Private Reykjavík City Tour

We start the day with a visit to Reykjavík’s most iconic landmark, Hallgrímskirkja. This striking Lutheran church, designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson, took nearly four decades to complete (from 1944 to 1982). Its tower was inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns and erupting geysers and inside the church you'll find a massive 5,275-pipe organ that hosts regular concerts.

Outside stands a statue of Leifur Eiríksson, the Norse explorer said to have reached North America around the year 1000. The sculpture was a gift from the United States, commemorating the shared Viking legacy.

Our second stop is Harpa, Reykjavík’s striking concert and conference center located by the harbor. It serves as the home of the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera, and hosts cultural events and festivals year-round.

Designed by Ólafur Elíasson, the building's glass façade reflects Icelandic nature, with design elements evoking the Northern Lights and volcanic forms. Each window contains four layers of glass and integrated lighting, allowing the entire structure to display dynamic patterns and colors after dark, making it both a performance venue and a work of art.

Our next stop is the Sun Voyager, a striking steel sculpture along Reykjavík’s northern waterfront. While its shape hints at a Viking ship, artist Jón Gunnar Árnason intended it as a dream vessel — an ode to the sun and a symbol of exploration, freedom, and possibility.

With views of Mount Esja across the bay, it’s one of the city’s most photographed landmarks and a perfect stop to take in the sea air and surrounding scenery.

We head to Höfði House, one of the city’s most historically significant buildings. Built in 1909, this elegant structure is best known as the site of the 1986 Reykjavík Summit between U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev — a key moment in the final years of the Cold War.

Originally built for the French consul, Höfði has hosted notable figures over the years and is said to be haunted by a resident ghost, according to local lore. Overlooking the bay, the house blends quiet charm with powerful political legacy.

Our final stop of the day is Perlan's 360° observation deck, one of Reykjavík’s most unique structures. Built atop six old hot water tanks, the building is crowned with a glass dome that resembles a futuristic spacecraft. From its observation deck, you’ll get gorgeous views of the entire city, surrounding mountains, and Faxaflói Bay. 

Inside, we recommend you grab an ice cream, one of the best in town, to go with the Reykjavík city views. 

Perlan is also the host of the Wonders of Iceland exhibition that showcases Iceland’s natural phenomena, including glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal energy — a perfect add-on that we are happy to organize for you. There’s also a rotating restaurant and café under the dome, offering a unique dining experience with ever-changing views.

Here are just a few things to consider taking with you on your day out:

• Warm layers - Reykjavík weather can be generous and often offers four seasons in a single day
• Rainproof layers - The weather changes fast in Iceland
• Food and Drinks - We'll make sure to also stop along the way
• Hiking boots - Sturdy shoes are better in these landscape
• Fully charged Camera and Selfie Stick