Neighborhoods of Reykjavík: Best place to stay
Reykjavík is chock full of neighbourhoods that cater to every type of traveller, from those seeking vibrant city life to those looking for tranquillity and natural beauty. Here’s a guide to the best neighbourhoods for those travelling to Reykjavík, each offering a unique experience and making it easy to find the perfect place to stay when visiting this modern, charming city.
Miðbær is perfect for first-time visitors, culture enthusiasts, and nightlife seekers
Miðbær is the heart of Reykjavík and the best area for travellers who want to be in the middle of all the action. This vibrant neighbourhood is home to many of the city’s top attractions, including the iconic Hallgrimskirkja church, Harpa Concert Hall, and numerous museums and galleries. You’ll find many shops and restaurants, from cosy cafes to fine dining establishments, all within walking distance.
Staying in Miðbær allows you to immerse yourself in Reykjavík’s lively atmosphere. You can easily explore the bustling streets, enjoy the city’s nightlife, and discover cultural landmarks and hidden gems. It’s an excellent location for those who want to experience the essence of Reykjavík without needing transportation, as everything is centrally located.
Vesturbær is ideal for families and those seeking a quieter stay
Vesturbær, located west of the city centre, offers a quieter alternative to Miðbær while still being close to Reykjavík’s main attractions. This neighbourhood is known for its residential charm, with tree-lined streets and traditional Icelandic homes. It’s an excellent choice for families or travellers seeking a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring.
Vesturbær is home to several historic sites, such as the National Museum of Iceland and the University of Iceland. The neighbourhood also features the popular Vesturbæjarlaug swimming pool, a favourite spot for locals to relax and socialise. With its proximity to the downtown area and its serene ambience, Vesturbær is perfect for those looking for a blend of convenience and tranquillity.
Nature lovers will favour Laugardalur
Laugardalur is a green oasis just east of the city centre. This neighbourhood is perfect for travellers who enjoy outdoor activities and being surrounded by nature. Laugardalur is home to Reykjavík’s largest recreational area, which includes the Laugardalslaug geothermal pool, the Reykjavík Botanical Garden, and the Family Park and Zoo.
This area is ideal for families, as it offers plenty of activities for children and adults alike. The neighbourhood is also well-connected to the city centre, making exploring the rest of Reykjavík easy. With its lush parks and vibrant community, Laugardalur is a haven for those seeking relaxation and adventure.
Foodies and art lovers flock to Grandi
Grandi, located near the Old Harbour, has undergone significant transformation in recent years, evolving into one of Reykjavík’s trendiest neighbourhoods. This area is a creative hub with many art galleries, design shops, and innovative restaurants. The Grandi District is also home to attractions like the Whales of Iceland exhibition, the Reykjavík Maritime Museum, Flyover Iceland and Lava Show.
Food enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse culinary scene in Grandi, featuring everything from gourmet seafood to artisanal bakeries. This neighbourhood’s unique blend of industrial charm and modern flair makes it a vibrant place to stay for those looking to explore Reykjavík’s artistic and culinary offerings.
Árbær for families and those seeking a suburban feel
Árbær is a suburban neighbourhood in the eastern part of Reykjavík, known for its rich history and community charm. A standout attraction is the Árbær Open Air Museum, where visitors can explore Iceland’s past through its collection of historic buildings and engaging exhibitions.
Nature enthusiasts will love Elliðaárdalur, a serene valley nestled within the neighbourhood. This hidden gem features scenic walking and cycling paths, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, including salmon in the Elliðaár River. Within the valley, you’ll also find Elliðaárstöð, one of Iceland’s oldest hydroelectric power stations, and Höfuðstöðin, a contemporary art space that hosts exhibitions and creative events.
Árbær is also home to Árbæjarlaug, a popular geothermal swimming pool that offers a quintessential Icelandic experience. With its hot tubs, steam rooms, waterslides, and outdoor pools, it’s a family-friendly destination and a great way to unwind after exploring the area.
Árbær is ideal for families and history buffs who want to experience a quieter, more residential side of Reykjavík. Its peaceful atmosphere, green spaces, and excellent connections to the city centre make it a great choice for visitors wanting a balance of urban and suburban charm.
Kópavogur offers a blend of culture, relaxation and shopping
Kópavogur is located just south of central Reykjavík. It provides a suburban feel with easy access to the city centre, making it an ideal place to visit while exploring Reykjavík and its surroundings.
Kópavogur is known for its cultural attractions, such as the Gerðarsafn Art Museum and the Natural History Museum of Kópavogur. It is also the home of one of the country's largest shopping malls, Smáralind, where you can shop, dine and participate in various fun indoor activities.
The Sky Lagoon in Kópavogur is a captivating destination for those searching for relaxation and extraordinary experiences. Additionally, Kópavogur boasts two charming swimming pools, Kópavogur Pool and Salalaug, which provide a more authentic, local atmosphere in contrast to the Sky Lagoon.
Seek solitude in Seltjarnarnes
Seltjarnarnes, located on a peninsula west of Reykjavík, offers stunning views of the ocean and the chance to experience Iceland’s natural beauty. This area is ideal for travellers who enjoy outdoor activities, as it features walking and cycling paths along the coastline and opportunities for birdwatching.
The Grótta Lighthouse, located at the tip of the peninsula, is a popular spot for photography and offers spectacular views of the northern lights during winter. After exploring the area, stop by Ráðagerði, a cozy restaurant near Grótta, to enjoy delicious Icelandic dishes in a charming setting.
Seltjarnarnes provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city while still being just a short drive from Reykjavík’s attractions.
Stay in the gateway to the Golden Circle in Mosfellsbær
Mosfellsbær, located just north of Reykjavík, is a gateway to the Golden Circle and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This area offers easy access to hiking trails, hot springs, and horseback riding opportunities. Highlights include the picturesque Helgufoss waterfall and the scenic Esja mountain.
A hike up Mount Úlfarsfell is a must for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Its trails are suitable for all levels, and the summit offers stunning vistas of Reykjavík and the nearby fjords. After a day of adventure, unwind at Lágafellslaug, a geothermal swimming pool featuring outdoor pools, waterslides, hot tubs, and a steam room—perfect for families and travelers seeking relaxation.
With its blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities, Mosfellsbær is an excellent destination for experiencing the best of Iceland’s landscapes while staying close to the city.
Enjoy the charming town atmosphere of Hafnarfjörður
Hafnarfjörður, located southwest of Reykjavík, is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and charming town centre. The town is steeped in Viking heritage, hosting the annual Viking Festival every June, where visitors can experience authentic Viking culture with reenactments, crafts, and traditional food.
For those seeking a fully immersive experience, Hafnarfjörður is home to a Viking-themed hotel and restaurant. Guests can enjoy hearty, traditional Icelandic meals in a setting inspired by the Viking age, making it a memorable stop for history enthusiasts.
This area is also famous for its connection to Icelandic folklore, with many locals believing that elves and hidden people reside in the town’s lava fields. Hafnarfjörður offers a range of cultural attractions, including galleries, museums, and eclectic restaurants. The town’s picturesque harbour and historic buildings create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors looking to experience Icelandic culture in a smaller setting.
Garðabær’s quiet residential area is perfect for families
Garðabær, a suburban area south of Reykjavík, is known for its family-friendly environment and beautiful natural surroundings. This area offers numerous parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Garðabær is home to the Hofstaðir Viking Settlement, providing a glimpse into Iceland’s Viking heritage. The area also has a notable distinction as the residence of the President of Iceland, adding an interesting political aspect to its otherwise peaceful and residential atmosphere.
For a fun and unique experience, visit the Álftanes swimming pool, which features the only wave pool in Iceland. It’s a great spot for families and swimmers looking to enjoy something different.
With its tranquil setting and easy access to Reykjavík, Garðabær is perfect for those looking to experience the charm of suburban Iceland while staying close to the capital.
Reykjavík offers diverse neighbourhoods, each providing unique experiences and accommodations to suit every traveller’s preference. Whether you’re looking for vibrant city life, serene nature, cultural immersion, or adventure, Reykjavík’s neighbourhoods have something for everyone. From the bustling streets of Miðbær to the tranquil shores of Seltjarnarnes, you’ll find the perfect place to stay and explore all that Iceland’s capital has to offer.