10 TOP Things to Do in Capital Region (2026 Activity Guide)

A modern glass building with a unique honeycomb pattern, a marina with boats, and a calm waterfront.

A coastal town with colorful buildings and a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

A geothermal spa with people in the water, a modern building, and a rocky hill in the background.

A marina with multiple boats docked at the pier.

A modern interior with a panoramic view of a coastal landscape, featuring a black leather couch, a white chair, and a tall cylindrical column.

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Top places to visit

1. Reykjavik Harbour

Reykjavík’s Old Harbour is the perfect place to start your visit to Iceland. Wander along the quay through quaint lanes and past renovated fishermen’s sheds that now house galleries, cafés and tour operators.

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A marina with various boats docked, a large ship in the background, and a cityscape with buildings.

2. Laugavegur

Find an exciting collection of cafés, restaurants, bars and specialty stores on Laugavegur, an arterial street in Reykjavík’s downtown area. Stroll down the partly pedestrianized strip and spend an afternoon checking out Scandinavian designer stores. Stop at a café or bakery and try delicious Icelandic treats, while watching fashion-conscious shoppers go by. In the evening, relax with a drink at one of the Laugavegur bars and clubs.

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A street with a pink bicycle, a yellow bench, and various storefronts.

3. Hallgrimskirkja

Designed in 1939 by the late architect, Guðjón Samúelsson, Hallgrimskirkja is a 1,000-seat church that took more than 40 years to complete. Samúelsson’s inspiration came from the shapes of the Icelandic countryside. He created the structure to appear like cooling lava from a volcanic eruption. Visit for Sunday mass or simply for the best views of Reykjavík.

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A church with a tall spire and a statue in front.

4. Harpa

Experience the masterful design and outstanding facilities of one of Reykjavík’s modern landmarks at the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center. Opened in 2011, this contemporary structure hosts recitals, performances, exhibitions and conferences. See touring musicians or a fascinating exhibit by local artists. Attend an all-access guided tour or simply wander along the harbor taking in each aspect of the exceptionally designed building.

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A modern building with a reflective glass facade, surrounded by a marina with several boats.

5. Reykjavik City Hall

Admire the bold architectural lines merging with Lake Tjörnin’s glassy reflection when you approach Reykjavík City Hall (Ráðhús Reykjavíkur), a distinctive modern civic center. Stroll around picturesque Lake Tjörnin and marvel at the structure’s intriguing design or visit the hall’s café and exhibition space to enjoy stunning views of the lake and its birdlife.

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A modern building with large glass windows and a curved roof.

6. Landakotskirkja

The Cathedral of Christ the King (Landakotskirkja, also known as Basilika Krists Konungs) is a stately cathedral in western Reykjavík. Sanctified in 1929 near the site of Iceland’s first Catholic chapel, the Cathedral of Christ the King is a stunning monument and active place of worship. Admire the cathedral’s striking architecture and stroll around its picturesque grounds. Wander inside the impressive building to find beautiful altars, finely crafted artworks and fascinating relics.

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A church interior with a crucifix, stained glass windows, and a central altar.

7. Perlan

In the early 1990s, the architect Ingimundur Sveinsson created an exciting tourist attraction by resting a glass and metal dome on top of the city’s six hot water tanks. The structure includes a huge exhibition space, a revolving restaurant and a 360-degree viewing platform.

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A modern building with a glass dome and a symmetrical design.

What to do in Capital Region

Stay near popular Capital Region attractions

Reykjavik Harbour

9.2/10 (8,713 reviews)

Once a maritime and fishing precinct, the Old Harbour now buzzes with restaurants, cafés and tour boat operators.

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Where to stay in Capital Region

Find the best Capital Region areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

A town with colorful houses, a church, and a mountain in the background.

Downtown Reykjavik

If you're spending some time in Downtown Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja and Reykjavik Pond are top sights worth seeing.

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Háaleiti

While there might not be top attractions in Háaleiti, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Kringlan Shopping Mall and Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool.

Vesturbær

The abundant dining options and waterfront views are top of the list for many visitors to Vesturbær. A stop by Reykjavik Harbour or Landakotskirkja might round out your trip.

A sculpture of abstract tree-like forms with a sunset in the background.

Laugardalur

Laugardalur is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool or Laugavegur.