What is new in Reykjavík
Dive into Reykjavík’s latest offerings and be among the first to learn about the city’s newest attractions, exhibitions, hotels, restaurants, and events.
UNESCO recognises Icelandic pool culture
Iceland's swimming pool culture has been recognized by UNESCO as part of its intangible cultural heritage. Reykjavík is home to 18 geothermal pools, a geothermal beach in Nauthólsvík and two lagoons, Sky Lagoon and Hvammsvík.
Tourism industry
Vör, Reykjavík Cruise Terminal, has been nominated for Europe’s Best Cruise Terminal 2026 at the World Cruise Awards, marking the first time an Icelandic port has received this recognition. The nomination highlights Reykjavík’s growing role as a cruise destination and turnaround port. Voting is open to cruise-industry professionals and the public until 21 August.
Immersive exhibitions
Perlan's "Into the Volcano" wins prestigious award
Into the Volcano, the volcano exhibition at Perlan, has won a NUMIX Award in the International – Cultural Exhibition category.
The NUMIX Awards recognise projects that use digital technology and interactive experiences in creative ways. The award highlights how Into the Volcano helps visitors understand Iceland’s volcanoes through a mix of science, technology and storytelling.
Volcanoes have played a major role in shaping Iceland and are a key part of the country’s history and landscape. The exhibition explains how volcanoes work and shows how volcanic activity continues to affect Iceland today.
The award is international recognition for Perlan and its work in making Iceland’s natural history easy to understand and engaging for visitors.
World of Icelandic music opens in Harpa
The World of Icelandic Music is a new experiential exhibition opening at Harpa's main entrance in May 2026. Through an evocative audio guide, visitors will embark on a voyage through the world of Icelandic music, from the earliest settlement to the present day.
Volcano Express in Harpa
Volcano Express is a new immersive virtual tour is transporting visitors across Iceland’s active volcanic landscapes, delivering the heat of flowing lava, the force of earthquakes, and the explosive power of eruptions — all from the safety of their seats.
Lava Show
Lava Show has expanded with the opening of a new showroom that doubles its capacity, along with a new 120-meter gift shop.
Inside a Volcano Experience in Perlan
The new volcano exhibition in Perlan (launched in 2025), is an immersive, interactive experience where visitors can see, hear, and feel the power of Iceland's volcanos, earthquakes, and geological forces, bringing the story of how volcanoes form and erupt to life through hands-on displays and sensory elements.
SagaVR
SagaVR takes visitors on an unforgettable virtual flights over some of Iceland's most remote and breathtaking locations few people will ever see in person.
History and storytelling
Viking Atmosphere at Hafnarfjörður City Area
Each summer, the Hafnarfjörður Viking Festival brings the Viking age to life. Experience thrilling battle reenactments, traditional food, and handcrafted goods in a family-friendly celebration of Iceland’s history and culture. See our article about Viking-related activities in Reykjavík.
Hofstaðir Viking Settlement at Garðabær City Area
Visit the Hofstaðir Viking Settlement in Garðabær City Area to explore life during Iceland’s settlement period. Discover archaeological remnants of longhouses and gain insights into the daily lives of Iceland’s early settlers.
Transform Into a Viking
Step into Viking life with the Transform into a Viking experience with Mink Viking. Dress in authentic Viking attire, wield traditional weapons, and enjoy a personalized photoshoot. Guided by experts, this immersive session blends fun with cultural insights.
The Icelandic Storyteller Experience
Discover Iceland’s legendary sagas with a new experience provided by Your Friend in Reykjavík. In a cosy baðstofa, an expert guide brings to life the tales of Iceland’s early settlers while exploring the roots of the nation’s storytelling tradition. Perfect for history and literature lovers. in Words Exhibition is a storytelling experience that brings Iceland's literary heritage to life through immersive narration, highlighting the country's rich tradition of sagas, poetry, and contemporary writing.
World in Words Exhibition at Edda
World in Words Exhibition is a storytelling experience that brings Iceland's literary heritage to life through immersive narration, highlighting the country's rich tradition of sagas, poetry, and contemporary writing.
Viking Atmosphere at Hafnarfjörður City Area
Each summer, the Hafnarfjörður Viking Festival brings the Viking age to life. Experience thrilling battle reenactments, traditional food, and handcrafted goods in a family-friendly celebration of Iceland’s history and culture. See our article about Viking-related activities in Reykjavík.
Hofstaðir Viking Settlement at Garðabær City Area
Visit the Hofstaðir Viking Settlement in Garðabær City Area to explore life during Iceland’s settlement period. Discover archaeological remnants of longhouses and gain insights into the daily lives of Iceland’s early settlers.
Transform Into a Viking
Step into Viking life with the Transform into a Viking experience with Mink Viking. Dress in authentic Viking attire, wield traditional weapons, and enjoy a personalised photoshoot. Guided by experts, this immersive session blends fun with cultural insights.
The Icelandic Storyteller Experience
Discover Iceland’s legendary sagas with a new experience provided by Your Friend in Reykjavík. In a cosy baðstofa, an expert guide brings to life the tales of Iceland’s early settlers while exploring the roots of the nation’s storytelling tradition. Perfect for history and literature lovers.
Celebrating 70 Years Since Halldór Laxness Received the Nobel Prize
2025 marked the 70th anniversary of Halldór Laxness's Nobel Prize in Literature, a defining moment in Icelandic cultural history. In 1955, Laxness became the first (and still the only) Icelandic author to receive this prestigious honour, recognised “for his vivid epic power which has renewed the great narrative art of Iceland.”
Nestled in the green hills of Mosfellsdalur, just outside Reykjavík, Gljúfrasteinn was the home of Halldór Laxness from 1945 until he died in 1998. Today, it stands as a beautifully preserved museum, offering a unique window into the life and mind of Iceland’s only Nobel Laureate in Literature.
New accommodation
Hotel Viking and Fjörukráin
Hotel Viking in Hafnarfjörður has expanded to 108 rooms and is now a four-star hotel. A new basement includes a 200-person banquet hall, suitable for groups and events. The hotel´s restaurant, Fjörukráin, continues to serve Icelandic-inspited food and has been part of Hafnar to meet growing accommodation demand in Reykjavík. This enlargement will significantly increase the hotel’s capacity and enhance its role as one of the city’s long-established hospitality properties.
Radisson RED Reykjavík
The new 211-room Radisson RED Reykjavík is scheduled to open at the end of 2026. Located in the city centre, the hotel will feature social spaces and panoramic views of Reykjavík and the ocean.
Grand Hotel - Íslandshótel in Reykjavík
The Grand Hotel, operated by Íslandshótel, has announced a 150-room expansion to meet growing accommodation demand in Reykjavík. This enlargement will significantly increase the hotel’s capacity and enhance its role as one of the city’s long-established hospitality properties.
A Modern and Innovative Hostel in Reykjavík
CityHub is now open in Reykjavík, offering a unique stay for travelers. Combining cozy private sleeping pods with vibrant communal spaces, CityHub provides a perfect balance of privacy and social interaction. Located in the heart of Reykjavík, CityHub offers a stylish and affordable base for any adventure.
New places to eat and drink
Sól Restaurant
Sól Restaurant opened in 2024 as a greenhouse dining experience in Hafnarfjörður, where guests can enjoy dishes inspired by fresh produce grown on-site and seasonal ingredients. The setting blends natural surroundings with contemporary Nordic cuisine.
Brasserie Kársnes
Brasserie Kársnes, located near the Sky Lagoon in Kópavogur, offers a cosy, neighbourhood dining atmosphere with a menu of fresh meat, fish and seasonal dishes. Guests can enjoy both lunch and dinner in a relaxed setting just minutes from the lagoon.
Ráðagerði at Grótta
Ráðagerði is a restaurant set in a historic house by the Grótta lighthouse on Seltjarnarnes, offering Italian-inspired dishes and panoramic views over the sea and surrounding nature. Its varied menu and scenic location make it a distinct destination for visitors exploring the coastline.
Ölvisholt in Hafnarfjörður
Ölvisholt has established a new brewery location at Grandatröð 4 Hafnarfjörður city area, continuing its craft beer production with a focus on quality and local character.
Connecting to nature in Reykjavík and beyond
Litla Kaffistofan becomes an adventure base
Litla Kaffistofan, a historic roadside café on the Hellisheiði mountain pass just east of Reykjavík, has been revitalised by Icelandia as a multifaceted visitor destination. While retaining its long-standing role as a welcoming stop for travellers, the site now also operates as an adventure base offering guided ATV tours and Northern Lights excursions into the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Set amid lava fields, geothermal activity and the Hengill volcanic system, this development enhances its legacy by positioning it as both a cultural landmark and a gateway to immersive outdoor experiences.
Solar Eclipse in Reykjavík 2026
On August 12, 2026, Reykjavík will be one of the best locations to witness the total solar eclipse.
Hvammsvík Temple and Residency
The new Temple, or Hof, in Hvammsvík is a sculpture and a sacred placed, which can be used as a venue for private parties, such as weddings, ceremonies, and other gatherings.
Fálkaklettur Via Ferrata
The Fálkaklettur Via Ferrata route is an outdoor climbing experience on Fálkaklettur (Falcon Rock) on the slopes of Mt. Esja near Reykjavík. Opened in spring 2025.
EC Bikes
EC Iceland is a new company offering guided electric bike tours within Reykjavík.
Reykjavik JetSkis
Reykjavík JetSkis offers guided small-group jet ski tours along Reykjavík´s scenic coastline and across Faxaflói Bay, with panoramic views of the city skyline.
Outdoor Adventures
February 2025 marks the launch of a new website dedicated to outdoor activity areas, hiking, and cycling trails in the stunning natural surroundings of the capital area. With countless opportunities to explore, hiking remains a beloved pastime among locals and visitors alike.
Helgufoss: A Hidden Gem in the Capital Area
Located in the Mosfellsdalur valley, this hidden gem remains one of the lesser-known destinations for nature lovers, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Just a 30-minute drive from the vibrant city centre, followed by a short hiking trail to Helgufoss is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Iceland’s lush landscapes.
Northern Lights
Aurora Reykjavík and Gravel Travel partner for northern lights tours. Every tour includes admission to the Aurora Reykjavík Northern Lights Centre, where visitors learn about the history and science behind the northern lights.
Energy and nature in Elliðaárdalur
Elliðaárdalur, home to Iceland’s oldest hydroelectric plant, which also houses a museum, events space, and a café has been nominated for the prestigious Mies van der Rohe Architecture Award, an acknowledgement of the city´s rising presence on the international design stage.
Sky Lagoon Expansion
Sky Lagoon’s new Skjól expansion, which opened on August 22nd, enhances its wellness journey by connecting guests with Iceland’s natural elements. It features Ylur, a second sauna with a stunning ocean view, and Saft, a bar offering a traditional crowberry elixir.
Events, festivals and celebrations
Reykjavik Arts Festival
One of Iceland’s leading cultural events, the Reykjavík Arts Festival transforms the city each spring with an exciting program of music, visual art, theatre, and dance. Featuring both international and Icelandic artists, the festival brings bold creativity to concert halls, galleries, and unexpected urban spaces across Reykjavík.
Björk - Echolalia Exhibition in the National Gallery of Iceland
Echolalia is a multimedia exhibition by Björk in collaboration with artist James Merry. Running from May 31 to September 20, 2026, the exhibition explores sound, nature, and visual expression in an immersive artistic dialogue at the National Gallery of Iceland.
Viking Atmosphere in Hafnarfjörður
Each June (June 14–18), Hafnarfjörður transforms into a living Viking village. Experience dramatic battle reenactments, traditional crafts, storytelling, and authentic Nordic cuisine in a vibrant, family-friendly celebration of Iceland’s Viking heritage. The festival celebrates its 30th anniversary in June 2027.
Suzuki Midnight Run
On June 25, runners take to the streets under the glowing midnight sun. Choose from 5K, 10K, or half-marathon distances and experience Reykjavík’s bright summer night in this energetic and uniquely Icelandic race. Check out more here.
240 Year Anniversary of Reykjavik
Reykjavík celebrates its 240th anniversary on August 18. Marking the occasion, Reykjavík Art Museum presents a special exhibition (June 20–October 11) exploring the city’s history, culture, and evolving identity.
Gay Pride
Taking place August 8, Reykjavík Pride is one of Iceland’s largest annual celebrations. Expect a colourful parade, concerts, cultural events, and a joyful atmosphere as the city comes together in support of LGBTQ+ rights and diversity.
Reykjavík Marathon
Held on August 22, the Reykjavík Marathon invites participants of all levels to run through the city's scenic streets and along coastal routes. The event coincides with Culture Night, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.
Culture Night
Also on August 22, Culture Night fills Reykjavík with art, music, performances, and family-friendly activities. Museums and galleries stay open late, and the evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display over the harbour.
Christmas in Reykjavík
Christmas Wonderland in the City Centre
Reykjavík City Centre sparkles with fairy lights, festive markets, and Icelandic holiday traditions. Meet the playful Yule Lads, shop for unique gifts, and glide on the ice at Ingólfstorg Square.
A Cosy Winter Escape to the Christmas Village
A short journey from Reykjavík lies the Hafnarfjörður city area, known for its rich history, lava fields, and, of course, its Christmas Village. The Hafnarfjörður Christmas Village is an enchanting annual event held each weekend in December, offering a perfect holiday outing for families and visitors of all ages.
A Dazzling Spectacle on New Year’s Eve
When it comes to ringing in the New Year, few places do it like Reykjavík. The city comes alive with a dazzling array of fireworks, bonfires, and parties that make New Year’s Eve in Reykjavík an extraordinary experience.