The Ultimate Cruise Port Stop Guide for Reykjavík, Iceland

Updated January 7, 2026

Originally Published June 9, 2025

Here’s all you need to know to make the most out of a port day when your cruise ship makes a stop to Reykjavík, Iceland!

_{Please note: this post contains affiliate links which means if you buy something following a link on this page, I may get a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This is absolutely free for you/does not cost you anything extra! There’s no sponsored content nor do I run ads here so this helps so much in reducing the ever-increasing costs of keeping this site active.Thanks! Rosemary}

LOGISTICS

MONEY MATTERS

CASH or CREDIT: Credit cards + mobile payments widely accepted (Visa and Mastercard always worked but hit or miss with AMEX). Other than for tipping in local currency, I have never needed to carry cash (ie tipping guides on already paid tours or leaving cash for housekeeping). TIPPING is not obligatory with high/living wages (as with other Nordic nations) and strong workers laws (ie there isn’t a tipping culture like that in the US as workers are reliant upon tips as part of their salary). That being said, it’s a gesture of appreciation to tip if you receive great service so we did!

COMMUNICATION

English is widely spoken throughout Iceland.

ETIAS / VISAS

• Some visitors to a Schengen Zone Country will need a visa – visit the Government of Iceland’s Visa page to learn more
• Others should be aware of a new requirement being introduced soon. European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is the new travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers to enter 30 European countries (including Iceland, Norway, Switzerland).
  • The implementation date keeps getting pushed back but it is currently slated to start the last quarter of 2026. Visit the official ETIAS site here for more information.

PORT INFO

_{BEAUTIFUL TIP: Reminder that arrival times for port days are estimates for when the ship will be docked and may not be when the port has given approval to the ship to allow passengers to get off. IF the activity start time is close to arrival times, I will always reach out the activity/tour provider and find out exactly what their policy is if I am not able to be there on time. I have found that many operators are flexible especially if the majority/all of the participants are from the cruise ship but some may not be able to accommodate late arrivals with no refund given. Whilst both scenarios are valid business practices, don’t make the mistake of finding out it’s the latter when you aren’t able to join!}

How to get from the Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal to Reykjavík:

How to get from the Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal to/from Keflavik Airport:

Keflavik Airport Private Transfer To/From Reykjavik cruise Ports

Note that this is a one way booking providing private + direct transportation from the Reykjavik Cruise Terminal or hotel to Keflavik Airport, or vice versa.

Taxis

Many are surprised to learn that Keflavik is not close to Reykjavík (about 40 minute drive) so this can be a pricey way to get to/from the airport. Taxis while expensive are a convenient and safe way to travel in Iceland – rates are set/published and the industry is highly regulated. Ride share (Bolt, Uber) are not available in Iceland.

TOP SHORE EXCURSIONS/TOURS

Snaefellsnes Small Group Tour with Homemade Meal

Visit the best of the Snaefellsness peninsula in West Iceland in a day in this small group, all day tour. Explore mountains, glaciers, beaches, and more including Mt. Kirkjufell and Djupalonssandur black-sand beach and spot wildlife. (PHOTO are from Viator – Provider Photos)

*Premium Small-Group Puffin & Bird Watching Boat Tour

See puffins, seabirds, and more in Faxaflói Bay in a custom made RIB boat on this boat tour. Warm overalls, gloves, goggles and all necessary safety equipment as well binoculars are provided

IMPORTANT NOTES: there is no pickup for this tour and it meets from the Old Harbour in Reykjavik (which is ~ 850 meters / 11-15 min walk from Harpa) AND there is a minimum of height of 145 centimeters/ 4 feet 9 inches to participate

*RIB Whale Watching Small-Group Boat Tour

Sail Faxaflói Bay in search of whales and more marine wildlife. During puffin season, this boat ride will also sail by the smaller islands so you can see the puffins and other birds. The great thing about this tour is in the case of no sightings you will get a ticket for an alternative tour

IMPORTANT NOTES: that children must be over the age of 10 and over 145 centimeters/ 4 feet 9 inches’ tall to participate AND there is no pickup for this tour and it meets from the Old Harbour in Reykjavik (which is ~ 850 meters / 11-15 min walk from Harpa)

Lava Tunnel Tour from Including Transfers

Discover the incredible Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel in Iceland that is only accessible via a guided tour. Explore ancient lava formations and colorful rock walls. The spectacular lava tube, formed over 5,000 years ago, offers a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic landscape with no hiking expertise required! Three possible tours

• Standard Lava Tunnel Tour (1 hour): The most popular option, suitable for all ages and fitness levels – note there is the option for pick up available
• Extreme Lava Tunnel Tour (3–4 hours): For the adventurous traveler, this longer version explores deeper, darker sections of the lava tube with some crawling and climbing. Note the tour does not include pick-up/transportation and is for the tour only
• Evening Lava Tunnel Tour: similar to standard Lava Tour (1 hour): This is after standard hours so it will only be your group in the tunnel this tours offers a combo with a Northern Lights Hunt (that does include pick-up/transportation)

For more on what my experience and tour were

*Reykjavík Food Walk – Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland

I don’t remember seeing any other perfect – 5* star rated with 100% of travelers recommending a tour with this many reviews before (16,519 at the time of this post being published) INSANE right? I will be booking this 3 hour small group tour that dives into Reykjavík’s foodie scene and allows one to sample delicious Icelandic cuisine when I go back to Iceland

NOTE: Meetup for this tour is from Harpa Concert Hall

*Reykjavík Small group Walking Tour

Reykjavík is a perfect city to do a walking tour as many of the top sights/attractions are close to one another and this small-group tour ensures a personal sightseeing experience

I love walking tours when visiting cities for a number of reasons. You are able to discover the top attractions (with lots of info to help you decide what to do with your time after), learn things you would not have otherwise and have opportunity to connect with other travelers/guide.

NOTE: Meetup for this tour is from Hallgrimskirkja (1.2 km/ 18-22 min walk from Harpa)

*From Reykjavik: New Volcanic Area Helicopter Tour

Check off the ultimate bucklist experience with a flight over the new volcanic area on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula on a 35–50 minute helicopter flight from Reykjavik. Admire the breathtaking views of a smoldering volcano + see its simmering crater, flowing lava streams, and extensive lava field: this is a pricey experience, I would recommend booking if there is volcanic activity. This is a small group experience as they are five- or six-seater helicopters –

NOTE: Meetup for this tour is from Ace FBO Reykjavik (located just behind the Reykjavik Hotel Natura)

Small Group Northern Lights Tour with Hot chocolate & Photos

If you have the opportunity to go Aurora chasing – go for it! I am still blown away EVERY.SINGLE.TIME I see the Northern Lights. Reasons to choose this tour is that it’s on a mini-bus so less people and still affordable, free photos with the Northern lights AND the activity provider, Arctic Adventures, provides unlimited re-tries if you take the tour and don’t see the lights (for three years!) or option to refund if they have to cancel the tour due to weather (only on the first tour ie you won’t get a refund on a re-booking).

REYKJAVÍK

Reykjavík is the northernmost capital in the world, is the largest city in Iceland, and serves as the country’s cultural, economic, and governmental center. Foreigners are drawn here as it is among the cleanest, greenest, and safest cities in the world. Plus the whole population of Iceland is 400,000 so even with the majority of people living in/around the capital area, it won’t feel crowded to most visitors.

One of the reasons why I love GetYourGuide is that they have this awesome part of their site dedicated to Trip Inspiration with City Guides

Safety

Iceland is often touted as the safest country in the world especially to travel to. As someone who has traveled to 70+ countries most often solo + been to Iceland now multiple times (most of the time solo) and can say that it is absolutely true and that sentiment applies to the capital as well. I have tried to explain what I mean with the feeling that I have when I am in Iceland but I compare it to what I wish that I felt when home – safe in all regards. Not once did I feel threatened and also have not ever experienced any type of sexual harassment (which unfortunately was the first time this had ever happened for me!).

Water Quality

Icelandic water is incredible – the water quality is high so feel free to fill up your reusable water bottles =) Seriously do yourself and the earth a favor and don’t buy bottled water

HOW TO GET AROUND REYKJAVÍK

Walking

Downtown Reykjavik is compact and flat and is extremely easy to navigate. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within short/medium walking distance of Harpa Concert Hall

• Skolavordustigur/Rainbow Street: 600 meters / 9-12 min walk
• Old Harbor: ~850 meters / 11-15 min walk
• Hallgrimskirkja: 1.2 kilometers / 18-22 min walk from Harpa

City Bus

The yellow public buses seen around Reykjavík are part of Strætó, Iceland’s vast public transport network, and are an incredibly affordable way to get around. Check Strætó’s website for timetables and ticket price

Electric Scooters

Hopp, the scooter rental service, operates a large, bright-green fleet on the streets of Reykjavík. To locate and access one, download the Hopp app. 

Hop On Hop Off Bus

Taxis

An expensive but convenient way to get around. They are metered and I have never had an issue using them to get around. There are no ride shares (Bolt, Uber, etc) in Iceland.

TOP ATTRACTIONS/POINTS OF INTEREST

Harpa Concert Hall

Within Reykjavík: 4.1 kilometers 55-65 min walk from cruise port / HOHO stop. Architectural gem on the harbor with kaleidoscopic glass panels and the drop off point for cruise shuttles

Beautiful tips: Even if you don’t attend a concert, take some time to check out the inside of the building as it’s free to enter. Note that there are public restrooms here but there is a nominal 200 ISK fee to use – credit cards/Apple pay work so no need for coins if you don’t have them.

Hallgrimskirkja

Skolavordustigur

Within Reykjavík: 600 meters / 9-12 min walk from Harpa

The famous Rainbow Street known for its restaurants and pubs with interesting galleries and shops.

Old Harbour Area

Within Reykjavík: ~850 meters 11-15 min walk from Harpa / HOHO Stop

Vibrant neighborhood with whale-watching, puffin boat tour departures, cafés, seafood restaurants, museums, and boutiques.

Perlan Museum

Within Reykjavík: 2.9 kilometers 44-53 min walk from Harpa / HOHO Stop

Why is the Perlan one of my FAVORITE places to go in Reykjavík? Fun and immersive museum experience? – check! Incredible 360 views of Reykjavík? – check! Delicious and reasonably priced food, drinks AND ice cream? – check! Read about my experience here. Get your tickets here

If you want to have the transportation figured out for you: consider the Reykjavík: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Perlan Museum Entry Ticket – where the Perlan and the cruise terminal are two of the 16 stops for the bus

Golden Circle (GC)

This is the tour that I did with my family on our NCL Prima Cruise, read what our experience was like here

GC Stop: Gullfoss Waterfall

“Golden Falls“ We were given the opportunity and time to view this massive waterfall from multiple viewpoints along scenic, paved trails. Unlike most waterfalls, which are typically observed from below, the desired vantage point is from above to fully appreciate it’s unique features. Rather than being a single cascade, Gullfoss is made up of two distinct tiers: the first drop is 36 feet (11 meters), followed by a second, larger plunge of 69 feet (21 meters).

GC Stop: Geysir Geothermal Area

GC Stop: Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park

In 2004, Þingvellir was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for both its historical and geological importance.

Historical: Þingvellir (Thingvellir) translated to English means “Assembly Plains.” and as such, holds great historical significance. Althingi, the oldest parliament in the world, was established here in 930 AD and is why many consider this to be the birthplace of the nation.

Geological: The Mid-Atlantic Rift or Ridge, which runs through Iceland, marks the boundary between two tectonic plates. Þingvellir lies in a rift valley or where the Earth’s crust is being pulled apart. Here we were able to see the separation of the Eurasian and North American plates as it is one of the few places on Earth where this movement can be seen on land!

GC Stop: Kerid Crater (can be added on)

Kerid which is a crater that was formed approx. 6500 years ago when an ancient volcano’s magma chamber collapsed. It is known for the striking contrast between the red, black and green slopes that are set against mesmerizing blue-green waters of the crater lake.

South Coast (SC)

While I didn’t do this as a tour – I visit these stops as part of a road trip, read about that experience here

SC Stop: Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most renowned waterfalls, where you have the option to walk behind the cascading water

SC Stop: Sólheimajökull Glacier

A stop at Sólheimajökull to admire the glacier up close, without hiking on it

SC Stop: Reynisfjara Beach

The most famous black sand beach in Iceland, with basalt columns and powerful waves.

SC Stop: Vík

A short photo stop at the photogenic village of Vík

Lagoons

One of my top suggestions if you are going to visit Iceland is to go experience a lagoon and take a dip in the geothermal heated water. I consider this a must to truly experience the land of fire and ice in the same way you should sauna when visiting Finland or eat pasta and gelato in Italy.

Blue Lagoon

Outside of Reykjavík: The most iconic of the Icelandic lagoons is the Blue Lagoon. We did this Blue Lagoon Admission with Transfers excursion – read about our experience and how convenient it was to get to the Blue Lagoon here.

Premium Admission comes with two free drinks of your choice + bathrobe – purchase here

Secret Lagoon

Outside of Reykjavík/located conveniently within the Golden Circle for those embarking on that tour:

Sky Lagoon

Outside of Reykjavík: More than just a lagoon, it is a luxurious spa hot/cold experience – click here to book tickets and here for tickets and shared transfer to and from Reykjavík

Wildlife

Icelandic Horse

Norse Vikings brought with them horses 1100 years ago when they sailed over to the island and it has been revealed that they descended from an ancient breed of horse that is now extinct outside of Iceland. It is one of the purest horse breeds in the world as they have been and continue to be preserved in isolation. No horses are allowed to be imported in, with the law so rigid that once a horse leaves Iceland, it will never be allowed to return.

Puffins / Bird Watching

Get up close to wildlife without disturbing them during puffin season which runs early May to the end of August on a boat tour 

Marine Life

Search for minke and humpback whales, porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins as you cruise Faxaflói Bay – during puffin season, the boats will be able to cruise by the small islands near Reykjavík.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS/POINTS OF INTERESTS

National Museum of Iceland

Within Reykjavík: 1.6 kilometers 23-28 min walk from Harpa / near HOHO Stop

Dive into the fascinating history of the Icelandic nation at the National Museum of Iceland. Buy tickets here

Lava Show Reykjavik Admission Ticket – Optional Premium Upgrade

Within Reykjavík: ~850 meters 11-15 min walk from Harpa / HOHO Stop

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind Icelandic experience—and get up close and personal to real volcanic lava—during this show in Reykjavik. Buy tickets here

Whales of Iceland

Within Reykjavík: 1.7 kilometers 23-28 min walk from Harpa/ HOHO Stop

Discover more than 20 life-size models of the various whale species that are found in Iceland. Buy tickets here

The Icelandic Phallological Museum

Within town: 350 meters / 5-8 min walk from Harpa.

More than 200 penises and penile parts representing almost all Icelandic land & sea mammals – what did you think this was going to be about?

Sun Voyager Sculpture

Within Reykjavík: 600 meters / 8-10 min walk from Harpa.

Metal sculpture overlooking the bay

Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnels

Outside of Reykjavík:

Explore an Icelandic natural wonder only accessible on a guided tour such as this one.

CRUISE TIPS FOR DIFFERENT SEASONS IN REYKJAVÍK

• Summer (June–August)
  • Highlights: Midnight Sun, whale watching, outdoor cafés, and festivals.
  • What to Pack: Light layers, sunglasses (for the endless daylight), and a waterproof jacket.
• Fall / Autumn (September–October)
  • Highlights: Northern Lights begin, fewer crowds, crisp air.
  • What to Pack: Warm clothing, gloves, and camera gear for aurora chasing.
• Winter (November–March)
  • Highlights: Northern Lights, snow-covered landscapes, cozy cafés.
  • What to Pack: Insulated boots, hat, scarf, and thermal layers.
• Spring (April–May)
  • Highlights: Blooming nature, longer days, great sightseeing weather.
  • What to Pack: Waterproof shoes and warm layers for unpredictable weather.
• Year-Round Tips
  • Pro Tip: Reykjavík’s weather can change quickly — always dress in layers, even in summer.

EAT / DRINK

• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
  • Within Reykjavík there’s a number of locations but the closest one to Harpa is 500 meters or a 7-10 min walk away:
  • World-famous hot dog stand loved by both locals and celebs
  • Try one with “the works”
• Íslenski Barinn (The Icelandic Bar)
  • Within Reykjavík: 450 meters or a 7-10 min walk away from Harpa:
  • Family run gastropub known for authentic Icelandic home cooking with a modern twist
  • Try: Classics like lamb stew, seafood soup, and even fermented shark (if you dare).
• Fiskfélagið (Fish Company)
  • Within Reykjavík: 650 meters or a 9-12 min walk away from Harpa
  • Upscale dining with creative Icelandic-Nordic fusion plates.
• Icelandic Street Food
  • Within Reykjavík: 600 meters or a 8-11 min walk away from Harpa
  • Family owned restaurant known for delicious bread and soup (with free refills) along with free waffles and jam!
• 101 Reykjavík Street Food
  • Within Reykjavík: 650 meters or a 9-12 min walk away from Harpa
  • Affordable eatery recommended by many for their yummy fish and chips

• NOTE: there are a LOT of great bakeries and cafes in Iceland and within Reykjavík so try a few!
• Brauð & Co
  • Within Reykjavík there’s a number of locations but the closest one to Harpa is 550 meters or a 8-11 min walk away
  • Delicious, freshly baked pastries that are reasonably priced, big in size and made with the best organic ingredients
  • Try: Croissants (made with legendary Icelandic butter) and their addictive cinnamon rolls
• Sandholt Bakery
  • Within Reykjavík: 800 meters or a 13-16 min walk away from Harpa
  • Excellent bakery and brunch café with sourdough, cakes, and open sandwiches
• Kaffibrennslan
  • Within Reykjavík: 650 meters or a 10-13 min walk away from Harpa
  • Cozy central café perfect for a quick espresso break.
• Reykjavík Roasters
  • Artisan coffee shop with house-roasted beans and pastries.

SHOPPING & SOUVENIRS

FAQ: OTHER ?s RE VISTING REYKJAVÍK CRUISE PORT

• Can I walk to the city center from the port?
  • You can walk, it’s a scenic but longer walk of 48-52 minutes to get to the Sun Voayger statue / 55-65 minutes to get to Harpa Concert
• Is the water in Iceland safe to drink?
  • YES! Seriously the best tasting water in the world – please do yourself and the earth a favor and use your refillable water bottle but especially when in Reykjavík and Iceland!
• What time zone is Reykjavík in?
  • Iceland follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and does not observe daylight savings. Be sure to double-check your ship’s time before returning to the port!

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