Travel Guides
Things to Do in Reykjavik: Discover the Magic of the Grandi District
If you’re searching for things to do in Reykjavik that combine adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences, look no further than the Grandi District.
Once a working harbor filled with fishing vessels, Grandi has transformed into one of Reykjavik’s most vibrant districts—where raw nature, immersive attractions, art, and world-class food come together.
This is where you can stand face-to-face with molten lava, soar across Iceland, meet ocean giants, explore contemporary art, and indulge in incredible food—all within walking distance.
Why Visit the Grandi District
Grandi is not just a place—it’s a journey into Iceland itself.
A hub of immersive, world-class attractions
A destination for food lovers and curious explorers
A blend of nature, storytelling, and creativity
Just minutes from downtown Reykjavik
Whether you have a few hours or a full day, this is one of the most exciting areas for things to do in Reykjavik—in any weather.
The Grandi Experience: One Destination, Endless Adventures
Grandi is home to a curated collection of world-class attractions known as the Grandi Experience.
Including:
Together, they offer a complete journey through Iceland’s:
Volcanic forces
Landscapes
Marine life
Free Shuttle to Grandi District
The Free Grandi Shuttle—an easy and convenient way to travel between downtown Reykjavík and the Grandi District’s top attractions.
Getting to Grandi is simple thanks to the Free Grandi Shuttle.
Connects downtown Reykjavik with Grandi
Stops near Lava Show, Flyover Iceland, and Whales of Iceland
Designed for visitors
Learn more about the Free Shuttle to Grandi
Top Attractions in Grandi District
Lava Show – Experience Real Molten Lava
A Lava Master pours glowing molten lava at Lava Show Reykjavík—an unforgettable live experience where you can see, hear, and feel real lava up close.
At the heart of Grandi lies one of the most unique experiences on Earth.
Lava Show recreates a volcanic eruption by superheating real lava to 1,100°C (2,000°F) and pouring it right in front of you.
The only live lava show in the world
An unforgettable mix of science, storytelling, and raw power
Hosted by expert Lava Masters with deep geological knowledge
This is Iceland—up close, alive, and unforgettable.
Book Lava Show Reykjavik experience
Flyover Iceland – Take Flight Without Leaving Reykjavik
Soar across Iceland at FlyOver Iceland—an immersive flight experience over volcanoes, mountains, and the Northern Lights in Reykjavík’s Grandi District.
Feel the rush as you fly across Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes.
State-of-the-art flight simulation
Glide over volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and fjords
A fully immersive sensory experience
Book a ticket to the Grandi Experience- Ticket to Flyover Iceland is included
Whales of Iceland – Meet the Ocean Giants
Get up and close personal with the giants of the sea at Whales of Iceland.
Step into a world beneath the waves.
Life-sized whale models
Immersive and educational exhibits
Perfect for families and nature lovers
Book a ticket to the Grandi Experience- Ticket to Whales of Iceland is included
Aurora Reykjavik - The Northern Lights Center
Experience the magic of the Northern Lights at Aurora Reykjavík—an immersive journey into Iceland’s most iconic natural phenomenon.
Discover the magic behind the auroras.
Learn the science of the Northern Lights
Stunning visual displays
Tips to help you see them in the wild
Reykjavik Maritime Museum
Step into Iceland’s maritime history at the Reykjavík Maritime Museum—exploring fishing heritage, sea life, and the stories of the Old Harbour.
Located in the Old Harbour, this museum tells Iceland’s story through the sea.
Fishing heritage and maritime history
Interactive exhibits
Learn more about the Reykjavik Maritime Museum
Saga Museum
Step into Iceland’s Viking past at the Saga Museum—where lifelike figures bring powerful historical moments to life.
Located in the Grandi Harbour area, just a short walk from Lava Show, this museum brings Iceland’s Viking history to life.
Lifelike figures and immersive storytelling
Explore Iceland’s most important historical events
Learn more about the Saga Museum
Þúfan – A Quiet Moment Above the Harbour
Þúfa in the Grandi District, a peaceful work of art by the renowned Icelandic artist Ólöf Nordal, offers panoramic views over Reykjavík’s harbour.
A hidden gem rising from the shoreline.
A man-made grassy hill by artist Ólöf Nordal
Panoramic views over the harbor
A peaceful contrast to the lively surroundings
Food & Drink in Grandi: A Destination of Its Own
Grandi isn’t just about what you see—it’s about what you taste. This former industrial harbor has become one of Reykjavik’s most exciting culinary areas.
Kaffivagninn – A Taste of Old Reykjavik
Standing by the harbour since 1935, Kaffivagninn is Reykjavik’s oldest restaurant—and one of its most authentic.
Traditional Icelandic dishes, especially fresh fish
Cozy harbor atmosphere
A favorite among locals
Kaffivagninn offers a rare connection to Reykjavik’s past. After exploring modern attractions, this is where you slow down and experience the city’s roots.
Learn more about Kaffivagninn restaurant
La Primavera – Italian Cuisine Inside a Cultural Landmark
Located inside the Marshall House, La Primavera offers a refined dining experience that blends Northern Italian cuisine with Icelandic ingredients.
Seasonal menus built on quality produce
Elegant yet relaxed atmosphere
A destination for food lovers
Dining here is about more than food—it’s about place, history, and creativity.
Learn more about La Primavera restaurant
The Marshall House – Culture, History, and Creativity
At the edge of the harbour stands Marshall House (Marshallhúsið)—one of Grandi’s most important cultural landmarks.
Built in 1948 as a fish meal factory and funded in part by the Marshall Plan, the building played a key role in Iceland’s industrial growth. After decades of use, it was transformed in 2017 into a contemporary art and culture center.
Today, it is a vibrant space where art and history meet:
Free entry exhibition halls
A hub for contemporary and experimental art
A meeting point for local and international creativity
Inside, you’ll find:
Nýlistasafnið (The Living Art Museum)
And at its heart, La Primavera completes the experience—bringing together art, architecture, and cuisine under one roof.
Omnom Chocolate – Icelandic Craftsmanship
A must-visit for chocolate lovers.
Bean-to-bar Icelandic chocolate
Unique Nordic-inspired flavors
A design-driven experience
Learn more about Ommnom Chocolate
Valdís Ice Cream – A Local Favorite
Creative flavors
High-quality ingredients
A perfect stop after exploring
Flatey Pizza - Deliicous Pause
After a day of exploring, Flatey Pizza offers the perfect place to unwind and refuel. Located in the heart of Grandi, this local favorite elevates a simple classic into something truly memorable. Their sourdough pizzas are crafted with care, slow-fermented for depth of flavor and baked at high heat to achieve that perfect balance of crispness and softness. The result is a light, airy crust topped with high-quality ingredients that let each flavor shine. With its relaxed harbor-side setting and welcoming atmosphere, Flatey Pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a delicious pause in your Grandi adventure.
Grandi Mathöll – Food Hall Experience
Multiple vendors and cuisines
Casual and lively
Ideal for groups
Learn more about Grandi Food Hall
Hraðlestin – A Taste of India in Grandi
Right in the heart of Grandi, you’ll find bold, warming flavors.
Hraðlestin (India Express) brings authentic Indian cuisine to Reykjavik’s Old Harbour.
Rich curries and freshly baked naan
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
Great value and generous portions
These are the perfect places to recharge between attractions—and a reminder that some of the best things to do in Reykjavik include discovering unexpected flavors.
Shopping in Grandi: Take a Piece of Iceland Home
Grandi is not only a place to experience Iceland—it’s where you can bring a part of it with you. This creative harbor district is home to some of Reykjavík’s most unique design stores and artisan brands, each deeply rooted in Icelandic nature, craftsmanship, and storytelling.
Icelandic Design & Heritage: Farmers Market
At Farmers Market, Icelandic heritage meets modern design in a way that feels both timeless and distinctly local. Inspired by traditional Nordic patterns and materials, the brand blends classic elements with contemporary style, creating high-quality clothing that reflects Iceland’s identity. It’s the perfect place to find a piece that carries both warmth and meaning—something you’ll continue to wear long after your journey ends.
Natural Skincare from Icelandic Nature: Sóley Organics
For those drawn to Iceland’s natural beauty, Sóley Organics offers a different kind of souvenir—one you can feel. Using handpicked wild Icelandic herbs, pure Icelandic water, and clean ingredients, their skincare products are inspired by centuries of herbal knowledge and a deep respect for nature. Stepping into their Grandi store feels like stepping into the Icelandic wilderness itself, where every product tells a story of the land.
Create Your Own Icelandic Souvenir: URÐ Workshops
At URÐ, shopping becomes an experience of its own. This Icelandic brand creates handcrafted bath, body, and home products inspired by Iceland’s raw elements. What truly sets it apart are the hands-on workshops, where visitors can create their own perfumes, body care products, or scented keepsakes using Icelandic ingredients. It’s a rare opportunity to not just take something home—but to make it yourself, turning your visit into a personal and lasting memory.
A Shopping Experience That Goes Beyond Souvenirs
Together, these shops transform Grandi into more than a shopping destination. They offer a deeper connection to Iceland’s design, nature, and creativity—where every item carries a story, and every visit becomes part of your journey.
How to Get to Grandi Area
Walking - 15–20 minutes from downtown
Easy access by car and parking available
Why Grandi Should Be on Your Reykjavik Itinerary
Grandi captures the essence of Iceland:
Fire and ice
Ocean and land
Tradition and innovation
It’s where:
Lava flows
Whales emerge
You take flight
Art comes alive
And global flavors meet Icelandic creativity
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Reykjavik, this is where your journey begins.
