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AFTUR
Shops · Ármúli 44
Runner up 2026 in “BEST FASHION BOUTIQUE”.
The Best of Iceland, according to people who live here.
The Reykjavík Grapevine has handed out the Best of Reykjavík awards every year since 2009: panels of locals arguing about bakeries, bars, pools and museums until a winner is declared. These are the 404 places in the app that carry the badge, by region. No one paid to be here. You couldn't if you tried.
Straight from the app. Get Icebreaker for the full curated map, hours and directions.
Reykjavík166
Amma Don
Drinks · Laugavegur 55
Winner of “Best Place for Cocktails” 2026.
Andrá
Shops · Laugavegur 16
Winner of “BEST FASHION BOUTIQUE” 2026.
Arabian Taste
Food · Laugavegur 87
Runner up 2026 in “Best Late Night Bite”.
Arason
Shops · Skólavörðustígur 22b
Runner up 2026 in “BEST MEN’S CLOTHING”.
Aurum
Shops · Bankastræti 4
Runner up 2026 in “BEST JEWELLERY STORE”.
Austurbær
Culture, Drinks · Snorrabraut 37
Runner up 2026 in “Best Place For Live Music”.
Austur-Indíafjelagið
Food · Hverfisgata 56
Winner of “Best Goddamn Restaurant” and “Best Indian” 2026.
Álftaneslaug
Activities, Swim, Kids · Breiðumýri, Garðabær
The only pool in Iceland with artificial waves, which by the way, bankrupted the municipality that built it.
Árbæjarlaug
Activities, Swim · Fylkisvegur 9
Suburban Árbæjarlaug is a favourite of parents, though the downside is that the view over the pool area from the hot tubs is not ideal for keeping an eye on smaller children.
Árbær Open Air Museum
Culture, Kids · Kistuhylur 4
Winner of “Best Museum” 2026.
Ásmundarsafn
Culture · Sigtún
Runner up 2026 in “Best Art Museum”, as one of the three houses of Reykjavík Art Museum.
Ásmundarsalur
Culture · Freyjugata 41
Winner of “Best Event Space” 2026.
Á milli
Culture · Ingólfsstræti 6
Runner up 2026 in “Best Artist-Run Space”.
BakaBaka
Food · Bankastræti 2
Winner of “Best Pizza” 2026.
Ban Thai
Food · Laugavegur 130
Winner of “Best Thai” 2026.
Barnaloppan
Shops, Kids · Köllunarklettsvegur 1, 104 Reykjavík
Runner up 2026 in “BEST SECOND-HAND STORE”.
Bar 22
Drinks, Happy · Laugavegur 22
Runner up 2026 in “Best Happy Hour”.
BERG Contemporary
Culture · Klapparstígur 16
Runner up 2026 in “Best Gallery”.
Bingó Drinkery
Drinks, Happy · Skólavörðustígur 8
Winner of “Best Bar To Start The Night” 2026.
Bíó Paradís
Culture, Drinks, Happy · Hverfisgata 54
Winner of “Best Cinema” 2026.
Bodega
Drinks, Happy · Týsgata 8
Winner of “Best Outdoor Drinking (Summer)” 2026.
Bókin
Shops · Klapparstígur 25-27, 101 Reykjavík
A Reykjavík Institution, Best of Reykjavík 2026.
Bókumbók
Shops · Njálsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík
Runner up 2026 in “BEST BOOKSTORE”.
Brasserie Kársnes
Food · Hafnarbraut 13, 200 Kópavogur
Runner up 2026 in “Best Suburban”.
Brauð & Co.
Food, Cafes · Multiple locations
Runner up 2026 in “Best Bakery”.
Bæjarins Beztu
Food
Bæjarins Beztu must be the most successful business in Iceland per square metre, and has, since 1937 stood on the corner of Tryggvagata and Pósthússtræti in downtown Reykjavík, always serving the…
Chickpea
Food · Hallveigarstígur 1
Winner of “Best Vegan Meal” 2026.
Chinese Flavour
Food · Snorrabraut 29
Runner up 2026 in “Best Chinese”.
Cibo Amore
Food · Katrínartún 2
Winner of “Best Lunch” 2026.
Daisy
Drinks, Happy · Ingólfsstræti 8
Runner up 2026 in “Best Place for Cocktails”.
Deig
Food, Cafes · Tryggvagata 14
Winner of “Best Value for Money” 2026.
Devito’s Pizza
Food · Laugavegur 126
Runner up 2026 in “Best Late Night Bite”.
Dill
Food · Laugavegur 59
Winner of “Best Place for a Fancy Meal” 2026.
Elding Whale Watching
Activities, Kids · Ægisgarður 5c
Elding's boats leave the Old Harbour and sail 40 minutes into Faxaflói bay, where whales the size of buses do whale-shaped things.
Eldofninn
Food · Efstaland 26
Runner up 2026 in “Best Pizza”.
English Pub
Drinks, Happy · Austurstræti 12
Runner up 2026 in “Best Sports Bar”.
Farmers and Friends
Shops · Laugavegur 37
Runner up 2026 in “BEST PLACE TO BUY A WOOL SWEATER”.
Fálkaklettur Via Ferrata
Activities · Mógilsárvegur 1
A brand-new addition to Iceland’s most-hiked mountain, Esja.
Fine
Food · Rauðarárstígur 33
Winner of “Best Chinese” 2026.
Fischersund
Shops · Fischersund 3, 101 Reykjavík
Fischersund is “a museum for scents,” one panellist said.
Fish Company
Food · Vesturgata 2a
Winner of “Best Seafood” 2026.
Fiska
Shops · Nýbýlavegur 6, 200 Kópavogur
Winner of “BEST GROCERY STORE” 2026.
Flatey Pizza
Food · Grandagarður 11
Winner of “Best Pizza” 2026.
FlyOver Iceland
Activities, Kids, Culture · Fiskislóð 43
This VR experience has been popular since opening in 2019, attracting locals as much as its primary customer base, visitors.
Fönix
Food · Bíldshöfði 12
Runner up 2026 in “Best Chinese”.
Gandhi
Food · Bergstaðastræti 13
Runner up 2026 in “Best Indian”.
Garg bookstore
Shops · Hofsvallagata 16
Winner of “BEST NEWCOMER” 2026.
Gerðarsafn Art Museum
Culture · Hamraborg 4, 200 Kópavogur
Runner up 2026 in “Best Art Museum”.
Gilligogg
Drinks, Happy · Austurstræti 12a
Runner up 2026 in “Best Place for Cocktails”.
Góði Hirðirinn
Shops · Köllunarklettsvegur 1, 104 Reykjavík
SORPA's second-hand warehouse out on Köllunarklettsvegur, where everything Reykjavík throws out gets a second chance: furniture, appliances, kitchenware and a record bin worth digging through.
Grandi Food Hall
Food · Grandagarður 16
Runner up 2026 in “Best Food Hall”.
Grandi Grandagarður
Activities
Grandi is a ten-minute walk from Laugavegur but feels like a different town — an old industrial harbour zone that fisheries left behind, now filled with immersive experiences (FlyOver, Lava Show,…
Grótta
Activities · Grótta, 170 Seltjarnarnes
Winner of “BEST VIEWPOINT” 2026.
Hafnartorg Gallery
Food · Geirsgata 17
Runner up 2026 in “Best Food Hall”.
Hagavagninn
Food · Hofsvallagata 52
Runner up 2026 in “Best Vegan Burger”.
Hallgrímskirkja
Activities · Hallgrímstorg 1
While being Reykjavík’s most recognisable landmark, this church, with a 74-metre-high spire standing on top of a hill in the middle of Reykjavík, is not only good to photograph, it is great to…
Herma
Culture · Hverfisgata 4
Runner up 2026 in “Best Newcomer”.
Herrafataverslun Kormáks & Skjaldar
Shops · Laugavegur 29
Winner of “BEST MEN’S CLOTHING” 2026.
Hildur Hafstein
Shops · Klapparstígur 40
Runner up 2026 in “BEST JEWELLERY STORE”.
Hljóðhimnar, Harpa
Culture, Kids · Austurbakki 2
Runner up 2026 in “Best Permanent Exhibition”.
Hlöllabátar
Food · Ingólfstorg 1
Winner of “Best Late Night Bite” 2026.
Hornið
Food, Culture · Hafnarstræti 15
Still run by the original father-and-siblings quartet that opened it in 1979, Hornið was the first place to serve pizza in Iceland, and remains in its original spot, in one of the last ungentrified…
Hosiló
Food · Hverfisgata 12
Runner up 2026 in “Best Lunch” and “Best Date Night”.
Hringekjan
Shops · Þórunnartún 2, 105 Reykjavík
Hringekjan has thrived as the smaller, less hectic rendition of the booth-based secondhand shops.
Hyalin
Shops · Skólavörðustígur 4a, 101 Reykjavík
Runner up 2026 in “BEST NICHE STORE”.
H,A,K,K Gallery
Culture · Óðinsgata 1
Winner of “Best Newcomer” 2026.
Iðnó
Culture, Drinks · Vonarstræti 3
Winner of “Best Place For Live Music” 2026.
IKEA
Food, Kids · Kauptún 4, 210 Garðabær
Runner up 2026 in “Best Family Restaurant”.
Indo-Italian
Food, Drinks, Happy · Engjateigur 19
Runner up 2026 in “Best Indian”.
i8
Culture · Tryggvagata 16, Grandagarður 20
Runner up 2026 in “Best Gallery”.
Ísbúð Vesturbæjar
Food, Cafes, Kids · Hagamelur 67
Runner up 2026 in “Best Ice Cream”.
Íshestar
Activities, Kids · Sörlaskeið 26, Hafnarfjörður
While we beg you not to stop your car in the middle of our highway to stare at Icelandic horses, there is no denying the majesty and cuteness of said horses.
Jómfrúin
Food · Lækjargata 4
Runner up 2026 in “Best Takeaway”.
Just Wingin' It
Drinks, Happy · Snorrabraut 56
Winner of “Best Sports Bar” 2026.
Kaffibarinn
Drinks, Happy · Bergstaðastræti 1
Runner up 2026 in “Best Goddamn Bar”.
Kaffivagninn
Food, Cafes · Grandagarður 10
Runner up 2026 in “Best Seafood”.
Kaktus Espressobar
Food, Cafes · Fríkirkjuvegur 7
Runner up 2026 in “Best Coffeehouse”.
Kastrup
Food, Cafes · Hverfisgata 6
Winner of “Best Brunch” 2026.
Kemuri
Food · Hverfisgata 82
Runner up 2026 in “Best Vegan Meal”.
Kíkí Queer Bar
Drinks · Laugavegur 22, 101 Reykjavík
Receiving a unanimous vote from the panel, Kíkí Queer Bar is hands-down the best place to end your night.
Kjarvalsstaðir
Culture · Flókagata 24, Reykjavík
Runner up 2026 in “Best Art Museum”, as one of the three houses of Reykjavík Art Museum.
Kling & Bang
Culture · Grandagarður 20
Winner of “Best Artist-Run Space” 2026.
Krónan
Shops · Fiskislóð 15-21
Winner of “BEST GROCERY STORE” 2026.
Lava Show
Activities, Kids, Culture · Fiskislóð 73, 101 Reykjavík
Real molten lava, superheated to 1,100°C and poured into the room a few metres from where you sit, while the host explains what it is doing.
La Poblana
Food · Laugavegur 12
Runner up 2026 in “Best Takeaway”.
La Primavera
Food · Grandagarður 20
Runner up 2026 in “Best Goddamn Restaurant”.
La Trattoria
Food · Geirsgata 17
Runner up 2026 in “Best Lunch”.
Lemmy
Culture, Drinks · Austurstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík
“Lemmy has pretty much any local beer you can think of.
Le Kock
Food · Tryggvagata 12
Winner of “Best Vegan Burger” 2026.
Listasafn Reykjavíkur Hafnarhús
Culture · Tryggvagata 17, 101 Reykjavík
Runner up 2026 in “Best Art Museum”, as one of the three houses of Reykjavík Art Museum.
Loft
Drinks, Happy · Bankastræti 7
Runner up 2026 in “Best Outdoor Drinking (Summer)”.
Lucky Records
Shops · Rauðarárstígur 10
Winner of “BEST RECORD STORE” 2026.
Maíz Mexican Street Food
Food · Delivery only.
Winner of “Best Takeaway” 2026.
Mekó
Activities, Kids · Hamraborg 4, 200 Kópavogur
Mekó is the name given to an assortment of Kópavogur’s cultural institutions; Gerðarsafn museum, Salurinn concert hall, natural museum and a library.
Melabúðin
Shops · Hagamelur 39
Winner of “BEST GROCERY STORE” 2026.
Mengi
Culture, Drinks · Óðinsgata 2
Runner up 2026 in “Best Place For Live Music”.
Mikado
Shops · Kolagata (Hafnartorg)
Winner of “BEST DESIGN STORE” 2026.
Mokka
Food, Cafes · Skólavörðustígur 3A
The first café in Iceland to get an espresso machine, the wood-lined Mokka café has been there since 1958.
Mt. Esja
Activities
Commanding the view to the north of the city, Mt.
Museum of Design and Applied Art
Culture, Kids · Garðatorg 1, 210 Garðabær
Runner up 2026 in “Best Museum”.
Nakano
Shops · Grensásvegur 16, 108 Reykjavík
Runner up 2026 in “BEST NICHE STORE”.
National Gallery of Iceland
Culture · Fríkirkjuvegur 7
Winner of “Best Art Museum” 2026.
National Museum of Iceland
Culture · Suðurgata 41
Runner up 2026 in “Best Museum”.
National Theatre of Iceland
Culture · Hverfisgata 19
Runner up 2026 in “Best Theatre”.
NÍNA
Drinks, Happy · Hverfisgata 20
Runner up 2026 in “Best Sports Bar”.
Noztra
Activities · Grandagarður 14
Specifically for Grandinn, we picked Noztra, for its novelty of pottery and pottery painting.
Officina
Shops · Hverfisgata 18
Runner up 2026 in “BEST DESIGN STORE”.
Omnom
Food, Cafes, Kids · Hólmaslóð 4
Runner up 2026 in “Best Ice Cream”.
OPEN
Culture · Ánanaust 11
Runner up 2026 in “Best Artist-Run Space”.
Orrifinn
Shops · Skólavörðustígur 43
Winner of “BEST JEWELLERY STORE” 2026.
Osteria Bari
Food, Drinks, Happy · Hafnarstræti 9, 101 Reykjavík
Grapevine's Best Newcomer of 2026, in the old Nonnabiti spot on Hafnarstræti, from the couple behind Mikado with chef Cornel G.
Óx
Food · Laugavegur 55
Runner up 2026 in “Best Place for a Fancy Meal”.
Passion
Food, Cafes · Álfheimar 6
Runner up 2026 in “Best Bakery”.
Penninn Eymundsson
Shops · Austurstræti 18
Runner up 2026 in “BEST BOOKSTORE”.
Perlan
Culture, Kids · Öskjuhlíð
Perched on Öskjuhlíð hill, this glass-domed landmark sparked multiple debates among our panel before we finally pinned down the category it fits best.
Plantan Bistró
Food, Cafes · Sæmundargata 11
Runner up 2026 in “Best Vegan Meal”.
Port 9
Drinks, Happy · Veghúsastígur 9a
Runner up 2026 in “Best Wine Bar”.
Pósthús Food Hall
Food · Pósthússtræti 5
Winner of “Best Food Hall” 2026.
Prikið
Drinks, Happy · Bankastræti 12
Runner up 2026 in “Best Goddamn Bar” and “Best Happy Hour”.
Rammagerðin
Shops · Laugavegur 31
Runner up 2026 in “BEST DESIGN STORE”.
Ráðagerði Veitingahús
Food, Kids · Ráðagerði, 170 Seltjarnarnes
Winner of “Best Family Restaurant” 2026.
Reykjavík City Theatre
Culture · Listabraut 3
Runner up 2026 in “Best Theatre”.
Reykjavík Park & Zoo
Activities, Kids · Múlavegur 2
Located in Laugardalur, where you’ll also find an Olympic swimming pool, Reykjavík Park & Zoo is mainly two things: a petting zoo, featuring all of Iceland’s domesticated animals, along with seals,…
Reykjavík Roasters
Food, Cafes · Brautarholt 2
Winner of “Best Coffeehouse” 2026.
Röntgen
Drinks, Happy · Hverfisgata 12
Winner of “Best Goddamn Bar” 2026.
Safari Quads
Activities · Lambhagavegur 19, 113 Reykjavík
Safari Quads are a Reykjavík-based provider of ATV and Buggy tours that have been around for over twenty years, which is rare in Icelandic tourism.
Salurinn
Culture · Hamraborg 6, 200 Kópavogur
Winner of “Best Event Space” 2026.
Sambíóin Egilshöll
Culture · Fossaleynir 1
Runner up 2026 in “Best Cinema”.
Sambíó Kringlunni
Culture · Kringlan 4
Runner up 2026 in “Best Cinema”.
Sandholt
Food, Cafes · Laugavegur 36
Winner of “Best Bakery” 2026.
SIND Gallery
Culture · Hringbraut 122
Runner up 2026 in “Best Newcomer”.
Skál
Food · Njálsgata 1
Runner up 2026 in “Best Goddamn Restaurant”.
Skálda Bókabúð
Shops · Vesturgata 10a
Winner of “BEST BOOKSTORE” 2026.
Skúbb
Food, Cafes, Kids · Laugarásvegur 1
Winner of “Best Ice Cream” 2026.
Skúli Craft Bar
Drinks, Happy · Aðalstræti 9, 101 Reykjavík
Skúli, the Grapevine's Best Craft Bar of 2025, is reliable and cool.
Sky Lagoon
Activities, Swim · Vesturvör 44-48, Kópavogur
Nobody thought to compete with the Blue Lagoon’s decades of success until Sky Lagoon opened in 2021, ushering in an ongoing Icelandic trend of building lagoons all over the island.
SMAKk Bistro
Food · Hagasmári 9, 201 Kópavogur
Winner of “Best Polish” 2026.
Smekkleysa
Culture, Shops · Hverfisgata 32, 101 Reykjavík
Runner up 2026 in “BEST RECORD STORE”.
Space Odyssey
Shops · Bergstaðastræti 4, 101 Reykjavík
Winner of “BEST NICHE STORE” 2026.
Stefánsbúð
Shops · Laugavegur 7
Runner up 2026 in “BEST FASHION BOUTIQUE”.
Stúdentakjallarinn
Food, Drinks, Happy · Sæmundargata 4
Runner up 2026 in “Best Value for Money”.
Stúkan
Drinks, Happy · Hverfisgata 40
Runner up 2026 in “Best Newcomer”.
Swimslow
Shops · Aðalstræti 9
Winner of “BEST NEWCOMER” 2026.
Thai Kitchen
Food · Ármúli 21
Runner up 2026 in “Best Thai”.
The Handknitting Association
Shops · Skólavörðustígur 19
Winner of “BEST PLACE TO BUY A WOOL SWEATER” 2026.
The Icelandic Phallological Museum
Culture · Hafnartorg, Reykjastræti 4, 101 Reykjavík
Winner of “BEST UNCONVENTIONAL EXPERIENCE” 2026.
The Nordic House
Culture · Sæmundargata 11
Winner of “Best Event Space” 2026.
The Volcano Express
Activities, Kids · Austurbakki 2
With an eruption happening on the very same peninsula as Reykjavík sits on seemingly every other month for the past few years, Lava Express, located in Harpa concert hall, explains all of that from…
Thorvaldsens Bazar
Shops · Austurstræti 4
Runner up 2026 in “BEST PLACE TO BUY A WOOL SWEATER”.
Tilveran
Food · Linnetsstígur 1, 220 Hafnarfjörður
Winner of “Best Suburban” 2026.
Tíminn Cafe Bar
Food, Cafes · Borgartún 29
Runner up 2026 in “Best Coffeehouse”.
Tjarnarbíó
Culture · Tjarnargata 12
Winner of “Best Theatre” 2026.
Tónabíó
Culture, Drinks, Happy · Skipholt 33, 105 Reykjavík
Runner up 2026 in “Best Craft Bar”.
Traditional Polish Food
Food · Grandagarður 13
Runner up 2026 in “Best Polish”.
Uppi
Drinks, Happy · Aðalstræti 12
Winner of “Best Date Place” 2026.
Veður
Drinks, Happy · Klapparstígur 33
Winner of “Best Happy Hour” 2026.
Verzlanahöllin
Shops · Laugavegur 26, 2nd floor, 101 Reykjavík
Verzlanahöllin is huge — they’ve got 180 booths!
Vesturbæjarlaug
Activities, Swim · Hofsvallagata 107, Reykjavík
Vesturbæjarlaug has frequently made the cut for best pool which is perhaps due to the general downtown bias of our panels, but also due to the appeal of its design and facilities.
Viðey
Activities
Accessible by ferry, Viðey features not only the oldest building in Reykjavík, but a pleasant idyllic environment, and though disturbed by human habitation for 12 centuries, has for decades had no…
Vitabar
Food · Bergþórugata 21
Runner up 2026 in “Best Burger”.
Vínstúkan Tíu Sopar
Drinks, Food, Happy · Laugavegur 27
Winner of “Best Wine Bar” and “Best Date Place” 2026.
World in Words, Edda
Culture · Arngrímsgata 5
Runner up 2026 in “Best Permanent Exhibition”.
Þula
Culture · Grandagarður 20, Bryggjugata 6
Winner of “Best Gallery” 2026.
12 Tónar
Culture, Drinks, Shops, Happy · Skólavörðustígur 15
Winner of “Best Bar To Start The Night” 2026.
2Guys
Food · Laugavegur 105
Winner of “Best Burger” 2026.
Reykjanes Peninsula23
Blue Lagoon
Activities, Swim · Norðurljósavegur 9, Grindavík
Everyone will tell you it is touristy and overpriced.
Bryggjan Café
Food, Cafes · Miðgarður 2, Grindavík
For some delicious cakes, coffees, breads, and possibly the best lobster soup in the country, don’t miss beloved local haunt Bryggjan Café.
Buggy Tour Grindavík
Activities · Hraðfrystihús Þórkötlu, Grindavík
Yearning to get close to nature?
Grindavík Pool
Activities, Swim · Austurvegi 1, Grindavík
Iceland’s standard-issue municipal swimming pools are amongst the best in the world.
Gunnuhver & Reykjanesviti
Activities · Reykjanesbær, Route 425
Less quaint but more powerful, the allegedly haunted Gunnuhver hot spot sends a torrent of steam into the sky.
Hjá Höllu
Food, Cafes · Hagasmári 1, 201 Kópavogur (Garðurinn food hall, Smáralind, 2nd floor)
Hjá Höllu really is a no-brainer when it comes to good food.
Hópsnes
Activities · Grindavík
On the southern shore of Reykjanes is the thriving seaside town of Grindavík.
Hótel Berg
Stay · Bakkavegur 17, Keflavík
This smart, modern hotel is located on the hill behind Keflavík harbour.
Keilir
Activities · Reykjanesbær, Route 41
This cone-shaped mountain is much-admired, standing between Keflavík and Reykjavík.
Krýsuvík
Activities · Route 42
There are many hikes in the Krýsuvík geothermal area.
Lighthouse Inn
Stay · Garður
As far as location goes, the Lighthouse Inn is winning.
Moss
Food · The Blue Lagoon, Grindavík
Moss keeps one of Iceland's three Michelin stars, up in the lava field above the Blue Lagoon.
Museum of Rock 'n' Roll
Culture, Kids · Hjallavegur 2, Keflavík
Icelandic music aficionados can have an informative and fun time at “Rokksafn”.
Old Lighthouse Café
Food, Cafes · Garðskagi, Garður
Built in 1897, but long since obsolete—see the taller, new-fangled lighthouse just a few metres away—the second oldest lighthouse in Iceland is the memorable location of a café during the summertime.
Papa's Restaurant
Food · Hafnargata 7a, Grindavík
Serving steaming hot, perfectly battered deep-fried fish pulled straight from Grindavík harbour, it doesn’t get any fresher than the outstanding fish ‘n’ chips at Papa’s restaurant.
Reykjanes Peninsula
Activities
Rugged, yet charming, Reykjanes is a great daytrip, with numerous recent eruption sights that can be visited (if there isn’t an ongoing eruption that is), Kleifarvatn lake, hot springs, rock…
Reykjanes Ring
Activities · Reykjanes Peninsula
The Reykjanes peninsula is a treasure trove in its own right, with many thrilling tucked away secrets—and it’s easily doable in a single day.
Seltún
Activities · Krýsuvík, Route 42
Reykjanes is a lively, geothermally active peninsula, and there’s nowhere better to feel the heat and power of the living earth than at Seltún in the Krýsuvík valley.
Sudurnes Science and Learning Centre
Culture · Garðvegi 1, Sandgerði
For anyone interested in wildlife and natural sciences, the Sudurnes Science and Learning Centre could prove to be a mecca.
Viking World
Culture · Víkingabraut 1, Njarðvík
There are a lot of Viking-themed stops around Iceland, but nowhere else will you find a full longboat replica.
Vogar Pool
Activities, Swim · Hafnargata 17, Vogar
An all-but forgotten hamlet located just off Route One between Reykjavík and Keflavík, Vogar has a lovely little swimming pool.
Þorbjörn
Activities · Grindavík
This 243m mountain is located between the Blue Lagoon and Grindavík.
66°North Keflavík Airport
Shops · Keflavík International Airport, Keflavík
In 1926, fisherman Hans Kristjánsson founded Sjóklæðagerð Íslands in the small fishing village of Suðureyri in Iceland's Westfjords, on the 66th parallel the company would one day name itself after.
The West38
Arnarstapi & Hellnar
Activities · Útnesvegur, Snæfellsnes
These two coastal villages are just a stone’s throw from one another—a 6-minute drive, or an hour-long stroll—and both come recommended by our panel as places to sit and watch the sea life as the sun…
Barnafoss
Activities · Hálsasveitarvegur, Borgarbyggð
Churning rapids in the Hvítá river a short walk upstream from Hraunfossar.
Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum
Culture · Bjarnarhöfn
Iceland is known for its bizarrely specific museums, but Bjarnarhöfn’s Shark Museum is easily the most charming.
Borgarfjörður
Activities · West Iceland
If you turn right just before Borgarnes, you’ll come upon a less-traveled fjord that’s rich with sights.
Borgarnes Museum (Safnahús Borgarfjarðar)
Culture, Kids · Bjarnarbraut 4-6, Borgarnes
Safnahús Borgarfjarðar is one of the most locally-focused museums in the country.
Borgarnes Pool
Activities, Swim, Kids · Þorsteinsgata 1, Borgarnes
The family-friendly Borgarnes swimming pool boasts a clean and modern feel as well as a great view out to the ocean.
Breiðafjörður Ferry
Activities · West Iceland
In the summer, many boat tours run out of Stykkishólmur including the famed ‘Viking Sushi’ seafood trip and pleasure cruises around the picturesque Breiðafjörður.
Djúpalónssandur
Activities · Snæfellsnes National Park
This black pebble beach, which is supposedly haunted and houses an elf church, was the site of a shipwreck that took the lives of fourteen British sailors in 1948.
Eiríksstaðir Living Museum
Culture · Haukdalsvegur, Buðardalur
Eiríksstaðir is the farmstead of Erik the Red, the birthplace of Leifur Eriksson, a.k.a.
Fjöruhúsið
Food, Cafes · Route 574, Hellnar
If the weather is good, there might not be a better view in Iceland than that from the patio of this seaside café.
Fosshotel Hellnar
Stay · Brekkubær, 356 Hellnar
Fosshotel Hellnar has somehow floated under the radar of previous Best Of awards, but has since been rightfully recognised.
Freezer Hostel
Stay · Hafnargata 16, Rif
Need an affordable place to stay in Hellissandur?
Glymur
Activities · Botnsdalur valley, Hvalfjörður
If you want a hike to brag about, try Glymur.
Guðlaug
Activities, Swim · Langisandur, Akranes
These beachside hot pots are brand new, and they’re an impressive piece of design.
Hafnarfjall
Activities · Borgarnes
This trek up a volcano isn’t for beginners, but, as the panel exclaimed, “Oh my, those views!” Your hike begins near the base of the bridge running across the fjord from Borgarnes, and will take you…
Háafell Goat Farm
Activities, Kids · Reykholt
Icelandic goats, after having been isolated here for 1100 years, are actually the purest breed you can find in Europe.
Helgafell
Activities · Stykkishólmur
The Holy Mountain of Helgafell was long-thought to be a gateway to the afterlife—a place so sacred that visiting it respectfully could grant you three wishes.
Hótel Búðir
Stay · Búðir, Snæfellsnes
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Hótel Húsafell
Stay, Food · Stórarjóður, Húsafell
Hotel Húsafell is pre-tty pre-tty fancy.
Hraunfossar
Activities · Hálsasveitarvegur, Borgarbyggð
A broad cascade of rivulets seeping straight out of the Hallmundarhraun lava field into the Hvítá river below.
Hvalfjörður
Activities · West Iceland
This picturesque fjörd was once part of the Ring Road, but now stands all but forgotten due to the Hvalfjörður tunnel.
Hvammsvík Hot Springs
Activities, Swim · Hvammsvík, Hvalfjörður, 276 Kjós
Hvammsvík has topped Grapevine's Best of Reykjavík panel four years running, three times as Best Spa and now as Best Lagoon; "the best lagoon in all of Iceland," one panellist said.
Into the Glacier
Activities · Langjökull, from Húsafell
So you’ve been on a glacier, but have you been in one?
Kaffi Kyrrð
Food, Shops, Cafes · Skúlagata 13, Borgarnes
Kaffi Kyrrð is both a coffeehouse and a florist, so if you're looking for some lilies and a latte, this is your spot.
Krauma
Activities, Swim · Deildartunguhver, Reykholt
Asking for an Icelander’s favourite bathing spot is sensitive business.
Leir 7
Shops · Aðalgata 20, Stykkishólmur
Located on the main strip of Stykkishólmur, Leir 7 sells eye-catching and unusual ceramics.
Library of Water (Vatnasafn)
Culture · Bókhlöðustígur 17, Stykkishólmur
Vatnasafn—or The Library of Water—is an eye-opening museum and the best museum in West Iceland.
Lýsuhólslaug (The Green Lagoon)
Activities, Swim · Snæfellsbær
Organic, locally-run pool with naturally green water coloured by Chlorella algae — silica and iron may help skin conditions.
Narfeyrarstofa
Food · Aðalgata 3, 340 Stykkishólmur
Narfeyrarstofa is amongst the best rural restaurants in Iceland.
Ok Glacier
Activities · Borgarfjörður
According to folk tales, Ok was one of the breasts of a giantess that turned into stone, the other being Skjaldbreiður.
Snæfellsjökull
Activities · Snæfellsnes peninsula
All of Iceland's glaciers are magnificent, but Snæfellsjökull is something else.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Activities · West Iceland
The Snæfellsnes peninsula is often referred to as “Iceland In Miniature.” Why?
Stykkishólmur Pool
Activities, Swim · Borgarbraut 4, 340 Stykkishólmur
Stykkishólmur’s pool benefits from a local geothermal water supply that’s higher in some minerals than either the Blue Lagoon or the Mývatn Nature Baths, as signs at the pool proudly proclaim.
The Settlement Centre
Food · Brákarbraut 13-15, Borgarnes
Don’t simply drive through Borgarnes.
Vatnshellir Cave
Activities · Road 574, Snæfellsbær
It only takes an hour to experience the Vatnshellir cave, but it was the unanimous choice of the panel.
Viking Sushi
Activities · Smiðjustígur 3, Stykkishólmur
If you prefer your scenic cruises with a little nosh, try “Viking Sushi”.
Víðgelmir Cave
Activities · Fljótstunga
The West is riddled with caves, but you’ll need a guide to safely explore them.
Witchcraft Shop
Shops · Búðir, Snæfellsnes
This fascinating store is a true one-off.
The Westfjords41
Arctic Fox Centre
Culture · Eyrardalur, Súðavík
For those who want an experience based more on fact than legend, the Arctic Fox Centre has everything you need to know about the first inhabitants of Iceland.
Blacksmith Museum
Culture · Þingeyri
Although the Blacksmith Museum in Þingeyri is less of a traditional museum than a fully functional blacksmith studio where people are actually bending and hammering iron every single day.
Djúpavík
Activities · Djúpavík, 524 Árneshreppur
Accessible only by an undulating unpaved road that zooms around precipitous coastal cliffs and up steep snowy mountains, this isolated Westfjords haven is a world away from anything you’ve…
Djúpavíkurhringur
Activities · Djúpavík
If you want something much easier with an equivalently triumphant feel, try Djúpavíkurhringur.
Djúpavík Factory
Activities, Culture · Djúpavík
This towering, crumbling herring factory was the largest concrete building in Iceland when it was built in 1935.
Dynjandi
Activities · Just off Route 60
Iceland—and particularly the Westfjords—is dripping with waterfalls, but Dynjandi is a show-stopper, nonetheless.
Edinborgarhúsið
Drinks, Culture · Aðalstræti 7, Ísafjörður
“Edinborg” is a large, ornate building that houses a restaurant and bar, and acts as a cultural centre of sorts, with events, exhibitions, and performances.
Flatey
Activities · Breiðafjörður
You know that quintessential summer feeling of time slowing down?
Grettislaug
Activities, Swim · Reykjabraut 12, 380 Reykhólahreppur
Grettislaug is a cosy little countryside pool in the tiny village of Reykhólar.
Heimabyggð
Food, Drinks, Cafes · Aðalstræti 22b, Ísafjörður
Heimabyggð’s cosy, wooden interior breeds relaxation.
Heydalur
Stay · Mjóifjörður, Ísafjörður
With four choices: two indoor polls, a regular warm swimming pool, and a basic hot tub, Heydalur wins.
Hornbjarg
Activities · Hornstrandir
The crowning jewel of Hornstrandir—the uninhabited northernmost point of the Westfjords—is Hornbjarg.
Hotel Djúpavík
Stay · Djúpavík, Strandir
Frozen in time in the smallest village in Iceland, Hotel Djúpavík is more than just a hotel: it’s an experience.
Hótel Laugarhóll
Stay · Hólmavík
Located in the quiet hamlet of Bjarnarfjörður, Laugarhóll is, according to the panel, “the perfect spot for peace and quiet.” In its immediate vicinity is a 25-metre outdoor geothermal pool, and a…
Húsið
Drinks · Hrannargata 2, Ísafjörður
Húsið in Ísafjörður is almost certainly the most-frequented bar in the Westfjords.
Kaldbakur
Activities · Dýrafjörður
Between Dýrafjörður and Arnarfjörður there is a range of mountains known as the “Alps of the Westfjords,” because they are pointy, unlike most of the other glacier-scraped, flat-topped mountains of…
Krossneslaug
Activities, Swim · Route 643, past Árneshreppur
Straight up the road from Djúpavík, this old-school bathing spot is quite literally where the road ends.
Látrabjarg Bird Cliffs
Activities · Route 612
“You have to go there.
Litlibær
Food, Cafes · Skötufjörður
At the tip of a fjord opening, just when you feel that nature is truly at the forefront, a small sign reads “welcome” on the side of the road and beckons you to stop.
Malarkaffi
Food · Grundargata 17, Drangsnes
A low-key restaurant, Malarhorn offers a down-to-earth selection of Iceland’s finest.
Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft
Culture · Höfðagata 8, Hólmavík
A weathered wooden structure with a turf roof, Hólmavík’s main tourist attraction may look underwhelming, but like its subject, it’s got some magic.
Naustahvilft
Activities · Ísafjörður
This accessible hike is possibly the most popular in the Westfjords.
Pollurinn
Activities, Swim · Tálknafjörður
A few kilometres outside of Tálknafjöður, this idyllic fjordside bathing spot offers an unforgettable, jaw-dropping view of the surrounding mountains.
Rauðasandur Red Sand Beach
Activities · Southwest Westfjords
A peachy ray of sunshine hidden between misty cliffs, the Rauðasandur beach is decidedly unexpected.
Restaurant Galdur
Food · Höfðagata 8, Hólmavík
Don’t let the exterior fool you.
Reykjafjarðarlaug
Activities, Swim · Route 63
Being a bit out of the way, these pools are more likely to be deserted.
Reykjanes Pool
Activities, Swim · Reykjanes við Ísafjarðardjúp
This one is technically the oldest natural pool in the country, is built like a swimming pool and has facilities like a swimming pool…so it must be a swimming pool.
Samúel Jónsson Art Museum
Culture · Selárdalur
Just along the south shore of Arnarfjörður, in one of the most isolated areas of Iceland, lies a cartoonish house and church surrounded by a number of bizarre plaster sculptures.
Sea Monster Museum
Culture, Kids · Strandgata 7, 450 Bíldudalur
After driving over the mountains and pulling into the tiny village of Bíldudalur, the last thing you’d expect to find is a state-of-the-art interactive exhibition.
Seljalandsdalur to Syðridalur
Activities · Seljalandsdalur
The valley of Syðridalur is a prime location for spotting eiders, bar-tailed godwits, black-headed gulls, and many other winged inhabitants of Iceland.
Simbahöllin
Food, Cafes · Fjarðargata 5, Þingeyri
Simbahöllin was unanimously agreed to be the best café in the Westfjords.
Southern Westfjords
Activities · Brjánslækur to Dynjandi
The southern Westfjords contain some of the most breathtaking scenery in Iceland.
Strandir Adventure Tour
Activities · Hólmavík (Route 643)
“If you want remote, this is it,” said the panel of the Strandir road.
Stúkuhúsið
Food, Cafes · Aðalstræti 50, Patreksfjörður
Stúkuhúsið walks the line between diner and café, but its warm atmosphere and friendly service make it the perfect place to stop for a bite of cake and a hot cup of joe.
Tjöruhúsið
Food · Neðstakaupstaður, Ísafjörður
Runner up 2026 in “Best Out of Town”.
Trékyllisvík
Activities · Strandir
The remote cove of Trékyllisvík is located deep in the sparsely-populated Árneshreppur.
Tungudalur & Seljalandsdalur
Activities · Vestfjarðarvegur
The downhill slopes of Tungudalur and the cross-country trails of Seljalandsdalur are the main local ski areas.
Vagninn
Drinks, Culture · Hafnarstræti 19, Flateyri
Like everything else in the Westfjords, bars have to double up as something else, namely restaurants.
Vegamót Bíldudal
Food · Tjarnarbraut 2, Bíldudalur
Bíldudalur doesn’t have any single shop or restaurant, just a building that combines every essential service into one place.
Vigur Island
Activities · Ísafjarðardjúp
Vigur is an island in the middle of Ísafjarðardjúp, famed for its birdlife: thousands of puffins, black guillemots, Arctic terns and eider ducks, and more birds than people.
Whale Watching Hólmavík
Activities · Hafnarbraut 14, 510 Hólmavík
In Hólmavík, you’ll probably see a humpback no more than a stone’s throw from the town centre.
The North47
Akureyri Art Museum
Culture · Kaupvangsstræti 8-12, Akureyri
Akureyri's art museum shows contemporary work by Icelandic and international artists alongside pieces from its own collection, and runs A!, a festival given over entirely to performance art.
Akureyri Backpackers
Stay, Drinks · Hafnarstræti 98, Akureyri
We know luxury hotels aren’t for everyone, but even so, Akureyri Backpackers is a palace amongst hostels.
Akureyri Pool
Activities, Swim · Skólastígur 4, 600 Akureyri
Iceland’s second city is home to a modern swimming palace that’s the envy even of Reykjavík.
Arctic Henge
Activities · Raufarhöfn
This large-scale outdoor artwork started out as a hobby and was never fully completed.
Askja By Super Jeep
Activities · Reynihlíð, Mývatn (brottför)
No amount of reading and scrolling over Instagram posts will prepare you for an adventure in the otherworldly landscape of Askja.
Askja & Holuhraun by Superjeep
Activities · North Iceland
A trip to the Askja caldera and the Holuhraun lava field in the volcanic desert is a life-changing experience.
Ásbyrgi
Activities · Route 85
This forested, horseshoe-shaped canyon is at the northern end of Vatnajökull National Park.
Ásbyrgi Campground
Stay · Ásbyrgi, Kópasker
Sleep in the hoofprint of Óðinn’s eight-legged horse Sleipnir.
Baccalá Bar
Food · Hafnargata 6, Hauganesi, IS-621 Dalvíkurbyggð
Our panel chose to highlight a unique food experience, and so picked this eccentric restaurant, open summers only, run by a family with several generations of history in the tiny fishing village of…
Beer Baths
Activities, Swim · Ægisgata 31, 621 Árskógssandur
If you’re looking for something different from the classic Icelandic pools and geothermal spas, you’re in for a treat at the Beer Baths.
Bláa Kannan
Food, Cafes · Hafnarstræti 96, Akureyri
Spaciously laid out with a menu for all tastes, Bláa Kannan is the ideal place to people-watch in downtown Akureyri.
Brekkugata 35
Stay · Akureyri
Brekkugata 35 is a homely guesthouse, and our panel spoke of it warmly, particularly admiring its personal touch.
Café Berlin
Food, Cafes · Skipagata 4, Akureyri
There’s no better place than Café Berlin for a Sunday morning brunch.
Dettifoss
Activities · Vatnajökull National Park
The most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss tumbles 193 m³/s of glacial river over its lip.
Earth Lagoon
Activities, Swim · Jarðbaðshólar, Mývatn
Earth Lagoon is a smaller, quieter version of the Blue Lagoon, with silky white water that seems to coat your skin with geothermal goodness.
Fosshotel Mývatn
Stay · Grímsstaðir, Skútustaðahreppur
Fosshotel Mývatn aims to rhyme with its breathtaking namesake lake.
Geosea Sea Baths
Activities, Swim · Vitaslóð 1, Húsavík
This new luxury spa, opening in Húsavík in June, takes the concept of healing geothermal water to a whole new level.
Gísli, Eiríkur, Helgi – Kaffihús Bakkabræðra
Drinks, Cafes · Grundargata, Dalvík
A bar, café and restaurant all in one, this establishment offers good beer and arguably the best fish soup you’ll ever get in the North.
Glaumbær
Activities, Culture · Glaumbær, 561 Varmahlíð
In this precious historical site near the bay of Skagafjörður, rests the farm of Glaumbær, where Þorfinnur and Guðríður, the parents of the first European born in North America, moved to around the…
Goðafoss
Activities · Skjálfandafljót, Þingeyjarsveit
A historic and beautiful "Waterfall of the Gods", where the Skjálfandafljót river drops in a broad horseshoe curve.
Hofsós Swimming Pool
Activities, Swim · Hofsósbraut, Hofsós
Hands-down our panel’s favourite, Hofsós Swimming Pool was praised for its spectacular views across the North Atlantic to the island Drangey.
Hotel Laugarbakki
Stay · Hvammstangi
This hotel is the perfect stopover on your way to Akureyri.
Hrísey
Activities · Eyjafjörður
Our panel spoke of this this island in the middle of Eyjafjörður with an almost spiritual reverence.
Húsavík
Activities · Húsavík, Norðurþing
Húsavík is famed for its whale-watching tours and Whale Museum: a charming coastal town known as the whale-watching capital of the country.
Hveravellir
Activities, Swim · Kjölur, The Highlands
Translating from Icelandic as ‘Hot Spring Fields,’ Hveravellir is a highland wonderland accessible by bus or via summer and winter tours.
Into The Arctic
Culture · Strandgata, Akureyri
The new kid in town, Into The Arctic, rests right at the Akureyri harbour, enjoying a spectacular view over Eyjafjörður.
Jökulsárgljúfur / Ásbyrgi
Activities · Vatnajökull National Park
Regardless of what shape you’re in, you’ll be able to find a hiking trail around this majestic canyon in a northern tract of the Vatnajökull National Park.
Kverkfjöll
Activities · Vatnajökull National Park
Iceland’s largest geothermal area meets Europe’s largest ice cap.
Lake Mývatn
Activities · Mývatn, Þingeyjarsveit
Explore the volcanic region of Lake Mývatn: pseudocraters, lava pillars, craters, lava fields and geothermal pools, plus the moss balls (marimo) that live on the lakebed and almost nowhere else.
Leirhnjúkur
Activities · Near Mývatn
Start your hike at Leirhnjúkur Mountain and make your way towards the nature baths in Mývatn.
North
Food · Hafnarstræti 67, Akureyri
Runner up 2026 in “Best Out of Town”.
River Rafting Varmahlíð
Activities · Hafgrímsstaðir, Varmahlíð
Summer rafting for various skill levels — from calm rivers to challenging whitewater for adrenaline enthusiasts.
Rub23
Food · Kaupvangsstræti 6, Akureyri
Rub23 is a renowned seafood restaurant showcasing a large array of local catch and sushi.
R5 Micro Bar
Drinks, Culture · Ráðhústorg 5, 600 Akureyri
With an expansive selection of craft beer, R5 is your cozy local in the North.
Segull 67 Brewery
Drinks · Vetrarbraut 8-10, Siglufjörður
There are a variety of breweries that offer enticing experiences, including the Beer Spa and Kaldi Brewery.
Sigló Hótel
Stay · Snorragata 3, Siglufjörður
Fans of Scandi Noir may recognise Sigló Hotel from the Icelandic TV series ‘Trapped.’ Stately and on the harbour, the hotel boasts views onto the fjord, the mountains of the Tröllaskagi peninsula,…
Siglunes Restaurant
Food · Lækjargata 10, Siglufjörður
Since the Moroccan-born master chef Jaouad Hbib began running the restaurant, Siglunes really turned things around.
Sjávarborg Restaurant
Food · Strandgata 1, 530 Hvammstangi
Originally a slaughterhouse, Sjavarborg occupies a special place in the heart of Hvammstangi with a quirky but elegant atmosphere.
Skagafjörður
Activities · Sauðárkrókur, Skagafjörður
The land that lies inland from Tröllaskagi has everything from adventurous trips to interesting food and lovely swimming pools.
The Herring Era Museum
Culture · Snorragata 10, Siglufjörður
The only Icelandic winner of the European Museum Award, the Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður is Iceland’s largest maritime museum.
The Húsavík Whale Museum
Culture, Kids · Hafnarstétt 1, Húsavík
Located in an abandoned slaughterhouse in the middle of Húsavík, this Whale Museum takes matters one step further than its Reykjavík counterpart.
Tröllaskagi Peninsula
Activities · Near Siglufjörður
“The troll peninsula” is not too far from Siglufjörður, but it still has the feeling of a remote, fantastical land.
Vogafjós Farm Resort
Stay · Vogafjós, Mývatn
This small, newly renovated café is almost on the shore of Lake Mývatn.
Whale Watching in Eyjafjörður
Activities · Árskógssandur, Dalvíkurbyggð
Our panellists were unanimous: whale watching in Eyjafjörður is among the best tours North Iceland has to offer.
Whale Watching in Húsavík
Activities · Húsavík
“We’ve been much more successful with whale watching here than in Reykjavík,” one panellist said.
66°North Hafnarstræti
Shops · Hafnarstræti 94, Akureyri
In 1926, fisherman Hans Kristjánsson founded Sjóklæðagerð Íslands in the small fishing village of Suðureyri in Iceland's Westfjords, on the 66th parallel the company would one day name itself after.
66°North Skipagata
Shops · Skipagata 9, Akureyri
In 1926, fisherman Hans Kristjánsson founded Sjóklæðagerð Íslands in the small fishing village of Suðureyri in Iceland's Westfjords, on the 66th parallel the company would one day name itself after.
East Iceland38
Beljandi Brewery
Drinks · Sólvellir 23, Breiðdalsvík
The tiny seaside town of Breiðdalsvík is located on Route One between Djúpivogur and Stöðvarfjörður, and it’s the perfect place to stop off for some refreshments thanks to the Beljandi bar and…
Borgarfjörður Eystri
Activities · East Iceland
“Borgarfjörður Eystri is not to be missed,” said the panel.
Bustarfell
Culture · Bustarfell, Hofsárdalur
Just outside Vopnafjörður, is this really informative and charming little museum.
Egilsstaðir Pool
Activities, Swim · Tjarnarbraut 26, 700 Egilsstaðir
Egillsstaðir’s smart and modern town pool is a perfect example of Iceland’s bathing culture.
Fáskrúðsfjörður Pool
Activities, Swim · Skólavegur 39, Fáskrúðsfjörður
This small rural pool comes complete with a mini-sauna that fits just a handful of people, and an outdoor hot tub.
Fosshotel Eastfjords
Stay · Hafnargata 11-14, 750 Fáskrúðsfjörður
A beautiful, historic hotel in the old hospital in Fáskrúðsfjörður, which was originally built to service French fishermen.
Hallormsstaðaskógur
Activities · Hallormsstaður
On the other end of the spectrum is a light, free-form hike through the lakeside forest of Hallormstaðurskógar.
Hallormsstaðaskógur Camping Ground
Stay · Hallormsstaður
These two campsites—Atlavík and Höfdavík—are located in the largest Icelandic forest, covering an area of 740 hectares, right by the famed Lagarfljót lake.
Hellisheiði Eystri
Activities · Off Route One towards Vopnafjörður
This road is not for the faint-hearted, or reckless drivers—but if you’re prepared to cry your eyes out for a good view, this is a must.
Horseback Riding Húsey
Activities, Kids · Húsey
Horseback riding is always fun when the conditions are nice, and at Húsey you’ll get an added bonus.
Hostel Hafaldan
Stay · Seyðisfjörður
Another grand old hospital-turned-hotel is Hafaldan, a cavernous hostel with a relaxed vibe, located in the heart of the beautiful seaside town of Seyðisfjörður.
Hvalnesviti
Activities · Near Höfn
This humble, wind-whipped lighthouse, just down a dirt track close to Route One, is located in a spot of amazing natural beauty.
Já Sæll
Drinks, Culture · Borgarfjörður Eystri
This bar is “probably the most active live music venue in East Iceland,” said the panel.
Kárahnjúkar (Highlands)
Activities · East Iceland
It’s not the most beautiful place in Iceland, but seeing the country’s largest and most notorious hydroelectric dam is an impressive and sobering experience.
Klausturkaffi
Food, Cafes · Fljotsdalsvegur, Skriðuklaustur
There are so many great eastern eateries that it was hard to choose, but the lunch buffet at Klausturkaffi—located in the charming and historic Skriðuklaustur cultural centre—met with particular…
Laugavallalaug
Activities, Swim · Laugarvalladalur Valley
It’s always nice to take a dip in a natural hot pool, but this bathing spot takes the experience to the next level.
Mjóifjörður
Activities · Fjarðabyggð
One of the most remote fjords in the east, the drive to Mjóifjörður is an adventure in itself.
Móðir Jörð
Stay, Food · Vallanes
Translating as “Mother Earth”, this café, shop and B&B sits on an organic farm in a wooded area near the shore of Lagarfljót.
Möðrudalsöræfi
Activities · Route One, Eastfjords to North East
Whatever the weather or the time of day or night, this area will always be enchantingly or hauntingly beautiful.
Neskaupstaður Boat Trips
Activities · Neskaupstaður, 740 Fjarðabyggð
Neskaupstaður is Iceland’s easternmost town, making it the perfect place to take a boat trip out around the Eastfjords.
Neskaupstaður Museum
Culture · Egilsbraut 2, Neskaupstaður
The museum in the remote and peaceful town of Neskaupstaður is a three-for-one offering with something for everyone.
Neskaupstaður Pool
Activities, Swim · Miðstræti 15, Neskaupstaður
Neskaupstaður pool is small, but it has everything you need—a steam room, hot pots, and a swimming pool—with the added bonus of an epic mountain view right across the fjord.
Norð Austur
Food · Nordurgata 2, Seyðisfjörður
This restaurant in the remotely cool fjord is reputed to make the best sushi in Iceland.
Papey Sailing
Activities · Djúpivogur
Tours on the Gísli í Papey ferry are offered daily throughout the summer.
Petra's Stone Collection
Culture · Fjarðarbraut 21, Stöðvarfjörður
The tiny town of Stöðvarfjörður was once a thriving fishing village, but has recently reinvented itself.
Salt Café & Bistro
Food, Cafes · Geirsgata 3, Egilsstaðir
Out in the east, seasonal opening times can be patchy and inconvenient, but Egillstaðir’s café-bar Salt has you covered.
Sea Kayaking Seyðisfjörður
Activities · Seyðisfjörður
Experience this gorgeous fjord from the water.
Selárlaug
Activities, Swim · Selárdalur, Vopnafjörður
This remote country pool is like a time capsule.
Seyðisfjörður to Borgarfjörður
Activities · Borgarfjörður eystri (start)
This adventurous three-day route will take you through the Víknaslóðir “abandoned fjörds,” past various weathered churches and tiny settlements.
Síreksstaðir Farm
Food · Síreksstaðir, 691 Vopnafjörður
At this family-run farm restaurant, every dish on the menu is made up of fresh homegrown vegetables and free range meat.
Skaftfell Art Centre
Culture · Austurvegur 42, 710 Seyðisfjörður
This far-flung gallery maintains a year-round arts programme in a tiny eastern town, with a surprising and cutting-edge programme that relates to the town’s artistic history.
Skaftfell Bistro
Food, Culture · Austurvegur 42, 710 Seyðisfjörður
The bistro on the ground floor of the Skaftfell art centre on Austurvegur, which means you can look at contemporary art and then eat under it.
Snæfellsstofa
Culture · Skriðuklaustur, Egilsstaðir
This visitor centre located in the first BREEAM certified—meaning it’s sustainably built— building in Iceland offers a great museum about the Eastern part of the Vatnajökull National Park, and its…
Stórurð
Activities · Borgarfjörður Eystri
Beginning near Borgarfjörður Eystri, this lengthy hike got glowing praise from the panel.
Tehúsið
Drinks · Kaupvangur 17, Egilsstaðir
Our panel has great expectations for this freshly opened hostel bar in the eastern capital of Egilsstaðir.
Teigarhorn
Activities · Near Djúpivógur
This tucked away nature area lies close to Djúpivogur in Berufjörður, conveniently just off Route One.
The Wilderness Centre
Activities · Múlavegur í Fljótsdal, Egilsstaðir
Visiting the Wilderness Centre in Fljótsdalur is like stepping back in time, and you can stay in the past overnight by booking at the Baðstofa.
Waterfall Lane
Activities · Seyðisfjörður
From Seyðisfjörður town, hike through some pleasant countryside to the Neðri-Stafur rock stratum, passing lots of beautiful waterfalls.
The South51
Beluga Whale Sanctuary
Activities, Kids · Ægisgata 2, Vestmannaeyjar
The world's first open-water sanctuary built for beluga whales, run by SEA LIFE TRUST.
Black Beach By Horseback
Activities · Smiðjuvegur 6, 870 Vík
From the small and pleasantly mysterious town of Vík, taking a ride along its famous black shores on a mighty steed doesn’t get much better.
Bláhnúkur
Activities · Friðland að Fjallabakki
Rising to 940m, this hike is fairly straightforward and anyone with a moderate level of fitness should be able to climb to the top with relative ease.
Bókakaffið
Food, Cafes · Austurvegur 22, Selfoss
The perfect spot for the total bookworm, this cosy and quiet bookstore serves up a nice basic menu of coffees and pastries to keep the avid reader alert.
Eldfell
Activities
Eldfell means Fire Mountain, and it was named in a hurry, because on 23 January 1973 it was not there.
Eldheimar
Culture, Kids · Gerðisbraut 10, Vestmannaeyjabær
In 1973 Eldfell buried around 400 homes on Heimaey.
Eyjafjallajökull Summit Tour
Activities · South Iceland
Whether you’re travelling in a super Jeep or riding solo on a snowmobile, the experience of driving on a glacier to the top of a volcano is simply incredible.
Farmers Bistro
Food, Cafes · Garðastígur 8, Flúðir
At Farmers Bistro, you can get a tour of the facilities of Iceland’s only mushroom farm, learning about mycelium, hyphae, fertilization and waste-free practices.
Fimmvörðuháls
Activities · Skógar to Þórsmörk
This intense day-long hike takes you past countless waterfalls into the Highlands, across desert, fresh lava, snow where two glaciers meet, and down into the Þórsmörk valley.
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
Stay · Hnappavellir, Öræfi
Fosshotel is a reliably comfortable hotel chain, and the Glacier Lagoon location is one of their newest additions.
Friðheimar
Food · Reykholt
The wonderful Fríðheimar is a café experience like no other.
Friðland að Fjallabaki
Activities · The Highlands
If you’re driving a 4×4 and it’s summertime, head to the one-off region of Friðland að Fjallabaki.
Geysir Centre
Shops · Haukadalur, Reykholt
You don’t go to Geysir to shop, it’s true—but you probably will anyway.
Glacier Hike
Activities · Sólheimajökull / Skaftafellsjökull
The best way to get up close and personal with a glacier is an guided ice hike.
Græna Kannan
Food, Cafes · Sólheimar Ecovillage
Set inside a spacious greenhouse, this charming café in the ecovillage serves organic coffee, cakes and baked goods.
Héraðsskólinn Boutique Hostel
Stay · Laugarbraut 2, Laugarvatn
Located in the former village schoolhouse of Laugarvatn, this affordable and friendly hostel is a completely charming building with history shining out of the walls.
Hveradalir
Activities · Kerlingarfjöll, Highlands, Road F347
This hidden gem is high in the west Highlands.
Inside The Volcano
Activities · Þríhnjúkagígar
After a short hike, descend into the dormant Þríhnjúkagígar volcano and witness a side of the earth one could rarely experience.
ION Adventure Hotel
Stay · Nesjavellir
Jutting out from a cliff overlooking Lake Þingvallavatn, this multiple award-winning design hotel is a true gem.
Jökulsárlón
Activities · Vatnajökull National Park
This icy lagoon is a true wonder.
Kaffi Krús
Food, Cafes · Austurvegur 7, Selfoss
A staple for the past 25 years, this is a super cosy place that’s a great stop for a nice meal after a long day on the road.
Kerlingarfjöll
Activities, Swim · Ásgarður, Kerlingarfjöll (F347 off Kjölur)
One of the largest geothermal areas in Europe, hidden in the rhyolite mountains between Langjökull and Hofsjökull off the Kjölur route.
Landmannalaugar
Activities, Swim · Friðland að Fjallabaki, Highlands
Of all the deep nature of the South, the astounding Landmannalaugar is a true must-see.
Laugarás Lagoon
Activities, Swim · Skálholtsvegur 1, Laugarás
While the past few years have seen the rise of “The Lagoons”, nicely designed geothermal pools which can seem expensive, the upside is you get treated like royalty while sipping champagne.
LAVA Centre
Culture, Kids · Austurvegur 14, Hvolsvöllur
Deceptively light and cheery on the outside, this interactive museum is a brilliantly constructed immersive volcanic experience.
Lava Tunnel (Raufarhólshellir)
Activities · South Iceland
Formed by an eruption over 5,000 years ago, this lava tube is just a short drive out of Reykjavík and makes a great adventure for both the novice explorer and intrepid caver.
Listasafn Árnesinga
Culture, Food · Austurmörk 21, Hveragerði
The Listasafn Árnesinga art museum brings local and international contemporary art to Hveragerði year round.
Midgard Base Camp
Stay, Drinks, Happy · Dufþaksbraut 14, 860 Hvolsvöllur
Run by an amazing family of local expert guides, the atmosphere of this place is top notch.
Nytjamarkaðurinn Selfoss
Shops · Eyravegur 5, Selfoss
The shelves of this cavernous and enticing secondhand shop are laden with finds, from handmade drinking glasses to candleholders, old Icelandic LPs, home decor, kitchenware and clothing.
Næs
Food · Strandvegur 79, Vestmannaeyjar
When Slippurinn closed in 2025 after fourteen seasons it left a hole in Icelandic cooking, never mind in Vestmannaeyjar.
Pakkhús
Drinks · Krosseyjarvegi 3, 780 Höfn í Hornafirði
Overlooking the beautiful harbour of this small langoustine-trapping town, this bar and restaurant is housed in a former warehouse made out of scrap wood giving it ample charm to enjoy a few drinks…
Puffin Lookout
Activities, Kids · Stórhöfði, Vestmannaeyjar
The Westman Islands hold the largest Atlantic puffin colony on the planet, and Stórhöfði at the island's southern tip is where you meet it without effort — a two hundred metre walk from the car park…
Restaurant Suður-Vík
Food · Suðurvegur 1, Vík
Perched on the hillside in Vík is this wonderful homely café.
Reykjadalur
Activities, Swim · Hveragerði
In the Reykjavík-adjacent town of Hveragerði you’ll find this famous route.
Rib Safari Vestmannaeyjar
Activities · Básaskersbryggja, Vestmannaeyjar
Ribsafari run fast, low boats around Heimaey and the outer islands, which is both the most entertaining and the only practical way to see the archipelago's caves, stacks and bird cliffs from…
Selfoss Pool
Activities, Swim, Kids · Tryggvagata 15, Selfoss
Quite possibly the largest swimming pool in South Iceland, the Selfoss pool is the perfect spot for a family outing.
Seljavallalaug
Activities, Swim · Seljavellir, Route 242
This run down, barely serviced pool is located in a wild valley with natural hot water, built right into the mountainside.
Skaftafell to Höfn
Activities · South Iceland
Starting just after the Skaftafell National Park, a breathtaking spot in its own right, one is treated to jaw-dropping views of the massive Vatnajökull glacier out their car window.
Skálakot Manor Hotel
Stay · Skálakoti, 861 Hvolsvöllur
Ideally located in the heart of South Iceland, Skálakot is our favourite of the newer country hotels.
Smiðjan
Drinks · Sunnubraut 15, 870 Vík
Smiðjan is a year-old brewpub with ten beers on tap and an impressively extensive craft-beer bottle menu.
Snorkelling at Silfra
Activities · Þingvallavatn
Going snorkelling in the rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates took our panel’s collective breath away.
Sundlaugin Laugaskarði
Activities, Swim · Reykjamörk, Hveragerði
An understated architectural classic, Laugaskarði stands head and shoulders above the municipal pools in South Iceland, boasting a reception building that’s perfectly curved to shield the water from…
Sveitabúðin Una
Shops · Austurvegur 4, 860 Hvolsvöllur
A spacious emporium packed with locally-made products, Una is probably Iceland’s best souvenir shop.
Svínafellsjökull
Activities · Vatnajökull National Park
After a bumpy drive up to the viewpoint, you literally arrive at the edge of the glacier.
The Brothers Brewery
Drinks · Bárustígur 7, Vestmannaeyjar
Started in 2012 by a couple of brothers and their friends doing what people do with a bucket and too much free time, and turned into an actual brewery — by 2017 they had opened a 550 square metre…
The Secret Lagoon
Activities, Swim · Hvammsvegur, Flúðir
“Of all the geothermal pools, this is the one where you see the process most,” said our panel of this remarkable bathing spot.
Tryggvaskáli
Food, Drinks, Happy · Tryggvatorg, Selfoss
Located in a historic former hotel building on the banks of the gushing Ölfusá river, Tryggvaskáli is a charming restaurant that uses local ingredients to eye-popping effect.
Vestmannaeyjar
Activities
Heimaey is the only inhabited island of the fifteen, home to around 4,300 people, a working harbour, and the largest Atlantic puffin colony on earth — roughly 1.1 million birds, or about 250 puffins…
Westman Islands By Boat
Activities, Kids · Básaskersbryggja, Vestmannaeyjar
The calm alternative to the RIB.
Þórsmörk
Activities · Road F261
This tucked away valley is blocked to normal cars by the Krossá river, meaning it’s determined hikers who bus or jeep their way there.
Ölverk
Drinks, Food · Breiðamörk 2, Hveragerði
Brew-pubs are popping up all around Iceland, but nobody does it better than the cosy and welcoming Ölverk Pizza & Brewery.
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