Top 15 Reykjavik Tours for Unforgettable Experiences

Reykjavik stands as the largest urban center and capital city of Iceland, serving as an exemplary destination for experiencing the rich offerings of this Nordic nation. The city functions as Iceland’s transport nucleus and has become exceedingly well-connected, allowing visitors to utilize Reykjavik as a launching point for further exploration of the island or as a brief layover between Europe and North America.

The city is enveloped by breathtaking landscapes that are just a short drive from the urban center, with tours readily available to transport you swiftly to spectacular waterfalls and otherworldly natural features. Additionally, Reykjavik itself boasts a vibrant cultural scene, featuring prominent galleries and national museums that are well worth a visit during your stay.

Visitors can indulge in soothing thermal spas, delve into Iceland’s settlement history, or embark on excursions on the icy Atlantic waters in pursuit of whales and puffins.

There are numerous exceptional tours available in Reykjavik, and the following highlights the most noteworthy options.

1. Reykjavik City Card

Reykjavik features a vast range of attractions, including remarkable museums and galleries that provide an enriching overview of Iceland’s extensive history and culture for inquisitive visitors.

Upon arriving in the city, acquiring a Reykjavik City Card allows you to leisurely explore the prominent sights. This card provides access not only to leading museums but also to the numerous public thermal swimming pools, enabling you to engage with the local spa culture without mingling with excessive crowds.

2. Reykjavik City Walking Tour

This three-hour walking expedition showcases the city’s highlights, allowing participants to appreciate the fresh Icelandic air. Given Reykjavik’s compact nature, strolling is an excellent approach to witness all the notable sights, complemented by insights from knowledgeable guides.

The tour includes an ascent to the iconic Hallgrímkirkja Church, exploration of local myths and histories, and visits to landmarks such as the City Hall, Concert Hall, and the vibrant harbour.

3. Reykjavik City Sightseeing by Minibus

For those who prefer not to walk, the Reykjavik City Sightseeing tour provides a comfortable means to explore the city’s foremost attractions in a modern minibus.

The journey encompasses well-known city center landmarks, including Hallgrímkirkja Church and City Hall, while also venturing into surrounding areas such as the Presidential Palace at Bessastaðir and the distinctive town of Hafnarfjörður.

The experience culminates with a soothing soak at a thermal swimming pool, providing a perfect conclusion to a day filled with exploration.

4. Reykjavik Hop on Hop off Tour: 24 Hour Ticket

The Reykjavik Hop on Hop off bus ticket enables exploration of the Icelandic capital at your own pace within a 24-hour timeframe.

This option is ideal for travelers on a brief layover or passing through before continuing elsewhere in the country. Alongside comprehensive audio guides, the bus makes multiple stops at key attractions, including churches, museums, and much more.

5. Reykjavik: Panoramic Helicopter Flight with Summit Landing

This exhilarating tour offers a unique vantage point over Reykjavik, providing breathtaking aerial views of the Icelandic capital that are seldom experienced by many.

From impressive heights, you will observe the city below while your knowledgeable pilot points out notable landmarks and offers informative commentary.

The helicopter will then land on a nearby mountaintop summit for an unparalleled experience and stunning panoramic vistas of Reykjavik.

6. Reykjavik: Myths and Monsters of Iceland Walking Tour

This distinctive walking tour provides a fresh perspective on Icelandic history and culture as you explore the city while examining the nation’s captivating myths and legends.

Gain insight into troublesome local elves from ancient lore, perilous mythical trolls, and more during this engaging tour of Reykjavik.

7. Reykjavik Food, Drink and Museum Walking Tour

Guided by a local with a passion for gastronomy, this exciting walking tour reveals Reykjavik’s iconic sights and remarkable museums while making stops at top craft breweries and restaurants for tasting sessions that offer insight into Icelandic cuisine.

Participants will savor street food along with unique local recipes, culminating in a two-course meal at a premium restaurant.

8. Two Hour Northern Lights Cruise From Reykjavik

If witnessing the enchanting Northern Lights is on your agenda, this tour offers an ideal opportunity. While visibility may be hindered by light pollution in the city center, this excursion takes you onto the water for a two-hour cruise into the darkness.

As the city lights gradually diminish behind you, you will pursue this stunning natural light display along the coast.

9. Reykjavik: Whales of Iceland Exhibition

Whales have historically played a significant role in Icelandic culture, and the informative Whales of Iceland Exhibition at Reykjavik Harbour provides insights into the relationship between humans and these marine creatures.

The exhibition features life-size models of the most prevalent species found in Icelandic waters, enabling visitors to gain an understanding of their immense size in relation to humans. You will also learn about their ecosystems, behaviors, and the global threats facing them.

10. Whale Watching Tour From Reykjavik

Just offshore from Reykjavik, a remarkable variety of whale species—ranging from Orcas to Humpbacks—can be discovered, mere moments away from the city’s harbor.

Following your visit to the Whale Exhibition, you can see these alluring creatures up close on a three-hour boat journey led by seasoned whale watching captains. Notably, should your excursion not yield a sighting, you are welcome to join another tour at no additional charge.

11. Small Group Puffin Watching RIB Cruise From Reykjavik

Reykjavik is not solely known for whale watching; wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the significant population of amicable puffins that inhabit the region.

This tour takes you on a short boat ride to Faxaflói Bay, where you can observe these charming birds nesting along the rugged cliffs.

12. Reykjavik: Half Day Food Tasting Tour

Culinary and culture enthusiasts should not overlook this extraordinary food tour while visiting Reykjavik.

This walking excursion traverses the city’s most distinctive cafes, restaurants, and local shops, offering the chance to sample a wide array of dishes and specialties.

Participants will taste various meats and cheeses sourced from across the country, enjoy delectable Icelandic Skyr, and conclude the experience with one of Reykjavik’s famous hot dogs from the most popular street food vendor.

13. Iceland: Beer Tasting and Tapas-Style Local Cuisine Tour

This beer and culinary tour invites participants to Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, where at the Bryggjan Brugghús Restaurant, they will enjoy a delightful tasting menu featuring craft beers and local specialties.

During the meal, hosts share engaging stories and historical insights from Icelandic culture, transforming a dining experience into an immersive cultural journey.

14. Iceland Secret Lagoon

For those seeking an alternative to the bustling Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon provides a tranquil retreat just an hour from the city center. This outdoor thermal swimming pool is accompanied by picturesque rural scenery.

At night, it offers a serene environment to relax in warm waters while gazing at the stars or scanning the sky for glimpses of the Northern Lights. This unique experience, especially during winter, reflects a cherished local tradition longstanding in Icelandic culture.

15. Reykjavik: 2 Hour Imagine Peace Tower Tour

Located just off the coast of Reykjavik is Viðey Island, home to a poignant monument dedicated to peace, established in honor of Yoko Ono and John Lennon.

The Peace Tower illuminates the winter sky, and this tour provides an opportunity to visit the island and understand the deeper significance behind this extraordinary art installation. It represents a unique experience and a meaningful excursion during your time in Reykjavik.