The Ultimate 2026 Reykjavik Indoor Guide
Let’s be honest, Reykjavik’s weather can be unpredictable. One minute you’re standing under blue skies, and the next, you’re getting sideways rain in your face while the wind tries to steal your hat. But here’s the thing: bad weather in Reykjavik doesn’t mean a bad day. The capital city has mastered the art of staying entertained.
From museums to geothermally heated pools, you’ll find plenty to do without ever worrying about the forecast. These indoor activities in Reykjavik will keep you warm, busy, and maybe even a little inspired.
Indoor Activities in Reykjavík
Volcano Express at Harpa
Volcano Express isn’t your typical museum exhibit; it’s a full-on sensory experience. You’ll feel the rumble of earthquakes through your seat, sense the heat radiating from virtual lava, and experience the sensation of flying over erupting volcanoes. The show uses motion seating, subsonic sound, and cutting-edge visuals to drop you right into the heart of Iceland’s volcanic drama.
The journey starts peacefully, with a gentle flight over Reykjavik’s colorful rooftops and calm harbor. You’ll learn why the city’s called Reykjavik (smoky bay) and how geothermal steam drew Iceland’s first settlers here. Then things get intense. The ground opens up beneath you, and you descend into glowing lava tunnels, soar above erupting craters on the Reykjanes Peninsula, and witness the raw geological forces that continue reshaping this island. It’s thrilling!
The entire experience lasts about 9 minutes, with shows running every 15 minutes throughout the day. It’s perfect for any schedule, and because it’s centrally located, you can pop in whether you’ve got an hour to kill or you’re seeking shelter from a sudden downpour.
Pro tip: Do this first. Seriously. Before you chase waterfalls or explore lava fields, Volcano Express gives you the geological context that makes everything else in Iceland make sense. It’s the perfect introduction to Iceland’s story, and one of the most exciting indoor activities Reykjavik offers.
Perlan Museum
Once you’ve got the volcanic context from Volcano Express, head to Perlan for a deeper dive into Iceland’s natural wonders. This iconic dome-shaped building sits on Öskjuhlíð hill, minutes from downtown, and it’s packed with interactive exhibits about everything that makes Iceland unique.
The highlight is walking through an actual ice cave; yes, indoors, year-round. This is special. The artificial ice tunnel gives you a taste of what glacier exploration feels like, complete with frozen walls and blue-tinted light. It’s one of the coolest indoor activities in Reykjavik (pun absolutely intended).
You’ll also find exhibits on Iceland’s glaciers, volcanoes, and wildlife. The bird cliff exhibit uses augmented reality to let you get close to puffins and other seabirds without battling wind on an actual cliff. And if you missed the northern lights because of cloudy skies, the planetarium show replicates the experience with stunning visuals and an educational soundtrack.
After exploring the exhibits, grab a coffee at the revolving restaurant on the top floor. The views over Reykjavik, Mount Esja, and the ocean are spectacular.
Soak in a Geothermal Pool
Here’s where things get uniquely Icelandic. When locals talk about indoor activities in Reykjavik, they include swimming pools, even though many of the pools themselves are outdoors. Why? Because you’re submerged in hot water, so only your head is out in the cold. Trust me, it doesn’t feel like being outside when you’re sitting in 104°F water watching snowflakes melt before they hit your face.
Reykjavik has 18 geothermal pools scattered across the city, some with outdoor, indoor, and mixed facilities, including hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms. The best part? They’re incredibly affordable thanks to Iceland’s renewable geothermal energy.
Laugardalslaug is the largest and most popular, featuring waterslides, multiple hot tubs at varying temperatures, and steam baths. For something quieter, try Vesturbaejarlaug or Sundholl. These neighborhood pools are where locals go to unwind, chat with friends and family, and soak away the day’s stress. It’s an authentic cultural experience that happens to feel amazing.
Fair warning: You must shower naked before entering any Icelandic pool. It’s not negotiable, and there are attendants who check. Just embrace it; everyone else is doing the same thing, and it’s part of the local culture.
If you want something more luxurious, Sky Lagoon offers a seven-step spa ritual that includes time in saunas, steam rooms, and an infinity pool overlooking the ocean. It’s pricier than the city pools but worth the splurge for a special treat.
Get Your Culture Fix at Harpa Concert Hall
You’re already going to Harpa for Volcano Express, but don’t leave without exploring the rest of this architectural masterpiece. The building itself is worth the visit; its geometric glass panels, inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns, create a kaleidoscope of color that shifts with the light.
Much of Harpa is free to wander. You can admire the interior design, enjoy views of Mount Esja and the harbor through the massive windows, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. If you time it right, you might catch a performance. Harpa hosts everything from the Iceland Symphony Orchestra to opera, theater, and even a comedy show called “How to Become Icelandic in 60 Minutes” (highly recommended if you want to laugh while learning about local quirks).
Check Harpa’s event schedule online before you go. Even if nothing’s happening during your visit, combining Volcano Express with a stroll through the building makes Harpa one of the most rewarding indoor activities in Reykjavik.
Explore Reykjavik’s Museum Scene
Reykjavik is a small city, but it punches way above its weight when it comes to museums. You’ve got options for every interest, from history and art to maritime culture and, yes, even penises.
The National Museum of Iceland walks you through the country’s history from settlement to modern times. The exhibits cover everything from Viking artifacts to 20th-century life, giving you solid context for understanding modern Iceland. It’s engaging without being overwhelming, and perfect for a rainy afternoon.
For maritime history, the Reykjavik Maritime Museum in the Old Harbor district explores Iceland’s deep connection to the sea. You’ll learn about the fishing industry that sustained the nation, see old boats, and understand how technology transformed Icelandic life in the 20th century.
Art lovers should check out the Reykjavik Art Museum, which has three locations around the city. Each focuses on different aspects of Icelandic and international contemporary art. Hafnarhús, near the harbor, often features thought-provoking temporary exhibitions.
And then there’s the Icelandic Phallological Museum. Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like: the world’s largest collection of penises from various mammals, including whales, seals, and land animals. It’s educational and genuinely interesting. Plus, you’ll have a great conversation starter for dinner.
Whales of Iceland: Marine Giants Up Close
If the weather scrapped your whale-watching tour, Whales of Iceland offers the next best thing. This museum in the Old Harbor area features 23 life-sized whale models hanging from the ceiling, including a massive blue whale, humpbacks, orcas, and even a narwhal.
You’re encouraged to touch the models, which you obviously can’t do with real whales. The museum also offers VR experiences that put you underwater with these magnificent creatures. It’s educational, immersive, and perfect for families, definitely one of the most popular indoor activities in Reykjavik for visitors of all ages.
Cozy Cafes and Bakeries: Where Locals Ride Out the Weather
When in doubt, do what Icelanders do: find a cozy cafe or bakery and settle in with good coffee and pastries. Reykjavik’s cafe culture is strong, and these spots become essential indoor refuges when the weather turns nasty.
Brauð & Co is legendary for its pastries. The smell of fresh-baked goods hits you from down the street, and there’s sometimes a line out the door, but it moves fast, and their treats are worth every second of waiting. Grab one (or three) and find a bench nearby to enjoy them while they’re still warm.
For a longer sit-down experience, try Reykjavik Roasters for excellent coffee in a minimalist space, or Té og Kaffi for a local chain that consistently delivers. Sandholt Bakery has been around since 1920 and serves beautiful pastries alongside sandwiches and soups, perfect for lunch on a cold day.
Many cafes have books, board games, or quiet nooks where you can spend hours without anyone rushing you out. It’s the Icelandic way to slow down, enjoy your coffee, and let the weather do its thing outside.
Shop ’Til You Drop
Shopping counts as an indoor activity, right? Reykjavik has plenty of options, from high-street stores to uniquely Icelandic boutiques selling hand-knit sweaters and local design.
Laugavegur is the main shopping street downtown, lined with boutiques selling Icelandic wool sweaters, quirky design items, and outdoor gear. Skolavordustigur branches off from Laugavegur and features more artisan shops and galleries. Both streets are perfect for browsing when the weather’s bad.
For mall shopping, Kringlan is the closest to downtown, offering more than 100 stores, restaurants, and a cinema. It’s about 4 kilometers from the city center and easily accessible by bus. Smáralind, Iceland’s largest mall, is a bit farther out in Kópavogur but has even more shops, plus indoor entertainment options.
On weekends, check out the Kolaportið flea market near the harbor. It’s indoors, and you’ll find everything from vintage clothing to Icelandic food products and random treasures. It’s a fun way to spend a Saturday morning.
Lava Show: Molten Rock Up Close
Speaking of volcanic experiences, the Lava Show offers something completely different from Volcano Express. Instead of a cinematic journey, you get to watch actual molten lava being poured right in front of you. The heat is intense, the glow is mesmerizing, and the entire experience feels surreal.
The show demonstrates how lava behaves in different conditions, creating lava tunnels, interacting with ice, and forming those delicate lava strings you see in photos. Hosts explain the science while you feel the radiant heat on your face. It’s hands-on education meets entertainment, and it’s become one of the most popular indoor activities in Reykjavik since opening.
If you’re trying to choose between Volcano Express and Lava Show, here’s the difference: Volcano Express gives you the big-picture geological story with immersive visuals and sensory effects, while Lava Show gets you close to the real thing in a controlled environment. Honestly? Do both if you have time. They complement each other perfectly.
FlyOver Iceland: Virtual Flight Experience
FlyOver Iceland uses a massive, curved screen and hanging seats to simulate flying over Iceland’s most stunning landscapes. You’ll soar over glaciers, waterfalls, fjords, and lava fields while wind, mist, and scents enhance the experience. Your feet dangle in the air, adding to the sensation of flight.
It’s a great way to “see” parts of Iceland you might not have time to visit in person, and it’s especially good for families or anyone who wants an adventure without the physical demands of hiking or driving in rough weather. The entire experience takes about 30 minutes, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
Make the Most of Your Indoor Time
Here’s the truth about Reykjavik: the weather will do whatever it wants, but that doesn’t matter. With this many quality indoor activities in Reykjavik, you could have an incredible trip without ever needing sunshine.
Start with Volcano Express at Harpa to understand the volcanic forces that built this island. Then branch out, soak in a geothermal pool, explore museums, watch real lava flow, or just find a lovely cafe and watch the rain streak down the windows while you enjoy the best cinnamon bun of your life.
The beauty of indoor activities in Reykjavik is that they’re not just backup plans for bad weather; they’re genuine highlights that locals enjoy year-round. Icelanders have figured out how to thrive in unpredictable conditions, and their solution involves warmth, culture, community, and really good coffee.
So embrace the weather. Let it rain. Let it snow. Let the wind howl. You’ve got Volcano Express, Perlan, geothermal pools, world-class museums, and countless cafes waiting to welcome you inside. This is Reykjavik at its finest; warm, creative, and completely unforgettable, no matter what’s happening outside.
