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Best Things to Do, Eat & See in Reykjavik in 48 Hours

Planning a short trip to Reykjavik? Iceland’s charming capital may be small, but it’s packed with personality, colorful street art, and cozy cafes. Whether you’re using it as a base before exploring the rest of the country or just spending a quick 48 hours in the city, this 2-day Reykjavik itinerary will help you make the most of your time.

From iconic landmarks and relaxing geothermal spas to unforgettable food and nightlife, here’s everything you need to see, do, and eat during two perfect days in Reykjavik.

Where to Stay in Reykjavik

Stay close to downtown to make the most of your time. Here are a few great options across all budgets:

Accommodation Recommendations:
Luxury: Fosshotel Baron
Mid-Range: Hotel Cabin
Budget: Nordic Hostel

Day 1: Discover Downtown Reykjavik

Morning: Start with a Traditional Icelandic Breakfast

Ease into your day at a cozy local cafe. Try:

• Café Babalú – quirky and colorful, serving pastries and light meals
• Reykjavik Roasters – locally roasted coffee and baked goods
• Skyr with granola, or rúgbrauð (dark rye bread) with butter and cheese make for a classic Icelandic start.

Mid-Morning: Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church

Reykjavik’s most iconic landmark, this striking church offers panoramic views from its tower. Its design, inspired by basalt lava flows, is as unique as the city itself.

Late Morning: Wander Reykjavik’s Old Town

Stroll along Rainbow Street toward Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street. You’ll find:

• Local boutiques and Icelandic wool products
• Art galleries and street art
• Austurvöllur Square, perfect for people-watching
• The Mario Wall – a hidden gem photo spot!

If you’re into history or culture, pop into:

• The National Museum of Iceland
• Reykjavik City Museum
• Lava Show or a Whale Watching tour

Lunch: Icelandic Comfort Food

Try something traditionally Icelandic—or brave a bite of fermented shark if you dare!

• The Laundromat Cafe – fun atmosphere and hearty meals
• Fish and chips, or lamb soup are local favorites

Afternoon: Stroll Along the Waterfront

Walk along the coastal path with views of the Esja mountain range. Don’t miss:

• Sun Voyager (Sólfar) – a stunning steel sculpture inspired by Viking ships
• Harpa Concert Hall – impressive glass architecture and events

Prefer to relax? Head to the Sky Lagoon, a luxurious geothermal spa with infinity-edge views over the North Atlantic.

Dinner: Fresh Icelandic Seafood

Dine by the Old Harbour in the up-and-coming Grandi district.

• The Fish Market – upscale, modern Icelandic fare
• Grandi Mathöll – casual food hall with diverse options
• Omnom Chocolate Factory – grab dessert or take a tour! (Featured in Zac Efron’s Netflix show Down to Earth)

Nightlife: Reykjavik After Dark

Reykjavik’s nightlife is famously lively. Check out:

• Kaffibarinn – iconic, laid-back bar
• Gaukurinn – live music and local artists
• Bakkus – cozy cocktail bar

Day 2: Day Trip & Natural Wonders

Morning: Golden Circle Tour

Rent a car or join a guided tour to explore the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most popular sightseeing loop.

1. Þingvellir National Park – walk between the tectonic plates, snorkel in Silfra, and explore Viking history
2. Geysir Geothermal Area – watch Strokkur erupt every few minutes
3. Gullfoss Waterfall – one of Iceland’s most powerful and beautiful waterfalls

Lunch: Tomato Farm Feast

Stop at Friðheimar Farm, a greenhouse restaurant offering fresh tomato-based dishes in a unique setting. Enjoy:

• Tomato soup with homemade bread
• Tomato beer, if you’re feeling adventurous!

Alternatively, try one of the restaurants across from the Geysir area for a convenient bite.

Afternoon: Soak in the Blue Lagoon

Cap off your Icelandic adventure at the famous Blue Lagoon, just 45 minutes from Reykjavik. Soak in the milky blue waters, enjoy a drink at the swim-up bar, and even try a silica mud mask. It’s the ultimate way to relax before your return flight.

Pro tip: Book your tickets in advance – slots can fill up fast, especially in high season.

Dinner: Last Night in Reykjavik

Head back into the city for a cozy final meal. Some great options include:

• Sægreifinn (The Sea Baron) – known for lobster soup and grilled seafood skewers
• Restaurants in the Old Harbour district for a warm, local feel

Travel Tips for Reykjavik

• Getting Around: Reykjavik is walkable, and most attractions are downtown. To explore further, rent a car or join a day tour.
• Weather: Unpredictable! Dress in layers, and bring waterproof gear even in summer.
• Best Time to Visit:
  • Summer: Enjoy the Midnight Sun with nearly 24 hours of daylight
  • Winter: Chase the Northern Lights – check the aurora forecast

Bless, Reykjavik!

(“Bless” means goodbye in Icelandic 🇮🇸)

Reykjavik might be small, but it’s packed with culture, character, and adventure. Whether you’re soaking in geothermal waters, walking between tectonic plates, or sipping coffee in a cozy cafe, this 2-day itinerary will give you the perfect taste of Iceland’s capital city.

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