In this year’s Best of Shopping, a lot of us had the recent uptick in quickly made and cheaper products on our minds — not to mention that it seems like barely anyone has the dough to afford their entire wishlist.
Nevertheless, we have the chance here to celebrate those who operate their shops with intentionality; we cheer on institutions that don’t drop everything for momentary trends, that champion designers and makers in Iceland, that put care into the items they ask you to spend your money on. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece, a gift, or a souvenir, you can find what we’ve chosen as the best of the best.
Best Bookstore
Skálda Bókabúð
Vesturgata 10a
Independent bookstore Skálda works tirelessly to stock their shelves with hot-off-the-press Icelandic translations, a well-curated used book collection, compelling contemporary literature in English, and kids’ books. Now a fixture in their neighbourhood, the old family house on Vesturgata also hosts book releases, poetry readings, and more, fostering a communal love for literature.
Runner Up:
Bókumbók
New Location: Njálsgata 11
Bókumbók self-describes as an “artist-run bookstore/library of treasures/exhibition space,” and “library of treasures” is a truly fitting title. One can easily spend an hour rifling through their collection, then exit with an armful of one-of-a-kind publications. Now, they’ve established themselves as a community space, with readings and exhibitions often drawing together the art scene.
Runner Up:
Penninn Eymundsson
Austurstræti 18
Penninn Eymundsson’s remarkable inventory includes so many books, right alongside a solid stationery section, housewares, coffee-table books, and souvenirs. Half of the store’s name comes from Sigfús Eymundsson, who opened the first bookstore in Iceland in 1872 — just around the corner from their present Austurstræti location.
Previous Winners:
2025: Skálda
2024: Eymundsson Austurstræti
2023: Bóksala Stúdenta
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!
