Reykjavík, Iceland Departure Port Guide: With Places To Stay, Things To Do/See/Eat PLUS All Of The Tips Pre or Post Cruise!

Most Recently Updated January 10, 2026

Originally Published January 9, 2026

Reykjavik combines culture, cuisine, design, and nature in a way few cities can. Let me help you make the most of your time starting or ending your cruise with this complete guide. Since you already have a flight in or out of Keflavik, my first piece of advice is to add at least a day or two – trust me it will be worth it!

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REYKJAVÍK TRAVEL TIPS & ESSENTIALS

Communication

English is widely spoken throughout Iceland

Currency / 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!

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.

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 and it is so good! So feel free to fill up your reusable water bottles =) Seriously do your wallet and the earth a favor and don’t buy bottled water. Beautiful tip: fill up your water bottle at KEF (stations available near the restroom and in the Saga Lounge post-security) for that last little bit of liquid goodness

HOW TO GET TO ICELAND (+ REYKJAVÍK)

How to get from/to Keflavik Airport to/from Reykjavík hotels

Keflavik Airport Private Transfer To/From Reykjavik

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 ~$160-$200 USD!! There are no ride shares (Bolt, Uber, etc) in Iceland.

Rental Cars

Ideal if continuing beyond Reykjavik and you will find all major rental companies operate at KEF.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT CRUISE PORT – SKARFABAKKI

Skarfabakki is the main cruise terminal with medium/larger ships docking here. It is 4.1 km from Harpa Concert Hall

How to get from the Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal to Reykjavík:

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

• Shared Transfer from Keflavik to Reykjavík cruise terminal: SERIOUSLY do not fly into a port the day of your cruise!
• Shared Transfer to Keflavik Airport (KEF) from Reykjavík hotels/cruise terminal: Save money over booking directly from the cruise line with the Skarfabakki being a pick up option
  • Read my review / guide on here on Flybus (which is how I get to/from Keflavik every time I am in Reykjavík!)
• Keflavik Airport Private Transfer To/From Reykjavik cruise Ports 
• 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.
  • 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.

REYKJAVÍK

Reykjavík is the northernmost capital in the world, 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

WHERE TO STAY

Hostels

Hostels like KEX and Loft are fantastic for young solo travelers but are not exclusive to them. If you book here, expect lively common areas and social vibes. I use Hostelworld to learn more about the properties and importantly read reviews – there’s many types of hostels that cater to many different types of travelers!

• KEX Hostel & Hotel: Lively hostel with a popular bar and restaurant, great for meeting other solo travelers and those who enjoy a young, energetic atmosphere downtown. 
  • Best for: Social & budget-minded travelers and culture seekers / Good to know: female-only dorms are offered
  • Nearest bus stop: #9 – Snorrabraut / Distance to hostel: 400 meters / 0.25 miles – 5 min walk
• Reykjavík – Loft HI Eco Hostel: Central location, rooftop terrace, and strong social spaces make this ideal for solo explorers who want community, sustainability, and easy access
  • Best for: Solo adventurers and eco-conscious travelers / Good to know: female-only dorms are offered
  • Nearest bus stop: #6 – Safnahúsið (Cultural House) / Distance to hostel: 120 meters / 390 feet – 2 min walk

Budget Hotels

Budget options such as Center Hotels Laugavegur or Exeter Hotel appeal towards travelers who want a clean, comfortable place to stay at attractive prices.

• Center Hotels Laugavegur: Central location on Reykjavik’s main street, excellent service, and a welcoming classic hotel ambience at a very accessible price point. 
  • Best for: First-time visitors and value seekers / Good to know: Free continental daily breakfast included
  • Nearest bus stop: #9 – Snorrabraut / Distance to hotel: 140 meters / 460 feet – 2 min walk
• Exeter Hotel: Stylish but affordable, tucked into one of Reykjavik’s best dining districts, perfect for travelers who want comfort, locale, and easy nights out. 
  • Best for: Foodies and couple trips / Good to know: Free continental daily breakfast included + Part of Mr & Mrs Smith (w/limited Hyatt benefits)
  • Nearest bus stop: #4 – Miðbakki Harbour / Distance to hotel: 160 meters / 525 feet – 2 min walk

Mid-Scale Hotels

Mid-scale options such as Alda Hotel or balance comfort and location, great for couples, families, or first-time visitors who are willing to spend a little bit more.

• Alda Hotel Reykjavik: Highly rated for its excellent staff, comfortable rooms, and superb central location – especially great wanting a balance of price, quality, and walkability. 
  • Best for: Comfort-focused explorers / Good to know: Free daily breakfast included
  • Nearest bus stop: #9 – Snorrabraut / Distance to hotel: 280 meters / 0.17 miles – 4 min walk
• Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel: Apartment-style layout with kitchen facilities makes this ideal for travelers looking for extra space, practical amenities, and a home-like base for multi-day stays.
  • Best for: Families and longer stays / Good to know: Complex of 8 historical buildings with confirmation of your specific building on day of arrival
  • Nearest bus stop: #14 – Skúlagata / Distance to hotel from #14: 400 meters / 0.25 miles – 6 min walk
    • #6 – Safnahúsið (Cultural House) might be closer based on which building you are in!

Boutique & Upscale Hotels

Boutique hotels like and upscale hotel like Hotel Borg are for those wanting a more unique or refined experience with a higher budget for their accommodations.

Boutique Hotels & Villas

• Apotek Hotel by Keahotels: A stylish boutique pick right in the heart of Reykjavik with chic décor and excellent proximity to restaurants, galleries, and nightlife.
  • Best for: Design lovers and culinary explorers
  • Nearest bus stop: #3 – Lækjartorg / Distance to hotel: 160 meters / 525 feet – 2 min walk
• Hotel Borg by Keahotels: Elegant Art Deco décor, superb central location, and high service levels make this a standout choice for history buffs, culture travelers, and those seeking classic European-style luxury. 
  • Best for: History lovers and classic upscale travelers
  • Nearest bus stop: #3 – Lækjartorg / Distance to hotel: 140 meters / 460 feet – 2 min walk

Hotels You Can Book With Points!

I have been able to come back to Iceland a few times now and love the benefits that come with being a Hilton Diamond member. At the Hilton Nordica, I get access to the executive lounge and the complimentary 2-hour daily happy hour; complimentary access to the spa and complimentary buffet breakfast at the onsite Vox restaurant! Read my review of the property here

Hilton Hotels

• Hilton Reykjavik Nordica: Slightly outside the downtown core but excellent facilities including spa and restaurant make it ideal for those looking for more resort-style amenities
  • 60,000 – 65,000 HH points needed for a standard room
  • Good to know: Rooms with executive lounge access / some consider location a drawback / / Best for: Hilton elites looking for max benefits
  • Tours/airport shuttles pick up at hotel since it’s outside the downtown area / Local bus stop is ‘Engjateigur’ and directly in front of the hotel
• Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik: Highly rated for its modern design, vibrant social spaces, and excellent café/bar amenities right in the heart of the city’s downtown. 
  • 74,000 – 85,000 HH points needed for a standard room
  • Good to know: Near Laugavegur shopping, cafés, and nightlife / Best for: Young couples & design conscious travelers
  • Nearest bus stop: #6 – Safnahúsið (Cultural House) / Distance to hotel: 200 meters / 0.12 miles – 3 min walk
• Iceland Parliament Hotel – Curio Collection by Hilton: Fantastic central location near Austurvöllur Square and Reykjavik’s top cultural sites
  • 80,000 HH points needed for a standard room
  • Good to know: On Austurvöllur Square, steps from Parliament & cathedral / Best for: Culture & city buffs
  • Nearest bus stop: #3 – Lækjartorg / Distance to hotel: 200 meters / 0.12 miles – 3 min walk
• Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel – Curio Collection by Hilton: Central location near Harpa and Hallgrímskirkja with polished service and a relaxed vibe
  • 80,000 HH points needed for a standard room
  • Good to know: Next to Bæjarins Beztu hot dogs & near Harpa Concert Hall. / Best for: Urban explorers and Hilton loyalists
  • Nearest bus stop: #1 – Ráðhúsið (City Hall) / Distance to hotel: 400 meters / 0.25 miles – 6 min walk

Hotel Program Details

• Hilton Honors (HH): Dynamic pricing/no award chart
• HH Elites get 5th night free when booking on points

Hyatt Hotels

There are technically Hyatt hotels but only Mr and Mrs Smith properties in Reykjavík (and Iceland) but the number of points needed to book them is astronomical so I opted out of including them here. Plus World of Hyatt members including Globalists have limited benefits (ie no room upgrades, complimentary breakfast or late check-outs). Stays can earn Elite Qualifying Night credit and points with eligible cash rates

IHG Hotels

• Candlewood Suites Reykjavik: New extended-stay property ideal for longer stays, equipped kitchens and city-center access.
  • IHG credit cardholders get 4th night free when booking on points
  • Good to know: Wildly varying rates for points needed with winter offering great value for location & # of points needed- but hotel also just opened 1/26 so time will tell
  • Nearest bus stop: #13 – Rauðarárstígur / Distance to hostel: 350 meters / 360 feet – 5 min walk

Hotel Program Details

• IHG – Dynamic pricing/no award chart
• IHG credit cardholders get 4th night free when booking on points

Marriott International

• The Reykjavík EDITION: Contemporary luxury with refined design, superb harbor views, and high-end service
  • 70,000 – 85,000+ Bonvoy points needed for a standard room
  • Good to know: Considered Iceland’s first modern luxury hotel / Best for: Those seeking a premium stay with vibrant local access
  • Nearest bus stop: #5 – Harpa / Distance to hostel: 250 meters / 200 feet – 2 min walk
• There are two Design Hotel options but like Hyatt’s Mr&Mrs. Smith properties – very poor redemption values + limited Bonvoy benefits
• For a stay close to the airpot: there’s the Courtyard by Marriott Keflavik Airport

Hotel Program Details

• Marriott Bonvoy – Dynamic pricing/no award chart
• All Bonvoy members get 5th night free when booking on points

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

Lagoons / Geothermal Pools

One of my top suggestions if you are going to visit Iceland is to go experience a lagoon or a geothermal pool 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.
  • Important Notes: The Blue Lagoon has introduced tiered pricing so different dates/times can have dramatically different pricing. Many time slots sell out quickly so buy tickets early!
• Secret Lagoon Outside of Reykjavík Located conveniently within the Golden Circle for those embarking on a tour or driving there
• Sky Lagoon Outside of Reykjavík: Billed as more than just a lagoon, it is a luxurious spa hot/cold experience:book tickets here or book tickets and shared transfer here
  • Important Note: No children under 12 are allowed at Sky Lagoon
• Public Geothermal Pool Within Reykjavík: For those looking for a more affordable or local experience, visit one of the 8 public pools within the city.
  • Sundhöllin: Historic pool 350 meter (5 min) walk from Hallgrimskirkja with indoor pool+indoor children’s pool+outdoor pool+hot tubs+cold tub+sauna+steam room.
  • Laugardalslaug City’s largest pool with a 50 meter outdoor pool, outdoor children’s pool and paddling pool, two water-slides, numerous hot tubs, steam bath, and mini golf course
  • Beautiful tip: For those traveling with children, 0 – 15 years old: Free and 16+17 years old, admission is 210 kr. which is ~!1.50! If you have a Reykjavík City Card, access to all eight pools in Reykjavík for adults is included!

Explore Reykjavík

• Harpa Concert Hall: Architectural gem on the harbor with kaleidoscopic glass panels and hosts concerts, exhibitions, and events year-round
  • 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/digital wallets work so no need for coins/Icelandic currency!
• Hallgrimskirkja: Reykjavík’s iconic, modernist Lutheran church inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns
  • Beautiful tip: Purchase a ticket to visit the tower/ride the elevator to the top for panoramic views of Reykjavík’s colorful rooftops, the harbor and the mountains.
• Skolavordustigur: The famous Rainbow Street known for its restaurants and pubs with interesting galleries and shops.
• Old Harbour Area: Vibrant neighborhood with cafés, seafood restaurants, museums, and boutiques.
• Sun Voyager Sculpture: Waterfront sculpture symbolizing exploration and hope and is a great spot to grab some sunset photos

Why a walking or food tour? I love the insider perspective and breadth of knowledge, tour guides bring. Pro tip: if you schedule the tour at the beginning of your trip, you can tweak your itinerary if you discover a gem you want to explore more in depth or a restaurant/cafe that you now must try.

Golden Circle (Do a Tour or Self Drive)

These were the main stops that we did on this Golden Circle with Kerid Crater 8.5 hours tour – read what our experience and the whole tour was like here

• Gullfoss Waterfall: “Golden Falls” 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).
• Geysir Geothermal Area: Visit to the Haukadalur Geothermal Valley where one can walk among steam vents, bubbling mud pots, and vibrant hot springs
  • Beautiful tip: The Stokkur geysir erupts reliably every 5 – 8 minutes
• Þingvellir(Thingvellir) National Park: In 2004, Þingvellir was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for both its historical and geological importance.
  • Historical: Þingvellir (Thingvellir) or “Assembly Plains.” Althingi, the oldest parliament in the world, was established here in 930 AD
  • Geological: Þingvellir lies in a rift valley or where the Earth’s crust is being pulled apart – see the separation of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates!
  • Beautiful tip: This is where you can snorkel between the rifts on a Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling with Free Photos! Read my guide and review on this activity here
• Kerid Crater (can be added on to the standard GC tour): Kerid which is a crater that was formed approx. 6500 years ago when an ancient volcano’s magma chamber collapsed.
• Beautiful tip: If you are taking a tour, one way to maximize your time is to add on a lagoon to this tour – consider one of these tours that include pick-up
  • Golden Circle with Kerid Crater and Blue Lagoon (11 hours) / Golden Circle with Kerid and Secret Lagoon (10 hours) / Golden Circle with Kerid and Sky Lagoon (10 hours

South Coast (Tour or Self-Drive)

Typical stops on this Iceland South Coast Full Day Small-Group include

• Seljalandsfoss: One of Iceland’s most renowned waterfalls, where you have the option to walk behind the cascading water
• Skógafoss: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland with a majestic 25-meter width and 60-meter drop.
  • Beautiful tip: There’s a viewpoint up top that you can hike to or feel the power at the bottom here
• Sólheimajökull Glacier: A stop at Sólheimajökull to admire the glacier up close, without hiking on it
• Reynisfjara Beach: The most famous black sand beach in Iceland, with basalt columns and powerful waves.
  • Beautiful tip: Obey the warning lights and heed local’s advice as the sea and waves in Iceland can be deadly
• A short photo stop at the photogenic village of Vík
• I visited most of these stops as part of a road trip, read about that experience here

See Some Icelandic 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.
  • This incredible Icelandic horse riding excursion is one of my favorite things I have done in Iceland. Here’s my guide and review on the experience
• 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 Premium Small-Group Puffin & Bird Watching Boat Tour
• Whales and Other Marine Life: Search for minke and humpback whales, porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins as you cruise Faxaflói Bay on a RIB boat, during puffin season, the boats will be able to cruise by the small islands near Reykjavík.

Visit A Museum or See A Show

• Perlan Museum Fun and immersive experience including an artificial ice cave AND incredible 360 views of Reykjavík AND delicious and reasonably priced food, drinks AND ice cream?
• *National Museum of Iceland: Best for overview of Icelandic history and culture
• Lava Show Reykjavik: Enjoy a one-of-a-kind Icelandic experience by getting up close and personal to real volcanic lava. Buy tickets here
• *Reykjavik Art Museum: Contemporary Icelandic and international art spread across three locations
• Whales of Iceland: Discover more than 20 life-size models of the various whale species that are found in Iceland. Buy tickets here
• The Icelandic Phallological Museum: More than 200 penises and penile parts representing almost all Icelandic land & sea mammals – what did you think this was going to be about?

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING REYKJAVÍK FOR EACH SEASON

• Summer (June-August)
  • Highlights: Midnight Sun, whale watching, outdoor cafés, and festivals.
  • What to Pack: Light layers, sunglasses and sleep mask 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, days becoming longer, great sightseeing weather.
  • What to Pack: Waterproof shoes and warm layers for unpredictable weather.
• Year-Round Tips
  • Beautiul Tip: Reykjavík’s weather can change quickly always dress in layers, even in summer.

WHAT TO EAT / DRINK

• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
  • World-famous hot dog stand loved by both locals and celebs / Try one with “the works”
• Íslenski Barinn (The Icelandic Bar)
  • 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)
  • Upscale dining with creative Icelandic-Nordic fusion plates.
• Icelandic Street Food
  • Family owned restaurant known for delicious bread and soup (with free refills) along with free waffles and jam!
• 101 Reykjavík Street Food
  • 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
  • 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
  • Excellent bakery and brunch café with sourdough, cakes, and open sandwiches
• Kaffibrennslan
  • Cozy central café perfect for a quick espresso break.
• Reykjavík Roasters
  • Artisan coffee shop with house-roasted beans and pastries.

WHERE TO GO SHOPPING & AND WHAT TO BUY

WHAT ELSE SHOULD YOU KNOW: FAQs RE VISTING REYKJAVÍK

• Should I rent a car?
  • This depends. Staying in Reykjavík: NO- especially since public transportation is great and parking is expensive. Want to venture out further? Questions to consider #1- when are you visiting, #2- do you feel comfortable driving in adverse weather conditions and/or long distances?? There are many great tours available to take you around!
• Is Iceland expensive?
  • Yes. Many find dining out is expensive but lunch specials offer value and local supermarkets are a way to save money.
• Is it true that only certain places sell alcohol?
  • Yes, alcohol is sold only in state-run stores (Vínbúðin) with limited hours. Many travelers opt to pick up alcohol at the airport (especially for pricing) prior to coming to the city.
• 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!

WANT EVEN MORE INFO? RELATED REYKJAVÍK POSTS

Keflavik International Airport Posts

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