Laugavegur — The most cheerful street in Reykjavik Reykjavik, the charming capital of Iceland is home to a lively street that never depletes with energy Laugavegur. This street is not a mere street — it is an experience in itself- Shopper’s paradise, Foodie’s heaven all rolled into one. From unusual Icelandic souvenirs to the latest fashion craze and mouth-watering culinary creations, Laugavegur piques and tickles every single one of your senses.
So take a guided walk down Laugavegur with this comprehensive guide, and discover the best local stores and food offerings down the most touristy street in Reykjavik. We will also provide some useful tips to make your life easier and explain all the tricks on how to use it, as well as answer most common questions. To this end, lace up your sneakers and prepare to witness the enchantment of Laugavegur in Reykjavik!
Exploring Laugavegur’s Shopping Scene – Laugavegur
Shops on Laugavegur, the main drag, are a shopper’s delight with unique boutiques spread across cobbled streets. As you walk the vibrant street, expect to find all things Icelandic; from local brands and international names with a twist, to distinct items by Iceland’s most talented designers and intricate crafts capturing this country´s essence.
- Clothing Boutiques–Fashion lovers will find some very cool local clothing boutiques along Laugavegur with a variety of different styles, prices, and quality. With choice, from the uber high-end designer labels to the most affordable and stylish selections to satisfy every possible tastebud and price combination.
- Souvenir Stores: Searching for the ideal take-home item to remember your Iceland expedition now Laugavegur is the location– from standard Icelandic sweaters and woolens, handmade artifacts, jewellery, distinctive mementos as well as article cards.
- Bookworms: Check out the bookstores on Laugavegur for a world-famous collection of Icelandic literature, travel guides, and international best-sellers. Lectures, as well as literary events held by some bookstores ((to name a few, Book Soup and Skylight Books in L.A.), add even more consumers to your future buyers.
- Design Shops: You’ll find the creativity and innovation of Icelandic designers up and down at the many design shops along Laugavegur. The range of products you can buy in these shops is vast- think everything from home decor to furniture, jewellery, art etc. that all has the Icelandic aesthetic and craftsmanship into it.
- Outdoor Gear Retailers: With Iceland’s natural beauty and outdoor activities in mind, Laugavegur is home to a number of outdor gear retailers. Whether you are going to hike a glacier, bathe in a geothermal hot springs or go on a whale-watching trip, here you will find all the gear and clothing you need for comfort and satisfaction in nature.
- Exclusive Icelandic items: When you wander through the shops on Laugavegur expect to find some exclusive Icelandic products that will be special souvenirs or gifts. Some popular choices include:
- Lopapeysa (icelandic wool sweaters) — typically hand-knitted from icelandic sheep wool these iconic trainers are not just warm and cozy, but a chic glimpse into the majesty of iceland culture.
- Lava Jewelry — Made with volcanic rock as well as other natural materials, lava jewelryis a great way to have an upcoming trip home with you.
Laugavegur also has some art galleries and other shops showing the local artwork. Whether you are a fan of paintings, sculptures, prints and ceramics there is something to feed your appetite for fine art.
- Beauty and Skincare Products: Iceland is known for its pristine natural elements, catching the eye of many self-care goers. Choose locally made skincare like products using Icelandic herbs, minerals and geothermal waters.
- Special Shopping Events: Laugavegur is also home to several shopping events and markets over the year that make retail therapy more fun. By showcasing local artisans and designers, these events provide a unique shopping experience where you can peruse handcrafted goods unlike anywhere else. Make sure to look at the event listings on a local level if you have a possibility of combining your Christmas market visit with some shopping.
Laugavegur has a personality of its own and when you shop there its more than just bringing home something; it’s about experiencing the colorful youth culture of Iceland. You will meet charming locals when browsing through the wide variety of shops and boutiques, and you’ll be sure to find something special to celebrate your trip.
Must-Visit Shops on Laugavegur
Laugavegur, where it is literally the main street you should start walking to shopping in various shops on this street. Check out our guide to specific kinds of shopping or browse some of the best in the city below.
Fashion Boutiques
- Geysir: An iconic Icelandic brand, Geysir draws on the country’s natural beauty to create high quality clothing and accessories. Look out for chic- scrawled outerwear,cuddly knitwear, winter-worthy mainstays.
- 66°North: Icelandic outdoor powerhouse 66°North brings you all the tough, practical clothing and equipment any Icelander could need.
- Farmers Market A limited edition lifestyle and clothing brand that offers a blend of Icelandic domestic handknitting into quality garments steeped in heritage with the twist if Nordic minimalism.
Souvenir Stores
The Handknitting Association of Iceland: A co-operative store supporting local artisans, this downtown boutique is the original home for customers seeking the quintessential Icelandic wool sweater.
- Rammagerðin: Rammagerðinn is a narrow, lovely store with the best Icelandic souvenirs around -from genuine crafts and artwork all the way to cute trinkets and postcards!
- Nordic Store: Nordic Store is your one-stop destination to explore a wide range of Scandinavian design and lifestyle products such as home accessories, kitchenware, and personal accessory.
Bookstores
- Eymundsson: The largest bookstore chain in Iceland, Eymundsson stocks a wide variety of Icelandic and English books, as well as stationery and gifts.
- Mál og Menning: An independent bookstore for travellers who crave books, as Mál og Menning is rich with Icelandic and foreign literature, poetry and non-fiction.
- Bókin: A cozy little bookstore focusing almost exclusively on used and antiquarian which will be an interesting find for any bibliophile, located in a cute old house.
Design Shops
- Kraum: An impressive array of 200 Icelandic designers, Kraum offers everything from jewelry and ceramics to textiles and home goods.
- Aurum — Specializes in creating handcrafted Ice landing jewlery, modern with a Nordic twist crafted in precious metals and local Icelandic gemstones.
- Spark Design Space Category: Concept Store This concept store is curated with Icelandic and international design products in fashion, accessories, homeware, and artwork.
Outdoor Gear Retailers
- Ice wear — Made in Iceland: A brand that specializes in outdoor clothing and equipment to suit the challenging weather of Iceland.
- Fjallakofinn: Offering an extensive collection of hiking, camping, and other outdoor apparel and equipment, this outdoor retailer is the place to go.
- 66°North (above): An authority on outdoor gear, they’re the go-to store for anyone contemplating an Iceland adventure out in nature.
Undiscovered Faves & Indie Designers:
Besides the established institutions, Laugavegur has many more hidden treasures and up-and-comers. Dare to walk the road less traveled, and discover small boutiques or ateliers where local artists create art, maybe a piece made especially for you.
Laugavegurites shopping options cater to every budget and interest. From hip clothing and quirky souvenirs to handicrafts and outdoorsy gear, there remain countless mementos of your Icelandic travels just waiting for you here.
Savoring the Flavors of Laugavegur
LaugavegurBrowse: With a full day of browsing the best that Laugavegur has to offer, satisfy your taste buds with whatever food you can find on the streets. Laugavegur is a foodies paradise, with such a wide selection of cuisines and flavors that any taste bud can be satisfied.
When it comes to traditional Icelandic dishes and international flavors, Laugavegur has got something for everyone. You can tell whatever type of food you’re in the mood for, whether it be fresh seafood, the comfiest of comfort food or something innovative and fusion.
Icelandic Bistro: If you’re keen to experience the food of Iceland, then tuck in to some traditional dishes from this restaurant serving up delicious cuisine such as:
Plokkfiskur — a cod confit-potato-onion-bechamel sauce fish stew
Kjötsúpa (8 EUR): a lamb soup with vegetables, very heavy and filling, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Hangikjöt Smoked lamb, often served with potatoes and béchamel sauce (Christmas food tradition)
Skyr– An Icelandic dairy product which has the consistency of yogurt but a much milder flavor. It is served in similar ways as Greek Yogurt commonly with fruit, and even granola.
Over-the-Top International Flavors: Laugavegur can even be customized to the taste of all nations, hosting restaurants from India, Italy or wherever your stomach feels like trekking. There is everything from Italian pizzerias to sushi bars, Indian curry houses to American-style burger joints.
It provides Unique dining facilities, Laugavegur is home to several unique Laugavegur Restaurant which are worth visiting once:
The Laundromat Café — A favorite with both locals and tourists, this wacky café lets you eat while doing your laundry.
Food in Reykjavik: Delve into Laugavegur and learn about Icelandic food during a 2 hour food tour; as you taste your way through the city by visiting quality bakeries, restaurants and cafes.
Sky Bars: There are few sky bars or restaurants with beautiful city skyline view which perfect your special evening for a get-together or romantic dating.
Don’t Miss Dishes: What to eat while Laugavegur-ing your way around town:
- Icelandic hot dogs, of lamb, pork and beef—I have to try the nation’s signature street food.
- Seafood: Due to vast seas surrounding Iceland fresh seafood is in abundance including cod, salmon, lobster and other marine delicacies.
- Craft Beer In Iceland, there are many microbreweries in Laugavegur and the surrounding area that offer local brews.
- Get your Scoop or Two in Icelandic Ice-cream home to the ice cream of Iceland, an ice cream sensation that is of the more creamy variety and comes in unique flavours.
Laugavegur Food Festivals and Events: The entire year, you can join in some food festivals and events which make Laugavegur as the hub of international flavors. They are a great way to try lots of different foods, experience the latest in foodie culture and get to know the faces behind our local chefs and producers.
The eating on Laugavegur is, almost without exception, a multi-sensory experience of flavors and sensation like you likely will find nowhere else. From the experienced foodie to a simple wish to eat something different, you will find one of the most sought after murders at this colorful street.
Recommended Restaurants and Cafes on Laugavegur
The only challenge you might have in dining on Laugavegur is deciding where to go. View our list sorted by type of food, to help you filter alike suggestions: VERIFY LIST OF RESTAURANT & CAFÉS FOR CURATED RECOMMENDATIONS
Casual Eateries
- Icelandic Street Food: These guys offer up traditional Icelandic dishes such as meat soup, fish pan and the famous icelandic hot dog served in a relaxed setting with warm service.
- Noodle Station: If you are yearning for some Asian flavors. Noodle Station — no one can beat us in quality of noodle dishes with our crazy price point perfect for those who’s hungry and needs a quick fix meal with satisfaction.
- The Laundromat Café: Also covered in another post, this is a cool little café with an menu of sandwiches and salads including burgers, for relaxation pastries (sweet & savoury) all designed to be eaten fresh from the oven along with wifi.
Fine Dining Options
- Grillmarkaðurinn: An upscale restaurant offering the very best in grilled meats, fresh seafood (no Icelandic À la carte menu without it) and an extensive wine list.
- Fiskmarkaðurinn: Dine on the highest quality Icelandic catch in carefully crafted stand-alone dishes at this seafood restaurant
- Kol Restaurant : This trendy restaurant puts a contemporary spin on Icelandic cuisine, crafting innovative and delicious plates from locally sourced produce.
Cozy Cafes
- Reykjavik Roasters : Specialty coffee spot, great selection of beans beautifully brewed and a wide range of tasty pastries.
- Mokka Kaffi: Get trapped in a time warp at this super cute café, one of Reykjavik’s oldest, famous for its warm environment and also authentic Icelandic waffles.
- Sandholt — Popular bakery and cafe with freshly baked bread, pastries and cakes–great for a leisurely breakfast or afternoon treat.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Gló: This vegetarian, vegan, and health aficionado hotspot creates meals from their field to table concept that is organic and fresh.
- Gardurinn: Vegetarian in a cute greenhouse — for tasty and well made dishes always with some seasonality in mind.
- The Coocoo’s Nest: Cosy café with a range of vegetarian and vegan brunch options like pancakes, smoothie bowls & avocado toast.
Other Notable Mentions:
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: An iconic hot dog stand serving the most famous Icelandic hot dogs, so definitely a spot you dont want to miss out on.
Valdís: The ice cream shop that goes out of the box with flavours such as licorice as well as Icelandic inventions like skyr (Icelandic yoghurt).
Laugavegur simply has many small microbreweries, and bars where one can get familiar with the original local beers, and feel spiciness of a livid neighborhood.
Whatever your culinary tastes or budget, Laugavegur offers something to suit every palate. With everything from casual eateries to fine dining kitchens, and with traditional offerings of regional dishes to those informed by global cuisine, there are a breadth of gastronomical experiences to be had.
Practical Tips for Exploring Laugavegur
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on Laugavegur, consider these practical tips:
Best Times to Visit:
- Working days: Laugavegur can be very busy (we should just keep quiet about tourist season). If you enjoy the lack of hustle and bustle, go during week, when traffic is less.
- Timings: Morning and Night, usually around 10AM to 6 or 7 PM shops and eating outlets. Stopping by in the morning or later in the evening will help you beat the crowds.
- Shoulder Seasons: Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are the shoulder seasons with great weather, but less population as in the peak summer months.
Transportation and Parking:
- On Foot: Laugavegur is a pedestrian street, so you can wander freely.
- Reykjavik-Bus: The city has a bus system with multiple stops on Laugavegur.
- Parking: If you’re driving, note that downtown Reykjavik is difficult to park in and parking can be costly. If you need to travel, Think about public transportation or parking in a specific parking garage.
Exchanging currency Payment methods
- Money: The currency of Iceland is the Icelandic króna (ISK).
- Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted at many shops and restaurants. On the other hands, it is always good to have some cash for relatively smaller expense or in case there are any issues with the card.
- Currency Exchange — you can change currency in banks, hotel or exchange office.
Tipping Etiquette:
Tipping: Not expected, service charges are usually included with the bill. On the contrary, if they provide an exceptional service you can tip them to appreciate their work.
Local Customs and Etiquette:
Icelanders are actually pretty polite and always keep it to themselves. Keep your voice down, particularly in stores and restaurants
Photography: Always seek permission before photographing individuals, particularly in religious or culturally significant areas.
Alcohol: Also, alcohol in Iceland can be pretty pricy and they are not too excited about seeing you drunk on their streets.
Remember these little tips and you will see that Laugavegur is very easy to walk and that you can maximize the colorful life of this street.
Don’t forget — Laugavegur is more than just a shopping and dining site, it’s the cultural epicenter of Reykjavik. Enjoy yourself, the street is ambiance sweet everywhere you go.
FAQs: Answering Your Laugavegur Questions – Laugavegur
We have made a list of FAQs in order to answer some most common questions visitors to the Laugavegur trail ask.
How long is Laugavegur?
Laugavegur is about 1.3 km (0.8 miles) long, making it an easy stroll from one end to the other.
Can you go for Wheelchair along Laugavegur?
Laugavegur : Yes, shops and restaurants generally have ramps or are on the level. Nevertheless, the accessibility of certain older buildings may be reduced.
Public Toilets along Laugavegur
Yep, there are some public restrooms along Laugavegur — mainly near cafes or shopping centres.
When are the shops and restaurants open on Laugavegur?
Shops and restaurants on Laugavegur open at about 10:00 AM, and close between 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. They may have slightly longer trading hours over holiday and weekend periods.
What are the free activities or attractions in Laugavegur?
Don’t worry, Laugavegur itself is a freebie so take in some window shopping, people watching and the vibrant atmosphere. Along the way you will also encounter street performers, art installations, and historical landmarks.
Conclusion – Laugavegur
As a microcosm of what makes Reykjavik special and unique from any other part of the world, Laugavegur provides shopping, dining and cultural experiences all in one. Whether you are hunting for the most fashionable trends, Icelandic treasures or culinary delights, Laugavegur caters to anyone looking to be enticed.
With the sights and sounds of numerous bars, restaurants, and other happening spots along this renowned road, it is an area that captures you with its lively edge surroundings which friendly locals go about their day. Ranging from the diverse mix of specialty stores and boutiques to enjoying the choice of local and international food, Laugavegur is a destination that will not end up as just a memory.
So, the next time you head to Reykjavik, take a little extra time to slow down and make your way through Laugavegur. Absorb its vibrant energy, unearth hidden gems and leave with a treasure trove of memories in this shopper’s heaven and foodie delight.
If you have a store, restaurant or experience on Laugavegur that you really enjoyed tell us about it in the comments! If you have any recommendations or extra tips feel free to comment below!
