Summer weekend in Reykjavik
How locals do summer in Reykjavik — patios, beaches, festivals and the long-evening rituals that only happen in July and August.
Top spots in Reykjavik
Golden Circle Day Trip
OutdoorsSouth Iceland
Thingvellir rift, Geysir spouts and Gullfoss falls — Iceland's greatest-hits loop.
Blue Lagoon
OutdoorsGrindavik
Milky geothermal lagoon in a black lava field — silica masks included.
Whale Watching
OutdoorsOld Harbour
3-hour boat trip from the old harbour — minkes, humpbacks, occasional orcas.
Kaffibarinn
Nightlife101
Damon Albarn-owned dive bar — DJs all night, locals' rúntur classic.
Where to eat
Apotek
$$$Bistro · Austurstræti
Old pharmacy turned bistro — cocktails, langoustine and lamb.
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
$Hot dog · Old Harbour
The Bill Clinton hot dog stand — ask for 'eina með öllu' (one with everything).
Dill
$$$$New Nordic · 101
Iceland's first Michelin star — fermented carrots, lamb, skyr ice cream.
Sandholt Bakery
$$Bakery · Laugavegur
Sourdough, kanilsnúðar cinnamon rolls and great brunch on the main street.
Matur og Drykkur
$$$Traditional Icelandic · Grandi
Forgotten fishing recipes done elegantly — try the cod head.
Live & on stage
Dark Music Days
Harpa · Jan 28 – Feb 1 · Contemporary classical
Iceland Airwaves
Multiple venues · Nov 6–8 · Indie
Reykjavík Jazz Festival
Harpa · Aug 19–23 · Jazz
Secret Solstice
Laugardalur · Jun 19–21 · Festival / Midnight sun
Frequently asked
- Standouts right now: Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle Day Trip, Whale Watching. The shortlist is curated by people who live in Reykjavik and refreshed regularly so it reflects what's actually open and worth your time.