If you’ve got Iceland on your bucket list (and let’s be real, who doesn’t?), here’s my honest rundown on Reykjavik — from getting there, to where to stay, eat, and what to do once you arrive.

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Fly: Play Airlines

I flew Play Airlines and honestly, for a budget carrier, it’s excellent. The planes are new, the staff is great, and the fares are wildly affordable — I snagged flights as cheap as $165 from New York to Reykjavik. That’s cheaper than some U.S. domestic flights!

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Arrival at Keflavík International Airport

Keflavík Airport is surprisingly beautiful, with restaurants, shops, boutiques, and a massive duty-free store. Important tip: if you want alcohol during your trip, stock up here. Buying once you’re in Reykjavik is not only difficult but insanely expensive.

Getting into the city is easy:

• The Flybus Airport Transfer runs 45 minutes to downtown, guaranteed seating for every arrival and departure, and costs about €60 to the city center. For an extra €30–40 they’ll drop you directly at most hotels.

• Taxis are lined up outside too, but there’s no flat fare. Expect around $200 to downtown Reykjavik.

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Currency: Iceland has its own currency, the Icelandic Króna, but the Euro, U.S. Dollar, and British Pound are widely accepted. Depending on your bank, it may be better to use your debit card rather than paying high exchange fees once in Iceland. Their tap-to-pay machines also let you choose whether to pay in your home currency or in Icelandic. Pro tip: choose Icelandic Króna — it usually comes with a lower fee!

Getting Around: Be sure to download Iceland’s version of Uber/Lyft, called Hopp! The app lets you request rideshares, carpools, and even shows you where to find their motorized scooters. You’ll see plenty of locals zipping around on these bright green-and-blue scooters! Reykjavik is also very walkable, so if you’re ready to get your steps in, exploring on foot is a great option. When the weather isn’t cooperating, calling a Hopp car is far cheaper than grabbing a taxi from the line. And if all else fails, taxis are always available.

Take Care of Your Skin: You might think, “It’s August — no need to worry about dry skin or chapped lips!” Think again. Iceland’s climate can be surprisingly harsh on your skin. Bring all your essential skincare with you — it’s very expensive to buy once you’re in Reykjavik. Make room in your luggage for masks, moisturizers, chapstick, eye patches, serums, and anything else you rely on to stay hydrated and comfortable.

Stay: Fosshotel

I stayed at Fosshotel and loved it. My flight landed at 4:30 AM and they offered early check-in for $50 (lifesaver!). I crashed, napped, and woke up refreshed enough to explore.

But honestly? That first evening I barely left the hotel. Fosshotel has a rustic beer garden and an intimate restaurant right in the lobby. The beer garden ended up being my favorite bar in Reykjavik — bartenders from all over the world, a great selection of Icelandic craft beers, global favorites, wines, and creative cocktails. Even if you don’t drink beer, you’ll be happy here. The food was great too, from fun bites like pretzels and beer cheese to chef-crafted pastas at Haust Restaurant.

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Eat: Prepare Your Wallet

Nobody told me Iceland was THIS expensive. Looking for cheap eats? You’ll have to dig deep. A hot dog at 10-11 (the local convenience store) is about $8. Even fast food — like KFC — runs about $30 for a combo meal.

My favorite option was Hlemmur Mathöll, a food hall downtown just five minutes from Fosshotel. The quality was excellent with options like wood-fired pizza, sushi, fish and chips, and traditional Icelandic plates. You’ll still spend around $100 for two people with a drink each, but at least here you get variety and value.

Other Restaurants to Put on Your List

• Old Harbor House – A cozy spot right on the port, perfect for warming up with an Icelandic beer and classic fish and chips after exploring the waterfront.
• Restaurant RIO Reykjavík – Funky, creative, and casual all at once. Think unexpected taco flavors, inventive burgers, and playful fusion dishes in a laid-back space.
• Hafnartorg Gallery Food Hall – Ideal if you’re with a group or just can’t decide what you’re craving. Coffee, desserts, ramen, tacos, sushi, pizza, and traditional Icelandic options all under one roof.
• Le KocK – A local favorite serving elevated bar food: wings, burgers, loaded potatoes, chicken sandwiches, plus a full bar with cocktails and wine.

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Do: Whale Watching with Elding

One of my highlights was whale watching with Elding Whale Watching. They make it super easy to book online or onsite, and they even show live tracking updates on their website. They offer whale watching, puffin tours, or even a northern lights cruise.

Pro tip: it gets windy out on the open sea — dress warmer than you think. They provide overalls to keep you dry and warm, seasickness tablets, plus coffee and snacks onboard. You’ll likely spot a variety of marine life, and the whole experience feels both thrilling and memorable.

Before or after your trip, wander the port area — it’s filled with shops and restaurants. Don’t skip grabbing a coffee at Reykjavík Röst to warm up.

Do – Indulge in the Blue Lagoon

No trip to Reykjavik is complete without a soak in the world-famous Blue Lagoon. Nestled in a lava field just a 30-mile drive from the airport, this milky-blue geothermal spa offers water consistently heated to a perfect 37–39 °C (98–102 °F). Its otherworldly glow comes from the high silica, algae, and mineral content—nature’s own skincare mask for your face. Not only is it visually unforgettable, but it’s also surprisingly therapeutic: the lagoon’s self-cleaning, bacteria-free ecosystem keeps it pristine without chlorine.

Take a Stroll Down Skólavörðustígur Rainbow Street

One of Reykjavik’s most colorful attractions, this rainbow-painted street is lined with charming cafés, galleries, and local shops. It’s perfect for grabbing a coffee, browsing boutiques, or just soaking in the cheerful atmosphere against a backdrop of beautiful architecture and friendly faces.

Shop: Bring a Piece of Iceland Home

If you’re looking for gifts or souvenirs, Reykjavik has some great options:

• The Heart of Reykjavík – A charming shop filled with unique, handmade treasures. You’ll find rare and interesting pieces that feel truly special.
• Iceland Memories Shop – A colorful little store with pastel paintings, puffin-themed goodies, and traditional knickknacks perfect for small keepsakes.
• Rammagerðin – For high-end Icelandic design, this shop is incredible. Think beautiful sweaters, scarves, throws, and clothing crafted in Iceland that you won’t find anywhere else.
• IceMart Souvenirs – The spot for affordable, fun finds. From beanies to magnets and everything in between, it’s the perfect one-stop shop with gifts for everyone, from kids to adults.

Leave room in your suitcase!

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Final Thoughts

Reykjavik is an adventure in itself — and a gateway to the natural wonders beyond. Between affordable flights, cozy hotels, and bucket-list experiences like whale watching, it’s absolutely worth a visit (just bring a budget for the food!).