Summer Self-Guided Walking Tour in Reykjavík from ODDSSON Downtown Hotel

Follow the route below to explore Reykjavík at a comfortable pace during the summer months. 

How to use this map: Click any marker to view the attraction and get directions. Alternatively, open the route in Google Maps for easy navigation during your walk.

Reykjavík Summer Self-Guided Walking Tour Itinerary

Follow this step-by-step itinerary to explore Reykjavík's top landmarks, scenic streets, and local favorites at your own pace. The route forms a loop that begins and ends at ODDSSON Downtown Hotel, ideal for guests staying in central Reykjavík.

Starting point: ODDSSON Downtown Hotel

Begin your day at ODDSSON Downtown Hotel, whose central location makes it an excellent starting point for a self-guided walking tour of Reykjavík. 

Breakfast stop: BRIKK Bakery

Before setting off, grab a freshly brewed coffee and a croissant sandwich from BRIKK Bakery. It’s one of the best bakeries in Reykjavík, conveniently located on the ground floor of the hotel. Fuel up here before beginning your walk.

Stop 1: Hallgrímskirkja Church

Hallgrímskirkja is the largest Lutheran church in Iceland and one of the most recognizable landmarks in Reykjavík. Inspired by Iceland's basalt columns, its striking design dominates the city's skyline. Locals say that if you ever get lost in the city, just look up and follow the spire of Hallgrímskirkja.

Take the elevator to the church tower for panoramic views across Reykjavík, Faxaflói Bay, and the surrounding mountains. It's one of the best introductions to the city before exploring on foot.

Before leaving, take a moment to see the statue of Leif Erikson in front of Hallgrímskirkja. The famed Norse explorer is believed to have reached North America around the year 1000, long before Christopher Columbus.

After your visit, continue downhill along Frakkastígur.

Point of interest: Einar Jónsson Museum and Sculpture Garden

Next to the church is the Einar Jónsson Museum and its free sculpture garden. Open 24/7, the garden displays 26 bronze casts of works by Iceland's first sculptor.

Stop 2: Laugavegur Main Shopping Street

A short walk brings you to Laugavegur, Reykjavík's oldest and most popular shopping street, lined with cafés, boutiques, bookstores, and local design shops. 

As you stroll along the street, keep an eye out for vibrant street art and seasonal painted road sections. You'll also find plenty of shops selling Icelandic souvenirs, including the iconic lopapeysa wool sweater. If something catches your eye, consider making a note of the shop and returning later. That way, you won't have to carry your purchases for the rest of the walk.

When you're ready, head back to Frakkastígur Street to continue to the next stop.

Stop 3: Sun Voyager Sculpture

Continue toward the waterfront to reach the Sun Voyager, one of Reykjavík's most photographed landmarks. This stainless-steel dreamboat, created by Icelandic artist Jón Gunnar Árnason, symbolizes hope, freedom, and the promise of new journeys.

From here, follow the scenic Sculpture and Shore Walk west toward Harpa while enjoying views across the bay.

Stop 4: Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center

Harpa Concert Hall is one of the most impressive architectural sites in Reykjavík. Even if you're not attending a performance, it's worth stepping inside.

Admire the colorful glass façade from both inside and outside. You can also browse their on-site gift shop or explore the interactive Hljóðhimnar sound exhibit on the ground floor.

Point of interest: Icelandic Phallological Museum

Just a short walk from Harpa is the Icelandic Phallological Museum, one of Reykjavík's most unusual attractions. It houses a unique collection of specimens and exhibits exploring phallology across different animal species found in Iceland.

Stop 5: Reykjavík's Old Harbor

From Harpa, continue to Reykjavík's Old Harbor. Many whale watching excursions depart from here throughout the summer, making it one of the busiest areas in Reykjavík.

You'll also find several interesting landmarks, including the historic steam locomotive and the Looking Seawards statue. During summer, you can ride the Reykjavík Ferris Wheel for views over the harbor and city. 

Lunch stop: Local restaurant at the Old Harbor

This is an ideal place to stop for lunch. Choose from casual fish and chips, fresh seafood, international cuisine, or cafés with outdoor seating overlooking the marina.

From the harbor, look for the large yellow circle art installation, which marks the entrance to Tryggvagata.

Point of interest: Reykjavík's museums

As you walk along Tryggvagata, you'll pass several cultural attractions, including:

• Reykjavík Museum of Photography: Showcases Iceland's photographic history through rotating exhibitions.

• Reykjavík Art Museum – Hafnarhús: Features contemporary art, including works by renowned Icelandic artist Erró.

Continue walking until you reach Vesturgata and Aðalstræti.

Stop 6: Aðalstræti Street

Aðalstræti is the oldest street in Reykjavík and one of the best places to experience the city's historic character.

Rather than walking straight through, take a short loop around the inner streets. Wander through Fischersund, continue along Mjóstræti, then return via Brattagata. These quieter streets reveal colorful historic houses and buildings, plus creative street art hidden on walls and even manhole covers. 

Keep an eye out for Gróndalshús, the distinctive, bright-red corrugated house that once belonged to Icelandic scholar Benedikt Gröndal.

Dessert stop: Gaeta Gelato

Before exploring the side streets, consider stopping at Gaeta Gelato for a cup of gelato. It serves some of the best ice cream in Reykjavík and makes a refreshing treat on a summer afternoon.

Point of interest: The Settlement Exhibition

Return to Aðalstræti and continue toward The Settlement Exhibition. Here, you can learn about Reykjavík's Viking origins through archaeological remains and interactive displays.

From here, walk toward Reykjavík City Hall and Tjörnin via Kirkjustræti and Tjarnargata.

Stop 7: Tjörnin Pond

Tjörnin is one of Reykjavík's most peaceful green spaces. Follow the walking paths around the pond while enjoying views of the water, sculptures, gardens, and birdlife.

Benches along the route make excellent places for a short break.

Point of interest: Hólavallagarður Cemetery

Just west of Tjörnin lies Hólavallagarður Cemetery, one of Reykjavík's oldest cemeteries. It's known for its peaceful walking paths, aged trees, and historic gravestones, offering a quiet escape from the city center.

Cross the footbridge on the southern side of Tjörnin to reach the eastern shore, then continue toward Reykjavík City Hall.

Stop 8: Alþingishúsið

Walk along Vonarstræti before turning onto Templarasund to reach Alþingishúsið, home to Iceland's Parliament.

Built from Icelandic dolerite stone in the late nineteenth century, this historic building remains the center of the country's government. If the Parliament Garden is open, take a few minutes to enjoy its peaceful surroundings.

Stop 9: Austurvöllur Square

Just outside Parliament lies Austurvöllur Square, one of Reykjavík's most popular gathering places during summer. The square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants, with the statue of Jón Sigurðsson, a leader of Iceland's independence movement, standing at its center.

Snack stop: Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

Take a short walk toward the harbor along Þósthússtræti to visit Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. This famous hot dog stand has been serving locals and visitors since 1937. 

For the classic experience, order your Icelandic hot dog "with everything" (eina með öllu). It comes topped with raw and crispy fried onions, ketchup, sweet brown mustard, and remoulade. It's the perfect afternoon snack before continuing on your Reykjavík self-guided walking tour.

Afterward, continue east before making your way back toward Skólavörðustígur.

Stop 10: Skólavörðustígur Rainbow Street

Skólavörðustígur is one of Reykjavík's most colorful streets, thanks to its painted rainbow road leading toward Hallgrímskirkja.

Browse independent boutiques, design stores, galleries, and cafés before settling down for dinner.

Dinner stop: Local restaurant along Skólavörðustígur

Choose from Icelandic restaurants, international cuisine, or cozy wine bars with outdoor seating, made especially lively during summer evenings. 

As you walk uphill, you'll enjoy another beautiful perspective of Hallgrímskirkja.

Optional final stop: Sundhöllin Swimming Pool

Just a few minutes from Hallgrímskirkja is Sundhöllin, Reykjavík's oldest public swimming pool. If you'd like to end the day on a relaxing note, treat yourself to a soak in its geothermal pools. You can also unwind in the hot tubs or sauna before heading back to the hotel.

Note: If you have a Reykjavík City Card, admission to Iceland’s geothermal pools is free.

End point: ODDSSON Downtown Hotel

Finish your walking tour of Reykjavík with a short stroll back to ODDSSON Downtown Hotel. After a full day exploring Reykjavík, you can relax in your own cozy room. It's a comfortable way to end a memorable summer day in the city.

Make the Most of Your Summer Stay at ODDSSON Downtown Hotel

This Reykjavik self-guided walking tour shows just how much of the city you can experience on foot in one day. From iconic landmarks to quieter streets, local food, and historic neighborhoods, the route offers a well-rounded introduction to Reykjavík.

Starting and ending at the ODDSSON Downtown Hotel makes the experience even more convenient. Many of Reykjavík's top attractions are within walking distance. And its central location makes it an excellent choice for those staying in Reykjavík without a car.

FAQs About Reykjavík Self-Guided Walking Tour

Is Reykjavík a walkable city?

Yes, Reykjavík is one of Europe's most walkable capital cities. Most major attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a compact city center, making it easy to explore on foot.

How long does it take to walk around Reykjavík?

Walking between Reykjavík's main attractions typically takes 4–5 hours without extended stops. If you include museums, cafés, meals, and sightseeing, allow a full day to enjoy the experience.

Can you explore Reykjavík on foot in one day?

Yes. A well-planned Reykjavik self-guided walking tour lets you visit many of the city's top landmarks in a single day. These include Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall, the Sun Voyager, Tjörnin, the Old Harbor, and many more.

Are Reykjavík's sidewalks wheelchair- and stroller-friendly?

Most sidewalks in central Reykjavík are paved, wide, and equipped with curb ramps, making them suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Some older streets around the historic center have cobblestones, which may require extra care.

Is it safe to walk around Reykjavík at night?

Yes, in fact, Reykjavík is widely considered one of the safest cities in the world. During summer, daylight lasts well into the evening. During this time, the city center also remains lively with travelers and locals enjoying cafés, restaurants, and public spaces.