Location & Transportation
Smaller ships dock in the heart of town at the Old Harbor, while most cruise ships use the dedicated Skarfabakki dock in the Sundahöfn harbor, about two miles from the city center. The quay at Skarfabakki is 450 meters long with a 12-meter draught and can accommodate two cruise ships at a time. It offers useful tourist facilities, including a shop and restrooms, and a new two-story cruise terminal opened here in 2025.
Shuttle services are available for a fee, making it easy to reach the city center and nearby attractions.
Nearby Lodging
Reykjavik offers a range of accommodations from boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses, many of which are located in the vibrant city center along Laugavegur—the main shopping street. There are plenty of options to suit different tastes and budgets.
Nearest Airport
Keflavík International Airport is approximately 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik. You can catch a taxi, rent a car, or join one of the regular shuttle bus services. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes.
Sightseeing
Reykjavik is a wonderfully walkable city with plenty to see on foot. Some highlights include:
- Exploring downtown Reykjavik with its colorful streets and unique architecture.
- Visiting the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church for panoramic views of the city.
- Stopping by Harpa Concert Hall, a stunning piece of modern architecture.
- Enjoying the seafront stroll to see the Sun Voyager sculpture.
- Checking out various museums and local galleries scattered around town.
Tours & Excursions
Reykjavik offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience its natural and cultural attractions. Options include:
- A hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus tour that picks up passengers near the cruise terminal. These tours run frequently (although schedules may vary) and offer a flexible way to explore the city.
- Organized day tours that take you to the famous Golden Circle, where you can witness the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, the erupting geysers at Geysir, and the historical Thingvellir National Park.
- Excursions to relax at the Blue Lagoon, take in glacier views, or explore Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
Local tour operators, including Gray Line Iceland Excursions, have offices near the pier, and the Reykjavik Tourist Information Center offers brochures and booking assistance.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Reykjavik’s shops cater to both international tastes and local traditions. You can find:
- Unique Icelandic wool sweaters, cardigans, and accessories.
- Handmade ceramics, glassware, and silver jewelry.
- Boutiques along Laugavegur offering both contemporary fashion and traditional Icelandic designs.
It’s a great place to pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs and local crafts.
Dining
The dining scene in Reykjavik is vibrant and diverse. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, hearty traditional dishes like lamb stew, or modern international cuisine, you’ll find plenty of options. Some suggestions include:
- Enjoying a meal at a seaside restaurant in the Old Harbor.
- Sampling local specialties in the city center’s quaint cafés and bistros.
- Trying out innovative dishes at one of Reykjavik’s trendy new restaurants.
Culture & Local Events
Local Events
Reykjavik boasts a lively cultural scene that runs through the year. From art exhibitions and music festivals to local food fairs and outdoor events, there’s always something happening. Check the local events calendar on Visit Reykjavik to see what’s on during your visit.
A few practical local tips:
- Currency: The currency here is the Icelandic króna (ISK). While some places may accept Euros, it’s best to use the local currency for everyday purchases.
- Communication: Icelanders speak Icelandic, but you’ll find that most locals are fluent in English.
- Business Hours: Banks usually operate Monday to Friday from 09:15 to 16:00, and shops typically open around 09:00 with closing times in the early evening. Hours may vary, especially during seasonal holiday periods.
Safety & Awareness
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist spots.
- Weather in Reykjavik can be unpredictable—dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes.
- For emergencies, dial 112.