What To Do in Iceland for 48 Hours [Things To Do, Where To Eat]

Iceland is a large island in the North Atlantic that could take weeks, even months, to explore fully.

However, if you find yourself in Iceland due to a required layover on your way to Europe or are fortunate enough to create one, you’ll be surprised at how much you can experience in a short amount of time.

You may even want to consider booking a weekend trip to Iceland. Regardless of how or why you landed in the land of fire and ice, you’ll want to make the most of that time.

In this article, I’ll share information, ideas, and insight from my past trips to help you plan a fun, productive, and memorable 48 hours in Iceland.

Here are my tips for maximizing time during a short visit.

Where To Stay

If I’m going to be in Iceland for just 48 hours, I stay in Reykjavik, the capital city. There’s so much to do there and it’s easy to use the city as a base to explore more of the island. I’ll talk more about my experience with this shortly.

I’ve stayed at a dozen or so Reykjavik hotels, all of which were excellent, but each had a distinct personality. Here are some of the hotels I, and one of my colleagues, have stayed at in Iceland, and our reviews for each:

• 101 Hotel, Reykjavik, a Member of Design Hotels
• Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre
• Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik Keflavik Airport
• Iceland Parliament Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Hilton Nordica Reykjavik
• Hotel Rangá (Small Luxury Hotels of the World)
• Kvosin Hotel (Mr & Mrs Smith)
• The Reykjavik EDITION
• Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Sand Hotel (Mr & Mrs Smith)

Parking can be difficult to find in Reykjavik, and a car isn’t necessary to explore the compact city center. If you prefer to rent a car, you could stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik Keflavik Airport by the airport and use the hotel as your base.

The Hilton Nordica Reykjavik is at the edge of the city and convenient when renting a vehicle, as parking is free. The Hotel Rangá is closer to the south shore, away from Reykjavik, and is best reached by car.

Another hotel I haven’t stayed in but have heard fun things about is the Hotel Viking. It’s located in Hafnarfjordhur, outside Reykjavik. The town is oceanside between the airport and the city. I have it on my list to review!

Booking With Hotel Loyalty Points

As you might expect, most of the hotels on our list can be booked using hotel loyalty points or free night certificates (when available).

You can use Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, and World of Hyatt points for associated hotels in Iceland. IHG One Rewards can no longer be used to book hotels in Iceland.

Accommodations in Iceland are expensive, and supply is limited. Book far in advance if using hotel rewards points or certificates.

Transportation

When I arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), I normally head immediately into the city. Fortunately, securing ground transportation is a breeze:

• Budget — The public bus system, Strætó, is very efficient. Bus #55 picks up right outside the airport, costs around $16, and will take you to the city in about 1.5 hours.
• Most Popular —The Flybus or Airport Direct are readily available outside the terminal and cost around $35 each way, per person, for transport to the main bus terminal. The cost includes an ongoing shuttle to your hotel or drop-off at a bus stop near your hotel. Transport takes about an hour. Purchase tickets in the arrivals area at the ticket booths, where you can ask questions, versus the kiosks. Multiple options include scheduled buses, immediate departures, with the shuttle, without a shuttle, etc., with no refunds for kiosk purchases should you make an error.
• Splurge — A taxi will set you back about $160 to $200, but if you have several travelers and luggage, this option could make sense. The ride is about 45 minutes.

Once in the city, you can explore the area on foot or take the local bus. I found the bus system easy and affordable to use. Taxis can be expensive. I paid $25 for a 10-minute ride that could be walked in about 40 minutes (if it wasn’t 37 degrees and raining).

Hot Tip:

Don’t forget to stop by duty-free at KEF airport on arrival to pick up any alcohol you might want to drink during your stay. Although happy hours are common throughout the city, alcohol is expensive. There are limited Vínbúðin state-operated locations where you can purchase alcohol in the city center. Just 2 were open when last I visited.

Things To Do — Day 1

We’ve arrived, made it into the city, and it’s still morning. What’s next?

Day 1 is all about exploring Reykjavik. Here are some suggestions for your first day.

Morning Activities

• Sandholt Bakery — There are numerous bakeries in the city, but this one is tops. Have breakfast, a homemade pastry with coffee, or grab a sandwich made from delicious sourdough bread.
• Head to a GeoThermal Pool — There’s the Blue Lagoon, a tourist hot spot that can set you back hundreds of dollars, or choose to bask in a local version. There are 18 in the city and surrounding area.
• Kolaportid Flea Market — This large market near the Old Harbor is open every weekend. It’s a fabulous place to find a treasure, grab a bite to eat, and people-watch. You could also pick out an Icelandic handmade wool sweater or a piece of local art. After your visit, wander around the Old Harbor.

Afternoon Activities

• Sign Up for a Food Tour —- Food tours can be costly but worth it in Reykjavik. You’ll pay more than $100 for about a 3-hour tour. I have spoken to several travelers who have participated, and the feedback was unanimously positive.
• Rainbow Street and Hallgrimskirkja Church — Don’t miss the iconic brightly painted rainbow street that leads to Hallgrimskirkja Church. The church is the largest in Iceland and has a modernistic interior with a striking pipe organ. Entrance to the church is free. There is a charge to climb the tower, but if it’s a sunny day, you’ll want to see the view of the city, mountains, and water.
• Street Art — Reykjavik is full of colorful street art around every corner. Most of it is in the funkier uptown area, versus the Old Harbor and historic city areas.
• Museums— If it’s raining (and perhaps if it’s not raining), head to Perlan’s Wonders of Iceland to experience everything Iceland offers in an inside exhibition. Yes, that means the aurora borealis, waterfalls, ice caves, and volcanoes. The provided link has many more museums from which to select.
• Find the Sun Voyager — Walk along the water to find Reykjavik’s iconic sculpture. It resembles the skeleton of a Viking ship and is beautiful at night.
• Water Excursions — If you want to see whales, puffins, or the cityscape from the water, you can catch a boat tour from the Old Harbor in the city. Tours range from 35 minutes to 3 hours and start at $50.

Here’s an interactive map to help you find some of these attractions.

Evening Activities

• Happy Hour — Happy hour is a big deal in Reykjavik, and nearly every bar, restaurant, and hotel has one. As you’re walking during the day, look for posted signs and ask at the front desk of your hotel and the locals. The Appy Hour app for Android and iOS can be useful but is not always up to date.
• Performances at Harpa — The city’s major entertainment venue always has something going on. Take in a blues festival, rock concert, opera, symphony, or other special event.
• Lebowski Bar — If you’re a movie fan of “The Big Lebowski” or simply want a good burger and beer, step into this themed den to enjoy the surroundings and entertainment. Yes, it’s a bit touristy.
• Star Gazing — If it’s not summer and the nights are dark, you’ll want to take in the aurora borealis (Northern Lights). They’re visible from Reykjavik, but you’ll want to get out of the city for the best view. Hotel Rangá is the perfect spot for star gazing.

Things To Do — Day 2

Day 2 presents the opportunity to venture out of the city and explore the countryside. When I have a full day, I opt for an organized excursion to see as much as possible in a limited time. I enjoy learning more about the destination and meeting other travelers.

You can have an extraordinary experience in a single day in Iceland.

For the first-time visitor, I suggest 1 of 2 classic tours: the Golden Circle Tour or the South Shore Discovery Tour. Tour operators will pick you up at your Reykjavik hotel or a bus stop nearby.

What To Expect on a Golden Circle Tour

I have taken 3 Golden Circle tours, and each was different. Your Golden Circle Tour, easily done in a long day, will include all, or many, of the following sites or activities:

• Kerid Crater — You’ll have a chance to hike around the crater and down to the lake.
• Waterfalls — The majestic Gullfoss waterfalls will certainly be included, but you may also see Seljalandsfoss (pictured above), Helgufoss, and Thorufoss waterfalls.
• Thingvellir National Park — Walk between the tectonic plates of the Eurasian and North American continents. It is also the site of the oldest functioning parliament in the world.
• Geysers and Strokkur Hot Springs — It’s guaranteed you’ll see a geyser blow.
• Lunch at the Tomato Farm — Iceland depends on greenhouses for fresh fruit and vegetables. The Friðheimar tomato farm is an interesting and inviting place for lunch. If you’ve rented a car, don’t miss the Farmers Bistro mushroom farm, which is equally unique and has the best mushroom soup in the world (in my opinion).
• Icelandic Horses — Your tour may include visiting the barns and a demonstration of the gaiting skills unique to Icelandic horses.

What To Expect on a South Shore Tour

The South Shore is home to some extraordinary landscapes. Here’s what to expect during a typical South Shore tour:

• Black Sand Beach — Marvel at the stark basalt columns and walk along the beach.
• Lunch in Vic — Enjoy lunch in this waterside town and hike up to the church for a lovely view.
• Hike to the Glacier — A non-strenuous hike to the incredible Sólheimajökull Glacier is likely included on this tour.
• Waterfalls — Seljalandsfoss (pictured above), Helgufoss, and Thorufoss waterfalls will be included.

You can book either tour for about $100 per person, but tours with fewer participants can cost more. Expect the tour to last around 10 hours. I’ve had good experiences booking with Viator, Reykjavik Excursions, and BusTravel Iceland.

Once you’re back in the city, it’s time for a bite to eat.

Where To Eat

There are endless places to eat in Reykjavik. I’ll submit these suggestions to try because they specialize in a specific cuisine, have limited menus that showcase that cuisine, and do it well:

• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur — You won’t forgive yourself if you miss having this iconic Icelandic hot dog. It’s perhaps the best hot dog you’ll ever have, as it’s made with lean lamb and is uniquely garnished. It’s also the best food value you’ll find in Iceland. Make the pilgrimage to the stand near the Old Harbor for an authentic experience.
• Cafe Loki — Yes, it’s a bit touristy, but you won’t find a better and more affordable way to try traditional Icelandic food. This is the perfect place to dive into the local food scene. The sampler plate includes all the classics, then you can top it off with a local delicacy: rye bread ice cream. Tip: Skip the fermented shark.
• Messinn — A popular favorite with a concise menu that includes fresh fish and seafood. Artic char is one of my favorite local cold-water fish, but the Icelandic cod is also delicious.
• Reykjavik Fish — This restaurant serves only fish, fish soup, fish stew, and mixed seafood. I always have fish and chips and it’s always good. My friend liked the fish stew. It has a casual atmosphere. My favorite location is Frakkastígur 12.
• Sumac Grill + Drinks — Imagine grilled seasonal Icelandic ingredients with Middle Eastern influences. The creative menu includes small dishes to share and full entrees.

Final Thoughts

Oh no, it’s already time to leave Iceland, and it seems like we just arrived!

Be sure to have booked your return transportation to the airport. If you stayed in Reykjavik, head to the airport 3 to 4 hours before your flight.

Obviously, a longer stay would be better, but you can experience a nice taste of Iceland during a 48-hour visit.