Wake Up Reykjavik Local Travel Blog

Visiting Iceland in June? This is when summer really begins, with long daylight hours, greener landscapes, puffin season, and excellent conditions for road trips, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. This complete local guide breaks down what to expect with weather, midnight sun, packing advice, top things to do, June events, and the best tours to help you make the most of your time in Iceland.

Looking for the best places to eat in Reykjavik? This local food guide highlights the restaurants that truly define Iceland’s capital in 2026. From innovative fine dining and Michelin-recognized kitchens to casual seafood spots and traditional Icelandic comfort food, these are the places locals love and return to again and again.

This is our complete local guide to everything you need to know before a summer trip in Iceland. We cover what summer in Iceland is really like, from the weather and the midnight sun to what to pack, how long to stay, top things to do, what to eat and where to go. You will also find our honest local advice on how to make the absolute most of Iceland in summer.

Planning a trip to Iceland in May 2026? This local guide covers everything you need to know - weather, road conditions, daylight hours, what to pack, best things to do, hidden gems, puffins, waterfalls, and whether May is actually a smart time to visit. Written by Reykjavik locals who run Iceland’s top-rated food tour, this is the honest, experience-based guide we wish every traveler read before booking

Planning a trip to Iceland in April 2026? Here’s your complete local guide to weather, Northern Lights chances, daylight hours, road conditions, what to pack, and the best tours to book. April is one of Iceland’s most underrated months, with fewer crowds, lower prices, and rapidly increasing daylight. Written by locals who live here year-round.

March is one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets. You still get dramatic winter landscapes, snow-covered waterfalls, and excellent Northern Lights conditions, but with fewer crowds and noticeably longer daylight than mid-winter. This local guide breaks what to expect in March 2026, from weather and daylight hours to seasonal events and the best things to do in Reykjavik and beyond.

When Christmas arrives in Reykjavik, the whole city transforms into a cozy winter wonderland. In this guide you’ll find everything you need to plan your trip - weather, where to go, what to eat, what to do, the best tours, what’s open, what to pack, and local insider tips to make your Christmas in Reykjavik truly unforgettable.

December in Iceland is unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re here to chase the aurora, explore our winter landscapes, experience Reykjavik’s world-famous Christmas spirit, or join our Reykjavik Food Walk, you’ll find plenty to love. This is your complete local guide to visiting Iceland in December.

Small in size but huge in reputation, the Icelandic hot dog has been a local favorite for generations. This blog dives into the history of Reykjavik’s famous Bæjarins Beztu hot dog stand, explains what makes Icelandic hot dogs different from anywhere else in the world, and shows you exactly how to order yours like a local.

Visiting Iceland in February? This month delivers dramatic winter scenery, excellent Northern Lights conditions and a calmer, more local feel across the country. This complete local guide breaks down what to expect with weather, daylight hours, packing advice, top winter activities, geothermal pools, cultural sights and the best tours to make the most of your time in Iceland.

As locals, we’ve created this guide to help you understand what Icelanders actually eat - and where to try the most traditional Icelandic foods in Reykjavik. From fresh seafood and grass-fed lamb to skyr, pastries, hot dogs and candy, this is your trusted local guide to Icelandic food culture, everyday favourites and the flavours that define life in Iceland.

In this "Iceland in Summer: Top 10 Things to do" blog I will give you all my best local tips and recommendations on what to do in Iceland during the summer.

Thinking about Iceland in January? Expect snowy scenery, cozy Reykjavík nights, frozen waterfalls and incredible Northern Lights conditions. This guide breaks down everything you need to know - weather, daylight, packing tips, top tours and local recommendations for the perfect January trip.

Planning a winter trip to Iceland and hoping to see the northern lights? In this complete 2026 local guide, we share exactly when to come, where to go in and around Reykjavik, how to read the aurora forecast and the easiest way to maximise your chances of seeing the lights during your stay.

As locals, we’ve created this guide to help you decide where to get the best coffee or pastries in Reykjavik - and discover the bakeries and cafés that define Iceland’s café culture, from modern specialty coffee bars to old-school Reykjavik classics. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just chasing the city’s best cinnamon bun, this is your trusted local guide to good coffee, great pastries, and pure Icelandic coziness.

November is the first real month of winter - when crisp air fills the streets, rooftops get dusted with fresh snow, and Reykjavík feels extra magical. Think snowy mountain views, steamy hot pools, and cozy strolls between cafés and bakeries: this is the real Reykjavík atmosphere we locals love most.

Visiting Iceland in October? This month offers amazing autumn scenery, long nights for Northern Lights and quieter crowds across the country. This complete local guide breaks down what to expect with weather, daylight hours, packing advice, top activities, geothermal pools, cultural sights and the best tours to maximize your time in Iceland.

Here we are going to give you the best recommendations about parking your car in Iceland and mainly in the capital city of Reykjavik. How does this work and what to avoid. Everything you need to know about parking your car is going to be accessible in this blog. Come along!

Visiting Iceland in winter is something truly magical — snow-covered landscapes, majestic sights, mythical ice caves, cosy hot springs… and of course, the chance to see the magical northern lights!

We are going to give you some great recommendations for bars in downtown Reykjavík that us locals can highly recommend for travelers to visit. They are all amazing but also very different and that is exactly why we think that they are great and can all be visited on the same night!

We will give you a few tips and tricks regarding tourist scams that can be found in Iceland and how you can avoid them and save your money. No need to be stressed out about this since Iceland is a very safe country but it is good to be prepared.

Budget friendly advice when in Iceland. How much is accommodation, car rental, public transportation, tours and eating out? Check this out and we can help you plan your trip in the best way possible.

It is better to be safe than sorry when traveling around the world and that is why learning about great tips from locals can be very beneficial for travelers. Here we are going to go over some very important things that travelers need to know about when visiting the land of fire and ice for the very first time. Come on over and enjoy the ride!

If you're planning a trip to Iceland in summer 2026, you’ve picked the best time to visit! From puffin season and midnight sun adventures to wild local festivals and city-wide celebrations, there’s something magical happening every month. In this blog, I’m breaking it all down for you, month by month, with event dates, local travel tips, and personal recommendations straight from us!

September might just be the best month to visit Iceland. The weather is still very enjoyable and it's off-season, which means traveller numbers begin to dwindle and prices for accommodation, tours, and flights drop.

If there’s one thing you need to know about Icelanders, it’s that they know how to bake. Reykjavik is home to some incredible bakeries, each offering delicious, high-quality pastries and bread. Whether you're craving a legendary cinnamon roll, a traditional Icelandic treat, or artisan sourdough, these three bakeries should be at the top of your list when visiting Iceland.

Planning a trip to Iceland this winter? This guide has everything you need to make the most of your adventure! From chasing the Northern Lights to experiencing the best winter tours and discovering local secrets, we’ll help you navigate Iceland’s stunning landscapes like a pro. Find out the best places to visit, essential travel tips, and hidden gems that most tourists miss. Get ready for an unforgettable winter in Iceland!

Discover Reykjavík through the eyes of a local! This guide highlights the five best and five worst aspects of Iceland's capital, providing an honest and engaging look at what makes the city unique. From quirky shops and vibrant food scenes to public transportation woes and high prices, get the inside scoop on what to expect when visiting Reykjavík!

Planning a trip to Iceland? Learn how to avoid the most common tourist traps and make the most of your visit with our expert guide. Get insider tips on the best authentic experiences, local shopping, and more, ensuring a memorable and genuine Icelandic journey!

Join us on a journey through Iceland's top 10 hot springs and geothermal pools, where relaxation and wonder await! From the luxurious Sky Lagoon near Reykjavík to the serene and historic Hrunalaug, each spot offers a unique experience.

Are you going on a long weekend to Iceland in the winter but don't know where to begin planning? Well, look no further! We have crafted the perfect weekend itinerary while visiting Iceland in the winter time.

Local 4-day summer travel itinerary in Iceland, along with practical tips and local info.

If you are reading this you are probably curious to know just why Icelanders eat crazy food like fermented shark, sheep face and sour ram's testicles, and we don’t blame you for asking! Let us introduce you to our mid-winter food festival, Þorri!

If you're reading this; Then you’re most likely on your way to Iceland during winter and looking for some ideas, tips and useful information!

When, how and where can I see the northern lights in Iceland? Great news! I wrote this blog post just for YOU with my absolute best local info to maximize your chances of seeing the awesome Northern lights!

If you're looking for awesome natural hot springs in Iceland, you're at the right place. Iceland is filled with incredible natural hot springs and geothermal areas to bath in. Now you might be asking yourself: What are the best / must-visit natural hot springs? And how on earth can I find them?

This is the ultimate guide to plan your AMAZING Iceland holiday in August!

A trip to Iceland would be incomplete without a visit to Gullfoss, one of the country’s most famous and most photogenic waterfalls. The impressive 32m (105 ft) drop makes for an awe-inspiring natural wonder unlike anything else in nature.

Iceland is home to 10 thousands waterfalls, big and small, spread all over the country. It's impossible to mention them all, but here are the ones that you simply can not miss out on your visit to Iceland!

Seeing the midnight sun is a magical experience. For those of us who did not grow up with the midnight sun, it is fascinating (and sometimes even quite jarring!) to see the sun throughout the entire day. I'm sure you will feel very energized, even after midnight!

Food tours in Iceland have throughout the years become considered as one of the best ways to get to know Reykjavik, it's vibrant culture and food scene. But which food tour is the best one?

Is Iceland your dream destination? Maybe you are looking to plan the ultimate trip to Iceland, and need some information and inspiration!

Have you already planned every detail on what to do in Reykjavik or would you like some insider tips on the best things to do? Here are my best recommendations on day tours & things to do in Reykjavik!

Snaefellsnes is a Western Iceland gem. A little off the beaten track for travellers staying in Reykjavik but so much worth the visit. In this blog I will do my absolute best in telling you all you need to know about the area and how to explore the best of it!

The perfect trip to Iceland isn't complete without a mix of incredible sightseeing and excitement! And no tour combines those things better then a Snowmobile adventure on a huge Icelandic glacier! Read more for everything you need to know for your snowmobile adventure in Iceland!

You’re most likely asking yourself: What are the best day tours in Iceland that depart from Reykjavik? There are so many different guided tours around Iceland, the choices can be almost overwhelming! How do you decide which ones to make time for during your trip, and more importantly, which ones are the right fit for your needs?

Are you traveling to Iceland in the winter? If so, you are doing a great job by looking up what to wear and how to dress in Iceland for this time of the year. Because one thing is for certain: It. Will. Be. Cold!

Iceland can be expensive … But the myth that you can’t visit Reykjavik without a spending a fortune is simply not true. Because remember, money can’t buy happiness and Iceland isn’t anything else than a big playground!

Have you heard about the Icelandic way of partying? You don’t know anything about partying until you have experienced a night out in Reykjavik city!

The most popular questions for the South Coast are “What should we do on the South Coast of Iceland?”, “What are the top attractions”, “How long would the tour take?”, “What to eat on the South Coast?” and etc.

The highlight of Icelandic nature is a must-see if you visit Iceland in winter. It's one of the most beautiful phenomena in the world, and something you can't miss!

"Rotten Shark, Sour Rams Testicles and Sheep Head..." That's what a lot of travelers expect to see on their dinner menu when visiting Iceland!

Are you looking for the best museums to visit in Reykjavik? Look no further! I have compiled this guide just for you, with all the museums you must visit while in Iceland!​

Are you looking for a fun tour to do in Reykjavik? ​Do you want to learn about Icelandic history and culture, but normal guides bore you? Then the Reykjavik Food Tour is for you!

Are you looking for alternatives to the Blue Lagoon? Look no further! This guide will show you all the best naturally hot pools you can find in Iceland that are not the Blue Lagoon!

Reykjavik has awesome coffee – and we drink a lot of it! But where are the best coffee houses and cafés in Reykjavik? You won’t find any large international coffee chains like Starbucks in Iceland. Instead, you’ll find a variety of small and cozy coffee houses, offering some really high-quality coffee.

I don’t know about you guys, but I need my breakfast to function! For those who are looking for the best restaurants or coffee shops to have breakfast in Reykjavik, read on and read forth!

July is an absolutely amazing month in Iceland and I know many locals count it as their favourite time of the year (and for a good reason).

Is there anything better than a food court? The options are seemingly endless! Even the pickiest eaters are bound to find something for lunch in a food court. So, if you are traveling to Iceland with a picky eater, you might want to find a place like that, with many options available to you!​

Fitness is a big deal for Icelandic people. It is no wonder, then, that it is very easy for tourists to find something that will keep them fit and active during their holidays, not just in Reykjavik, but in all of Iceland!

Is there a dress code for bars and clubs in Reykjavik? How should you dress for a night out in Iceland? Need some tips regarding Nightlife in Iceland? This blog post will answer all your questions on what to wear on a night out in Reykjavik.

​The Golden Circle is without a doubt the most popular route to do during your stay in Iceland. And rightfully so! Its accessibility from Reykjavik and the numerous wonders you get to see on the route truly make it an adventure not to be missed!

One of the unique things about Iceland is the extreme difference between the summer and the winter season. The difference appears to be a huge dilemma for those who want to visit Iceland!

The long, glorious Icelandic summer nights have come to an end and the darker days have arrived in Reykjavik! But that’s fine because winter time in Iceland is magical! When the evening time rolls in and your day activities are over, how should one spend his/her later hours?

An introduction on everything that matters on the topic of Icelandic beer, our incredible beer history, the Icelandic beer prohibition, microbreweries in Reykjavik and so much more!

Here are 8 reasons why Iceland is the perfect Bachelor party destination. The Reykjavik nightlife, adventures, nature and everything else you need to know!

December is one of the absolute best months to visit Iceland, so you can expect Reykjavik to have lots going on. I recommend to plan and book your trip and accommodations in advance since activities and hotels tend to get fully booked in advance!

Visiting Reykjavik for New Year’s Eve is definitely something truly special. A once in a lifetime experience if you ask me. Christmas & NYE is a huge season in the capital of Iceland and the city will be more alive than ever!

Where should I go for cocktails in Reykjavik? Where can I find good cocktails in Reykjavik?What is the dress code for bars in Reykjavik?

Are you single and planning on traveling alone to Iceland? Do you maybe think it´s lonely, frightening or strange traveling alone to Iceland?