Reykjavík is a relatively small city, but even so, sometimes you need a bit of local advice to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s a good people-watching spot, somewhere to see some contemporary art, or the best place to catch an Icelandic movie. Don’t worry, friends—we’ve got you covered via our Best of Reykjavík 2016 series. Here are some of our favourite spots in Reykjavík, for all kinds of super-fun days and nights out. Enjoy! And if you try our list, you can let us know what you thought of the selections via letters@grapevine.is.
Best Secondhand Shop
Winner: Kolaportið
Tryggvagata 19
Kolaportið is a huge indoor flea market that takes place on weekends. It’s filled with stalls selling bric-a-brac, second-hand clothes, unusual foods, antique postcards, lópapeysur, smoking accessories, and the occasional religious booth filled with literature and pamphlets. You could end up leaving this place with some sour whale blubber under one arm of your newly purchased fur coat, while limping in your slightly-too-big knock-off Timberlands. It’s a deal-scavenger’s heaven, and a germophobe’s worst nightmare.
Runner up: Spúútnik
Laugavegur 28
Spúútnik is a vintage clothing store, so don’t expect normal used clothing prices. It’s the equivalent of raiding your grandparents’ closet or attempting to make awkward photos of yourself as a 1990s teenager. It’s a dream come true for downtown’s waiflike normcore kids.
Runner up: Nytjamarkaðurinn ABC
Víkurhvarf 2
Nytjamarkaðurinn ABC is a large second-hand market in the suburb of Kópavogur. The store has a wide selection of used clothes, shoes, household equipment and furniture, all for a very cheap price. All sales profit goes to the ABC children’s aid, which makes shopping there a great alternative to buying new. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.
Previous Winners:
2015: Hertex
2014: Spúútnik
2013: Spúútnik
2012: Fatamarkaðurinn
Read more of our Best of 2016 lists here.
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