Reykjavik

A city on a human scale

Home to around 249,000 people in the Greater Reykjavík Area – nearly two-thirds of Iceland’s population – Reykjavík is both the country’s cultural and economic centre, where urban life remains closely connected to nature.

The Greater Reykjavík Area spans six municipalities with fourteen distinct areas, each shaped by its own geography, character and community. Colourful corrugated iron houses, Hallgrímskirkja and independent galleries of the city centre are just one version of Reykjavík.

Exploring the entire capital area is key to a more meaningful visit to the city.

Nature is always within reach – year-round

The air here is among the cleanest on the planet. The tap water comes naturally purified, filtered over decades through lava. The North Atlantic Ocean, volcanoes, lava fields, and geothermal hot springs are woven into city life. Winter brings the northern lights, and summer, endless daylight. And whale watching, horseback riding, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails are within reach even before you’ve left Reykjavík.   

A creative and culinary city

Reykjavík’s creative energy is rooted in its environment. Its thriving food scene draws on exceptional local ingredients: Arctic fish, free-range lamb, skyr, and produce grown year-round using geothermal heat. Music has long been an export of note, while design, fashion and visual arts communities are tightly knit and prolific.

Open, safe and progressive

Reykjavík is a safe, progressive city, built on a strong sense of social trust, inclusivity and a commitment to sustainability. It is also defined by openness – socially, culturally, and environmentally – and by a collective focus on responsible, mindful ways of living and travelling.

Reykjavík quick facts

• Population of Capital Region: ~249,000
• Share of national population: ~ 64%
• Six municipalities: Reykjavík, Kópavogur, Hafnarfjörður, Garðabær, Mosfellsbær, Seltjarnarnes, forming one connected urban area
• 14 city areas, each with its own character
• One of the world's cleanest capitals for air and drinking water
• Midnight sun in summer; northern lights visible in winter
• Ranked in the top 10 most sustainable destinations according to the GDS-Index.
• Best explored with Reykjavík City Card

Discover more on Visit Reykjavik