1.800.557.2841
1.800.557.2841
Goway's special booking conditions protect your 2021 travel plans - Read more
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 intesting 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 general 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 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

  • Volcanoes & Glaciers Coach Tour from Reykjavik Iceland

    A journey through from Reykjavik through a country of natural beauty that includes majestic waterfalls, impressive lava flows, huge glaciers, a volcanic crater, gushing hot springs, a folk museum and the opportunity to see seals and puffins close up.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,648
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik and the Golden Circle

    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$ 3,842
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Hidden Powers & Northern Lights Coach Tour Iceland

    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 base of Eyjafjallajokull Volcano, and venture to the face of Vatnajokull Glacier, all beneath the living northern sky.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,411
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik in Style

    On this tailor-made adventure, you're invited to experience the Land of Fire & Ice during the best time of the year to catch the elusive, astounding Northern Lights, all paired with excellent accommodations, fine food and a tour of the Golden Circle.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,487
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland Complete Coach Tour: Reykjavik to Reykjavik

    Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this scenic country. This in-depth tour travels through majestic scenery with enchanting stopovers en route.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,580
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland Circumnavigation Cruise

    Sailing from Reykjavik aboard the Ocean Diamond 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$ 3,625
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Cruises & Sailing
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik in Depth

    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$ 1,116
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • South Iceland Winter Adventure: Reykjavik to Reykjavik

    If you think a winter Iceland tour is all early nights and frozen wasteland, think again. This spectacular short trip offers you the country’s best sights at their most dramatic, with a good chance of spying the Northern Lights.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,849
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Escorted Coach Touring, Small Group Touring
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland: Beyond the Wall: Game of Thrones

    TV’s Game of Thrones might not be known for its tranquility, but its filming locations around Iceland offer that and much more.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,560
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland and the Natural Wonders of Greenland 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 Ocean Diamond 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$ 4,760
    Trip Type:
    Cruises & Sailing
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Winter Wonders & Delicious Detours Self Drive: Iceland

    Be amazed at the natural beauty of Iceland at your own leisurely pace on a self drive car itinerary. You will see dramatic scenery including waterfalls, active volcanoes, glaciers, bubbling mud pools and geysers. Iceland is nature’s wonderland just waiting to be discovered.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,104
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland Complete Self Drive: Reykjavik to Reykjavik

    This self-drive favorite explores Iceland’s rich natural treasures, including national parks, beautiful waterfalls, striking glaciers, magnificent volcanoes and hot springs. These include Reykjavik city, Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Lake Myvatn, and Thingvellir and Vatnajokull National parks. You will have ample time to cover all the hot spots that Iceland has to offer on its famous Ring Road.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,958
    Trip Type:
    Self-Drives
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Jokulsarlon & Ice Caving

    Hike behind waterfalls, stroll alongside icebergs, and delve into glacial caves on this unforgettable journey along Iceland’s south coast. Passing from Reykjavik to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Vatnajokull Glacier, you’ll explore the ice-capped natural wonders that make Iceland so remarkable.
    Duration:
    2 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 933
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Small Group Touring
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik: New Years in Iceland

    Something very special – experience the New Year in Iceland where it is taken very seriously. Join in typical Icelandic traditions, have a sumptuous New Year’s Eve dinner and continue on celebrating with the locals. There is also time for some sightseeing.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 945
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & Greenland

    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 From:
    US$ 13,190
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Cruises & Sailing
    Arctic 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

Request Brochure