Reykjavik makes a wonderful starting point for a solo adventure in Iceland. This four-day plan mixes city wandering, cafes and museums with a Golden Circle day trip, a Northern Lights evening and whale watching from the harbor. It is built for a traveller on their own, with plenty of time to explore at an easy pace.
Downtown Reykjavik and the waterfront
A day of cafes, the city's landmark church and a concert hall by the water, ending in the geothermal pools.
Morning
Breakfast at a local cafe
Start with a hearty breakfast at one of Reykjavik's many cafes. or Reykjavik Roasters are good choices.
Morning
and the city views
Visit the iconic church that dominates the Reykjavik skyline and take the elevator to the top for stunning views of the city.
Afternoon
Explore the beautiful glass building on the waterfront, and take a guided tour to learn about its unique architecture and history.
Afternoon
Lunch at
Try traditional Icelandic cuisine at , across from . Don't miss the rye bread ice cream.
Afternoon
Museums
Spend the afternoon at the or the Reykjavik Art Museum.
Evening
Soak in a geothermal pool
End the day with a soak in the . It is a bit outside the city, but it is worth the trip.
The Golden Circle
A day trip past three of Iceland's most famous sights, with lunch on the way back.
Morning
Start the Golden Circle at Thingvellir, where you can walk between the tectonic plates that separate Europe and North America. You can book a tour or drive yourself.
Morning
Watch the famous Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes.
Afternoon
Head to Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most impressive natural wonders.
Afternoon
Lunch at
On the way back to Reykjavik, stop at the , which grows tomatoes year-round and serves delicious tomato soup and bread.
Street art, museums and the Northern Lights
Murals and a famous hot dog stand in the morning and afternoon, then an evening out to watch the aurora.
Morning
Street art walk
Take a self-guided walking tour of the city's murals and graffiti.
Afternoon
Icelandic hot dogs
Try Icelandic hot dogs at , a famous stand near the harbor.
Afternoon
Visit the museum on top of the hill for panoramic views of the city and interactive exhibits on Iceland's natural wonders and history.
Evening
Northern Lights tour
Join a guided trip outside the city to view the aurora borealis. Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the lights.
Harbor, shopping and a farewell dinner
Whales and seafood by the Old Harbor, then boutiques on and a final dinner.
Morning
Breakfast at
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at this cozy cafe with delicious pastries and coffee.
Morning
Whale watching
Take a whale watching tour from the harbor to see humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins and more.
Afternoon
Seafood lunch at
Head to the Old Harbor for fresh seafood at (The Seabaron).
Afternoon
Shopping on
Browse the boutiques and galleries for souvenirs, and don't miss the Icelandic design shops on street.
Evening
Dinner at
End your trip with dinner at , one of Reykjavik's most acclaimed restaurants, known for modern Icelandic cuisine made with local ingredients.