Iceland is a somewhat misleading name for this island nation, as it has plenty of green spaces and very livable locations, especially along the scenic coastline. Most notably, Reykjavik has everything expected in a capital city. Explore the great cultural and historic sites in its central neighborhoods and venture beyond the city for fantastic outdoor attractions. Accommodations include luxury hotels, cozy guesthouses, hostels, and even geodesic domes. Decide where to stay in the city or around the nearby suburbs to get the most out of your Reykjavik vacation.
Where to stay
in Reykjavik
Great Neighborhoods for Culture
Stay in Reykjavik 101, the downtown neighborhood, to admire the very visible Hallgrimskirkja, a hilltop church with architecture resembling the basalt columns and mountains of the island. Browse artifacts from six different institutions at the Culture House. Hotels in nearby Vesturbær are perfect for attending events at Harpa Concert Hall. Hlíðar is a great place to stay to visit Perlan, a landmark domed building housing the Wonders of Iceland and the National Museum of Iceland. The Icelandic Phallological Museum is also close to this inner-city area. Stay in Reykjavik East for Reykjavík Art Museum Kjarvalsstaðir, with paintings by Icelandic and other artists.
Vesturbær
The abundant dining options and waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Vesturbær. A stop by Reykjavik Harbour or Landakotskirkja might round out your trip.
Recommended hotels in Vesturbær
Where to Stay for Outdoor Activities
Stay in Laugardalur for the Grasagardur Botanical Garden, the Húsdýragarðurinn Park & Zoo, and the Ice Rink Laugardalur - Skautahöllin í Laugardal. Southwest of the city, Hafnarfjordur is a great place to stay for Hellisgerdi Park, the Port of Hafnarfjordur, and the Viking Village. Hotels northeast of the city in Mosfellsbaer are close to opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and a waterpark with geothermally heated pools. Book a hotel in Vesturbær and catch a boat tour from the harbor to look for whales and puffins. Accommodations in Seltjarnarnes are perfect for late-night observations of the midnight sun and northern lights. Stay in neighborhoods across Reykjavik and rent a car or join a tour to follow the Golden Circle route, a daytrip filled with waterfalls, geysers, and peaceful walking trails.
Laugardalur
Laugardalur is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool or Laugavegur.
Recommended hotels in Laugardalur
Hafnarfjordur
Hafnarfjordur is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Viking Village and Geothermal Area of Krysuvik while in the area.
Recommended hotels in Hafnarfjordur
Mosfellsbær
Unique features of Mosfellsbær include the mountain views and shopping. Make a stop by Varmarlaug Swimming Pool or Alafoss Waterfall while you're exploring the area.
Recommended hotels in Mosfellsbær
Seltjarnarnes
Travelers like the coffeehouses in Seltjarnarnes, and Grotta Lighthouse is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Best Areas to Stay for Museums
Learn about various aspects of Iceland's stories at museums across Reykjavik. Hotels in Kopavogur are convenient for visiting the Gerðarsafn Kopavogur Art Museum, where the modern and contemporary art includes both Icelandic and international works. Instead of rushing to central Reykjavik upon arrival in Iceland, stay near the Keflavik International Airport (KEF) to tour multiple museums, including Viking World, the Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll, and Duus Museum, which features numerous boat models. Accommodations in Vesturbær are great for visiting Aurora Reykjavik, the National Museum of Iceland, and the Settlement Exhibition.
Kópavogur
Travelers come to Kópavogur for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Sky Lagoon and Sundlaugin Versolum Swimming Pool while you're in town.
Recommended hotels in Kópavogur
Vesturbær
The abundant dining options and waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Vesturbær. A stop by Reykjavik Harbour or Landakotskirkja might round out your trip.
Recommended hotels in Vesturbær
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- Reykjavik City Library
- Reykjavik 871 +/- 2 The Settlement Exhibition
- Parliament House
- Reykjavík Cathedral
- Reykjavik City Hall
- Visit Capital Region
- Capital Region Vacations
- Iceland Phallological Museum
- Reykjavik Harbour
- Elding Reykjavik Whale Watching
- Landakotskirkja
- Arnarholl Statue
- Reykjavik Free Church
- Þjóðmenningarhúsið
- Harpa
- National Museum of Iceland
- Hallgrimskirkja
- Vesturbaejarlaug Swimming Pool
- University of Iceland
- Visit Vesturbær
- Sundhollin