Sober Travel Guide: Reykjavik
explore Iceland's Capital with intention
While Reykjavik is Iceland’s largest city, it covers only about 105 square miles and has a population of just over 120,000. For some perspective, Kansas City, MO, covers 8,472 square miles and includes 172 cities and 14 countries, with over a million people.
Iceland is home to over 370,000 people, and to my surprise, about 63% of the country’s population resides in the Reykjavik area. You’ll find a lot of tourists and locals in the heart of downtown, but most residents live in the surrounding suburbs, which offer an even quieter environment.
Before we get started, I’m here to remind you that
1) You’re awesome. I'm proud of you for being brave enough to quit drinking alcohol. You’re a badass.
2) Mindful Travel is amazing. I’m so obsessed with it. I hope you are, too.
Mindful Travel offers a refreshing way to explore new destinations. It allows you to fully engage with your surroundings and experience travel without the booze.
You’re likely to find yourself more present and aware, appreciating sights and sounds in a way you may not have while you were focused on other things besides your destination.
For those looking to connect with Reykjavik meaningfully while prioritizing wellness, this guide will share activities that allow you to return home feeling renewed and with a strong sense of self.
Best Times to Visit Iceland
The best times to visit Iceland largely depend on what you’re looking for.
If you’re looking to experience nature and enjoy milder weather, the summer months from June to August are ideal. I visited in August, which was offered the perfect balance of nice temps and fewer crowds. I spent a few days straight chillin' in the Blue Lagoon before heading to Reykjavik.
If you’re trying to see the Northern Lights, September to March is the best time to do so.
There are so many stunning waterfalls to visit.
One of my favorites was Gullfoss, about a 90-minute drive from Reykjavik. World-of-waterfalls.com named it one of the world’s top waterfalls.
Flights to Reykjavik
Newark, Boston, Chicago, Washington, DC, New York City, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Seattle, Orlando, and San Francisco are a few of the U.S. cities offering year-round flights to Reykjavik Keflavik International (KEF).
Does anyone else remember the direct flights from Kansas City?!
Unfortunately, Icelandair ended its direct flights from Kansas City International Airport (MCI) to Reykjavík, Iceland, in September 2019 after two seasons. :(
The airline cited several reasons for the decision; however, Icelandair left the door open for a possible return to Kansas City in the future. Don’t leave us hanging, Icelandair!
When booking flights, I almost always recommend going directly through the airline. I can’t even remember the last time I booked with a third party. Flights usually become available about 330 days before departure if you like to plan like me.
For international travel, I’m a big fan of sticking with United. If you’re considering getting a United MileagePlus® credit card, now is the perfect time to apply and start racking up those bonus points. Apply here, and you might score a free flight!
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland's most famous tourist attractions. Many consider it a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a must-do on any visit to Iceland.
The Blue Lagoon is surrounded by a lava field, offering incredible scenery, with state-of-the-art facilities, a unique atmosphere, and silica masks and water that make your skin extra firm yet incredibly soft. It was a cool experience.
For these reasons and many more, visitors from all over the world visit the Blue Lagoon daily, and many return here again and again.
P.S. There’s a Secret Lagoon about 30 minutes away from Reykjavik that I would recommend checking out too.
Silica Hotel
Just a 10 minute walk to the Blue Lagoon is Silicia Hotel. It’s a beautiful hotel that truly captures the soul of Iceland. It feels like a retreat designed by Mother Nature herself. As soon as you arrive, there’s a moment of peace. I loved the minimalist design of the hotel - no need to take away from the views that already exist.
Hotel Silica also has a private lagoon, which is a quiet sanctuary compared to the Blue Lagoon. You can reap the rewards of the warm, mineral-rich waters, surrounded by natural beauty.
3 Reykjavik Hotels I would recommend
Hotel Borg:
Hotel Borg in Reykjavik is a stylish and historic luxury hotel in the heart of the city, across from Austurvöllur Square.
This elegant hotel combines classic Art Deco design with modern amenities, offering comfortable and sophisticated rooms with high-quality furnishings. Guests enjoy easy access to Reykjavik's top attractions, including restaurants, shops, and cultural landmarks. With its prime location, charming atmosphere, and excellent service, Hotel Borg is a great choice for travelers looking to experience the best of Reykjavik in style.
Hotel Reykjavík Saga:
Hotel Reykjavík Saga is an elegant 4-star hotel that opened in July 2022. Ideally situated at the heart of the Reykjavík city center, the hotel is a stone's throw away from picturesque Lake Tjörnin, the cathedral, and Reykjavík art museum, as well as the fantastic downtown shops and restaurants.
The hotel is located on Lækjargata, a historic street in the center of Reykjavík. It has been designed in a modern style that reflects Icelandic tradition, fully respecting the surrounding buildings. Location and environment have been fully considered throughout the design process, making Hotel Reykjavík Saga a stunning downtown stay in Iceland's capital.
The Reykjavik Edition:
The Reykjavik EDITION, a Marriott property, is a contemporary luxury hotel that blends modern design with Icelandic influences, offering a stylish and upscale experience in the heart of Reykjavik.
Located near the scenic waterfront and within walking distance of popular attractions like Harpa Concert Hall and the old harbor, the hotel features sleek, minimalist rooms with high-end amenities and stunning views of the city or harbor.
Iconic Food & Drink in Reykjavik
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
A visit to Reykjavik just wouldn’t be complete without stopping by Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, the legendary hot dog stand that has been an Icelandic staple since 1937.
This place is a must-try because it is famous for its delicious lamb-based hot dogs topped with crispy onions, sweet mustard, and their signature remoulade. drool.
To quote Guide to Iceland: “In August 2004, former president of the United States, Bill Clinton, bought a hot dog at the downtown stand during his visit to Iceland for a UNICEF conference. He ordered his hot dog only with mustard, which subsequently became known as ‘The Clinton’.
After this incident, the hot dog stand began appearing in tourist guides to Iceland and its popularity started to soar. Since Clinton’s visit, celebrities like Metallica’s frontman James Hetfield, actor Charlie Sheen, and reality television stars the Kardashians have all shopped at the location.
Wonder when Taylor Swift will visit….
Follow them on IG: @baejarinsbeztupylsur
Finding a restaurant that feels like home when you’re far away might be my favorite thing in the world, and that is exactly what happened when I walked into Mama Reykjavik.
At the time, I had just finished my first fitness competition and was still recovering emotionally and physically. I was working through some heavy (literally and figuratively) stuff, and I decided, on a whim, to join a cacao ceremony in the restaurant.
I didn’t know what to expect, but from the moment I stepped into their upstairs space (I was the first one there) I knew that it was going to be powerful.
We sat in a circle, and as everyone introduced themselves, I could feel my emotions coming up to the surface. When it was my turn, I barley managed to say my name before the tears started flowing. I was a little embarrassed at first, but then something beautiful happened. The whole group started singing this gentle, soothing song - something like, “Michelle, we love you.” It was so much more than that. I wish I could remember the exactly words, but I’ll never forget how I felt. Shout out to Óli Ben Ólafsson for wrapping me up in a love blanket that I’ll never forget. It was this incredible, unexpected wave of love and support from total strangers. I knew right then that I’d found a special place, and I promised myself I’d come back one day to sing that song to someone else who might need it just as much as I did.
It was my friend Shelley who first inspired me to. check out vegan & vegetarian restaurants while we were exploring Sweden together. I pretty much only eat meat at this point, but she opened my eyes to the idea that food can be so much more than just what’s on your plate - and it can be a way to connect, and to heal. That’s EXACTLY the spirit of Mama Reykjavik. This isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a vision brought to life. They’re all about supporting local businesses and moving towards self-sustainability. Part of their dream is to invest in land and start growing their own food, and embracing the farm-to-table concept. They believe in living in harmony with the environment, and everything they do reflects that - no food, no plastic, and everything is local and seasonal. They’re about creating something that’s not just good for us, but good for the planet too.
After the cacao ceremony, a beautiful woman came up to me. It took me everything not to start crying all over again. She must have seen the emotions because she said, “I’ve been where you are. It gets better.” There was such kindness in her eyes, and I held on to her words. She was right. It did get better.
Sometimes, the unexpected moments of connection stay with you the most. Mama Reykjavik is more than just a place to grab a (delicious) meal - it’s a place to heal, connect, and feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself. I know I’ll be back one day, hopefully, to pay it forward and sing that song for someone else who needs it, just like I did.
Follow them on IG: @mamareykjavik
The Jungle
Welcome to the Jungle.
Jungle Cocktail Bar is owned by six bartenders who all have in common that they love slingin' out. Check out every single one of them on the About Us page. I’m kind of obsessed.
Can they be my spirit animal?
I love that they have a section on their menu - dedicated to 0% cocktails with great options. If you’re looking to have a good time, this is the place to go.
Follow them on IG: jungle.rvk
Whale Watching
I love animals, so I chose a small group whale-watching tour on custom-made RIB boats with Whale Safari.
We departed from the Old Harbour and included a visit to puffin habitats during their season, which offered amazing views of whales and dolphins at sea level. The boat felt super safe and comfortable in the North Atlantic waters. On the way back to the harbor, you’ll catch the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture and the Harpa Concert Hall.
Follow them on IG: @whalesafari
Outdoorsy Stuff
Reykjadalur Hot Springs Hike (AllTrails link)
The Reykjadalur Hot Springs hike is the kind of adventure that captures everything I love about Iceland.
It’s a short drive from Reykjavik, and the trail takes you right into the heart of a geothermal epic-ness. Yes, that’s a word. Steam rising from the ground, bubbling mud pools straight out of a movie, and a gentle river rush. The hike itself is pretty easy and has a well-marked path. At the end of the trail is the hot spring river, where you can find a place to relax and soak in the natural hot spring.
Fagradalsfjall Volcano
Hiking up Fagradalsfjall Volcano was one of the most wpic experiences of my life. I found this adventure through AirBnb experiences thought “yeah, I’ll hike a mountain to see an erupting volcano, why not?” From the very start, the hike was breathtaking. And not because I’m out of shape, it was breathtaking because it was beautiful.
Our guide, who was v attractive, might I add, was amazing and full of fascinating stories about the area’s volcanic activity and how the landscape has shaped over time. It was incredible.
After we witnessed the beautiful eruption for what seemed like hours, the hike took an unexpected turn on the way back down. My friend Rita, who I met on the trip and quickly bonded with, rolled her ankle. She’s from South Africa, and we are still in touch on WhatsApp. At first, we thought it was just a sprain, but it became clear pretty quickly that she needed more help, and she was airlifted via a helicopter.
We finished the hike and found ourselves a quiet spot to lie down in the grass - one of my favorite things. The rest of the group - talked about life, sharing stories and dreams, and a few laughs. It was one of those beautiful moments you have with complete strangers - where it’s so bittersweet - you’re so happy that you’ve met them and pretty realistic that you’ll likely never see them again. I love how an adventure like hiking to witness a volcanic eruption can bring together people from all over the world and create memories that last a life time.
Horseriding Tours
Did you know that Iceland has its own breed of horses?! Like could this country get any better?!
These horses have a gentle spirit, and are small but sturdy. The tour company was amazing - perfect for beginnings who want to experience the rill of riding these amazing creatures while soaking in the scenery. The tours are led by experienced guides, and we rode through moss-covered lava fields and along paths surrounded by stunning vistas.
The guides were so passionate about the area and the Iceland horses, and as someone who loves animals, I always feel most at peace when I’m around them. Spending time with animals so connected to their surroundings is so grounding.
Follow them on IG: @ishestarriding
More volcanos 🌋
Ready to have your mind blown?
Þríhnúkar is a dormant volcano with a history of three eruptions, the last one happening around 4,500 years ago. Wut?
What it left behind: Þríhnúkagígur, or "Three Peak Crater."
It’s one of Iceland’s most extraordinary natural
wonders and a must-see for any adventurer. It’s the only volcano IN THE WORLD where you can enter right into its magma chamber.
The experience starts with a scenic hike across a lava field, and for some reason, I started to get nervous?
I tried to keep it together even though I’m terrified of heights and slightly claustrophobic, we started our descent 120 meters down - and for perspective - The London Eye is about the height. And we were going down. Into a volcano.
Before we got down - I wanted needed to know, “how was this discovered?”
I learned that in 1974 - the cave explorer Árni B. Stefánsson became the first (known) human to ever enter. He was lowered in by a few friends during another one of their adventurous explorations.
It wasn’t until 1991 that his brother and brother’s friend, started to explore the cave, where they made attempts to map out the giant cavern. It wasn’t until 2004 that it was accessible to the public, and in 2019, National Geographic made a visit to film, and it was during that time they figured out that a modified window cleaning lift worked wonders for moving people and equipment, and since2012, people are now able to go inside and experience Mother Nature in all of her magnificent grace.
After knowing all of this, I felt so inspired. How freaking cool is this world - so much to be discovered. While I was still terrified, I tried to channel my inner explorer - someone who isn’t afraid to see new things, even though it’s uncomfortable.
Do not miss this tour - follow them on IG: @insidethevolcano
Rainbow Street in Reykjavik
Back in August 2015, one of the main streets in downtown Reykjavik was transformed into this stunning rainbow to celebrate Reykjavik Pride.
This colorful street is a joyful sign of support for diversity, and the event attracts up to 100,000 visitors from around the world. It’s one of the biggest events in Iceland and showcases the city’s commitment to celebrating diversity and community.
Hallgrimskirkja
Hallgrímskirkja is one of the landmarks that’s pretty much impossible to miss in Reykjavik. Its design is a stunning tribute to the country’s unique character and natural beauty. The church’s towering spire seemed to reach as high as the sky, and I was moved by the simplicity and elegance inside.
You can even head to the top of the power to get a gorgeous view of all of Reykjavik in all its colorful charm against the backdrop of mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
I love stepping into churches while traveling, simply to take a moment to pause and breathe.
Thank you, Iceland!
Remember, Mindful Travel is about what you CAN do, not what you can’t. Sober Travel is amazing because you get to experience the world with a fresh perspective, fully present and connected to every moment.
Whether you’re taking selfies in the Blue Lagoon or galloping on a horse in the middle of lava field, you’ll find that traveling without alcohol opens up a world of deeper connections and unforgettable experiences.
Next Steps for Mindful Travel:
If you're ready to explore more destinations and make the most out of your travels, be sure to follow me on IG: @michelleplantetravels for more inspiration, and reach out directly with any questions or stories of your own: hello@michelleplante.com
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Happy Travels, and I hope to see you on a future trip!
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