Why visit
Reykjavík is the world's northernmost capital. Hallgrímskirkja church, Harpa concert hall, colorful old town, and a base for the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon.
Reykjavík at a glance
City population
140k
Metro: 245k
Elevation
61 m
200 ft
Time zone
UTC+0
Atlantic/Reykjavik
Airport
KEF
Keflavík International (45 min from city)
Founded
874 CE (Ingólfr Arnarson)
Getting around
Bus only (Strætó); walkable center
Signature dish
Lamb, skyr, hot dogs (pylsa), rye bread from geothermal
Neighborhoods for travelers
101 Reykjavík (centre)GrandiLaugardalurSeltjarnarnes
Iceland at a glance
Country center
65.0°, -18.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
103,000 km²
39,769 mi²
Country population
380k
4/km²
Subregion
Northern Europe
Currency
Icelandic króna (kr)
ISK
Dial
+354
Language
Icelandic
Demonym
Icelander
Internet
.is
UN
Member state
ISO code
IS / ISL
Where in the world
65.0° · -18.0°
Iceland
Open in Google Maps ↗
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world · CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Reykjavík is the northernmost capital of any sovereign state in the world.
- The city is heated entirely by geothermal energy. Even the sidewalks are warm in winter.
- More than 60% of Iceland's population lives in Reykjavík and its suburbs.
- Iceland has no standing army, navy, or air force: just a coast guard.
- Nearly 100% of Iceland's electricity comes from renewable sources (hydro + geothermal).
Traveler notes
- Blue Lagoon book weeks ahead
- Harpa Grímsson Symphony Hall tour
- City is tiny. 2 days is enough before heading out
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
- Bring layered clothing and verify trail/park access before arrival.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Reykjavík
What currency is used in Reykjavík?
Reykjavík uses the Icelandic króna (kr), ISO code ISK.
What languages are spoken in Iceland?
The primary language is Icelandic.
What is the international calling code for Iceland?
The calling code is +354.
What airport serves Reykjavík?
Keflavík International (45 min from city) (IATA: KEF).
Other Europe destinations
Bora Bora
Bora Bora is the benchmark overwater-bungalow destination. Lagoon snorkeling with sharks and rays, Mount Otemanu behind the hotels, and French Polynesian influence throughout.
Albania
Albania is Europe's last affordable coast. Riviera beaches at Ksamil, Ottoman Berat and Gjirokastër, the Albanian Alps for hiking, and Tirana's growing food scene.
Andorra
Andorra is a destination in Europe known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Austria
Austria blends Vienna's imperial palaces, Salzburg's Mozart and Alps, the Wachau Valley, Hallstatt's lakeside postcard, and some of Europe's best ski infrastructure.
Belarus
Belarus is a destination in Europe known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Belgium
Belgium is Brussels's EU density, Bruges's fairy-tale canals, Ghent's underrated old town, and the world's deepest beer culture.