Cheap things to do in Reykjavík this summer

From geothermal pools to art museums, there's no shortage of entertainment in Reykjavík

Iceland’s enchanting capital is a hotbed of entertainment during the summer months. Visitors arriving in Reykjavík can expect up to 19 hours of daylight from June to August. In the ambient Icelandic summertime, the days are long and there are plenty of free things to do.

The sunny days are brilliant for sightseeing as you don't need to go home before its get dark – because it doesn’t get dark!

Image by Moyan Brenn (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Spending time in Reykjavík doesn’t have to be expensive. From exploring its free art galleries to a midnight swim in a geothermal pool, you can have an amazing time here on a budget.

Go swimming in Nauthólsvík Beach

Image by Páll Stefánsson

Nautholsvik Beach was artificially created in 2000 and is the perfect place to hang out on a sunny day. Popular with locals, the lagoon and the hot tubs are heated up with the hot water from nearby reservoir tanks.

Offering travellers a unique summer experience, swimming in Nautholsvik is like taking a warm bath. Protected by sea walls, you will never get cold as the beach is designed to prevent cold water from seeping in. Even better you can swim and sunbathe here for absolutely free!

Visit the ‘Pearl of the North’ – the Perlan

Image by yngvith (Flickr/Creative Commons)

The dome-shaped Perlan is a former water storage container transformed into a revolving restaurant and museum. Come here for the stunning observation platform and enjoy 360 degree views of the city.

Supported by six enormous hot-water tanks, the Perlan is also home to the Saga Museum. Here you can discover more about the historical figures and major events in Iceland’s history.

Costing between 12-15 Euros per person, the Saga Museum is an exciting and interactive way to learn more about this remarkable country.

Go hiking in Mount Esja

Image by Helgi Halldórsson (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Dominating the local skyline, Mount Esja is a popular trekking activity for travellers arriving in Reykjavík. Offering breathtaking views from its peak, the 914 metre mountain is located in Kjalarnes, which is just east of Reykjavík. Daytrippers will find it easily accessible by getting the number 15 bus from Hlemmur bus station.

Free walking tour of Reykjavík city centre

Image by Brian Gratwicke (Flickr/Creative Commons)

There isn’t a better time to enjoy a walking tour of Reykjavík than during the summer months. Lasting two hours, you can learn about the city's famous landmarks, street art, folk culture and nightlife from either Marteinn (Martin), Eiríkur (Eric) or Sara (Sarah).

It’s a great introduction to Reykjavík on foot and the free tour departs daily all year around - often twice a day.

Tour starting location: Austurvöllur, Parliament (Alþingi)

Website: http://citywalk.is/free-walking-tour-reykjavik/

Celebrate Menningarnótt (Culture Night 2016)

Image by Rog01 (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Reykjavík Culture Night is Iceland’s largest festival and it will be celebrating its twentieth anniversary on 22 August. Thousands of people will arrive in the city centre to partake in musical shows, theatre and art events. This will be followed by a spectacular firework display over the city centre.

Budget places to stay in Reykjavík

Book now if you want to guarantee a room in Reykjavík this summer. Check out our availability here – we have excellent hostels and budget hotels available at low rates.

KEX Hostel is a stylish hostel housed in an old biscuit factory in Reykjavík city centre. Offering boutique rooms at budget prices, you can enjoy a relaxing stay here with free Wi-Fi and a shabby chic common room.

Reykjavík Hostel Village is situated in downtown Reykjavik and is only a few minutes walk from the iconic Hallgrismkirkja Church. The multiplex hostel is a popular meeting point for first time arrivals in Iceland.

*Header image by Patrick Rasenberg (Flickr/Creative Commons)