Northern Europe · Iceland
Reykjavik Travel Guide
Reykjavik is the world's most northerly capital — a tiny, colourful city of street art, geothermal pools, and extraordinary landscapes just minutes from the harbour. Iceland's otherworldly beauty starts the moment you step off the ship.
How Do You Get from the Ship to the City?
Most cruise ships dock at Skarfabakki, about 3km east of the city centre. Free shuttle buses usually run to Harpa concert hall. Smaller ships dock at the old harbour, which is right in the centre of town.
What Can You See in 6 Hours?
Hallgrímskirkja — The iconic church towering over Reykjavik. Take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The best orientation point.
Laugavegur — The main shopping street. Boutiques, design stores, and some of the city's best cafés and restaurants.
Sun Voyager — The striking stainless steel sculpture on the waterfront, with mountains across the bay. Beautiful in any weather.
Old Harbour — Whale watching boats, seafood restaurants, and the excellent Whales of Iceland exhibition.
Sky Lagoon — A geothermal infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Book a timed slot online. The ultimate Icelandic experience in a port day (40 min from city centre).
Where Should You Eat in Reykjavik?
Hot dogs: Bæjarins Beztu by the harbour. Lamb hot dogs with crispy onions, raw onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade. Iceland's most famous street food.
Seafood: Icelandic fish is extraordinary. Try plokkfiskur (fish and potato mash), harðfiskur (dried fish jerky — an acquired taste), or any fresh catch of the day.
Budget warning: A restaurant meal in Reykjavik typically costs €30-50 per person. The hot dog stand and bakeries are the budget-friendly options.
Is Reykjavik Worth Exploring Independently?
The city centre is small, safe, and walkable in a couple of hours. Ship excursions to the Golden Circle (geysers, waterfalls) are popular but long (8+ hours) — only take one if you have a full day. For a standard 6-hour port call, explore the city independently and spend the excursion savings on a Sky Lagoon session.
Useful Local Phrases
Halló
Hello
(HAL-oh)
Takk
Thank you
(tahk)
Hvað kostar þetta?
How much does this cost?
(kvath KOS-tar THET-ta)
Local Tips
- •Iceland is extraordinarily expensive. A simple lunch costs €25-30. Budget for it.
- •The famous Bæjarins Beztu hot dog stand (since 1937) is a must — lamb hot dogs with crispy onions and remoulade. €5 and genuinely delicious.
- •Tap water in Reykjavik is some of the purest in the world. Fill your bottle from any tap.
- •Almost nowhere accepts cash. Cards (including contactless) work everywhere.