Reykjavik Holidays

Reykjavik Overview

Reykjavik is where the magic of Iceland comes alive – a city brimming with culture, adventure, and natural beauty.


Destination Highlights

  • A chance to chase the Northern Lights

  • Toasty geothermal spas to sink into

  • A nightlife spot for every rhyme, reason and season

  • Stunning Scenery worthy of anyone's Insta-story

What Are the Best Hotels in Reykjavik?

Reykjavik’s hotel scene is as diverse as its landscape, with options ranging from swanky and boujee to laid-back and cosy. Here's some of our faves:

  • Reykjavik Natura - Berjaya Iceland Hotels - Nestled next to nature, this eco-friendly spot offers the perfect mix of comfort and style.

  • Borg by Keahotels - An iconic art deco hotel smackdab in the city centre, offering luxury with a touch of 1930s elegance.

  • Grand Hotel Reykjavik - A top-notch choice for families and groups, with spacious rooms and a delish brekkie to kickstart your day.

  • Reykjavik Lights by Keahotels - Stylish and modern, with a unique Icelandic twist in each room.

  • Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel Curio Collection by Hilton - Swanky digs with a dash of history – this boutique hotel is a former department store turned into luxury accommodation (RIP Debenhams).

  • Alda Hotel Reykjavik - Right in the middle of Reykjavik’s shopping street, it’s perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action.


🚌 Getting Around Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a small, walkable city, so you can easily zip around the main sights on foot. For longer journeys, the city’s public buses are reliable and run regularly. If you're planning to explore beyond the city, car hire is the way to go, with scenic routes and easy navigation making it a top-tier choice. Cycling is also popular, and there are plenty of bike rental spots around town for those wanting to get active while taking in the sights.


🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to Do for Families in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the perfect playground for families, offering a mix of educational, entertaining, and adventurous activities. Start with a visit to Reykjavik’s Family Park and Zoo, where kiddos can get up close and personal with Icelandic animals. The National Museum of Iceland is a fab spot to dive into the country’s Viking history – educational, but in a fun way. If your little ones love the water, a dip in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool is a must – think waterslides, hot tubs, and a lot of splashy fun. And don’t miss a whale-watching tour from the harbour; spotting these gentle giants is a thrill for both kids and adults alike.

👩🏼‍❤️‍👨🏾 Things to Do for Couples in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is made for romance, with its dramatic landscapes and intimate settings. Start your couple’s getaway with a soak in the Blue Lagoon, where you can sip on a cocktail while relaxing in the warm, milky waters - pure bliss. For something unique, take a midnight sun cruise or a Northern Lights tour for some truly magical moments together. The city also offers cosy cafes and romantic restaurants, perfect for a candle-lit dinner - try a traditional Icelandic meal at Dill, Reykjavik’s Michelin-starred restaurant, for a delish dining experience. Don’t forget to stroll hand-in-hand around the Old Harbour – the views are stunning, especially at sunset.

🏔️ Things to Do for Groups in Reykjavik

If you’re travelling with a group, Reykjavik has got plenty to keep you all entertained. Kick things off with a Golden Circle tour – the stunning trio of Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall is bound to impress. For a more active adventure, head out for some glacier hiking or snowmobiling – it’s exhilarating, and a massive hit for thrill-seekers. When the evening rolls around, dive into Reykjavik’s vibrant nightlife scene. Whether it's bar-hopping on Laugavegur Street or enjoying a live gig at Harpa Concert Hall, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And don’t forget to hit up FlyOver Iceland for an epic virtual flight over the country – a unique experience perfect for groups.

🦞 Things to Do for Foodies in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a culinary hot spot where traditional Icelandic fare meets a modern twist - perfect for foodies looking to explore. Start your food journey with a visit to Kolaportið Flea Market, where you can sample local delicacies like fermented shark (if you’re brave enough!) and smoked lamb. For a more refined palate, book a table at Matur og Drykkur, where Icelandic classics get a contemporary upgrade. Don’t miss out on Reykjavik’s booming street food scene – the city’s food trucks are a perfect way to grab a quick bite; try the lobster soup at Saegreifinn or the fish and chips at Reykjavik Fish. And for dessert? Head over to Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur – Reykjavik’s famous hot dog stand - sometimes, all you need is a classic hotdog, we know we do.

Popular Reykjavik hotels

Weather in Reykjavik

JAN

1°C

FEB

0°C

MAR

1°C

APR

3°C

MAY

7°C

JUN

10°C

JUL

12°C

AUG

11°C

SEP

9°C

OCT

5°C

NOV

2°C

DEC

1°C

The weather in Reykjavik is like that unpredictable friend - full of surprises but always up for a good time. This Nordic gem serves up a mix of crisp air, refreshing breezes, and the kind of coolness that makes you want to bundle up in style.

During the summer (June to August), Reykjavik is all about those long, bright days with temperatures hovering around 10-15°C. Jumper weather at its finest - perfect for exploring the city and soaking up the midnight sun. Don’t forget your shades; the sun may be shy, but it’s out to play!

Come winter (December to February), Reykjavik transforms into a winter wonderland, with temperatures dipping to a chilly 0-3°C. Think cosy cafes, twinkling lights, and snow-dusted landscapes straight out of a fairytale. Layers are your best mate here – bring out the scarves, hats, and mittens.

But here’s the fun bit – Reykjavik’s weather loves to keep you on your toes with sudden showers and gusty winds year-round. The locals say, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” So, pack a waterproof jacket and embrace the adventure - after all, what’s a little rain when you’re chasing the Northern Lights?

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Reviews

At On the Beach, we’ve sent many satisfied customers on Reykjavik Holidays for a bit of sunshine. But don't just take our word for it, read some of their 5-star reviews below.

Trustpilot 4 stars: Great

FAQs

How long does it take to fly to Reykjavik?

It takes around 3 hours to fly to Reykjavik from the UK - you'll be up and down in no time!

What's the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Reykjavik?

Reykjavik is only 1 hour ahead of the time in the UK - no jet lag fear here.

What currency do they use in Reykjavik?

The currency used in Reykjavik is the Icelandic Krona.

What language do they speak in Reykjavik?

The main language spoken in Reykjavik is Icelandic.