9 most romantic things to do in Reykjavik for couples

When it comes to romantic things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital has no shortage of exciting activities to do as a couple. If you want restoration, relax with your loved one and visit a geothermally heated spa lagoon, pampering your mind, body, and soul. For adventurous couples, snorkeling through tectonic plates in a volcanic national park is not to be missed. While strolling through Hot Spring Valley and enjoying a picnic in the Botanic Gardens is a lovely laid-back way to spend the day. Whether planning an epic date, seeking anniversary ideas, or looking to celebrate a special occasion, find the most romantic things to do in Reykjavik in this list.

Discover Reykjavik’s romantic side

Showstopping romantic activities for special occasions: seeing the Northern Lights, taking a helicopter flight, enjoying a boat cruise.

Great neighborhoods for exploring on date night: Lake Tjörnin, Downtown Reykjavik.

Secret spots for romantic moments: Laugardalur Valley, Sky Lagoon.

The best things to do as a couple

1. Stroll around Lake Tjörnin

A small lake in Downtown Reykjavik, Lake Tjörnin is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. Stroll around the perimeter, spot birdlife, and enjoy a picnic on the banks by the glassy surface — what could be more romantic?

Hot tip

In winter, Lake Tjörnin freezes over and becomes a makeshift ice rink. Join the locals and bring your skates, or simply step onto the ice and enjoy the magical experience of being able to walk out over water.

Address

101 Reykjavík, Iceland.

2. Snorkel Silfra Spring

If you’re looking for something different to do as a couple in Reykjavik, consider snorkeling in the clear waters of Silfra Fissure. Not only is this one of the most unique things to do in Reykjavik, but it’s also the only place where you can snorkel between two tectonic plates and has the best underwater visibility in the world.

Hot tip

For a memorable day out, combine your trip to Silfra Fissure, which lies in Thingvellir National Park, with other geological wonders on a Golden Circle day trip.

Address

Vallarvegur, 806, Iceland.

3. Relax in the geothermal waters of Blue Lagoon

Recognized by National Geographic as one of the 25 Wonders of the World, Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is one of the best couples’ activities in Reykjavik. Luxuriate in the warm waters heated by geothermal energy, relax in the sauna and steam rooms, grab a drink from the swim-up bar, and enjoy a nourishing face mask.

Hot tip

Book the first or last slot of the day, when there are fewer visitors, for a more intimate experience.

Address and opening hours

Norðurljósavegur 9, 240 Grindavík, Iceland. Open daily, 7:00 AM-12:00 AM.

The best date ideas

4. Picnic in Laugardalur Park

Laugardalur, also known as Hot Spring Valley, is a large natural area east of the city center and has endless activities for couples. It offers a large open-air, geothermally heated swimming pool, cafe, spa, sporting and concert arenas, and skating rink.

Hot tip

Head to Grasagarður Botanical Garden, enjoy a stroll, and share a picnic surrounded by over 5,000 plant species.

Address

Laugardalur, Reykjavík, Iceland.

5. Enjoy local Icelandic cuisine

It’s no secret Reykjavik is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, and dining out is a great way to spend the evening with your loved one. From haute cuisine to independent eateries, there’s something for every taste and preference.

Hot tip

If you’re looking for a date night with a difference, why not join a guided Reykjavik food experience? Sample the best foods in Reykjavik, including meats, cheeses, ice cream, and Skyr — authentic Icelandic yogurt. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try fermented shark.

6. Pamper mind, body, and soul at Sky Lagoon

Luxuriate in Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa with a panoramic infinity pool. A lesser-known alternative to Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon is a perfect date idea in Reykjavik.

Hot tip

Connect with Icelandic bathing culture and enjoy a seven-step spa ritual, which includes a cold plunge, sauna, and steam room, to a backdrop of stunning coastal views.

Address and opening hours

Vesturvör 44-48 200, 200 Kópavogur, Iceland. Open daily, 10:00 AM-11:00 PM.

The best anniversary ideas

7. Soar over the city in a helicopter

Gain a new perspective of Reykjavik’s most iconic landmarks on a helicopter flight around the city. Look for famous attractions like Hallgrimskirkja, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Sun Voyager Sculpture.

Hot tip

If you’re looking for honeymoon ideas in Reykjavik, add a summit landing to your trip for truly spectacular views.

8. Cruise through Faxafloi Bay

What could be more special than sailing over the calm waters of Faxafloi Bay with the city skyline slinking by? Book a boat cruise in Reykjavik and enjoy sailing under the Northern Lights, fishing for supper, or watching the world go by as the sun sets.

Hot tip

Summer in Reykjavik is whale and puffin season and the perfect time to go on a wildlife-watching safari.

9. Witness the dazzling spectacle of the Northern Lights

Is there anything more magical than witnessing the stunning spectacle of the Northern Lights? Set out on a Reykjavik Northern Lights excursion to see this natural phenomenon play out before your eyes.

Hot tip

To memorialize the occasion, engage in Northern Lights photography and snap pictures of you and your loved one under the dazzling sky of greens and purples. There’s no better way to mark an anniversary or special occasion.

FAQs

What are some unusual romantic things to do in Reykjavik?

Soaring over the city in a helicopter and spotting Reykjavik’s most famous monuments and buildings is a great couples’ activity. Ending the day by tasting local food at a market, like Hlemmur Mathöll, is an enjoyable way to try authentic Icelandic cuisine and a great alternative to a sit-down dinner.

What are the most romantic spots to watch the sunset in Reykjavik?

Lake Tjornin is a beautiful area to watch the sun set as the golden rays shine off the lake’s surface. Or book an evening spot in Blue Lagoon, one of the most romantic things to do in Reykjavik, and enjoy the sunset from the warming waters of a geothermal pool.

What are some romantic day trips from Reykjavik?

Adventurous couples will love snorkeling between tectonic plates in Silfra Fissure. This fun activity can also be combined with other geological stops on a day trip from Reykjavik, including waterfalls and geysers.

What are the best places to take romantic photos in Reykjavik?

What could be a more romantic backdrop to a couple’s photo than the Northern Lights? Set out at night with a professional photographer for your chance to capture this once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon for yourself.