A 3-day visit to Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, offers a perfect blend of city culture, history, and the unique natural beauty of its surroundings. Here’s how you can make the most of your three days, ensuring you experience the best of Reykjavik and its iconic landscapes.
Day 1: Discover Downtown Reykjavik
Morning:
- Hallgrímskirkja (9:00 AM – 10:00 AM): Start your day at this iconic church, the tallest structure in Iceland. Don’t miss the view from the top, offering panoramic views of the city.
- Walk down Laugavegur (10:15 AM – 11:30 AM): Explore Reykjavik’s main shopping street, known for its boutiques, cafés, and street art.
Midday:
- Lunch at a local café (11:45 AM – 12:45 PM): Enjoy Icelandic cuisine in one of Laugavegur’s cozy cafés.
Afternoon:
- Reykjavik City Hall and Tjörnin Lake (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM): A short walk to see the city hall and the picturesque lake, often filled with birds.
- National Museum of Iceland (2:15 PM – 4:00 PM): Dive into Iceland’s history, from the Viking Age to modern times.
Evening:
- Dinner in the Old Harbour area (6:00 PM – 7:30 PM): The Old Harbour offers a variety of seafood restaurants with fresh local catches.
- Northern Lights tour (seasonal, usually starts around 9:00 PM): If visiting in the right season (September to April), don’t miss a guided tour to catch the Aurora Borealis.
Day 2: The Golden Circle Tour
Full Day:
A day trip to the Golden Circle is a must-do. This route covers about 300 kilometers and loops from Reykjavik into central Iceland and back. Key stops include:
- Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, significant for its geological and historical importance.
- Geysir Geothermal Area: Witness the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes.
- Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls.
- Kerið Crater Lake (Optional): A scenic volcanic crater lake, worth visiting if time allows.
Consider booking a guided tour for convenience and insightful information about each site. Tours typically run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Day 3: Relax and Explore Nature
Morning:
- Blue Lagoon (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Start your day with a relaxing soak in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. Booking in advance is recommended.
Afternoon:
- Lunch in Grindavík (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM): Enjoy lunch in this nearby fishing town before heading back to Reykjavik.
- Perlan (2:30 PM – 4:00 PM): Visit this iconic building for its Wonders of Iceland exhibition and its observation deck offering great views of Reykjavik and surroundings.
Evening:
- Dinner and explore Reykjavik’s nightlife (from 7:00 PM): Spend your last evening enjoying Reykjavik’s vibrant nightlife. The city is known for its lively bars and clubs, especially around Laugavegur and the Old Harbour.
Tips:
- Transportation: While Reykjavik’s center is walkable, renting a car or joining tours is recommended for exploring outside the city.
- Cost Information:
- Entrance fees for museums and attractions like Perlan and the Blue Lagoon vary; expect to pay around 6000-9000 ISK for the Blue Lagoon (pre-booking required).
- Golden Circle tours range from 10,000 to 15,000 ISK per person.
- Dress Appropriately: The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable. Layering and waterproof clothing are essential, even in summer.
Conclusion
This 3-day itinerary offers a comprehensive experience of Reykjavik and the natural wonders of Iceland. From urban exploration to geothermal relaxation and the majesty of the Golden Circle, you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for this unique island nation.
