ADVENTUROUS TWO-DAY LAYOVER IN REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

We found ourselves fortunate enough to enjoy an unexpected 2-day layover in the captivating city of Reykjavik, Iceland, on our way to London. We took advantage of the opportunity to extend our brief two-hour layover at Reykjavik airport to a two-day visit. Anticipating an unforgettable experience in Reykjavik, we were thrilled to be able to explore the capital city of Iceland, the treasure trove of natural wonders, rich history, and vibrant culture.

48 Hours in Reykjavik

Here is a detailed guide on how we made the most of our short 48-hour stay, including dining at the Parliament Hotel in the Curio Collection by Hilton, a Reykjavik Food Walking Tour – a Food and Drink Adventure with Wake Up Reykjavik, the iconic Golden Circle Tour, a visit to the stunning Sky Lagoon, exploration of waterfalls, the Silfra Crack, and discovering the charm of Reykjavik’s surroundings. 

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Reykjavik

Morning: Checking into the Iceland Parliament Hotel

We disembarked from our Keflavik International Airport (KEF) flight at 7 am after a red-eye from San Francisco via Montreal. It was time for the almost hour-long taxi ride to make our way into the city of Reykjavik from the airport. We arrived a bit groggy after nearly 14 hours of travel but full of anticipation for our 2-day adventure full of activities.

Upon arriving, our first stop was the Iceland Parliament Hotel, a hidden gem in the heart of Reykjavik near Iceland’s Parliament building. Part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, this boutique hotel seamlessly blends contemporary luxury with traditional Icelandic charm. From its central location, you’re within easy reach of Reykjavik’s top attractions.

It was an early 8:30 am arrival at the hotel, where their warm Icelandic hospitality greeted us with open arms. To our surprise, the manager at the front desk offered us an early morning check-in and a lovely breakfast in their dining room. The Parliament’s elegant design and comfortable accommodations supplied the perfect backdrop for our brief Icelandic getaway. After a long day of travel, we were able to take some time to relax and freshen up in our room before embarking on a full day of discovery around Reykjavik.

Explore Reykjavik’s City Center – Culture and Architecture

After a 2-hour rest, not wanting to spare another moment, we began our day of exploration by strolling through the city’s charming streets.

Hallgrímskirkja

It was time to explore Reykjavik’s cultural and architectural wonders. We walked through the colorful city streets to the iconic Hallgrímskirkja, a Lutheran parish church that stands as one of Iceland’s tallest structures. If it is available to tour the inside, be sure to take the elevator to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Harpa Concert Hall

Next, we headed to Harpa Concert Hall, an architectural masterpiece found on the waterfront. Its shimmering glass facade and innovative design make it a must-visit. You can also check the schedule for any concerts or events happening during your stay.

Perlan

Perlan is a glass-domed landmark that offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding nature. Inside, you’ll find a museum showcasing Iceland’s natural wonders and history.

Following a two-hour walk around Reykjavik exploring the city sights, it was time for one of Iceland’s regional beers at a local café before beginning our early afternoon Foodie Tour.

Reykjavik Food Walking Tour: Culinary Delights Await

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Icelandic culture is through its food. Reykjavik boasts a burgeoning culinary scene, and what better way to discover it than by joining the Reykjavik Food and Drink Adventure with Wake-Up Reykjavik?

• Visit five different locations and Experience Iceland through food and drink
• Visit a fine dining restaurant, a gastro pub, the oldest restaurant in Reykjavik, and many of the local hangouts
• Get to know Iceland through local cuisine guided by a local foodie expert
• Taste Iceland beers and learn about their bizarre local beer industry

Our tour began in the city center, where our small group was led by a knowledgeable and fun local guide who shared insights into Iceland’s culinary traditions. We prepared our taste buds for an adventure to sample a variety of dishes, from freshly caught seafood to succulent Icelandic lamb and dairy products. Our enlightened and witty guide kept us entertained and informed during our delicious 4-hour tour.

Our second stop was at my favorite restaurant, which we enjoyed during our visit –  Forréttabarin. My standout dish was their version of Lobster Bisque made from Icelandic Lobster – Humarsúpa – the Langoustine Soup. It was brilliant; I could have eaten a gallon of it.

We were also served several other of their signature dishes – Grilled fillets of horse with caramelized onion, potato purée, bacon, and béarnaise; and herb-crusted ribeye of lamb, parsnip purée, sauteed mushrooms with a red wine reduction along with Icelandic Gin and Tonics. I highly recommend a visit to dine at this restaurant while you are in Reykjavik.

We also strolled over to the famous Icelandic hot dog stand during the tour. Bæjarins Beztu (Translated to The Bezt in Town!) Many world dignitaries have discussed politics while noshing on one or two of these famous dogs, such as Bill Clinton; there is a hotdog named after him. What makes these hot dogs so special is what they are made of and the special toppings. These dogs are created from lamb meat and topped with homemade crispy onions, sweet mustard, raw onion, ketchup, and remoulade. No wonder the crowds were long and eager to indulge.

This gastronomic journey introduces you to Icelandic delicacies like smoked puffin, rye bread ice cream, and the infamous fermented shark. Walking through Reykjavik’s charming streets, we also learned about the history and culture that have shaped these culinary traditions. 

Sky Lagoon: Relaxation and Serenity

After a long day of exploring the city’s culture and its regional cuisine, it was time to unwind and rejuvenate. The Sky Lagoon, a newer geothermal spa conveniently located near Reykjavik, offered an inviting setting for relaxation. With its oceanfront location, the lagoon provides breathtaking views of the Icelandic coastline and the North Atlantic.

We happily Indulged in a soothing soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while we savored the serene ambiance. We also explored the various relaxation zones, saunas, and treatments available at the lagoon. It was a perfect opportunity to pamper ourselves and reflect on the natural beauty we encountered during our first day.

What made for an even more unique experience for us was the Sky Lagoon’s swim-up bar, where guests can enjoy refreshments while soaking in the warmth of the water. We were thrilled to treat ourselves to a few lovely flutes of Veuve Clicquot. How perfect to toast while pampering in the therapeutic warm blue waters of this man-made Icelandic lagoon.

As the evening softly approached, the Sky Lagoon transformed into an enchanting setting for stargazing, and if your timing is right, you might even grab a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The clear Icelandic skies and the warmth of the lagoon make for an ideal spot to admire the stars or hunt for the elusive Aurora Borealis. Some visitors have been fortunate enough to see this mesmerizing natural phenomenon from the comfort of the Sky Lagoon.

Dinner in Reykjavik: Evening Delights

As the evening set in, we had the option to return to our hotel for dinner or continue our culinary exploration of Reykjavik. The city offers diverse dining experiences, from cozy Icelandic bistros to international cuisine.

With the day being a long one, we chose to dine at the Hjá Jóni, the Parliament Hotel’s restaurant by the Austurvöllur town square, as it piqued our interest to savor another round of Icelandic delicacies. No matter your choice, dining in Reykjavik is undoubtedly a delightful experience. We had a delicious smoked salmon dish and another version of Iceland’s lobster bisque, a typical dish served throughout the region. Access to fresh seafood is everywhere around the island, and you will discover many different creations from the sea on every menu.

Evening Stroll: A Glimpse of Reykjavik’s Nightlife

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through Reykjavik’s magnificently lit streets. That evening, we opted to retire early as we had another full day of adventure waiting for us in the morning. But for those who are tempted, the city comes alive after dark. If you’re in the mood for some nighttime entertainment, consider visiting a local pub, live music venue, or dance club. The lively atmosphere provides the perfect opportunity to socialize with locals and fellow travelers.

Golden Circle Tour: A Day of Natural Wonders

We started our second day early before the sun was up and were off to the GrayLines Bus Stop #1. On this rather chilly morning, we embarked on one of Iceland’s most iconic experiences – the Golden Circle Tour offered by GrayLine Iceland. One of the wonderful things about taking tours around the region is the informative tour guides leading the daily expeditions, which we find is the best way to immerse yourself in the highlights of Iceland. Our full-day adventure took us to three breathtaking natural attractions:

Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park – The Crown Jewel of Iceland

Our first stop is Þingvellir (Thingvellir)National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a geological wonder. Here, we saw the Silfra Crack, a visible rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. In warmer months, the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra fissure invite you to snorkel or dive between these continental giants, offering a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience.

Geysir Geothermal Area

Our second stop on our journey was the Geysir Geothermal Area. We witnessed the powerful Strokkur geyser erupting with impressive force, shooting hot water high into the air. We also explore the otherworldly landscapes and bubbling hot springs that dot this geothermal wonderland. They have a wonderful gift and clothing shop at this location, where I found it perfect to grab a warm hat and neck scarf made in Iceland, comforting me on this rather chilly, windy day.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Our final destination on the Golden Circle Tour was the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. We could feel the thunderous power of the Hvítá River as it plunged into a dramatic two-tiered cascade. Be sure to capture the beauty of Gullfoss from various viewpoints along the walking paths.

Lunch with a View: An Icelandic Treat

During our Golden Circle adventure, we had the opportunity to enjoy lunch at one of the charming eateries along the route. As we dined a warm and comforting seafood chowder, we soaked in the stunning natural beauty that surrounded us with views of Iceland’s rugged terrain and distant mountains.

Our Last Evening in Reykjavik of our 48-hour Adventure – Art and Culture

As the day wound down, we returned to Reykjavik for an evening of culture and art. The city boasts several notable museums and galleries:

National Museum of Iceland:

Explore Iceland’s rich history and cultural heritage through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. Gain insights into the country’s Viking past, medieval manuscripts, and modern developments.

Reykjavik Art Museum:

Discover contemporary Icelandic and international art at the Reykjavik Art Museum. The museum has multiple locations, each showcasing different aspects of the art scene.

A Memorable Farewell

We indulged in another delightful dining experience for our final night in Reykjavik. We returned to one of the local Gastro Pubs, Public House Gastropub, for a light dinner as we were leaving very early the next morning for our flight to London.

As our 2-day layover in Reykjavik came to an end, we left with lasting memories of this enchanting city and its breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you choose to explore Reykjavik’s surroundings or simply savor your final moments in the city, as we did, you will carry a piece of Iceland’s beauty, culture, and warmth with you as you continue your journey.

There is much to explore, see, do, and taste on this remote island surrounded by the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. Every season offers a different adventure. During our 48 hours in Iceland, we just tipped the iceberg, leaving us anxious to return and experience more of Iceland’s Viking history and rich terrain. Reykjavik is among the world’s cleanest, greenest, and safest cities.

To learn more visit visitreykjavik.is.