Shop freely in Reykjavík

Reykjavík is best known for its dramatic landscapes, creative culture, and walkable city centre. But shopping in Reykjavík is also part of the experience. From modern Reykjavík shopping malls to lively streets filled with local design, the Icelandic capital offers quality shopping. It reflects everyday life, personal style, and Icelandic innovation.

Looking for a warm wool sweater or Icelandic skincare? Or maybe a comfortable place to spend a rainy day in Iceland? This guide covers the best shopping malls and streets in Reykjavík.

1. Smáralind: The All-in-One Shopping Mall in Iceland

Located in Kópavogur, just outside Reykjavík, Smáralind is one of the largest and best shopping malls in Iceland. Its three floors have over 90 shops and services, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. 

Here, you'll find everything from Icelandic outdoor wear to popular international fashion brands. The mall also features a food court, supermarket, multi-screen cinema, fully-equipped gym, pharmacy, and fun activities for kids. This makes it an ideal stop for families or those looking for things to do when it's raining in Reykjavík.

Highlights of Smáralind

• Garðurinn Food Hall (The Garden): A modern food court with diverse dining options, perfect for a relaxed lunch break. It offers Icelandic, European, American, Asian, and Mexican cuisines.
• Smárabíó: One of Iceland’s most popular movie theaters, showing both Icelandic and international films. It also features Smárabíó MAX for a higher-quality experience.
• Smára­bíó skemmti­svæði: An entertainment area with a range of activities for all ages. It features karaoke rooms, laser tag zones, and one of Iceland's largest arcade halls.

Practical information about the Smáralind shopping mall

• Location: Hagasmári 1, 201 Kópavogur, 528 8000
• Access: 15-min drive from the city center; bus routes 2, 24, and 28
• Parking: Has a free, large parking area
• Opening hours: Monday–Friday 11:00 am–7:00 pm; Saturday 11:00 am–6:00 pm; Sunday 12:00 pm–5:00 pm

2. Hafnartorg: Reykjavík’s Waterfront Luxury District

Hafnartorg is a modern shopping and lifestyle district located between Reykjavík’s old harbour and the city centre. This area is known for contemporary architecture, design-focused shops, and high-quality dining. It’s a great place to shop, take a walk, or enjoy some downtime with friends or family.

Hafnartorg includes more than 30 stores and restaurants spread across seven buildings along Austurbakki, Geirsgata, Kolaportagata, Tryggvagata, and Hafnarstræti. The district is close to many of Reykjavík’s top attractions. This includes Harpa Concert Hall, Sun Voyager, and Reykjavík Art Museum, making it easy to combine shopping with sightseeing.

Highlights of Hafnartorg 

• Hafnartorg Gallery: A food hall by the harbour offering plenty of options, including street food, traditional Icelandic dishes, and gourmet cuisines. The space also includes shops and art galleries.
• The Icelandic Phallological Museum: The only museum in the world dedicated to phallology. It’s an unusual and entertaining stop to add to your visit.

Practical information about Hafnartorg shopping district

• Location: Hafnartorg, 101 Reykjavík
• Access: Walking distance from the city centre; bus routes 3 and 14
• Parking: Underground parking available, with entrances near Harpa Concert Hall, on Pósthússtræti, and on Austurbakki
• Opening hours: Vary by store, but generally Monday–Wednesday 11:30 am–9:30 pm; Thursday 11:30 am–11:00 pm; Friday–Saturday 11:30 am–12:00 am; Sunday 12:00 pm–9:30 pm

3. Laugavegur: Reykjavík’s Main Shopping Street

Laugavegur is the heart of shopping in Reykjavík. Stretching through the city center, this lively street is lined with boutiques, hip cafés, bookstores, and local brands. It’s also close to some of Reykjavík’s museums, attractions, and popular bus tours’ pick-up points.

You’ll find everything from outdoor clothing to independent fashion and souvenirs here. In the evening, the street comes alive with bars, nightclubs, and cozy restaurants popular with both locals and visitors.

Practical information about Laugavegur shopping street

• Location: Central Reykjavík
• Parking: Zone 1 paid parking; weekdays 9:00 am–9:00 pm and weekends 10:00 am–9:00 pm

4. Skólavörðustígur: A Scenic City Center Shopping Street

Skólavörðustígur is one of Reykjavík’s most charming streets. Over the past few years, it has become one of Reykjavik city center’s liveliest and most colourful shopping streets. It’s known for local design stores, galleries, cafés, and of course, its famous Rainbow Street.

Skólavörðustígur runs from the western end of Laugavegur street to the uphill location of Hallgrímskirkja. This iconic church is home to one of the scenic observation decks in Reykjavik, making it easy to mix shopping with sightseeing.

Practical information about Skólavörðustígur shopping street

• Location: Central Reykjavík
• Parking: Limited on-street parking; P1 and P2 zones nearby

Popular Icelandic Souvenirs and Items to Take Home

Not sure what to buy while shopping in Reykjavík? Iceland is known for practical, well-designed products made to suit its climate and lifestyle. These items make meaningful souvenirs and are easy to find in Reykjavík shopping malls and along the main shopping streets.

• Icelandic wool sweaters (lopapeysa): Hand-knitted sweaters using Icelandic wool, known for warmth, durability, and traditional patterns.
• Eiderdown duvets and bedding: Luxurious duvets filled with sustainably collected eiderdown, prized for exceptional warmth and lightness.
• Icelandic skincare products: Natural skincare made with local ingredients such as geothermal water, lava, and Arctic plants.
• Lava rock jewelry: Jewelry made from volcanic lava stone, offering a simple and distinctive way to take a piece of Iceland’s geology home.
• Artisan Icelandic salt: Hand-harvested sea salt, often flavored with local herbs or smoked using traditional methods.
• Local Icelandic chocolate and sweets: Chocolate, licorice, and specialty treats made in Iceland, often featuring unique flavor combinations.
• Designer home goods and décor: Minimalist Icelandic design items, including textiles, ceramics, candles, and tableware.
• Books and Icelandic sagas in English: Literature, folklore, and modern Icelandic novels are widely available in bookstores.

These products are easy to pack, built to last, and offer a lasting reminder of your time in Reykjavík.

Explore the Vibrant Shopping Scene in Reykjavík

Reykjavík’s shopping scene is diverse, lively, and closely tied to everyday life in the city. From Reykjavík shopping malls like Smáralind to Hafnartorg’s waterfront setting, the experience feels varied and local. That same atmosphere continues along streets like Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur, where creativity and the city’s relaxed pace shape the experience.

Take your time, browse at your own pace, and discover authentic Iceland-made products as you shop in Reykjavík.