You can see auroras from September through April, weather permitting. Clear skies and strong solar activity are key. Good spots in the Capital Area include Heiðmörk and Krýsuvík; check the national aurora forecast on the Icelandic weather site.

The northern lights season runs from late September to mid-April. The darkest months (November–February) give the best chance, but it depends on clear skies and solar activity. Book a guided tour to increase your odds—guides know where to go, and most tours offer a free retry if you don’t see them.

Iceland’s currency is the Icelandic króna (ISK). Most places accept credit or debit cards, and foreign cash is rarely used. You’ll need a PIN (4-digit) for card payments.

For festivals and mild weather, summer (June–August) is ideal. To see the Northern Lights and snow, winter (October–March) is best.

Laugardalslaug is the largest, with multiple pools and water slides. The centrally located Sundhöllin is historic and newly renovated. Others like Lágafellslaug and Álftaneslaug offer family-friendly water slides and hot tubs. Check out my article about Reykjavik swimming pools for more information.

Strætó operates city and regional buses. Download and use the Klapp app to pay for your bus ride in Reykjavik.

Visit Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall, Tjörnin pond, and Austurvöllur square. Museums like the National Museum, Settlement Museum, Reykjavik Art Museum, and Culture House (Safnahúsið) are great too. Check this event calendar for current cultural happenings.

Yes, Reykjavik is very safe compared to many other cities.

• There have been some pickpockets from time to time, so watch your belongings.
• The city center and its bars get rowdy at night on weekends. Most loud or drunk Icelanders are harmless—just walk away if you feel uncomfortable.
• Avoid shady-looking bars. One place to avoid is Monaco at Hlemmur.

IMPORTANT: Use only legitimate taxi companies such as BSR or Hreyfill. Scammers have been known to pose as drivers in taxi lines—always choose a clearly marked cab from these companies.

In winter, beware of slippery sidewalks and sudden weather changes. Use common sense, dress warmly, and check the forecast before traveling.

If you feel unsafe, call the police immediately on 112.

Try geothermal pools, whale watching, Golden Circle day tours, and the immersive midnight sun or Northern Lights—unique to Iceland’s latitude. Lava Show is the only place in the world where you can see molten lava indoors. Full disclosure: I am the Sales and Marketing Manager of Lava Show.

To explore Reykjavik and nearby highlights, plan at least five days. For a full road trip (e.g., the Ring Road), seven to fourteen days is ideal.

IMPORTANT: When ordering a taxi, make sure they are from legitimate companies such as BSR or Hreyfill.

Recently, scammers posing as drivers have targeted travelers. Only use clearly marked taxis from BSR or Hreyfill. In a taxi line, you don’t have to take the first car—choose safely.

Do what I do after a night on the town: Always look for a BSR or Hreyfill label before getting in.

If you feel unsafe, call the police immediately on 112.

Yes. The city center is walkable. However, in winter, sidewalks may be slippery. Public buses (Strætó) run throughout the city, and tickets can be bought via their app. Many tours also pick up from central meeting points, so you can explore without driving.

Yes. Most museums, pools, and cultural attractions are open year-round, though hours may be shorter. Outdoor tours like whale watching run less often in mid-winter, but Golden Circle, South Coast, and Northern Lights tours operate daily.

Yes. The city center is walkable. However, in winter, sidewalks may be slippery. Public buses (Strætó) run throughout the city, and tickets can be bought via their app. Many tours also pick up from central meeting points, so you can explore without driving.

Essentials include an insulated waterproof jacket, thermal layers, sturdy boots with grip (consider ice cleats), hat, scarf, gloves, and swimwear. A headlamp is also useful if you plan to explore outside the city in the dark.

Pro tip: Save money and luggage by renting your outdoor clothing at Iceland Cover (discount available for my subscribers)

Subscribe to the free Stuck in Iceland newsletter and instantly get access to exclusive discount codes for tours, car rentals, campervans, and more.

Daylight hours are short: four to five hours in December and early January, seven to nine hours in February, and rapidly lengthening in March. The long nights make Reykjavík a great Northern Lights base.

The most common choice is the Flybus. Rental cars are an option if you plan a road trip, while taxis are comfortable but the most expensive. Most visitors use the Flybus.