How to be your best travel self: A guide by Reykjavík

Reykjavík offers several low‑impact transport options.
The city is highly walkable, with a vibrant downtown and pedestrian‑friendly paths, including heated sidewalks in winter that help keep walking safe and accessible. 

You can also rely on the extensive public bus system called Strætó and the Reykjavík City Card gives you unlimited bus travel while also providing access to museums and geothermal pools. 

Additionally, electric scooters can be found on many street corners, and for car travel, opting for an electric or hybrid rental supports Iceland’s renewable‑energy infrastructure (all local energy used to charge cars is clean and renewable). 

Reykjavík’s landscapes - lava fields, mossy ground, coastal areas - are beautiful but extremely fragile. Icelandic vegetation grows very slowly, and a single footprint on delicate moss can take decades to recover, while broken lava will never repair itself. 

As a mindful traveller:

• Stay on marked paths at all times
• Avoid stepping on moss, even for photos
• Pack out everything you bring, following the principle: “Take nothing but pictures and memories, leave nothing but footprints.”

Reykjavík’s geothermal pools are central to local life, and mindful travel includes using them respectfully.

With the Reykjavík City Card, enjoy access to many of the city’s geothermal swimming pools, which are fuelled by renewable energy.
Participating in local routines, for example, showering thoroughly before entering the pool (a cultural norm) is part of mindful, respectful behaviour in Icelandic bath culture.

This also supports the city’s sustainable system, where geothermal energy is used for heating pools and homes.

A simple way is choosing locally produced items, such as:

• Hand‑knitted wool clothing from local associations
• Skincare products made from Icelandic herbs
• Locally made ceramics from Reykjavík galleries
• Icelandic salt, sweets and chocolates 

In addition, the Reykjavík City Card supports local museums and cultural sites. This means that your mindful choice to explore also supports Reykjavík’s creative ecosystem.

Thank you for asking. Here's what we recommend:

• Walking between sites in central Reykjavík
• Taking the public bus system with unlimited rides via the Reykjavík City Card
• Using electric scooters for short hops
• Renting an electric car, powered entirely by Iceland’s renewable energy 

These choices dramatically reduce emissions compared to standard rentals and align with Iceland’s national commitment to sustainability.

Reykjavik’s natural attractions: coastal paths, viewpoints, urban parks, make it easy to experience all greater city areas without relying on energy‑intensive tours.

Reykjavík prioritizes sustainability, climate action, and environmental responsibility. Many local businesses minimize their carbon footprint and support communities. Look for eco-certifications like Vakinn (Icelandic Tourist Board), Green Key, The Nordic Swan, Travelife, or Blue Flag to choose ethical, professional, and sustainable options. Certified businesses ensure your visit supports a positive environmental impact. 

Browse all places to stay in Reykjavík as well as Nature and Wildlife tours and look for eco or green certifications.