Some destinations call to us when we need to escape, take a deep breath, and surrender to the moment in an unfamiliar place. Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is one of those places. And thanks to the new direct flight from Montreal to Reykjavik, getting there has never been easier! In summer, the lingering sun turns every moment into a unique opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, take in magnificent scenery on an excursion, sample local specialities and meet friendly locals (even if you can’t pronounce their names). Travelling here means taking a break from your daily routine and experiencing the spontaneous joy of a Nordic interlude 🌞
Stroll through the pedestrian downtown
Reykjavik is a city best explored on foot. The city center is compact, colorful, and thoroughly lively! On the main shopping streets (Laugavegur, Skólavörðustígur, and Austurstræti), the colorful corrugated iron façades stand alongside artisan boutiques (some of which sell the famous lopapeysa sweaters), cozy cafés, and bookstores. You’ll encounter curious travelers, local people relaxing on patios, and street musicians adding a soundtrack to your walk.
Don’t miss strolling through the small streets around Tjörnin Lake, Austurvöllur Square, and the Parliament (Alþingi) to see some of Reykjavik’s oldest houses.
Admir Reykjavik’s top landmarks and attractions
The Icelandic capital is renowned for its eclectic architecture, which tells the story of the country’s evolution from its maritime past to its modern-day aspirations. Blending tradition and modernity, the city offers visitors a rich visual experience full of contrasts.
The Fishermen’s Houses
The streets of Old Reykjavik, centred around Ingólfstorg Square, are lined with colourful houses in shades of red, blue and green. Some are still private residences today, while others house cafés, galleries, and boutiques, all of which retain their original charm. Head to Aðalstræti, Vesturgata, Mjóstræti and Týsgata to take in the most beautiful houses.
The Sun Voyager
Facing out over Faxaflói Bay, the Sun Voyager sculpture looks poised to set sail. Designed by Icelandic artist Jón Gunnar Árnason, this chimeric stainless steel vessel beautifully captures the ever-changing reflections of the sky and sea. As well as being an obvious nod to Viking ships, it’s a powerful symbol: a call to the horizon, an ode to dreaming and a beacon of liberty.
Harpa
Harpa is more than just a concert hall; it is a structural masterpiece. Designed by artist Olafur Eliasson, the shimmering glass and steel parallelepipeds stand like a jewel on the harbour. Inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns, its design offers a continuous visual spectacle. Admission is free, so you can admire the magnificent interior and enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the terrace — a must-do for design enthusiasts!
Hallgrímskirkja
The striking, tall silhouette of the Hallgrímskirkja church dominates downtown Reykjavik, with the imposing statue of Leifur Eiríksson on its forecourt providing a fitting guard. The church’s unique 74.5-metre design is also inspired by basalt formations. For an unmatched view of the city and Mount Esja in the distance, pay a few dollars to go up the church’s tower (yes, there’s an elevator!).
Is 3 days enough in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland?
Yes! Iceland’s capital is compact, easy to navigate, and its main attractions are gathered within an accessible perimeter. In just a few days, visitors can absorb its Nordic vibe, appreciate the culture, and even leave room for spontaneity.
Discover the city’s unique cultural scene
In summer, festivals succeed one another in Iceland, each with its own personality.
- The Festival of the Sea (Sjómannadagurinn): A vibrant celebration of Iceland’s rich maritime history. The Old Harbour hosts nautical competitions and spectacles honoring sailors. A great way to dive into Icelandic culture!
- Every June, the Reykjavik Arts Festival offers dance, theatre, exhibitions, and concerts—some of our favorite things to experience.
- Culture Night (Menningarnótt): In August, this event turns the heart of Reykjavik into a giant stage, with performances in the streets, parks, and museums.
- Icelandic Independence Day (Þjóðhátíðardagurinn): Every June 17th, the capital celebrates the birth of independence hero Jón Sigurðsson. Parades, concerts, street artists, and street food are all on the agenda.
- Reykjavik Pride: In August, the city hosts a joyful and colorful celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community. The parade is a highlight, and the multi-day event features shows, concerts, and parties.
These museums are also worth a visit:
- Located in the Old Harbour, the Reykjavík Maritime Museum traces Icelandic traditions through the evolution of fishing and trade. The highlight is the coast guard vessel Óðinn, which visitors can board to better understand life at sea.
- The National Museum of Iceland in downtown Reykjavik recounts the country’s history, from the Viking Sagas to independence.
- Dominating the city skyline like a futuristic beacon, Perlan features a glass dome built over large hot water reservoirs. Inside, it hosts the show Áróra, an interactive experience
that uses high-definition visuals, spatial sound, and scientific animations to perfectly recreate the stunning magic of the Northern Lights within a 360° dome. - The Icelandic Phallological Museum is a curiosity that leaves no one indifferent 😄.
Go on a fun summer excursion around Iceland
Got a few extra days? Perfect! Reykjavik is the ideal launchpad for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders. This is how you best utilize those endless hours of sunlight! You can join one of the many guided tours or rent a car to explore independently.
- The Golden Circle This classic circuit groups three main sites: Þingvellir (a UNESCO-listed national park where people can walk between two tectonic plates), Gullfoss (a powerful and majestic waterfall), and, of course, Strokkur (a geyser that erupts every 5 to 10 minutes).
- The Snæfellsnes Peninsula Nicknamed “Miniature Iceland,” this region offers impressive scenery: volcanoes, black sand beaches, cliffs teeming with a variety of bird species including puffins, as well as lava fields, glaciers and fishing villages.
- The South Coast A full-day excursion to admire the southern landscapes: the spectacular waterfalls of Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss—the latter famous because you can walk completely behind its cascade—plus the black sand beach of Reynisfjara and its striking basalt columns. Definitely worth a visit!
What should you not miss in Reykjavik? Taste Icelandic cuisine at a restaurant!
Icelandic gastronomy is a culinary power play—a savory, creative blend born from the hostile climate and nutrient-poor volcanic soil. The result? Local specialties that are pure, rustic, and packed with flavor. But today, Reykjavik is leading the New Nordic Cuisine movement, where chefs elevate this unique terroir into sophisticated dishes.
You’ll feast on treasures from the Atlantic (like Arctic char and cod) and flavor-rich farm lamb, often smoked (hangikjöt). Feeling daring? The ultimate challenge is the famous fermented shark (hákarl), a legendary test traditionally chased with a shot of aquavit… as liquid courage and necessary palate cleanser!
Here are our favorite places to eat Icelandic cuisine in downtown Reykjavik:
- Cafe Loki: The best place for lamb soup and the legendary rye ice cream.
- Fiskmarkaðurinn (The Fish Market): Inventive cuisine based on seafood.
- Matur og Drykkur: For traditional dishes revisited with elegance.
- Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: The famous Icelandic hot dog stand—a local guilty pleasure 🌭.
- Dill: For a refined, Michelin-starred gastronomic experience, the peak of New Nordic Cuisine.
- Grandi Mathöll: A food hall on the harbor with several stalls to sample a variety of cuisines.
- Brauð & Co: An ultra-popular artisan bakery; and yes, it’s worth a visit, despite the queue!
Relax in geothermal pools
Hot springs are a true institution in Reykjavik, central to Icelandic daily life. Head to Laugardalslaug, the city’s largest pool, offering outdoor swimming, jacuzzis, saunas, and even waterslides. It’s one of the cheapest activities because the city manages these pools, making it a much more authentic option than the pricey luxury spas!
Plus, it’s low-key a great way to meet people who gather here to chat, relax, and reimagine the world. A local experience not to be missed 💦 and there’s no better time to enjoy the time-honored tradition than the summer!
Enjoy the sun… even at night!
While the Northern Lights are not visible in summer, the Icelandic magic works differently. The Midnight Sun transforms the night into an everlasting golden hour! It’s a novel, almost magical feeling that invites you to prolong every moment. Why not take advantage of this to embrace unique Nordic experiences?
- Hot water dip: Head to the geothermal beach at Nauthólsvík or the luxurious Sky Lagoon, complete with a stunning view of the ocean.
- The Golden Circle at dusk: Some operators offer late-afternoon tours during the Midnight Sun season. It’s a great way to avoid the daytime crowds!
- Photo foray: Stroll along the harbor to the Sun Voyager or Harpa. The low, warm light is perfect for spectacular photos.
- Al fresco: Restaurants on Laugavegur and the harbor are vibrant late into the summer; many stay open until 5 AM on weekends. Settle onto a terrace to eat or have a drink, admiring the exceptional light.
- “Nighttime” cruise: Go whale watching in the evening! The ocean is often calmer, and the soft light provides perfect conditions to spot giants of the sea like humpbacks and dolphins.
