Discover Reykjavik’s must-see attractions on this walkable self-guided tour that takes 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace.
Starting Point: Hallgrímskirkja Church
Begin at Hallgrímskirkja Church (open daily 9am-5pm, tower admission ISK 1000), the iconic Lutheran church with distinctive architecture inspired by Iceland’s basalt lava columns.
Route Overview
- Total distance: 3.5 km (2.2 miles)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat terrain
- Best time: 10am-4pm when attractions are open
Stop-by-Stop Directions
- Hallgrímskirkja → Skólavörðustígur (5 min)
Walk down the rainbow-painted shopping street Skólavörðustígur, lined with local shops and cafes.
- Skólavörðustígur → Laugavegur (10 min)
Turn right onto Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street, filled with boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
- Laugavegur → Austurvöllur Square (15 min)
Continue to Austurvöllur Square, home to the Alþingi (Parliament House) and Dómkirkjan (Reykjavik Cathedral).
- Austurvöllur → Old Harbor (10 min)
Head west towards the Old Harbor area, where you’ll find the striking Harpa Concert Hall (free to enter lobby).
- Old Harbor → Sun Voyager (15 min)
Follow the coastal path to the Sun Voyager sculpture, a steel sculpture resembling a Viking ship.
Recommended Stops
- Cafes: Reykjavik Roasters (Kárastígur 1) for coffee
- Lunch: Cafe Loki (Lokastígur 28) for traditional Icelandic food
- Photo spots: Hallgrímskirkja tower, Sun Voyager at sunset
Tips for Your Walk
- Download offline maps before starting
- Wear weatherproof clothing – Reykjavik weather can change quickly
- Bring water and snacks – Iceland can be expensive
- Carry local currency for small purchases
- Most attractions accept credit cards
Optional Add-ons
- National Museum of Iceland (Suðurgata 41, open 10am-5pm, closed Mondays)
- Reykjavik Art Museum (Tryggvagata 17, open 10am-5pm)
- Settlement Exhibition (Aðalstræti 16, open 10am-5pm)
Free public restrooms are available at Harpa Concert Hall and most museums.
Emergency contacts: 112 for all emergencies, Tourist Information Center: +354 411 6000.
Additional Highlights
- Street Art: Look for murals along Laugavegur and side streets
- Local Markets: Kolaportið Flea Market (weekends only)
- Hidden Gems: Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden (free outdoor area)
Where to Rest
Indoor Options
- Harpa Concert Hall – Free WiFi and seating
- Reykjavik City Library – Quiet space with free facilities
- Sandholt Bakery – Historic atmosphere with excellent pastries
Outdoor Spots
- Austurvöllur Square – Grass area with benches
- Harbor-front seating – Views of Mount Esja
- Hljómskálagarður Park – Peaceful garden setting
Evening Extensions
- Northern Lights viewing (seasonal)
- Harbor dinner cruises
- Live music venues on Laugavegur
Conclusion
This walking tour covers Reykjavik’s essential sights while offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. The route can be modified based on weather conditions or personal interests. Most attractions are within a compact area, making it easy to adjust the itinerary as needed.
Consider booking museums in advance during peak season (June-August) and checking weather forecasts before starting. The walk can be done in either direction, though starting at Hallgrímskirkja provides the best orientation of the city.
Remember to respect local customs, keep noise levels down in residential areas, and follow marked paths. This route is particularly beautiful during the midnight sun in summer or the golden hours in winter.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to do a self-guided walking tour in Reykjavik?
June through August offers the mildest weather and midnight sun, while September to March provides opportunities to see Northern Lights. Summer temperatures average 10-15°C (50-59°F). - How long does it typically take to walk around central Reykjavik’s main attractions?
Most main attractions in downtown Reykjavik can be covered in 2-3 hours, as the city center is compact and most sites are within 1-2 kilometers of each other. - Which are the must-see landmarks on a self-guided walking tour?
Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, Sun Voyager sculpture, Old Harbor area, Lake Tjörnin, Laugavegur shopping street, and Parliament House (Alþingi) are essential stops. - Is it safe to walk around Reykjavik by yourself?
Yes, Reykjavik is consistently ranked among the safest cities in the world, with very low crime rates and well-maintained streets that are well-lit even during dark winter months. - What should I wear for a walking tour in Reykjavik?
Waterproof and windproof layers are essential year-round. Comfortable waterproof walking shoes and warm clothing are recommended, as weather can change quickly. - Where can I find public restrooms during my walking tour?
Public restrooms are available at Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall, City Hall, and most museums and cafes. Some require a small fee of 200-300 ISK. - Are there free walking tours available in Reykjavik?
Yes, several companies offer free walking tours (tip-based) starting from various central locations, but self-guided tours can be done using downloadable maps and audio guides. - Where can I start my self-guided walking tour?
Most tours start at either Hallgrímskirkja Church or the Old Harbor area, as these are prominent landmarks and easily accessible from most downtown locations. - Are museums included in typical walking routes?
Yes, the National Museum, Settlement Exhibition, Maritime Museum, and Reykjavik Art Museum are all accessible on walking routes, though separate admission fees apply. - Where can I find good photo opportunities during the walk?
The best photo spots include Hallgrímskirkja Church’s observation deck, the colorful houses on Þingholtsstræti, the Sun Voyager sculpture with mountain views, and the Harpa Concert Hall’s glass facade.
