to experience local life without spending too much.
Think about what kind of trip you want when planning your visit. In summer, you’ll have long days and the gentle light of the Midnight Sun, which is great for exploring at any hour. In winter, the days are shorter, and the streets are quieter, but you might see the Northern Lights if the sky is clear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is 3 days in Reykjavik enough?
Yes, it is the perfect amount of time for a stopover. You can see the city highlights and take a big nature tour without feeling rushed.
Can I witness the Northern Lights in Reykjavik?
Yes, if the sky is clear and the activity is strong. However, it is better to go to a dark spot, such as the Grótta Lighthouse, or take a tour away from city lights.
How much spending money for 3 days in Reykjavik?
Iceland is expensive. Many travelers budget around 20,000 to 30,000 ISK ($150 to $220 USD) per day. This covers meals, entry fees, and transport, but not your hotel.
Can you park a campervan in Reykjavik?
You cannot park and sleep on the street or in public lots. You must park at the designated Reykjavik Campsite in Laugardalur. It’s illegal to sleep in a vehicle elsewhere in the city.
Which is better, the Golden Circle or Ring Road?
The Ring Road takes at least 7 to 10 days to drive. The Golden Circle can be done in one day. For a short 3 days in Reykjavik, the Golden Circle is the better choice.