10 Best Things to Do in Reykjavik at Night

Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, is a great place to explore at night. Whether you want to see the Northern Lights, enjoy the city’s nightlife, or relax with delicious food and drinks, there’s something for everyone. The city is also one of the safest in the world, so you can explore without worry.

In this blog post, we’ll share the 10 best things to do in Reykjavik at night. From lively bars and clubs to peaceful walks under the Aurora Borealis, you’ll find plenty of ways to have fun. Let’s get started!

1. Chase the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)

Seeing the Northern Lights is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Reykjavík at night. From August through winter, when the sun sets early, the dark skies provide the perfect backdrop for the glowing Aurora Borealis. The lights appear as green, purple, or pink waves dancing in the sky, creating a magical atmosphere.

Best places to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavík:

• Grótta Lighthouse – Located a short drive from downtown Reykjavík, this coastal spot provides a dark, open sky for a clear view of the lights.
• Öskjuhlíð Hill – A scenic area near Perlan, offering high ground and fewer city lights, making it a great observation point.
• Seltjarnarnes Peninsula – A peaceful, less crowded location with minimal artificial lights, allowing for an unobstructed view of the auroras.

For the best chance to see the Northern Lights, check the aurora forecast and find a location away from bright city lights. If you prefer guided experiences, booking a Northern Lights tour can take you to even darker areas outside the city, increasing your chances of witnessing this natural wonder.

2. Explore Downtown Reykjavik’s City Lights

Downtown Reykjavik is a beautiful place to walk around at night, with bright city lights, charming streets, and a lively yet cozy atmosphere. The main shopping and entertainment street, Laugavegur, is lined with stylish shops, trendy cafés, and inviting restaurants that stay open late, making it a great place for an evening stroll.

The streets are well-lit and safe, allowing visitors to take their time and enjoy the scenery. You can stop by small boutiques, browse bookstores, or warm up with a cup of hot chocolate in a cozy café.

For a panoramic view of the city at night, visit Hallgrímskirkja Church, one of Reykjavík’s most famous landmarks. You can take an elevator to the top of the church tower and enjoy a stunning view of the city, with twinkling lights stretching toward the ocean.

Another great spot to enjoy the night scenery is Austurvöllur Square, a popular gathering place surrounded by historical buildings and charming streets. In the winter months, the area is beautifully decorated with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

3. Enjoy Reykjavík’s Nightlife & Dance the Night Away

Reykjavík has a lively and exciting nightlife, especially on weekends when the city comes alive with music, dancing, and fun. The bars and clubs stay open late, and the atmosphere is energetic and welcoming. Whether you enjoy live music, a dance floor, or a cozy bar, there’s a place for you.

Unlike other cities, Reykjavík doesn’t have a strict dress code for most bars and clubs, so you can go out feeling comfortable. Most people start their night at happy hour, then move on to bars and clubs that stay open until the early morning.

Best bars and clubs to visit:

• Lebowski Bar – A fun, retro-themed bar inspired by the movie The Big Lebowski. Great for casual drinks and a laid-back vibe.
• Húrra – A popular place for live music, featuring different music genres from jazz to electronic beats.
• Pablo Discobar – A colorful dance club with a Latin party atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and lively DJs.
• Kaffibarinn – A stylish bar with a cozy atmosphere, attracting both locals and tourists.
• Dillon Whiskey Bar – Perfect for whiskey lovers who enjoy a relaxed setting with rock and blues music.

4. Visit Harpa Concert Hall

For a more cultural evening, head to Harpa Concert Hall, one of the most beautiful and well-known venues in Iceland. Located by the harbor, its glass design reflects the city lights, creating a stunning view at night. The building itself is a work of art, with its unique glass panels inspired by Iceland’s natural landscapes.

What to watch at Harpa:

• Classical concerts by the Iceland Symphony Orchestra
• Live music from Icelandic and international artists
• Theatrical performances and comedy shows
• Cultural events and festivals throughout the year

5. Watch a Movie at Cinema Paradis

If you love movies, Cinema Paradis is a great place to visit for a cozy and enjoyable evening. This independent cinema in downtown Reykjavík shows a mix of Icelandic films, international movies, and classic favorites. It has a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring the city.

One of the best things about Cinema Paradis is its focus on unique and artistic films that you might not find in regular theaters. Whether you’re interested in Icelandic storytelling, indie films, or foreign cinema, there’s always something interesting playing.

The cinema also has a small café where you can grab snacks and drinks before the movie starts. Unlike big commercial theaters, the experience here feels personal and special. If you’re looking for a laid-back way to spend the night, watching a film at Cinema Paradis is a great choice!

6. Discover Unique & Themed Bars

Reykjavík is home to a variety of unique and themed bars, each offering a special experience. Whether you’re looking for a quirky atmosphere, handcrafted cocktails, or a place with a rich history, there’s something for everyone.

Best Unique Bars in Reykjavík:

• Magic Ice Bar – A one-of-a-kind bar made entirely of ice. From the seats to the glasses, everything is frozen! It’s a great place to enjoy a cocktail in a cool and artistic setting.
• The Irishman Pub – A lively Irish-style bar with live music, a cozy interior, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great place to grab a pint and listen to local bands.
• Petersen Svítan – A stylish rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the city. It’s a great place to sip cocktails while watching the city lights at night.
• Veður Bar – A cozy spot known for its expertly crafted cocktails and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who prefer a more intimate setting.

7. Try Icelandic Cuisine at Night

Exploring Reykjavík at night is not just about bars and nightlife—it’s also a great time to enjoy Icelandic cuisine. Many restaurants in the city serve dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, offering an authentic taste of Iceland. From fine dining to casual street food, there’s something for every taste and budget.

Must-Try Icelandic Dishes:

• Lamb – Icelandic lamb is known for its tender and rich flavor, often served grilled or slow-cooked.
• Fresh Seafood – Fish like cod, Arctic char, and salmon are common in many restaurants, often prepared in a variety of ways.
• Plokkfiskur – A traditional fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, and a creamy sauce.
• Skyr – A thick, creamy dairy product similar to yogurt, often eaten as a dessert or snack.
• Icelandic Hot Dogs – A local favorite, made with a mix of lamb, pork, and beef, topped with crispy onions and sweet mustard.

8. Experience Reykjavík’s Happy Hours

Drinks in Iceland can be expensive, but happy hours are a great way to enjoy beer, wine, and cocktails at lower prices. Many bars and pubs in Reykjavík offer discounts on drinks in the early evening, making it the perfect time to start a fun night out.

Best Places for Happy Hour:

• Bastard Brew & Food – A trendy spot offering craft beer and delicious food pairings.
• Session Craft Bar – A must-visit for beer lovers, featuring a selection of Icelandic and international craft beers.
• Skúli Craft Bar – Known for its cozy atmosphere and a fantastic selection of local Icelandic brews.
• The English Pub – A lively pub with good drink specials and occasional live music.

9. Walk Along the Reykjavík Harbor

Taking a walk along Reykjavík Harbor at night is a peaceful and scenic experience. The harbor area offers stunning views of the ocean, nearby mountains, and the beautifully lit city skyline. It’s a great way to enjoy a quieter side of Reykjavík while still soaking in its unique charm.

The harbor is home to many restaurants, pubs, and cafés, making it a perfect place for an evening stroll followed by a warm drink or a late-night meal. Some popular spots to visit include Grandi Mathöll, a food hall offering a variety of local and international dishes, and Höfnin, a cozy restaurant serving delicious Icelandic seafood.

If you enjoy photography, the harbor is a fantastic place to capture Reykjavík’s city lights reflecting on the water. You may also spot some small fishing boats or even see the Northern Lights on a clear night!

For those looking for a bit of adventure, you can book a nighttime boat tour, including Northern Lights cruises or evening whale-watching excursions, which offer a unique way to experience Iceland’s marine life and breathtaking landscapes.

10. Join a Reykjavik Pub Crawl

If you want to experience Reykjavík’s nightlife to the fullest, joining a pub crawl is a great way to do it! A pub crawl is a guided tour of some of the best bars and clubs in the city, where you can meet new friends, try different drinks, and enjoy the fun atmosphere of Reykjavík at night.

What to Expect on a Reykjavik Pub Crawl:

• Visit multiple bars and clubs – Each pub crawl usually includes at least three to five stops at different venues, from cozy pubs to lively dance floors.
• Meet fellow travelers and locals – This is a great way to socialize and make new friends, especially if you’re traveling alone.
• Enjoy drink specials – Many pub crawls include happy hour discounts or free welcome shots at some of the stops.
• Experience different music and atmospheres – From live music venues to clubs playing international hits, there’s something for everyone.

Make the Most of Reykjavík After Dark

Reykjavík offers a variety of nighttime experiences, from lively bars and clubs to peaceful harbor walks and cultural performances. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxed evening with local food and drinks or dive into the city’s vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone.

From witnessing the breathtaking Northern Lights to enjoying a live concert at Harpa, the city provides endless opportunities for a memorable night out. Reykjavík’s safe streets and friendly atmosphere make it easy to explore and enjoy, whether alone or with friends.

Plan your evening adventure, explore different places, and experience the unique charm of Reykjavík at night!