So, you’ve shopped in the shops, drank the drinks, and eaten all the foods. And whilst those things are all super fun, culture and the outdoors are the missing pieces of the puzzle for a perfect trip. Whether it’s a gleaming museum or a grimy artist-run gallery, a springtime hike or a trip to try and glimpse the aurora, here’s where to do it.
Best People-Watching Spot
Loft Hostel
Bankastræti
There are so many great things to be said about Loft Hostel. It has a balcony from which you can watch people/tourists on Laugavegur. It has regular events such as concerts and yoga classes, and water colouring nights where all kinds of people get together (to watch other people.) Last but not least, it is also a hostel (surprise) and brings together locals and people from all over the world. Really, could there be any better spot to watch people? The panel does not think so at least.
Runner-Up:
Breiðholt
Breiðholt
The infamous 111 district of Reykjavík is a melting pot of many different cultures and very different people. “You can sit on a bench anywhere and just watch people for hours,” said the panel. Mjódd, one of Reykjavík’s biggest bus stations, is also situated there and is another great people watching spot.
Runner-Up:
IÐNO
Vonarstræti 3
Situated right next to the city pond, Iðnó offers the ultimate coziness for people watching. You can sip on your coffee and devour your dumplings while gazing at passers-by through the generous windows. “You will also see funny tourists screaming because of the geese at the pond,” says the panel.
Previous Winners
2018: Hlemmur Mathöll
2017: Kaffihús Vesturbæjar
2016: Grandi
You can buy a copy of the full Best Of Reykjavík 2019 magazine—an essential guide to having fun in Reykjavík—here, posted worldwide. We also have a Special Offer double-pack that also includes our Best Of Iceland magazine, about places to eat, see, swim, shop and stay, all around the country, here.
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!
