Reykjavik City Guide

Local dishes include fish stew, lamb soup, and hot dogs. International options cover Asian, Italian, and American cuisines. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing. Late-night food is limited mostly to weekends.

Active nightlife, focused in the city center with many bars and clubs especially on weekends.

Strong specialty coffee scene with many third-wave shops and local roasters. Coffee is an important part of daily life.

Tipping is not expected as service charges are included. Optional but not customary.

Buy SIMs at Keflavík airport or local stores. Providers include Síminn (best coverage), Vodafone, and Nova. eSIMs available. ID or passport needed for registration.

Streets are very clean with strong recycling efforts. Sanitation issues are minimal.

Few 24/7 services. Some convenience stores and emergency room are open around the clock. Late-night food options very limited.

Supermarkets like Bónus, Krónan, and Hagkaup offer good international choices. Hours are generally 9-10 AM to 6-9 PM on weekdays, shorter on weekends. Sundays and holidays often see closures or reduced hours.

Card payments work almost everywhere, even for small purchases.

ATMs are common in banks and malls. Fees are usually low, but check your bank for foreign charges.

International School of Iceland offers English instruction. Local schools teach mostly in Icelandic. Early applications recommended.

Growing community with some meetups and events. Co-living is limited. Co-working spaces and cafes serve as community hubs.

Parks like Öskjuhlíð and Laugardalur offer green space and running paths. Shade is limited due to climate.

Popular routes along the coast and parks. Safe and scenic. Running clubs exist and annual marathon held in August.

Popular gyms with good facilities.

Tennis courts available in clubs and public areas. Booking needed. Equipment rentals and coaching available.

Padel courts are less common but growing.

Many studios offer various styles and meditation. Drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors common.

Several dojos offer BJJ, Judo, Karate, Boxing, and more. English-speaking instructors and drop-in classes available.

Bláfjöll Ski Resort 30 minutes away offers slopes for all levels. Open Dec-April. Equipment rentals available.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing available in coastal and lake areas, mostly in summer. Rentals and tours offered.

Cold-water surfing along Reykjanes Peninsula. Strong currents and very cold water require thick gear. Autumn and winter see best swells. Mostly for experienced surfers. Limited schools and rentals.

Silfra fissure dive site offers exceptional visibility and unique geology. Dive centers in Reykjavik provide rentals and courses.

High-quality public and private care. Landspítali hospital has English-speaking staff. Pharmacies have normal hours, some extended. Visitors usually pay full price unless insured.

Tap water is safe and tastes excellent.

Many playgrounds and family-friendly cafes. Baby supplies easy to find. Family Park and Zoo and public pools are popular with kids.

Very safe and accepting city with strong legal protections. Active community and annual Pride event.

Pet-friendly city but strict import rules. Good vet services and dog parks. Pet supplies available.