REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

After a quick trip to this beautiful country - which I am dying to go back to at some point - here are my recommendations for the city of Reyjavik!
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WHERE TO STAY 

There are several options to stay within the city of Reykjavik, so if these are outside of your budget, no need to worry. If you're looking to stay somewhere to gather up some points, there are some hotel chains in the area as well. I would recommend staying at the below, personally. 

Sand Hotel by Keahotels
@MKTravelLifestyle
My personal recommendation and where I stayed. This place is so perfect because it's central to everything and Reykjavik is an extremely walkable city. It's also right next to a popular bakery.
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The Reykjavik EDITION
@MKTravelLifestyle
A hotel chain that has never disappointed regardless of the location.
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And for those that really want to splurge... 

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland
@MKTravelLifestyle
Where I would recommend staying if you're truly looking to splurge... it's outside of Reykjavik (but not far from the airport) and you're right on the Blue Lagoon!
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SITE SEEING & ACTIVITIES 

Blue Lagoon
@MKTravelLifestyle
The iconic blue lagoon that I'm sure you've seen all over social media. Although its outside of the city center, it's definitely worth a trip out there to spend a few hours!
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Sky Lagoon
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The smaller sister to the Blue Lagoon, but just as relaxing and closer to the city center if you're short on time. Also right on the water to look out to the sea.
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Hallgrimskirkja
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Known for the iconic structure, this church is quite a striking image.
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Rainbow Street
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The famous rainbow street right down the street from the church.
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Perlan
@MKTravelLifestyle
Not quite in the heart of downtown, but close enough if you're looking to spend some time indoors at the museum. Dress warm for the ice room!
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Grótta Island Lighthouse
@MKTravelLifestyle
This lighthouse is at the farthest point off the coast of Reykjavik, but worth a visit if you decide to take a longer stroll (around 40 mins from the heart of downtown).
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Sun Voyager
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Take a walk along the coast and admire the art and this sculpture right on the water.
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FOOD & DRINK 

Sandholt
@MKTravelLifestyle
A delicious bakery and dessert shop on one of the main streets. Also is a cafe if you're looking for a hearty lunch. There are no reservations for the restaurant though and is first come first serve.
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Skál!
@MKTravelLifestyle
Stumbled upon this place in a food hall. 10/10 recommend. There's a ton of great drinks on tap and the food is seasonal, but if scallops are on the menu get them!!
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Session Craft Bar
@MKTravelLifestyle
I love finding local breweries and dive bars with the local tap. This spot is in more of a residential neighborhood.
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Einstök Bar
@MKTravelLifestyle
I probably went to this place 3 times in my trip because of the drinks, the atmosphere, and the location. A perfect spot to curl up in the corner and read a book too if that's your fancy.
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Pósthús Food Hall & Bar
@MKTravelLifestyle
So many places packed into this one food hall. Take a walk around and see what you're craving.
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Kopar
@MKTravelLifestyle
If you're looking for a nicer meal, this spot is perfect for an upscale fresh fish dinner experience.
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Fish Company
@MKTravelLifestyle
Another recommendation for a nice fish dinner. Everything is so fresh, and when I was there they had set meal courses which was great to taste a little bit of everything.
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Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
@MKTravelLifestyle
Iceland is known for their hotdogs and this is THE spot to go. There will be a line - but it moves pretty quickly!
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Reykjavik Roasters
@MKTravelLifestyle
A perfect quaint coffee shop in a neighborhood like area. Seating is limited but this local coffee hits the spot.
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Brauð & Co
@MKTravelLifestyle
Another popular bakery down the hill from Reykjavik Roasters. I ordered the top 3 most popular treats because I wanted to try them all.
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Where I wish I ate, but couldn't get a reservation in time... 

ÓX + Amma Don
@MKTravelLifestyle
This is the number one restaurant I wanted to eat at, but wasn't able to get a reservation. This Michelin star restaurant will be my first place to try when I go back.
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Dill Restaurant
@MKTravelLifestyle
This is the other Michelin restaurant I wanted to try but was unable to make a reservation at. Definitely on my list!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hi there! I'm based in Los Angeles, but love to travel. My life goal is to see as much of the world as possible. All my travel itineraries are based off my own personal research, travels, and experiences. I've been to 35+ countries and still counting. I love experiencing the finer aspects of travel, but certainly won't shy away from budget options if they come highly recommended. All in all, I value experiences and memories over everything else. Hope you enjoy and have as wonderful of a time as I did!
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