Reykjavík’s cultural scene is a must-explore in your itinerary. There are several museums, cultural centres and landmarks all across the city, with each one breaking down the history of Iceland for you. We will show you how you can visit these Iceland attractions at a low and affordable price!
Hallgrímskirkja
Have you ever wondered where people got this picturesque view?
The answer is none other than Hallgrímskirkja, Iceland's tallest church, which overlooks the town full of small buildings in beautiful bold colours. The church’s Lutheran roots inspired this grand yet minimalistic gothic architecture. A statue of Leifur Eiríksson—believed to be the first European who discovered America—stands firm outside the 245ft church. As you walk through those doors, admire the impressive 25-ton organ that has each of the 5,275 pipes assembled by German builder Johannes Klaishas himself.
Admission fees: Adults 1000 ISK, Children 100 ISK
Opening hours: 12 pm – 3 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Location: Hallgrímstorg 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Laugavegur Shopping Street
A short walk from the church brings you to the shopping street of Reykjavik, where life is bustling during the day and night. One could spend a day exploring Laugavegur shopping street and the art scene here. Check out an eclectic mix of Instagrammable murals blanketed over buildings and roads. #Instaworthy! Grab lunch at Public House Gastropub which serves a diverse menu of sharing plates or Gló for a clean and healthy option. Visit homegrown brands like 66°North for any last-minute winter apparels, Spúútnik for thrift store shoppers and souvenir shops like Idontspeakicelandic to stock up on your fridge magnet collectables.
Museums and Exhibitions
If the shopping culture proves too much of a bore for you, visit Reykjavik’s cultural and historical attractions after lunch. Take a walk to Tjornin lake, where a group of museums surrounds it.
The Culture House
Towards the end of Laugavegur Street, stands an elegant pearl-white house open to the public. Walk across the marble-wood floors as you browse through the nation's cultural history with its visually stunning art that drew inspiration from over the years.
Admission fees: Adults 2,000 ISK, Children enter for free
Opening hours: 10:00 – 17:00
Location: Hverfisgata 15, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
The Settlement Exhibition
Onward to the next historical attraction, is Landnámssyningin, a local history museum that houses remnants of ancient old Viking artefacts. This interactive space is excellent for the young and old as it uses 3D technology to explain what a Viking’s life would have been like back in the days.
Admission fees: Adults 1,740 ISK, Children enter for free
Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00
Location: Aoalstræti 16, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
The National Gallery of Iceland
Walk along the Tjornin lake, and you will find Iceland’s National Gallery known to hold the nation’s best artworks. Art connoisseurs would love the plethora of Icelandic and international innovative paintings on display.
Admission fees: Adults 2,000 ISK, Children and Seniors 1,000 ISK
Opening hours: 10:00 – 17:00
Location: Fríkirkjuvegur 7, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Pro-tip: Enjoy free or discounted entry when you show your Reykjavik City Card (from 4,000 ISK / US$30) at the entrance.
Unwind with Local Icelandic Delicacies and Specialties
After touring the many galleries and museums of the city centre, refuel with dinner back at Hallgrímskirkja or Laugavegur Street. Visit Salka Valka for plokkfiskur (2,400 ISK), a warm plate of traditional Icelandic fish stew over rice or Lebowski Bar for burgers, milkshakes and a plethora of White Russian concoctions. Also, you get 10% of the bill when you show your Reykjavík City Card at Lebowski Bar!
Magic Ice Reykjavik
Post dinner plans call for one last tour at an ice galley. Opened in the early months of 2019, this ice bar in Reykjavik is managed by the Magic North Group which owns four other Magic Ice establishments across the Nordic family. This enchanting attraction houses a museum of incredible ice sculptures and a cool bar serving up cocktails in an ice glass at a sub-zero temperature. Reservations are strongly advised.
Admission fees: Adults 3,510 ISK, Children 1,710 ISK
Opening hours: 11:00 – 23:00 Daily
Location: Laugavegur 4, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
