Free Things To Do in Iceland: Nature, Adventure & More!

Iceland sits at the top of many travel wish lists, but its reputation as an expensive destination often makes Indian travelers hesitate. The good news? Some free things to do in Iceland are remarkable experiences.

From soaking in natural hot springs to witnessing the Northern Lights, Iceland offers countless free activities that showcase its raw natural beauty and rich culture.

1. Enjoy a Free Walking Tour of Reykjavík

Reykjavík’s colorful buildings, striking street art, and rich history make it perfect for exploration on foot. Several companies offer free walking tours in Iceland that operate on a tips-only basis.

These 2-hour tours typically start at Lækjartorg Square’s green clock in downtown Reykjavík. Local guides share fascinating stories about Viking history, explain Icelandic traditions, and point out landmarks you might otherwise miss.

Location: Most tours start at Lækjartorg Square (the green clock) in downtown Reykjavík

Timings: Daily departures at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm year-round, with more frequent tours in summer

Highlights:

• Local storytelling, insights into Viking history and Icelandic traditions

• Downtown landmarks, including Alþingi, City Hall, and Harpa

• Street art and architecture, explored along the route

• 2-hour walking route, led by professional local guides

Tips for Visitors:

• Arrive 10 minutes early to secure your spot

• Wear comfortable walking shoes

• Dress in layers, weather can change quickly

• While free, tipping 1,000–2,000 ISK is appreciated

Also Read: Iceland Visa Guide for Indians

2. Take a Stroll Around Lake Tjörnin

Lake Tjörnin sits in the heart of Reykjavík, offering a peaceful retreat from the busy city center. This serene lake, surrounded by charming old houses and public parks, is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

The area is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset when the city skyline reflects on the water’s surface. Walking the full circuit takes about 30-40 minutes, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.

Location: Central Reykjavík, between City Hall and the National Gallery

Timings: Accessible 24/7, year-round

Highlights:

• Scenic urban lake, with reflections of Reykjavík’s skyline

• Birdwatching opportunities, with ducks, geese, and swans

• Charming surroundings, including old houses and public art

• Peaceful walking trail, takes 30–40 minutes to complete

Tips for Visitors:

• Bring bread crumbs to feed the birds

• Great picnic spot in summer

• In winter, check ice thickness before stepping onto the lake

Also Read: Iceland with Kids

3. Visit Grótta Lighthouse and Soak in the Geothermal Foot Spa

Located at the northwestern tip of Reykjavík on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, Grótta Lighthouse offers ocean views and a unique geothermal experience. The lighthouse itself stands on a small island that connects to the mainland at low tide.

The real highlight for many visitors is the free geothermal foot bath nearby. After walking along the black sand beach, you can soak your feet in naturally heated water while gazing out at the ocean—a distinctly free Icelandic experience.

Location: Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, about 5 km from central Reykjavík (accessible by city bus #11)

Timings: Area accessible 24/7; lighthouse itself can only be approached at low tide

Highlights:

• Grótta Lighthouse, reachable at low tide only

• Geothermal foot bath, free and ocean-facing

• Black sand beach, with panoramic sea and mountain views

• Northern Lights visibility, excellent viewing spot in winter

Tips for Visitors:

• Check tide times to avoid getting stranded

• Bring a towel for the foot spa

• Visit at night in winter for Northern Lights

• Lighthouse is only accessible during low tide

Also Read: Iceland Visa Rejection for Indians

4. Explore the Reykjavík Botanical Gardens

Source: wikimedia

The Reykjavík Botanical Gardens showcase over 3,000 plant species that thrive in Iceland’s challenging climate. These lush gardens make for a peaceful escape from the city bustle and rank among the best free things to do in Iceland during summer months.

During summer, free guided tours take place every Friday, offering deeper insights into Iceland’s unique flora.

Location: Laugardalur Park, about 3 km from downtown Reykjavík

Timings: May-September: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm; October-April: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Highlights:

• Over 3,000 plant species, from Iceland and around the world

• Medicinal herb beds, with traditional Icelandic healing plants

• Colorful summer blooms, in landscaped gardens

• Ponds and birdlife, adding to the tranquil setting

Tips for Visitors:

• Visit June to August for peak blooms

• Free guided tours offered every Friday in summer

• On-site café serves drinks and snacks (not free)

• Combine with Laugardalur Park and family zoo (zoo requires a fee)

Also Read: 20 Compelling Reasons to Visit Iceland

5. Browse the Kolaportið Flea Market

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Kolaportið, Iceland’s largest indoor flea market, buzzes with activity every weekend. Located near Reykjavík’s old harbor, this market offers a fascinating glimpse into local culture and tastes.

The market atmosphere is lively and authentically Icelandic, with vendors happy to chat about their wares and share stories. It’s a great place to experience local culture, even if you’re just looking.

Location: Tryggvagata 19, near the old harbor in downtown Reykjavík

Timings: Weekends only (Friday-Sunday), 11:00 am to 5:00 pm

Highlights:

• Vintage Icelandic goods, from sweaters to vinyl

• Local delicacies, including fermented shark and dried fish

• Authentic market vibe, in Reykjavík’s old harbor

• Indoor stalls, open year-round on weekends

Tips for Visitors:

• Visit early for best finds and fewer crowds

• Bring cash, not all vendors accept cards

• Fish section has a strong odor, sensitive visitors may want to skip it

Also Read: Iceland Visa Photo Requirements

6. Admire the Architecture of Hallgrímskirkja Church

Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavík’s most distinctive landmark, stands 74.5 meters tall and can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. This remarkable Lutheran church, designed to resemble Iceland’s basalt lava columns, took 41 years to build (1945-1986).

The statue outside the church depicts Leifur Eiríksson, believed to be the first European to discover America, predating Columbus by 500 years.

Location: Hallgrímstorg 1, central Reykjavík

Timings: October-April: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; May-September: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm

Highlights:

• 74.5-meter tower, Reykjavík’s most visible landmark

• Pipe organ, 15 meters tall with 5,275 pipes

• Stained glass windows, minimalist but stunning

• Leifur Eiríksson statue, tribute to the Norse explorer

Tips for Visitors:

• Visit early or late to avoid crowds

• Entry is free, but donations are welcome

• Tower access costs 1,000 ISK for panoramic city views

• Check the church website for free concert schedules

Also Read: Summer in Iceland

7. Walk Along Reykjavík Harbor and See the Sun Voyager Sculpture

Reykjavík’s revitalized harbor area offers a scenic waterfront promenade with mountain and ocean views. This area has transformed from a working fishing port into a lively district with walking paths, public art, and plenty to see.

The highlight is the Sun Voyager (Sólfar) sculpture—a gleaming stainless steel “dreamboat” designed by artist Jón Gunnar Árnason. Though often mistaken for a Viking ship, the artist intended it to represent a dream vessel and ode to the sun.

Location: Sæbraut waterfront, downtown Reykjavík

Timings: Accessible 24/7, year-round

Highlights:

• Sun Voyager sculpture, gleaming steel dreamboat

• Waterfront promenade, with sea and mountain views

• Public art installations, scattered along the harbor

• Vibrant harbor district, now home to cafés and galleries

Tips for Visitors:

• Best lighting for photos at sunrise or sunset

• Area is windy, bring an extra layer

• Harbor walk connects to cafés and galleries, food costs extra

Also Read: How to Check Iceland Visa Status for Indians

8. Hike Mount Esja

Mount Esja, visible from Reykjavík across the bay, offers excellent hiking opportunities just 20 km from the city centre. This mountain range provides trails for various fitness levels, from easy walks to more challenging climbs.

The most popular route begins at Esjustofa visitor center and leads to a rock called Steinn (at 597m elevation). This 2.5-3 hour round trip rewards hikers with breathtaking views over Reykjavík, the bay, and surrounding mountains.

Location: About 20 km northeast of Reykjavík

Timings: Accessible 24/7, year-round

Highlights:

• Well-marked hiking trails, for all fitness levels

• Popular summit point, Steinn, with panoramic views

• Accessible from city, by public bus within 30 minutes

• Mountain scenery, featuring Reykjavik’s skyline and coastline

Tips for Visitors:

• Only accessible with a 4×4 vehicle

• Bring a towel, swimsuit, and drinking water

• No food services available, pack your own supplies

• Check road and weather conditions before departure

9. Soak in the Hveravellir Hot Spring in the Highlands

Hveravellir Nature Reserve sits in Iceland’s central highlands between two glaciers—Langjökull and Hofsjökull. This remote geothermal area features bubbling hot springs, steaming fumaroles, and a natural hot pool where visitors can soak for free.

Unlike commercial hot springs like the Blue Lagoon, Hveravellir offers a completely natural and rustic bathing experience surrounded by otherworldly landscapes of lava fields and distant glaciers.

Location: On the Kjölur highland route (F35) between Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers

Timings: Accessible only during summer months (June to September) when highland roads are open

Highlights:

• Natural hot pool, free and rustic setting

• Colorful geothermal area, with steaming vents and mud pots

• Walking trails, through lava fields and mineral deposits

• Remote experience, between two glaciers in the highlands

Tips for Visitors:

• Only accessible with a 4×4 vehicle

• Bring a towel, swimsuit, and drinking water

• No food services available, pack your own supplies

• Check road and weather conditions before departure

Also Read: Book Iceland Visa Appointment

10. Experience Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara, near the village of Vík in South Iceland, is one of the world’s most dramatic beaches. The jet-black volcanic sand, towering basalt columns, and powerful Atlantic waves create an otherworldly landscape that feels more like a movie set than a real place.

The stark contrast between black sand, white surf, and grey skies creates perfect photography conditions in any weather.

Location: Near Vík í Mýrdal on Iceland’s south coast, about 180 km from Reykjavík

Timings: Accessible 24/7, year-round

Highlights:

• Jet-black volcanic sand, striking against ocean surf

• Basalt columns, forming Garðar’s natural pyramid wall

• Reynisdrangar sea stacks, rising from the Atlantic

• Seaside caves, carved into the cliff face

Tips for Visitors:

• Stay at least 30 meters from the water, waves are dangerous

• Never turn your back on the ocean

• Visit early or late to avoid tour bus crowds

• Facilities available in nearby Vík town

11. Visit Viðey Island

Viðey Island sits just off Reykjavík’s coast, offering a peaceful escape from city life. This small island combines natural beauty, history, and art in one easily accessible package.

The island itself is free to explore once you’ve paid for the ferry (approximately Rs 1,200 return). During certain periods, including winter weekends and special events, the ferry is sometimes offered free of charge.

Location: Viðey Island in Kollafjörður Bay, ferry departs from Skarfabakki Harbor in Reykjavík

Timings: Ferry runs daily in summer; weekends only in winter (check for occasional free service days)

Highlights:

• Historic stone houses, dating to the 18th century

• Imagine Peace Tower, by Yoko Ono, in tribute to John Lennon

• Nature trails, with coastal views and birdwatching

• Beaches and open fields, ideal for quiet walks

Tips for Visitors:

• Check ferry schedule in advance, service varies seasonally

• Bring a picnic, island facilities are limited

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking trails

12. Attend Reykjavík’s Culture Night Festival

Source: wikimedia

Culture Night (Menningarnótt) transforms Reykjavík into a massive celebration every August. This annual event fills the streets with music, art, performances, and food, creating a festive atmosphere across the entire city.

Nearly all events are completely free, making this one of the best free cultural experiences in Iceland. The city center becomes a pedestrian zone, with around 100,000 people (nearly a third of Iceland’s population) joining the celebrations.

Location: Throughout central Reykjavík, with main stages at Arnarhóll hill and the harbor area

Timings: Mid-August annually, events typically run from noon until midnight

Highlights:

• Live street concerts, with local and international acts

• Open galleries and museums, offering special events

• Dance and theater performances, across the city

• Family-friendly activities, and creative workshops

• Fireworks finale, over the Reykjavík harbor

Tips for Visitors:

• Book accommodation early, city gets full

• Public transport runs extended hours during the event

• Bring a light jacket for evening shows

• Pick up a program map to plan your route

13. See the Northern Lights from Reykjavík’s Best Viewing Spots

Between late September and early April, Iceland’s dark winter skies provide perfect conditions for viewing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).

While many companies offer expensive tours, you can see this natural light show completely free from several spots near Reykjavík.

Location: Best viewing spots include Grótta Lighthouse, Öskjuhlíð Hill, Klambratún Park, and the Sæbraut coastal path.

Timings: Best viewed between 9:00 pm and 1:00 am during winter months

Highlights:

• Aurora viewing locations, like Grótta Lighthouse and Öskjuhlíð Hill

• Accessible by city, no need for tour bookings

• Dark-sky conditions, for ideal viewing in winter

• Free natural spectacle, best from late September to April

Tips for Visitors:

• Use aurora forecast apps for best viewing times

• Choose dark areas away from city lights

• Be patient, lights may come and go

• Best viewing from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am in winter

14. Enjoy Free Live Music in Reykjavík

Iceland’s music scene punches well above its weight for a small country, and Reykjavík offers numerous opportunities to enjoy free live performances. From indie rock to traditional folk, jazz to electronic, the city’s venues regularly host no-cover shows.

Location: Various venues in downtown Reykjavík

Timings: Varies by venue and event, most shows in evenings

Highlights:

• Jazz Wednesdays, at KEX Hostel

• Rock nights, at Dillon Whiskey Bar

• In-store sessions, at Lucky Records

• Outdoor concerts, in public parks and squares

• Library performances, especially in summer

Tips for Visitors:

• Check The Reykjavík Grapevine for free event listings

• Follow venues on social media for last-minute shows

• Arrive early, popular venues fill up quickly

• Free shows are most frequent in summer

Also Read: Travel Mistakes to Avoid as a Tourist in Iceland

15. Discover Reykjavík’s Public Art with the Art Walk App

Reykjavík’s streets double as an open-air gallery, with murals, sculptures, and installations around every corner. The free Reykjavík Art Walk app guides visitors through the city’s public art collection, providing information about each piece and its artist.

Some popular walking routes are Downtown Core Route (1-2 hours), Harbor Area Route (1 hour), University District Route (1.5 hours), Laugardalur Park Route (1 hour).

Location: Various neighborhoods in Reykjavík, accessible via mapped app routes

Timings: Accessible 24/7, year-round

Highlights:

• Murals and street art, from the Wall Poetry festival

• Sculptures and installations, across multiple districts

• Self-guided walking routes, using the free app

• Artist info and stories, available offline after download

Tips for Visitors:

• Download the app in advance, it works offline

• Choose your route based on time and interest

• Wear comfortable shoes, most tours are 1–2 hours

• Great activity for solo travelers or rainy days

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FAQs

What are the absolute best free things to do in Iceland for first-time visitors?

For first-timers, the best free things to do in Iceland include hiking Mount Esja for panoramic views, exploring Reynisfjara black sand beach, taking a free walking tour of Reykjavík, and trying to spot the Northern Lights in winter.

Are there any free hot springs in Iceland?

Yes! Iceland has several free natural hot springs like Hveravellir in the highlands, Reykjadalur Steam Valley (1-hour hike required), Seljavallalaug pool in South Iceland, and various small hot pots along coastal areas.

What free outdoor activities in Iceland can I do with children?

Family-friendly free outdoor activities in Iceland include:

• Beach combing at Reynisfjara

• Exploring the Reykjavík Botanical Gardens

• watching geysers erupt at Geysir geothermal area

• hiking shorter, easier trails in national parks.

Many of Reykjavík’s public parks have excellent playgrounds, and in winter, sledding on city hills costs nothing but offers hours of fun.

Are there any free museums or galleries in Iceland?

While most major museums charge entry fees, some free museums and galleries in Iceland include:

• The photographic gallery at Reykjavík City Hall

• Ásmundarsafn Sculpture Garden (outdoor portions)

• University of Iceland’s small geological museum

• Many art galleries during opening nights

Additionally, many churches display significant art and are free to enter outside of service times.

When can I see the Northern Lights in Iceland for free?

The Northern Lights are visible in:

• Season: Late September through early April

• Peaktimes: Typically around the equinoxes (September/October and February/March).

• Best conditions: Clear, dark nights away from city lights

Several apps and websites provide aurora forecasts to help plan your viewing. This ranks among the most magical free things to do in Iceland at night.