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Reykjavik’s main shopping street lined with boutiques, Icelandic design stores, and souvenir shops, perfect for fashion, crafts, and local gifts.
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Must-see places on your Reykjavik Northern Lights experience
Old Harbour
Reykjavik’s bustling waterfront, departure point for Northern Lights cruises and whale-watching tours, perfect for waterfront views, dining, and easy access to guided excursions.
Aurora Reykjavik Northern Lights Centre
Aurora Northern Lights Centre showcases exhibitions on the aurora borealis and Icelandic astronomy, great for understanding the science behind the lights before your evening tour.
Whales of Iceland Museum
Life-size whale models and marine exhibits, perfect for families or first-time visitors, and often included in combined cruise packages.
Book Northern Lights tours in Reykjavik
Hallgrímskirkja Church
Reykjavik’s towering church with panoramic city views, ideal for city orientation and sunset photos before aurora chasing.
Blue Lagoon
Famous geothermal spa with milky-blue waters, an optional add-on for relaxation before or after a Northern Lights tour.
Getting to Reykjavik
Guided tours
Bus / Coach
Car/Self-drive
Flight (Domestic/Connecting)
Direct transfers and expert-led itineraries simplify Northern Lights tours without transport stress. Many include hotel pickup, thermal suits, and aurora chasing tips.
- Time: 3–7 hours round trip (depending on half-night vs full-night tour)
- Cost: $80–$180 depending on inclusions (super jeep, yacht, or bus tour)
- Pros: Hassle-free, includes gear and expert guidance, small groups
- Cons: Less flexible than DIY, fixed departure times
Public buses or shuttle services from Reykjavik city center to popular aurora spots are available but less convenient than guided tours.
- Time: ~1 hour to the outskirts; 2–3 hours total round trip (depending on the route)
- Cost: ~$15–$30
- Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, those comfortable navigating schedules
- Cons: No aurora guidance, limited routes, may involve transfers
Renting a car allows flexibility to chase the Northern Lights independently or combine with nearby sites like Þingvellir or Blue Lagoon.
- Time: ~45 min to 1.5 hours depending on chosen viewing location
- Cost: Rental + fuel (~$50–$100/day) + parking
- Best for: Groups, experienced drivers, multi-stop flexibility
- Cons: Challenging winter driving, limited visibility, parking at remote sites
For visitors coming from Iceland’s regions (Akureyri, Egilsstaðir), domestic flights land in Reykjavik-Keflavík International, followed by bus or taxi to the city.
- Time: 45–60 min flight + 45 min transfer to Reykjavik
- Cost: ~$80–$150 one-way
- Best for: Regional travelers short on time
- Cons: Extra connections, more expensive than land transfers
Where to eat in Reykjavik
Good food is part of the Reykjavik experience. Here are a few recommended spots where you can enjoy authentic Icelandic dishes, convenient locations, and great value.
Sægreifinn (The Sea Baron)
Famous for fresh seafood skewers and cozy harbor-side vibes.
Location: Old Harbour, Reykjavik [View on map]
Cuisine: Seafood / Icelandic
Rating: 4.4/5
Price point: Budget
Must-try: Lobster soup
Grillmarkaðurinn (The Grill Market)
Upscale grill house with locally sourced Icelandic meats and modern décor.
Location: Lækjargata, downtown Reykjavik [View on map]
Cuisine: Icelandic fusion / Grill
Rating: 4.5/5
Price point: Mid-range/upscale
Must-try: Lamb fillet
Café Loki
Cozy spot serving traditional Icelandic comfort food next to Hallgrímskirkja.
Location: Skólavörðustígur 28, near Hallgrímskirkja [View on map]
Cuisine: Icelandic / Café
Rating: 4.3/5
Price point: Budget
Must-try: Rye bread ice cream & plokkfiskur
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
Reykjavik’s famous hot dog stand, loved by locals and visitors alike.
Location: Tryggvagata 1, near downtown [View on map]
Cuisine: Fast food / Street food
Rating: 4.5/5
Price point: Budget
Must-try: Classic Icelandic hot dog with everything
Kaffivagninn
Historic café serving breakfast and fresh seafood by the Old Harbour.
Location: Skúlagata 28, Old Harbour [View on map]
Cuisine: Café / Icelandic seafood
Rating: 4.2/5
Price point: Budget/mid-range
Must-try: Fish soup & shrimp sandwiches
Messinn
Casual seafood restaurant known for hearty portions and rustic charm.
Location: Laugavegur 59, downtown Reykjavik [View on map]
Cuisine: Icelandic seafood
Rating: 4.4/5
Price point: Mid-range
Must-try: Fried cod with remoulade sauce
Where to shop in Reykjavik
Laugavegur shopping street
Nearby attractions
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Frequently asked questions about visiting Reykjavik for the Northern Lights experience
What’s the best way to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik?
If you love the sea, hop on a boat tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour for uninterrupted views over Faxaflói Bay. For land-based adventures, join a super jeep or bus tour to inland dark-sky areas.
Do I need to book a tour, or can I go on my own?
You can drive out of the city to find darker skies yourself, but guided tours use expert knowledge and real-time forecasts to chase the best aurora spots, especially useful in winter road conditions.
Are these Northern Lights tours kid-friendly?
Yes, many tours welcome children, but remember they may involve long periods outdoors in the cold. Dress kids in thermal layers and bring snacks to keep them comfortable.
How should I prepare in case of bad weather?
Wear a waterproof, windproof jacket and sturdy winter boots. If your tour is canceled due to weather, many operators offer free rescheduling. Check out the forecast page to know more about Reykjavik weather.
What else can I do when visiting Reykjavik for the Northern Lights?
Combine your trip with iconic sights like the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and Hallgrímskirkja, or visit museums like Perlan for interactive displays about Iceland’s natural wonders.