Reykjavik · Shopping Guide
Best Shopping in Reykjavik for Cruise Travelers
Reykjavik's shopping scene centers on handmade Icelandic wool products, design-forward goods, and unique local foods. The compact city center along Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur streets can be covered on foot in an afternoon. Quality is high, prices match — but the products are genuinely unique to Iceland.
Icelandic Wool: Lopapeysa Sweaters
The lopapeysa (traditional Icelandic wool sweater) is the country's most iconic souvenir. Genuine hand-knitted sweaters cost 150-300 EUR. The Handknitting Association of Iceland (Handprjónasambandið) on Skólavörðustígur sells authenticated hand-knitted pieces. Machine-knitted versions from Vik Prjónsdóttir or Farmers Market brand are more affordable.
Design and Books
Iceland's design scene punches well above its weight. Kraum and Aurum sell Icelandic-designed jewelry, homeware, and accessories. Skólavörðustígur is the main design shopping street. Iceland publishes more books per capita than any nation — browse Eymundsson or Bókabúð Máls og Menningar for Icelandic literature in translation.
Food Products
Bring home Icelandic sea salt flakes (from Saltverk), birch-smoked lamb, Icelandic chocolate (Omnom is world-class), dried fish snacks, and skyr powder. The Kolaportið flea market (weekends only) sells dried fish, vintage Icelandic items, and local crafts at the best prices.
Practical Information
Shops open 10 AM-6 PM weekdays, shorter on weekends. VAT refunds (up to 15%) are available for non-residents on purchases over 6,000 ISK (about 40 EUR). Tax-free forms are processed at Keflavik Airport. Cards are accepted everywhere — Iceland is nearly cashless. Beware cheap 'Icelandic' wool products made in China; check labels carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell a real Icelandic sweater from a fake?
Genuine Icelandic lopapeysa sweaters are made from lopi yarn (Icelandic sheep wool). Buy from the Handknitting Association or shops that specify 'Made in Iceland.' If a sweater costs under 50 EUR, it's likely imported. Real hand-knitted sweaters cost 150-300 EUR.
What is the best food souvenir from Iceland?
Omnom chocolate bars are world-class and beautifully packaged. Saltverk sea salt flakes, birch-smoked lamb, and dried fish snacks are uniquely Icelandic. Brennivín (caraway schnapps) is the national spirit and makes a distinctive gift.
Is the Kolaportið flea market worth visiting?
Yes, it's held on weekends near the harbor and offers the best prices on dried fish, second-hand Icelandic sweaters, vintage items, and local crafts. It's also a cultural experience — locals come here too.