FIND EVERYTHING YOU NEEDFOR YOUR TRIP TO ICELAND!

We at Wake Up Reykjavik are a tiny group of happy locals and we are super passionate about showing travellers from all round the world the absolute best of what our beautiful hometown has to offer! In our tours we explore Reykjavik through authentic experiences involving incredible Icelandic food, beer and cocktails – and all the best local venues in town.

Planning a trip to Iceland can be confusing – As there are A LOT of things to see and do. Our main goal with this blog is to simplify the process for you – letting you in on all our awesome local tips, recommendations and secrets about Iceland. Basically everything you’ll need to know to ensure that you will make the absolute most of your Iceland trip and hopefully love our country as much as we do!

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Our most recent blog posts

Iceland Winter Travel Guide 2025: Northern Lights, Tours & Local Secrets
November 11, 2024

Iceland Winter Travel Guide 2025: Northern Lights, Tours & Local Secrets

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THE 5 BEST AND WORST THINGS ABOUT REYKJAVIK
July 30, 2024

THE 5 BEST AND WORST THINGS ABOUT REYKJAVIK

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!
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8 TOURIST TRAPS TO AVOID IN ICELAND
July 24, 2024

8 TOURIST TRAPS TO AVOID IN ICELAND

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!
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ICELAND IN APRIL 2024
February 29, 2024

ICELAND IN APRIL 2024

One of my most favourite months to visit Iceland for so many reasons! This is when we say goodbye to long winter days and welcome brighter times here in Iceland!
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TOP 10 BEST HOT SPRINGS IN ICELAND
December 07, 2023

TOP 10 BEST HOT SPRINGS IN ICELAND

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.
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Perfect winter weekend in Iceland
July 27, 2023

Perfect winter weekend in Iceland

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.
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Iceland in December 2024
May 03, 2023

Iceland in December 2024

Iceland in December: What are the top things to do? Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in December? How is the weather in Iceland in December? Where to see the Northern Lights and all about Christmas and New Years Eve in Iceland.
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Iceland in Summer 2023
April 28, 2023

Iceland in Summer 2023

Local 4-day summer travel itinerary in Iceland, along with practical tips and local info.
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DO WE EAT SHEEP FACES? MID-WINTER FESTIVAL ÞORRI!
February 08, 2023

DO WE EAT SHEEP FACES? MID-WINTER FESTIVAL ÞORRI!

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!
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Iceland in Winter
October 11, 2022

Iceland in Winter

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!
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NORTHERN LIGHTS ICELAND 2024 GUIDE
August 18, 2022

NORTHERN LIGHTS ICELAND 2024 GUIDE

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!
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ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER 2023
July 22, 2022

ICELAND IN SEPTEMBER 2023

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.
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9 BEST NATURAL HOT SPRINGS IN ICELAND
July 12, 2022

9 BEST NATURAL HOT SPRINGS IN ICELAND

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?
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ICELAND IN JANUARY 2024
April 13, 2022

ICELAND IN JANUARY 2024

How is Iceland in January? What is there to do in the winter and most importantly … How crazy is the weather!?
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ICELAND IN MARCH 2024
April 13, 2022

ICELAND IN MARCH 2024

Iceland in March: What are the top things to do? Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in March? How is the weather in Iceland in March? Where to see the Northern Lights and everything you need to know!
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ICELAND IN MAY 2024
April 12, 2022

ICELAND IN MAY 2024

So, you are planning to visit Iceland in May. You might have made the best decision! May is still off-season for Iceland, meaning you will just miss the largest crowds of tourists
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VISIT ICELAND IN JUNE 2024
February 06, 2022

VISIT ICELAND IN JUNE 2024

To be honest with you, June is one of my personal most favourite months of the year. I always try my best to stay in Iceland during this warmest and most beautiful time of the year to explore Iceland and enjoy life.
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ICELAND IN FEBRUARY 2024
January 14, 2022

ICELAND IN FEBRUARY 2024

Everything you’ll need to know to ensure an unforgettable time in Iceland during winter.
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ICELAND IN SUMMER: TOP 10 THINGS TO DO!
January 03, 2022

ICELAND IN SUMMER: TOP 10 THINGS TO DO!

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.
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ICELAND IN NOVEMBER 2023
October 12, 2021

ICELAND IN NOVEMBER 2023

November is super cozy as it is getting darker outside, the music scene is booming, the Northern Lights are dancing and we usually also start getting our first sights of snow!
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ICELAND IN AUGUST 2023
July 08, 2021

ICELAND IN AUGUST 2023

This is the ultimate guide to plan your AMAZING Iceland holiday in August!
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CHRISTMAS IN ICELAND | LOCAL TOURS, EVENTS & TRAVEL TIPS!
December 01, 2020

CHRISTMAS IN ICELAND | LOCAL TOURS, EVENTS & TRAVEL TIPS!

Christmas in Iceland 2018! What are the best tours during Christmas time? What special events are worth visiting? Can you see the Northern Lights during the Christmas season? And what do I need to ensure an awesome Iceland Christmas Holiday?!
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Gullfoss Waterfall
October 01, 2020

Gullfoss Waterfall

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.
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The Best Iceland Tours and Things to Do
September 16, 2020

The Best Iceland Tours and Things to Do

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THE ICELANDIC HOT DOG
August 26, 2020

THE ICELANDIC HOT DOG

The famous Icelandic hot dog stand has been in continuous operation since day one. It’s been open in all weather and crazy storms every single day of the year for almost 80 years! The ingredient of the hot dog are interesting ...
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BEST WATERFALLS IN ICELAND & WHERE TO FIND THEM
August 24, 2020

BEST WATERFALLS IN ICELAND & WHERE TO FIND THEM

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!
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Midnight Sun in Iceland
August 07, 2020

Midnight Sun in 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!
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WHICH REYKJAVIK FOOD TOURS ARE BEST?
July 13, 2020

WHICH REYKJAVIK FOOD TOURS ARE BEST?

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?
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THE ULTIMATE TRIP TO ICELAND!
July 07, 2020

THE ULTIMATE TRIP TO ICELAND!

Is Iceland your dream destination? Maybe you are looking to plan the ultimate trip to Iceland, and need some information and inspiration!
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BEST DAY TOURS & THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK
July 07, 2020

BEST DAY TOURS & THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK

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!
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WHERE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN REYKJAVIK
July 02, 2020

WHERE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN REYKJAVIK

I am often asked where the best places to see the northern lights and how one can increase his/her chances of seeing them whilst in Reykjavik. If you are wondering the same things, look no further, this guide will answer all your questions.
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TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA
July 01, 2020

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA

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!
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Snowmobiling in Iceland
June 29, 2020

Snowmobiling in Iceland

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!
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VISITING ICELAND IN OCTOBER!
June 29, 2020

VISITING ICELAND IN OCTOBER!

Spending October in Iceland? Excellent choice! October is one of the best months to see this beautiful country and enjoy everything it has to offer!
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TOP 10 DAY TOURS FROM REYKJAVIK!
June 24, 2020

TOP 10 DAY TOURS FROM REYKJAVIK!

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?
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WHAT TO WEAR IN ICELAND DURING WINTER
June 18, 2020

WHAT TO WEAR IN ICELAND DURING WINTER

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!
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TOP 10 CHEAP THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK
June 18, 2020

TOP 10 CHEAP THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK

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!
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NIGHTLIFE IN REYKJAVIK
June 17, 2020

NIGHTLIFE IN REYKJAVIK

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!
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ICELAND SOUTH COAST: TOP LOCAL THINGS TO SEE & DO!
June 15, 2020

ICELAND SOUTH COAST: TOP LOCAL THINGS TO SEE & DO!

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.
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BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND
June 11, 2020

BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND

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!
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Food in Iceland
June 09, 2020

Food in Iceland

"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!
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MUST-VISIT MUSEUMS IN REYKJAVIK
May 22, 2020

MUST-VISIT MUSEUMS IN REYKJAVIK

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!​
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FOOD TOUR IN REYKJAVIK
May 15, 2020

FOOD TOUR IN REYKJAVIK

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!
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ALTERNATIVES TO THE BLUE LAGOON
May 06, 2020

ALTERNATIVES TO THE BLUE LAGOON

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!
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OUR FAVORITE COFFEE SHOPS IN REYKJAVIK
May 06, 2020

OUR FAVORITE COFFEE SHOPS IN REYKJAVIK

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.
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BEST BREAKFAST RESTAURANTS IN REYKJAVIK 2022
May 05, 2020

BEST BREAKFAST RESTAURANTS IN REYKJAVIK 2022

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!
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ICELAND IN JULY 2024
April 22, 2020

ICELAND IN JULY 2024

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).
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FOOD COURTS IN ICELAND
March 18, 2020

FOOD COURTS IN ICELAND

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!​
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STAYING FIT ON YOUR TRIP TO ICELAND
February 08, 2020

STAYING FIT ON YOUR TRIP TO ICELAND

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!
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HOW TO DRESS FOR A NIGHT OUT IN REYKJAVIK
February 07, 2020

HOW TO DRESS FOR A NIGHT OUT IN REYKJAVIK

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.
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GOLDEN CIRCLE ICELAND
February 05, 2020

GOLDEN CIRCLE ICELAND

​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!
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Best Time to Visit Iceland
February 01, 2020

Best Time to Visit Iceland

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!
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TOP 5 MUST TRY ICELANDIC BEERS
January 15, 2020

TOP 5 MUST TRY ICELANDIC BEERS

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HOW TO SPEND YOUR EVENING IN REYKJAVIK DURING WINTER
January 08, 2020

HOW TO SPEND YOUR EVENING IN REYKJAVIK DURING WINTER

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?
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ICELANDIC BEER: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW!
January 02, 2020

ICELANDIC BEER: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW!

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!
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BACHELOR PARTY WEEKEND IN REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
January 01, 2020

BACHELOR PARTY WEEKEND IN REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

Here are 8 reasons why Iceland is the perfect Bachelor party destination. The Reykjavik nightlife, adventures, nature and everything else you need to know!
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Visiting Reykjavik in December
December 21, 2019

Visiting Reykjavik in December

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!
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NEW YEARS EVE IN REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
December 01, 2019

NEW YEARS EVE IN REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

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!
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OUR FAVORITE COCKTAIL LOUNGES IN REYKJAVIK
September 11, 2019

OUR FAVORITE COCKTAIL LOUNGES IN REYKJAVIK

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?
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DATING IN ICELAND
September 13, 2018

DATING IN ICELAND

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