Downtown Reykjavik Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Downtown Reykjavik
Popular places to visit
Laugavegur
Brightly colored shopfronts spill into the street and add atmosphere to the sidewalk dining areas and designer stores of Reykjavík’s main downtown shopping strip.
Harpa
The sculptural glass façade of Reykjavík’s premier concert hall and conference center shines over the harbor, reflecting the water and the city’s energy.
Reykjavik City Hall
The dynamic architectural design and picturesque location of this modern civic building near the Tjörnin lakeside has made it a landmark in downtown Reykjavík.
Hallgrimskirkja
By far Reykjavík’s tallest building, this church offers views of the city’s colourful rooftops and a landmark to help your orient yourself throughout your stay.
Reykjavík Cathedral
The Icelandic Parliament attends mass at this small, modest church, which is the oldest in Reykjavík and which stands on the city’s oldest square.
Parliament House
After visiting Parliament House, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Reykjavik. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene in this walkable area or seek out the local tours.
Activities
Lava Show Reykjavik Admission Ticket - Optional Premium Upgrade
Sky Lagoon Admission Including Transfer
Golden Circle, Kerid Crater & Blue Lagoon Admission Tickets
Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket Including 7-Step Ritual
Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Day Tour from Reykjavik
Our pick of the best Downtown Reykjavik Hotel Deals
CityHub Reykjavik
"Super comfortable. Staff was extremely friendly and helpful."
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
Exeter Hotel
"Great location in Reykjavik. Everything important or interesting (except perhaps Perlan) within convenient walking distance. Great breakfast and bar. Restaurant is streetfood oriented so you may want to walk a few hundred meters for a proper dinner. On the expensive side but then what is not in ..."
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
The Reykjavik EDITION
"Beautiful property and an excellent restaurant, but the overall hotel experience was deeply disappointing. The staff came across as rude, unhelpful, and overly robotic rather than genuinely hospitable. For a hotel marketed as five-star luxury, the amenities and service felt surprisingly underwhelming. ..."
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
Fosshotel Barón
"Great location, helpful staff"
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
Hotel Reykjavik Saga
"Staff and facilities were excellent. Breakfast was the perfect way to start the day. Excellent buffet breakfast with a variety of food to choose from. Staff there and in general were always helpful with a smile. I would recommend Reykjavík Saga to anyone who wants excellent hospitality, friendly ..."
Reviewed on 21 May 2026
Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel
"A good and clean hotel in downtown Reykjavík - close to everything!"
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Reykjavik
Norðurmýri
While Norðurmýri may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Reykjavik Harbour and Hallgrimskirkja.
Tún
If you're spending some time in Tún, Laugavegur and Hofdi House are top sights worth seeing.
Holt
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Holt and surrounding area, you can visit Reykjavik Harbour and Laugavegur.
Vesturbær
The abundant dining options and waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Vesturbær. A stop by Reykjavik Harbour or Landakotskirkja might round out your trip.
Grandar
Grandar might not have many top sights, but Reykjavik Harbour and Aurora Reykjavík Northern Lights Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Hlíðar
Though Hlíðar may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Reykjavik Harbour and Perlan.
