What to do in Reykjavik: A Local Guide

# '36 Hours' Tried and Tested

Travel guide

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We tried almost all the New York Times 36 Hours in Reykjavik recommendations, then added more great activities with a local guide. Not only what to do in Reykjavik, but also what to do in Iceland that’s close to Reykjavik. We also visit the Sky Lagoon, and do some mountain biking, an ATV adventure on black sand beach, and hike to a nearby natural hot spring.

Our tour includes…

What people think is the Reykjavik cathedral, but is actually a church known as the Hallgrímskirkja; then the Harpa Concert Hall for great modern architecture.
Another Times rec we didn’t agree with is 12 Tonar, a record store and gathering spot for local musicians.
The Times recommends the Kaldi Bar to sample local brews and a place called Micro Bar – but we think the Times missed the mark here, so our local guide will take us to Reykjavik’s best craft beer brewery.

… and much more. To round out our recommendations with insider knowledge, we tap a native of Reykjavik as our guide for all things the New York Times missed. He’s with a tour company called Funky Iceland that’s super professional, knowledgeable, and that The Swank Guide highly recommends.