Reykjavik holidays

Hallgrímskirkja Church, Reykjavik, Iceland

Popular holidays

Reykjavik holidays land you in the world’s most northerly capital, close to Iceland’s most famous natural sights.

Reykjavik city breaks

City breaks to Iceland’s capital are one of a kind. By day, you can nosey around independent shops, eye up colourful houses or head out to see the country’s natural sights. And by night, there’s a huge crop of lively bars to hang out in – that’s when you’re not going in search of the Northern Lights. We’ve got a choice of hotels for you to rest your head in, from simple city bases to swanky hideaways. And all of this is just a three-hour flight from Dublin.

City sights

Most people come to Iceland for the scenery – and Reykjavik’s not short of a beauty spot or two, either. The city’s seafront promenade lines up dramatic views of snow-capped peaks in the distance. The streets are brimming with brightly coloured murals. And if you’ve got a head for heights, you can climb to the top of Hallgrímskirkja church for a bird’s eye view of the candy-hued streets and the sea.

Not your average nightlife

Over the years, Reykjavik’s made a name for itself as a bit of a nightlife hotspot. The best bars and clubs are on Laugavegur and the surrounding streets – DJs play all kinds of music every night of the week. And if you’re after something a little more low-key, you can pop in to one of the city’s restaurants for a late-night meal. Icelandic delicacies feature heavily on menus next to international crowd-pleasers.

Back to nature

Iceland’s capital’s got a string of famous sights on its doorstep. Geysers, waterfalls and striking rock formations lie in wait on the Golden Circle, and the Blue Lagoon’s the perfect spot for a soak after a long day. In winter, you can set off in search of the Northern Lights, as well – to up your chances of seeing the spectacle, opt for a boat trip away from the city lights.

Popular hotels in Reykjavik

Top things to see and do in Reykjavik

Shopping

Bargain buys

If you want to get your hands on a bargain in Reykjavik, your best bet is to go for a rummage around the city’s only flea market. It’s called Kolaportið, and it’s open every weekend between the harbour and the city centre. You’ll find everything from books and ornaments to clothes and accessories on offer here.

Mid-range buys

The capital’s main shopping street – Laugavegur – is the most popular spot for shopping around here. If you’re after mid-range clothes, accessories and homewares, you’ll be spoilt for choice – the street’s lined with a mixture of independent stores and more well-known brands.

Designer buys

If fashion’s your thing, you’ll want to check out Reykjavik’s designer clothes stores. Local brands line up along Laugavegur and the surrounding streets in the form of tiny boutiques. You can nab yourself some high-end goodies inside Smáralind shopping mall, too.

Nightlife

Laid-back evenings

Reykjavik might be known for its buzzy nightlife, but if you prefer a more low-key getaway, you’ll have no end of options. The city’s restaurants and cafés are usually open until late, so you can get cosy with a big bowl of stew and a few glasses of wine after a busy day exploring.

Lively evenings

Reykjavik’s main shopping street – Laugavegur – is also known for its nightlife. You’ll find all the liveliest bars and clubs around here, some of which double up as restaurants so you can spend your whole night in one spot. Live music, DJs and dance parties are on the agenda every night of the week.

Food & drink

Lamb hot dogs

If you need a low-cost pick-me-up while you’re sightseeing in Reykjavik, grab a lamb hot dog – or pylsur. These quality lamb sausages are served in a warm bun with two types of mustard, plus ketchup, fried onions and raw onions.

Plokkfiskur

Iceland’s national stew – Plokkfiskur – is not to be missed when in Reykjavik. It’s hearty and warming, so it’s ideal for those cold winter nights. Atlantic cod is mashed then mixed with flour, milk, potatoes, onions, salt and pepper before being cooked. It’s usually served with a slab of rye bread on the side.

Rúgbrauð

Rye bread’s a staple in Iceland. But what makes this one different is how its traditionally cooked – the bread’s made in wooden casks which are buried in the ground near hot springs. You can grab some in bakeries and restaurants all over. It’s got a slightly sweet flavour, and goes well with savoury dishes like stews.

Ice-cream

You might not associate Iceland with ice-cream, but the frozen treat’s super popular here, even in the winter months. Reykjavik’s dotted with ice-cream parlours serving the local’s favourite – soft serve. Plus, you can opt for a chocolate topping and added sugary sprinkles.

Brennivin

If you fancy a post-dinner shot, opt for Brennivin. The Icelandic spirit is a firm favourite for its strength and flavour – it’s made with fermented potatoes and caraway seeds, giving it a different taste to vodka or gin.