Public bathing, museum exploring, whale and horseback encounters, cycling, fishing, and observing the natural landscape are some of the best things you can do while in Reykjavik. Some of them come absolutely free of charge, while others are discounted (or even also free) if you possess a touristic City Card.
ÞÚFA is a little green "island", located in the Grandi district of Reykjavik. According to Ólöf Nordal, who designed the place, this is a spot for quietness and meditation within the borders of the city. This is a small hill with a little sculpture on top, rounded by a small grass-covered area - this is where locals and tourists gather to gain a perfect view over the mountains and the Faxaflói Bay.
Whale Watching Tour
Iceland is one of the few places on Earth where you can hop on a boat and follow the majestic humpback and minkle whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises around their natural habitat. The tour's starting point is Reykjavik's old harbour, the duration is about three hours, and the experience is once in a lifetime. Participants will enjoy an onboard guide who will explain more about the life of the whales, a cafe, and a magnificent view of the Icelandic shore.
Laugardalslaug
Public bathing is something like a national sport for Icelanders, so swimming pools and hot tubs come in all shapes, sizes, and variations around the country. Reykjavik's Laugardalslaug is the biggest one among them, and also the one providing the most family-friendly experience that includes a children's pool and a paddling pool. The experience is paid for unless you own a Reykjavik City Card for tourists that grants a free entrance to all parts of the establishment.
Horseback Riding Lava Tour
Icelandic horses are a breed brought along by the Nordic Vikings. They are rather small but very strong, friendly, and intelligent animals. Horseback riding on a pure-bred Icelandic horse is a trademark adventure when in Iceland. The horseback riding Lava tour happens right outside Reykjavik, it lasts about two hours and takes riders (above eight years of age) through the spectacular lava fields and hillsides around the city.
Kringlan Mall
This is the biggest shopping mall in the Icelandic capital, which consists of over 150 fashion and accessory shops, 23 places to eat, and plenty of services, including a cinema and even a public library. One of the best things about the place is its annual charity day (September 19th), when 5% of the total financial turnover goes to Foreldrahúss Vímulausrar æsku and to help the families of people with a substance abuse difficulties.
Árbær Open Air Museum
Árbær Open Air Museum is a genuine exhibition that represents over two dozen buildings, forming a town square, a farm, and a village. They are portraying the authentic regional history in terms of architecture and lifestyle by a permanent exposition, guided tours in English, and various events throughout the year. Entrance to the Árbær Open Air Museum is free for Reykjavik touristic City Card owners, as well as children under 18 years of age and disabled people.
Elliðaárdalur Valley
Elliðaárdalur Valley is located within the Reykjavik city limits and is a popular destination for long peaceful walks, cycling, salmon and arctic char fishing, and generally chilling out. The area is family-friendly, hosts two beautiful lakes, a river, and plenty of recreational sites.
Grotta Lighthouse
Grotta Lighthouse is located at the very border of the city of Reykjavik and is a major sightseeing location - it is popular for both observing the Northern Lights, and a casual walk away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The lighthouse is directly accessible only at low tide, and the rest of the time, you can only enjoy it from a distance. It is a popular bird-watching spot since several species are nesting in the area.
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