Cheap flights to Reykjavik from $1,193

Why visit

Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and its position close to the Arctic Circle makes it the furthest north seat of a national government anywhere. However, its climate is not nearly as harsh as its location would suggest. Winter (November to March) temperatures average just a few degrees Celsius below freezing.

Although the area has been populated since the 9th century, Reykjavik was not founded until the late 18th century making it a relatively young city by European standards. Today its population of about 120,000 enjoys a thoroughly modern city with many natural amenities at its disposal.

Although Reykjavik is sometimes considered to be an expensive city, it’s worth spending some time browsing its shopping areas and you’ll be surprised at how reasonable the prices can be. Visit the Kringlan Shopping Centre for everything from traditional souvenirs and the patterned jumper (lopapeysa) to designer stores. Apart from the shops, Hallgrimskirkja Church, Reykjavik City Museum and Videy Island are all essential sites to jot down on your must-see list. A night out in the city is particularly special when daylight hours are at their peak. Most Icelanders don’t head out until past midnight and the party doesn’t get started until the early hours. It feels natural because it doesn’t get dark which is strange at first, but also very enjoyable. Take a cheap flight to Reykjavik and transport yourself to another world, one which you will never forget.

Getting around Reykjavik

You can save some money by using the city’s public transport. The bus system, Strætó, will take you around the city and the suburbs cheaply and quickly. They don’t run all day, but there are some night buses. 

Watch your budget when you’re out late at night because taxis can be expensive. It’s easy to walk around Reykjavik, so most people don’t rent a car. There are plenty of bike rental companies to be found, so consider a two-wheeler to get around.

Getting from the airport to the city

Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is located around 49 km away from the city. There are regular bus services operating from the airport which take about 45 minutes to reach the centre of Reykjavik. Pre-booking is essential. Taxis are also available as are car rental companies.

What is good to know if travelling to Reykjavik?

• At 26 m, Mt Esja is Reykjavik’s most outstanding feature and is also a popular hiking area among the locals. There are a number of routes to the top to choose from but regardless of how you get there, be sure to take in the stunning views of the city below.
• Best known as the site of a summit between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev in 1986 that effectively ended the Cold War, Hofdi House, built in 1909, is among the most beautiful buildings in Reykjavik. It was initially home to the French Consul in Iceland but has since hosted a number of famous guests including the Queen, Winston Churchill and Marlene Dietrich. These days it is used for official receptions and although it is not open to visitors, it can be viewed from the outside.
• Hallgrimskirkja church is Reykjavik’s most prominent landmark and is visible from just about anywhere in the city. Designed by Gudjon Samuelson, it aims to resemble volcanic rock formations and took 40 years to build before the grand opening in 1986. At the front of the building is a statue of Leifur Eiriksson, also known as Leif the Lucky, who was the first European to discover America some time around the year 1000 AD. Needless to say he was a native son.
• A few minutes from the city by boat, a visit to Videy Island is a must for all travellers. Inhabited since the 10th century, the island was a destination for pilgrims during the middle ages and was the site of the local port and a government seat before its last inhabitant left in 1943.
• The Pearl is a curious glass structure perched on top of a series of tanks that store the natural hot water of the area that in turn is used to heat the city. The dome houses a restaurant where the fine cuisine competes with the panoramic views of the city for visitors’ attention.