Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik is the cultural beating heart of the Land of Fire and Ice. Known for its vibrant art scene, rich history, and must-see landmarks, it’s easy to explore the town by both car and on foot. Here’s everything to know about visiting Reykjavik and discovering the city by car, with the flexibility to visit the top spots at your own pace.
Overview of Reykjavik’s Map: Navigating the City
Reykjavik is located on the Seltjarnar Peninsula, jutting into the Faxa Bay. Most of the main attractions are in the central, downtown area with the outskirts being largely reserved for residential and office buildings.
It’s very easy to navigate the city with only a few main roads to connect it all. This map of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, includes the top sights to help you plan your visit.
Route from Iceland KEF international airport to Reykjavik
Hallgrimskirkja’s location, in the center of Reykjavik
Top Attractions to Visit in Reykjavik
Reykjavik’s top sights include the Hallgrímskirkja, Sun Voyager, and the Harpa Concert Hall.
Hallgrímskirkja
The largest church in Iceland, Hallgrímskirkja can be seen from far and wide as it is perched on a hill that overlooks the city. Construction began in 1945 and continued until 1986. Its unique, white bell tower stands almost 240’ tall and was designed by Guðjon Samuelsson who took inspiration from Icelandic landscapes — hence why the church appears to be flanked by basalt columns. Visitors can get panoramic views from the top of the tower, accessed by an elevator.
Sun Voyager
A beautiful and stoic sculpture, sitting overlooking Faxa Bay, Sun Voyager was created by local artist Jon Gunnar Arnason. While the sculpture looks like a Viking ship, it’s actually a dream boat that represents dreaming of hope, freedom, and progress.
Harpa Concert Hall
Yet another sight tucked along Reykjavik’s waterfront, the Harpa Concert Hall is a gorgeously designed contemporary building and home to both the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, Iceland Big Band, and the Icelandic Opera. Designed by Olafur Eliasson, the geometric design and reflections are also reminiscent of Iceland’s basalt columns.
Walk map of Sun Voyager> Harpa Concert Hall > Hallgrímskirkja
Shopping Streets in Reykjavik
Visitors to Reykjavik will probably want to do a bit of souvenir shopping and there’s no better place to do so than on the city’s shopping streets. The two most popular shopping streets in Reykjavik are Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur.
Both cutting through the heart of downtown, these streets are lined with cozy cafes, artisan handicraft shops, and trendy stores. One of the most popular items to buy is the Icelandic lopapeysa, uniquely designed sweaters knitted with Icelandic sheep’s wool.
It’s also very easy to park at one of the nearby lots and explore on foot if you’re traveling by car.
Whale Watching from the Old Harbor
Reykjavik is one of the country’s best whale watching destinations with boats leaving from the Old Harbor. Peak season is in the summer months, from June to August, which also aligns with some of the island’s best (and warmest) weather.
The harbor is easily reached by car with an onsite parking lot for ease of use. This also makes it easy for visitors to time up their whale watching excursions with the best weather conditions, a tricky feat in Iceland.
You need to drive 10 mins from Hallgrímskirkja to the Old Harbour:
Best Museums in Reykjavik
Reykjavik is also home to a surprising amount of museums. Here are a few that you should visit…
Perlan Museum
Situated on a hill overlooking the city, the Perlan Museum is dedicated to all things Iceland. Visitors can explore unique exhibitions like the Ice Cave, Glacier Exhibition, Northern Lights Show, Volcano Show, and more. Visitors will also find a restaurant, bar, cafe, and ice cream shop. As a grand finale, climb up to the observation deck for panoramic views of Reykjavik and the surrounding countryside.
Reykjavik Art Museum
Iceland’s premier art museum, the Reykjavik Art Museum houses artwork from both Icelandic and international artists. Several famous artists, like Johannes Kjarval and Erro, have art displayed here.
National Museum of Iceland
Learn more about Iceland’s history and heritage at the National Museum of Iceland through artifacts and interactive exhibits. Over 2,000 objects call the museum home, including Viking relics and over a thousand photographs.
Saga Museum
The Saga Museum tells the tale of key moments in Icelandic history, from plague to battles, through audio guides and lifelike figures.
The best way to get between these museums easily and without hassle is avoiding public transportation and renting a car.
A map Marked main attractions and Museums in Reykjavik
Parking in Reykjavik: What Tourists Need to Know
Street parking in Reykjavik is sectioned off into four different zones, each a different price. Overnight parking is typically free in all zones and zones P2-P4 have free Sunday parking.
click the image and see the live version
- P1, or the pink/red zone, is located in the heart of downtown, is the most sought after, and therefore the most expensive. You can park here for a rate of 600 ISK an hour.
- P2-P4 are also central to downtown but not as central as P1. Parking rates here are 220 ISK an hour.
For those parking outside the colored zones, parking is typically free although always double check to be sure it isn’t a private parking area.
Several parking garages are sprinkled around town, including one near the Laugavegur shopping street.
Some popular sites, like Hallgrimskirkja, have free parking although it may be limited.
Why Renting a Car with Firefly Iceland is the Best Option
If you’re thinking about a trip to Iceland, the best way to get around is by rental car and there’s no better company to rent from than Firefly Iceland.
Renting a car will give you the ultimate freedom for both navigating the capital city’s attractions, parking, and easily heading out of town for day trips to the Blue Lagoon and even further afield.
Conclusion
With this handy dandy map of Reykjavik you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to Iceland’s capital. Get more inspiration by perusing articles about other Iceland map and book your rental car to jump start your planning process!
