Things to do in Capital Region

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Harpa showing general coastal views, a bay or harbor and modern architecture
Reykjavik showing mountains, a coastal town and general coastal views
Blue Lagoon which includes swimming, a hot spring and a luxury hotel or resort
Reykjavik showing sailing, a sunset and boating
Harpa featuring modern architecture and interior views
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Capital Region must see attractions

1. Reykjavik Harbour

Reykjavík’s Old Harbour is the perfect place to start your visit to Iceland. Wander along the quay through quaint lanes and past renovated fishermen’s sheds that now house galleries, cafés and tour operators.
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Reykjavik Harbour which includes general coastal views, boating and a bay or harbor

2. Laugavegur

Find an exciting collection of cafés, restaurants, bars and specialty stores on Laugavegur, an arterial street in Reykjavík’s downtown area. Stroll down the partly pedestrianized strip and spend an afternoon checking out Scandinavian designer stores. Stop at a café or bakery and try delicious Icelandic treats, while watching fashion-conscious shoppers go by. In the evening, relax with a drink at one of the Laugavegur bars and clubs.
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Reykjavik showing street scenes

3. Harpa

Experience the masterful design and outstanding facilities of one of Reykjavík’s modern landmarks at the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center. Opened in 2011, this contemporary structure hosts recitals, performances, exhibitions and conferences. See touring musicians or a fascinating exhibit by local artists. Attend an all-access guided tour or simply wander along the harbor taking in each aspect of the exceptionally designed building.
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Harpa featuring a sunset, general coastal views and modern architecture

4. Hallgrimskirkja

Designed in 1939 by the late architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, Hallgrimskirkja is a 1,000-seat church that took more than 40 years to complete. Samúelsson’s inspiration came from the shapes of the Icelandic countryside. He created the structure to appear like cooling lava from a volcanic eruption. Visit for Sunday mass or simply for the best views of Reykjavík.
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aurora borealis above hallgrimskirkja church in central of reykjavik city in Iceland, Shutterstock ID 1146085949, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: , Client/Licensee: Faa Praharnpap, Ot

5. Reykjavik City Hall

Admire the bold architectural lines merging with Lake Tjörnin’s glassy reflection when you approach Reykjavík City Hall (Ráðhús Reykjavíkur), a distinctive modern civic center. Stroll around picturesque Lake Tjörnin and marvel at the structure’s intriguing design or visit the hall’s café and exhibition space to enjoy stunning views of the lake and its birdlife.
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Reykjavik City Hall showing interior views as well as a large group of people

6. Perlan

In the early 1990s, the architect Ingimundur Sveinsson created an exciting tourist attraction by resting a glass and metal dome on top of the city’s six hot water tanks. The structure includes a huge exhibition space, a revolving restaurant and a 360-degree viewing platform.
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Perlan which includes modern architecture

7. Reykjavík Cathedral

Domkirkjan, the National Cathedral, is an unassuming city church completed in 1796. It stands beside Parliament House in the city’s main square. It was at the National Cathedral that the Lutheran church officially endorsed Icelandic sovereignty and independence in 1845, although the modern Republic of Iceland was not founded until 1944. Today this rather understated church provides an austere contrast to the soaring tower of Hallgrímskirkja and is the perfect place for reflecting quietly or joining locals at prayer.
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National Cathedral which includes religious elements and a church or cathedral

What to do in Capital Region

Discover the most popular places to visit in Capital Region

Reykjavik Harbour featuring a sunset, general coastal views and outdoor art

Reykjavik Harbour

Once a maritime and fishing precinct, the Old Harbour now buzzes with restaurants, cafés and tour boat operators.

Reykjavik Harbour
Reykjavik showing street scenes

Laugavegur

Brightly colored shopfronts spill into the street and add atmosphere to the sidewalk dining areas and designer stores of Reykjavík’s main downtown shopping strip.

Laugavegur
Harpa featuring a sunset, general coastal views and modern architecture

Harpa

The sculptural glass façade of Reykjavík’s premier concert hall and conference center shines over the harbor, reflecting the water and the city’s energy.

Harpa
Hallgrimskirkja which includes a sunset, general coastal views and a church or cathedral

Hallgrimskirkja

With its magnificent tower, this church is one of Reykjavík’s most famous landmarks, dominating the skyline and serving as a useful compass point.

Hallgrimskirkja
University of Iceland

University of Iceland

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at University of Iceland during your stay in Reykjavik. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this walkable area.

University of Iceland
Reykjavik City Hall showing interior views as well as a large group of people

Reykjavik City Hall

The dynamic architectural design and picturesque location of this modern civic building near the Tjörnin lakeside has made it a landmark in downtown Reykjavík.

Reykjavik City Hall
Perlan showing modern architecture and a sunset

Perlan

This unusual glass-domed structure combines the practical aspects of the city’s water heating system with spectacular architectural vision.

Perlan
National Cathedral which includes religious elements and a church or cathedral

Reykjavík Cathedral

This humble church is Reykjavík’s oldest. It holds great historical importance as both the center of Iceland’s Lutheran faith and the birthplace of independence.

Reykjavík Cathedral
National Museum of Iceland showing street scenes

National Museum of Iceland

From Viking feasts and battles to the independence movement of the 20th century, Iceland’s premier museum preserves every detail of the nation’s history.

National Museum of Iceland

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Capital Region

Reykjavik which includes interior views, religious elements and a church or cathedral

Downtown Reykjavik

5/5(183 area reviews)

Home to Iceland's national parliament and vibrant nightlife, Reykjavík City Center boasts landmarks like Tjörnin pond, Hallgrímskirkja, and lively Austurstræti and Bankastræti streets.

Downtown Reykjavik
Reykjavik showing fashion and shopping

Laugardalur

4/5(34 area reviews)

Just east of Reykjavík's city center, Laugardalur offers various recreational facilities, including the main stadium. Known as "hot spring valley," it's perfect for travelers seeking leisure activities.

Laugardalur
Assa getting in shape 👍🏻😍😍 I am super happy how well she is doing, I think she will be released very very soon 😊👍🏻

Háaleiti

4/5(61 area reviews)

While there might not be top attractions in Háaleiti, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Kringlan Shopping Mall and Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool.

Háaleiti
Reykjavik Harbour showing general coastal views, a sunset and a bay or harbor

Vesturbær

4.5/5(232 area reviews)

Mostly residential with a touch of commercial activity at Grandi harbor, this district boasts the University of Iceland and the community-centered Vesturbæjarlaug swimming pool.

Vesturbær
Black sand beach in Iceland

Hlíðar

4.5/5(123 area reviews)

Though Hlíðar might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Reykjavik Harbour and Perlan.

Hlíðar
I was really surprised at how much graffiti there is in Reykjavik. Some of it is really artful, some not so much. This is just off Laugavegur, the main street through the downtown party district.

Holt

While Holt isn't home to many top sights, Reykjavik Harbour and Laugavegur are some notable places to visit nearby.

Holt

Popular day trips from Capital Region

Selfoss featuring a cascade, rapids and a gorge or canyon

Selfoss

Reykjavik

Reykjavik

Hafnarfjordur

Hafnarfjordur

Photo by Spencer Collier

Kópavogur

Mosfellsbær

Mosfellsbær