- Things to do in Reykjav\u00edk alone<\/a><\/li>
- Hallgrimskirkja church<\/a><\/li>
- Reykjav\u00edk City Museum<\/a><\/li>
- Grotta Lighthouse<\/a><\/li>
- The Icelandic Punk Museum<\/a><\/li>
- Reykjav\u00edk Food Tour<\/a><\/li>
- The Blue Lagoon<\/a><\/li>
- Perlan museum<\/a><\/li>
- Northern Lights (Boat) Tour<\/a><\/li>
- The Golden Circle<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Where to Stay in Reykjav\u00edk<\/a><\/li>
- How to Get Around Reykjav\u00edk<\/a><\/li>
- The Best Time to Visit Reykjav\u00edk<\/a><\/li>
- Tips For Visiting Reykjav\u00edk Alone<\/a><\/li>
- Things to Do in Reykjav\u00edk Alone: Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Things to do in Reykjav\u00edk alone<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Hallgrimskirkja church<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The views from the top of the 74.5 meters high Hallgrimskirkja church are the perfect way to welcome you to the country. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Things](\"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Things-to-do-in-Reykjavik-alone-hallgrimskirkja-church.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe iconic church is the tallest building in not only Reykjav\u00edk but Iceland too! It was inspired by Icelandic traditions – such as volcanos – when it was built in 1986. Nowadays, you can visit and admire the interior of the church inside, as well as take the elevator to the top for stunning views of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reykjav\u00edk City Museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Reykjav\u00edk City Museum is a great way to learn all about the history of Reykjav\u00edk\u2019s heritage. Split into five different exhibitions all around the city, the museum consists of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Arbaer Open-Air Museum, which contains over 20 historic and original buildings from the city\u2019s history.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Museum of Photography is an exhibition of historical and contemporary Icelandic photography.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The Reykjavik Maritime Museum, a renovated fish-freezing plant, explores Iceland\u2019s maritime history throughout the ages.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The Settlement Exhibition, an interactive exhibition that tells the story of Reykjav\u00edk\u2019s first Viking-age settlers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Videy Island, an island that offers nature, art and historic ruins.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s worth visiting all five, but if you only have time for one, The Settlement Exhibition is great for a rainy day (and Videy Island is great for a sunny one!). <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grotta Lighthouse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Not only is Grotta Lighthouse a great place for bird-watching, but it\u2019s also an ideal spot for catching the Northern Lights. A visit to this nature reserve can be combined with a walk along the coast from the city centre and offers the chance to take in some beautiful scenery along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Icelandic Punk Museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This small but mighty museum is a must-do for any music fan – or those who enjoy anything a little offbeat! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Things](\"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Things-to-do-in-Reykjavik-alone-punk-museum.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBased in some tiny underground bathroom stalls, this museum shares the history of Iceland\u2019s punk and new wave scene launched in 1978. As well as admiring the cool collections of memorabilia, you can listen to local bands via headphones hanging from the ceiling. Very cool.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reykjav\u00edk Food Tour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What better way to explore the city by foot than stopping for food along the way? Reykjav\u00edk offers many food tours that give you a taste of the city\u2019s food scene and traditional Iceland grub. This type of tour is a particularly fun way to meet other travellers when visiting solo and can be a great way to get a taster from some of Reykjav\u00edk\u2019s best foodie spots, which can often be pricey. Any food tour of Reykjav\u00edk also includes a visit to the famous hot dog stand, of course!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Blue Lagoon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Iceland has many different geothermal spas, but Blue Lagoon is ideal for travellers based in Reykjav\u00edk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Things](\"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Things-to-do-in-Reykjavik-alone-blue-lagoon.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAs one of the 25 wonders of the world, it\u2019s definitely a must-do to experience the magic it offers. Relaxing in warm milky waters with the contrasting black rugged background that surrounds the spa, it\u2019s certainly an experience to remember. Though it can get busy and is slightly more touristy compared to other lagoons, it\u2019s something worth doing at least once. Plus it\u2019s based near Keflav\u00edk Airport, so it can be easily visited at the very start or end of your trip. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Perlan museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This unique nature museum offers interactive exhibits, beautiful panoramic views across the city and even a planetarium where you can see the Northern Lights – if you don\u2019t catch them elsewhere on your trip! You can learn about Iceland’s geological wonders, such as volcanos, earthquakes and more. The museum is also home to the world\u2019s first indoor ice cave, which you can explore safely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Things](\"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Things-to-do-in-Reykjavik-alone-ice-cave.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nNorthern Lights (Boat) Tour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re visiting in winter, chasing the Northern Lights is a must-do. Whilst some travellers would recommend renting a car, this option can be risky in winter months due to the changing weather and dark days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Things](\"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Things-to-do-in-Reykjavik-alone-northern-lights.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWith a tour, you have the option of travelling Iceland<\/a> with someone who knows the best places to spot the lights. And if you don\u2019t manage to catch them? Many tours offer the option to re-book for free until you can. Whilst coach tours are a popular choice, a boat tour in Reykjav\u00edk is a more intimate and interesting option. Many boats have a bar on board so you can grab some hot drinks – and warm blankets – whilst waiting for the aurora borealis to appear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Visiting in the summer? Swap your Northern Lights boat tour for a whale-watching one instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Golden Circle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Last – but certainly not least – is of course Iceland\u2019s golden circle. This stunning self-drive tour takes in some of Iceland\u2019s most amazing natural sights, such as Gullfoss Waterfall, hot springs and Thingvellir National Park. Whatever time of year, a tour around the golden circle is a truly beautiful way to see what the country of Iceland has to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Things](\"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Things-to-do-in-Reykjavik-alone-thingvellir-national-park.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThere are many day coach tours that depart from Reykjav\u00edk, but renting a car and driving it yourself is also a fun adventure. Though it\u2019s doable in winter, it can be risky with Iceland\u2019s strong winds and winter storms. Otherwise, a coach tour is always a fun way to meet other travellers on your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Southern Iceland Waterfalls to Visit<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Worst Time to Visit Iceland (Why and When to Go Instead)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Hrunalaug Hot Spring: A Place in Iceland You\u2019ve Got to Visit<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Where to Stay in Reykjav\u00edk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You can find tons of fun friendly hostels right in the heart of Reykjav\u00edk – and the average cost isn\u2019t too bad either!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kex Hostel offers a trendy gastropub on-site, whereas Bus Hostel Reykjavik is great for budget travellers. If you want the best of both worlds, Hostel B47 has budget-friendly private rooms – as well as dorms – in a fun hostel setting, with happy hours every day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are also lots of affordable hotels across Reykjav\u00edk, from the casual Fosshotel Baron close to the seafront and with free parking, to Reykjav\u00edk Yellow Door Apartment. Many hotels, hostels and apartments in Reykjav\u00edk are all within walking distance of the main attractions of the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Things](\"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/things-to-do-in-Reykjavik-alone-city.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHow to Get Around Reykjav\u00edk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Despite offering so much to do, Reykjav\u00edk actually isn\u2019t a large city at all: meaning it\u2019s really easy to explore by foot. Nearly everything is within walking distance in Reykjav\u00edk (bar Perlan Museum), but there\u2019s also public transport such as local buses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reykjav\u00edk also has 24-hour taxi companies and bikes and e-scooters. You\u2019ll also find airport transfer options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But what about heading outside of Reykjav\u00edk?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you want to head out of the city to explore the surrounding nature or the Golden Circle, your best bets are either to take a tour or rent a car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both options offer various benefits and negatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guided\/Coach tours<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Positives:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Great for a whistle-stop visit to Iceland\u2019s best sites<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Great for time constraints, for example, if you just have one day to see everything<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You don\u2019t have to worry about driving or directions<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The guides will know the best spots for spotting the Northern Lights – and will offer you the chance to tour again for free if don\u2019t have success seeing them<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Negatives:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Tours can be pricy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- There\u2019s no flexibility and you have to stick to the tour operator’s timings <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Some tours – particularly to spot the Northern Lights – can seem inauthentic <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Renting a car<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Positives:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- You have much more flexibility in what you do and when<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You can collect your car directly from the airport to use it for your whole trip<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- It\u2019s more of an adventure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Negatives:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Driving in winter can be both scary and risky<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You can\u2019t predict the weather: you could very well pay for and collect your car on arrival and find yourself unable to drive due to snowstorms on your entire trip<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Driving in a different country to your own can be daunting and requires a lot of research<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Many people would recommend renting your own car in the summer and sticking to guided tours in the winter. However, I rented a car in winter and had the best time! We only experienced storms on our last day in Iceland, but we had done plenty of research in advance and were constantly checking for weather warnings. So it is doable<\/em>, but you do need to be brave and very prepared!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Things](\"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/things-to-do-in-Reykjavik-alone-evening.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Best Time to Visit Reykjav\u00edk<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re visiting Reykjav\u00edk alone, there isn\u2019t really <\/em>an ideal time to visit: it all depends on your interests and what you plan to do there. Are you just looking for a city break? Are you hoping to see the Northern Lights? How about whales and puffins? These are all things to keep in mind when choosing to visit the city. The best chance of spotting wildlife is in the summer, whereas a winter visit is key to seeing the aurora borealis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re hoping to visit some other areas of Iceland too, then the weather or time of year will certainly have a bigger effect on your decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Summer in Iceland offers the magical Midnight Sun, which means 24 hours of daylight during June! This leads to longer days spent road-tripping around the country, easier drives and less hectic weather. It is, however, more touristy and busy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The main downside of visiting in summer, however, is the low chance of seeing the Northern Lights. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The peak time to see the aurora is between September and April. Other benefits of visiting this Iceland in the winter means stunning snowy scenery and winter sports. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Worst Time to Visit Iceland (Why and When to Go Instead)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Southern Iceland Waterfalls to Visit<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Reykjav\u00edk City Museum<\/a><\/li>
- Hallgrimskirkja church<\/a><\/li>
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Things-to-do-in-Reykjavik-alone-christmas-shops.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/nohurrytogethome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/things-to-do-in-Reykjavik-alone-coast.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n