48 Hours in Reykjavik

I’ll be honest when I say that I didn’t really know what to expect before visiting Iceland. Sure you could guess that the ‘clue was in the name’ when it came to the weather (and judging by the amount of time I spent browsing BBC weather that can only ever be useful)- but in terms of Reykjavik and the bigger great outdoors- I really didn’t have much of an idea…

The only thing I did know is that people who had been before seemed to really love it. Which I’ve learnt can only ever be a good thing. And let me tell you now that it did not disappoint. In fact, Iceland exceeded my expectations ten times over, and each day it surprised me in a different way- be it from the food, the breathtaking landscapes or even the people. There’s a reason why this place stays so high on bucket lists and travel guides, and I’ve been so excited about sharing our adventures with Small Luxury Hotels over the last week here. So let’s start at the beginning shall we?

After catching a bleary eyed 6am flight from Gatwick last week, fuelling up on porridge and sugary tea- we boarded our Norwegian flight to a chilly, but crisp, Reykjavik. With the flight being just under three hours north of London, it really feels like no time at all- and with the promise of wifi and cinnamon buns (!!!) on board (in case you can’t catch forty winks)- it couldn’t really be easier (or more delicious) to get to either.

Kopar:
If you’re after somewhere a little more special for dinner in the city, I can highly recommend the gorgeous Kopar, nestled next to the old harbour and overlooking the boats and starry sky. With a mixture of traditional dishes and some more contemporary modern offerings- the menu spans everything from fresh fish to zuccinni spaghetti and the most delicious Daim cheesecake- making it a perfect taste of Iceland, no matter what your taste.

Geirsgata 3, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

Laundromat:
Laundromat is by definition what I’d call the ultimate ‘all rounder’ cafe. Whether you’re in need of a delicious breakfast, elevenses, a great coffee, lunch or dinner (or even a book to read)- this spot has it all. It’s the ultimate combination of cool, comfortable and cosy- whilst oozing the most incredible decor too- a big thumbs up from Liv!

Austurstræti 9, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland

If you’ve got the space…
Bæjarins Beztu: Rumour has it these guys are the creme de la creme of hotdogs
Kaffi Vinyl: Am I ever one to say no to a cafe and record shop? Absolutely not, and this ticks both boxes

To Shop:

Nola:
If you’re after amazing cruelty free and vegan products (all in a gloriously pink shop)- then Nola is the right stop. Stocing some Icelandic beauty favourites (on top of some new discoveries) and my favourite’s Herbivore- it’s the perfect hidden gem stocking some serious beauty treasures.

Höfðatorgi, Katrínartún, 2105 Reykjavík, Iceland

Hyalin Shop:
Although I know you wouldn’t necessarily go to Iceland for delicious French delicassies, Hyalin happen to stock everything from chocolates, to cheese to candles- which in my opinion, can only ever be a good thing. With a stunning interior, and even more gorgeous goods and groceries- it’s worth noting down when visiting some of the independent shops here.

Stofnað 2017, Hverfisgata 35, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland