1.800.557.2841
1.800.557.2841
Specials Trip Finder Brochures Menu
UK & Europe

Reykjavik Tours, Vacation Packages & Travel Experiences

  • Winter sunshine over the city centre
  • Rainbow over Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the capital and largest city in Iceland with an urban area population of around 200,000. It is the home of the vast majority of Iceland's inhabitants. It is the centre of culture and life as well as being one of the focal points of tourism on your Iceland vacation.

The city itself is spread out with sprawling suburbs. The city centre, however, is a very small area full of different styled and colourful houses and with good facilities for shopping, dining and drinking. When it started to develop as a town in the 18th century, Reykjavík had already been inhabited for almost a thousand years. It was one of the very first settlements in Iceland. Archaeological remains confirm that people were living there around the year 871 AD.

By the 18th century, Reykjavík was owned by the King of Denmark. The year 1801 is when Reykjavík went from being the largest town in the country to its capital and by the beginning of the 20th century had been transformed from a small trading and fishing village to a fully-fledged capital.

Due to its young age and in particular its rapid expansion in the late 20th century, Reykjavík is very different from the other Nordic capitals. It lacks grand buildings and picturesque old quarters. Instead, it has come to resemble cities on Canada's East Coast.  Nevertheless, Reykjavík has a charm of its own, quite unique, shaped by the dual nature which hasn't seemed to make up its mind on whether it's a small town or a big city, an interesting place to visit on Iceland trips.

Walking in Reykjavík is highly recommended, as many attractions are within walking distance from the centre. The city is very beautiful and the sidewalk and pathway system is first-rate. Reykjavík drivers are generally very friendly, and will sometimes stop for you even when there is no crossing facility. Unknown to many visitors, a very long and scenic pathway for walking and cycling circles almost the whole city. A good starting point is anywhere where the city touches the sea. 

The houses have some very distinct features, most notably, their brightly colored corrugated metal sidings. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours just wandering around, taking in the city. There are several museums and art galleries in the city to enjoy on an Iceland vacation, most of them within easy reach of the downtown area.

There is a lot to do in Reykjavík despite being a small city. There is a vibrant music scene with concerts most evenings in the centre of the city. For theatre enthusiasts, the city boasts two main theatres staging around 10 plays a year each, both domestic and foreign. There are a number of opportunities to experience at least a bit of Icelandic nature without leaving the city itself and outdoor activities in the immediate vicinity of the city are easy to find. And no visit to Reykjavík would be complete without going to at least one of the geothermal pools while on Iceland trips. 

Iceland Vacation Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to an Iceland vacation. 

Learn about the history and culture of Iceland, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Iceland's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Iceland for yourself. Start exploring...book your Iceland vacation today!

Extend your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your Iceland tours on one of Goway's other European tours. This can be done stopping over en route in Iceland to or from Europe.

Read More

Reykjavik, Iceland

  • Reykjavik Discovery

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland, and home to roughly two-thirds of the country’s population. The cultural and entertainment hub of Iceland, it serves as an excellent location for a quick getaway or for a stopover during a larger vacation. On this expedited adventure, learn about Iceland’s foremost attractions, tour funky Reykjavik and head out to experience the wonders of the Golden Circle.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 737
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland Beyond the Wall: Reykjavik & Akureyri

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Game of Thrones might not be known for its tranquility, but television filming locations around Iceland offer that and much more. Begin your tour with a brief stopover in Reykjavik, Iceland's capital, before flying north to experience Akureyri, Iceland's gorgeous northern city. Touring along the way will reveal secrets beyond the wall and of the famed Golden Circle.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,560
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Highlights of Reykjavik

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy a spectacular visit to the Land of Fire and Ice on this excellent trip based out of Iceland's funky capital, Reykjavik. Take in the highlights of the Golden Circle, including Geysir and Gullfoss, spelunk into the dormant remains of a volcano, enjoy a foodie-themed walking tour, and cap off your stay with a relaxing dip in the waters of the Blue Lagoon.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,613
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik Signature

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: On this customizable adventure, you're invited to experience the Land of Fire & Ice during the best time of the year. With an aim to catch the elusive, astounding Northern Lights by sea, begin your trip with a plunge into the shimmering Blue Lagoon, relax in deluxe accommodations throughout your stay, sample local beers, tour the Golden Circle and explore the belly of a dormant volcano.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,600
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik and the Golden Circle

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Discover trendy Reykjavik and the beautiful scenery of the Golden Circle and South Iceland on this introductory tour of Iceland. Based in Reykjavik, you’ll experience a taste of the city’s culinary scene before exploring Solheimajokull, the Golden Circle, and the subterranean chambers of Thrihnukagigur Volcano.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,962
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • New Years in Reykjavik

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: For a night you're sure to remember, make the trip to Iceland to ring in the new year surrounded by the celebratory spirit of Reykjavik! New Years Eve is a big deal across Iceland, with traditional meals, fireworks large and small, and above all, a jubilance unique to the country on full display on this special night. Experience it for yourself!
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland Complete Self-Drive: Reykjavik, Akureyri, Hofn & More

    MODERATE | SELF-DRIVE: This self-drive favorite explores Iceland’s rich natural treasures, including national parks, beautiful waterfalls, striking glaciers, magnificent volcanoes and hot springs. With time in the funky capital city of Reykjavik and to visit mighty Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Lake Myvatn, and Thingvellir and Vatnajokull National Parks, it is the perfect option for globetrotters looking to discover Iceland in depth.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,830
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Classics (Bestsellers), Self-Drives
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland and the Natural Wonders of Greenland Cruise

    FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Cruise along the North Atlantic, exploring the Arctic landscapes of western Iceland and Greenland to discover Viking history and floating icebergs. From the cosmopolitan capital of Reykjavik, board the Seaventure to cross the Denmark Strait to Greenland where you’ll follow in the footsteps of Erik the Red and survey the glaciers, fjords, and Inuit settlements that define this ancient island.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,795
    Trip Type:
    Cruises & Sailing, Multi Country Vacation Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Cruise Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland, Greenland & Norway

    DELUXE | CRUISE: This two week cruise through the Arctic region takes you to see the austere and breathtaking beauty of a little known world full of natural wonders. Fjords, glaciers, ancient settlements, on board lectures – all these add to the incredible allure of the Arctic.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Cruises & Sailing
    Arctic See Trip Details

  • Iceland Circumnavigation Cruise: Stykkisholmur, Isafjordur, Seydisfjordur & More

    FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Sailing from Reykjavik aboard the MS Seaventure around Iceland will provide you with amazing sites, spectacular scenery and an excellent insight into this magical land. See majestic fjords, cascading waterfalls, mighty glaciers, remote fishing villages, abundant wildlife and active volcanoes.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,649
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Cruises & Sailing
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland Complete Small Group Tour: Reykjavik, Akureyri, Hofn & More

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: On this immersive exploration of Iceland, discover myriad natural wonders as well as the jovial spirit of the Land of Fire and Ice. With fellow travelers in tow, you'll stay in first-class and moderate accommodations, enjoy tasty local meals, and visit a range of remarkably scenic locations, perfect for those with an adventurous spirit.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,270
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring, Small Group Touring
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Hidden Powers & Northern Lights Coach Tour

    MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Explore the natural wonders of Iceland on this coach tour beginning and ending in Reykjavik. During your journey across the island nation, you’ll gaze upon the Golden Waterfall of Gullfoss, explore the area surrounding Eyjafjallajokull Volcano, and venture to the face of Vatnajokull Glacier, all beneath the living northern sky.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,234
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Winter Wonders & Delicious Detours Self-Drive: Gullfoss, Jokulsarlon, Snaefellsnes & More

    MODERATE | SELF-DRIVE: The mesmerizing beauty of winter in Iceland is something best experienced at your own pace. With inspiring, breath-taking landscapes throughout the (well connected and maintained) southern corridors, set off in a rental vehicle to explore a few incredible sights including Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, Skaftafell waterfall, the black sand beaches of Vik and post-card perfect Snaefellsnes National Park.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,201
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Self-Drives
    Iceland See Trip Details
Trip Finder

What our travelers say

Trustpilot

Goway Toolkit

Need help planning your holiday? Our toolkit is a great place to get started.

Iceland