4 days in Reykjavík
A small, colourful capital at the edge of waterfalls, glaciers and northern lights. A 4-day plan.
Reykjavík is the base for some of the world's most dramatic landscapes. Within a few hours you can stand between tectonic plates, walk behind waterfalls and soak in geothermal lagoons.
Day by day
Day 1: Reykjavík
Climb Hallgrímskirkja, visit Harpa and take a whale-watching trip from the Old Harbour. Finish with a harbour hot dog and a geothermal pool.
Day 2: The Golden Circle
Drive to Þingvellir, the Geysir area and Gullfoss waterfall.
Day 3: The South Coast
See Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, then the black sand at Reynisfjara, staying well back from the waves.
Day 4: Lagoon and departure
Soak in the Blue Lagoon on the way to the airport, or spend the day on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Make it work
- Best months: Jun–Aug. See the season calendar.
- Book ahead: the most popular sights and restaurants, especially in peak season.
- Where to eat along the way: Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, Dill, Grillmarkaðurinn.
- Getting around: Flybus and other coaches link Keflavík airport, 50 km away, with the city.
Short on time, or staying longer?
With less time, keep the first days and skip the day trip. With more, add a slower day for a neighbourhood from our best areas to stay, or choose more from the full list of things to do.
Opening days and times change, and some sights close one day a week. Check before you go. Last reviewed October 2026.