May is one of the most rewarding months to visit Iceland’s capital. Spring is in full swing, and the weather is just right. Plus, the city is alive with festivals, blooming parks, and locals making the most of the longer daylight.
You’ll find plenty of top tours in Iceland in May, plus easy access to car rental in Iceland and great deals on the best accommodations. From city sights to outdoor adventures, May offers the perfect balance of comfort and exploration.
In this guide, you’ll discover 15 of the best things to do in Reykjavik in May, with activities, tours, and travel tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
Key Insights
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May is one of the best months to visit Reykjavik, offering a sweet spot between winter's chill and summer’s warmth
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Long daylight hours (up to 20 hours by the end of the month) mean more time to explore
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Many of Reykjavik's top experiences are fully open and less crowded in May
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Since it’s a shoulder season, prices for flights and accommodation are lower
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You’ll find a balance of city culture and access to nature, with day tours in full swing
Why Visit Reykjavik in May?
May is one of the best months to experience Reykjavik’s mix of nature, culture, and local life. It’s still technically spring, so the air stays crisp and cool, but you’ll already enjoy the benefits of summer. Experience long daylight hours, open tours, and blooming landscapes. Here are other reasons to visit Iceland’s capital city in May.
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Milder weather and longer daylight. Ideal for exploring outdoors without the chill of winter.
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Fewer crowds since it’s a shoulder season. This creates a more relaxed, local experience when visiting Reykjavik attractions.
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Spring is in full bloom. Puffins and other migratory birds return, and parks burst with new greenery.
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Perfect for all types of activities. Walking tours in Reykjavik, whale watching, and day trips to waterfalls or geothermal areas are in full swing.
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Most summer tours have started operating. Many attractions closed during winter are now accessible.
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Cafes, food halls, and pools are lively. These places open longer with warmer air.
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Shoulder-season pricing is lower. Accommodations and flights are cheaper compared to the peak season.
What to Expect from Reykjavik’s Weather in May
May in Reykjavik marks a noticeable shift in seasons. Average daytime temperatures range from 43 to 54 F (6 to 12 C), and while it’s still better to dress in layers, it’s generally comfortable for outdoor activities.
Rain is possible but not constant. Pack a waterproof jacket, and wear shoes with good traction for walking. Snow has typically melted in the city, although mountain areas might still have patches.
You’ll get nearly 18–20 hours of daylight by the end of May, so take advantage of the long evenings for sightseeing, photography, or relaxing by the harbor.
Top 15 Best Things to Do in Reykjavik in May
Whether you're here for a short city break or using Reykjavik as your base for Iceland adventures, these are the top things to do in Reykjavik in May. From iconic landmarks to nature, food, and unforgettable day trips, this list gives you the best mix of culture and experience.
The weather is milder in Iceland in May, the days are longer, and the city is buzzing with spring energy. Here are the 15 best activities in Reykjavik this May.
15. Attend Festivals and Events in Reykjavik in May
May is a lively month in Reykjavik, not just for nature and sightseeing, but also for cultural events and creative gatherings. The longer daylight hours bring a full calendar of concerts, festivals, and pop-up experiences that showcase Iceland’s artistic energy and innovation. Here are some festivals to attend if you’re visiting the capital city in May.
Reykjavik Arts Festival
Reykjavik Arts Festival brings together local and international talent in visual art, music, performance, and literature. It’s held every other year, from May to June, and spreads across venues like Harpa, museums, and public spaces.
Iceland Innovation Week
This week-long celebration of creativity and entrepreneurship takes place each May across Reykjavik. Expect workshops, talks, tech showcases, and networking events held everywhere from Harpa to hidden cafes. This festival highlights Iceland’s role as a hub for startups, design, and green technology.
Reykjavik Big Band Spring Concert
Held at Harpa Concert Hall, this annual concert by the Reykjavik Big Band is a spring tradition. The group has been around since 1992. The Big Band’s concert often blends jazz classics with original compositions and often features guest musicians from Iceland and abroad.
14. Walk Along Reykjavik’s Scenic Paths and Parks
Reykjavik’s coastal and city walking paths come to life in May. The Saebraut coastal trail, which runs from Harpa Concert Hall to Grotta Lighthouse, offers ocean views and access to the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture. It’s a flat, scenic walk that fits all fitness levels and feels especially peaceful under May’s long daylight hours.
For nature lovers, some Reykjavik attractions you shouldn’t miss include the Reykjavik Botanic Garden in Laugardalur and the Tjornin Pond near City Hall. Tjornin is an ideal spot for a casual stroll among birds, sculptures, and colorful buildings.
The botanic garden showcases Arctic plants and nesting birds, and is a quiet, free-entry gem rarely crowded. This place is a Reykjavik must-see in May, since many migratory birds return to Iceland during this month.
13. Soak in Reykjavik’s Pools, and Nearby Lagoons
Reykjavik’s geothermal pool culture is a must-experience. Sundhollin and Laugardalslaug offer affordable, local-approved hot tubs and lap pools. Both are perfect stops for relaxing after walking and sightseeing in Reykjavik. In May, outdoor sections are open but not yet crowded.
For a deeper soak, you can also visit the Secret Lagoon, located about 90 minutes from Reykjavik. It’s one of Iceland’s oldest natural pools, set in the quiet village of Fludir. It’s a great half-day trip if you’re renting a car or joining a Golden Circle day tour with Secret Lagoon detour.
For the ultimate soak, take a day trip to the world-famous Blue Lagoon. It’s just 45 minutes away from the city through a quick Blue Lagoon transfer from Reykjavik. Surrounded by lava fields, its milky-blue water offers silica masks, an in-water bar, and full spa facilities.
Many travelers combine a Golden Circle bus tour with Blue Lagoon. One of the best things to do in Reykjavik in May if you want to relax after a full day of sightseeing.
12. Spot Wildlife on a Puffin or Whale Watching Tour
May is prime time for wildlife lovers in Reykjavik, and it’s one of the best months to join whale watching and puffin tours in Iceland. Puffins return to nearby islands, and a puffin boat tour from the Old Harbor offers close-up views of these colorful birds in under an hour.
Meanwhile, whale watching tours operate daily from the same harbor, giving travelers the chance to see minke whales, humpbacks, and dolphins. Tours are typically 2–3 hours, guided by marine biologists, and include warm overalls for the sea breeze.
For the best of both, a combo tour lets you spot both whales and puffins in a single trip. It’s an unforgettable experience, especially under Reykjavik's bright skies in May.
11. Enjoy Guided Day Trips from Reykjavik
Reykjavik makes a perfect base for exploring the nearby attractions along Southwest Iceland. You’ll witness towering waterfalls, walk on volcanic sand, and pass through scenic farmlands under bright spring skies. Guided tours handle planning, pickups, pacing, and even monitor the weather, so you can maximize daylight.
Popular options include South Coast tours, where you can see Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and Thingvellir National Park. South Coast day tours usually last 10–12 hours, so expect a full day on the road.
If you want to explore nearby landscapes on foot, consider hiking Mount Esja. It’s just 30 minutes by car from Reykjavik. Tours often include transport and expert guides, so you can just enjoy the views. If time is tight, get an epic perspective on a helicopter tour of Reykjavik and Mount Esja.
May is an excellent month for day trips from Reykjavik. Roads are clear, the weather is mild, and daylight stretches long into the evening, giving you more time to explore.
10. Visit the Perlan Museum & Observation Deck
Perlan Museum is a futuristic glass dome on Oskjuhlid Hill, built on top of six hot-water tanks. It’s home to interactive exhibits like an ice cave replica, glacier displays, and a stunning planetarium show.
The 360-degree observation deck is one of the best places to see all of Reykjavik from above, including the mountains and Faxafloi Bay. This makes it one of the top attractions in Reykjavik.
Perlan’s location makes it a peaceful retreat from the city center. You can go on a short trek, which will only take around 40 minutes on foot from the city center, or ride a bike. You can also take city bus #18 to skip the walk. There's a cafe with one of the best skyline views in Reykjavik, perfect for a quiet break.
9. Dive Into Reykjavik’s Viking and Settlement History
History buffs will enjoy Iceland’s compact but fascinating museums. Two standouts are the Settlement Exhibition and the Saga Museum.
The Settlement Exhibition is built around a real 10th-century Viking longhouse, using interactive tech and archaeological finds to bring Iceland’s early history to life. You’ll see original building foundations and historic tools in a more immersive way than most traditional exhibits. To round out the full Viking experience, pair your visit with a private Viking Age walking tour.
Just a short walk away, the Saga Museum uses lifelike figures and immersive scenes to retell Iceland’s early history. Learn everything, from settlement to medieval legends. There's also a fun dress-up corner if you want a Viking photo as a souvenir.
Due to their location near the Old Harbor area, both are easy to pair with the Maritime Museum or a whale-watching tour from Reykjavik.
The Settlement Exhibition and the Saga Museum are both indoors. Visiting them is one of the best things to do in Reykjavik during rainy days. If you have the Reykjavik City Card, which is available in 24-hour, 48-hour, or 3-day options, entry is discounted or free.
8. Tour Reykjavik’s Top Art Museums
Art lovers should explore the three branches of the Reykjavik Art Museum: Hafnarhus (contemporary works), Kjarvalsstadir (modern paintings and sculptures), and Asmundarsafn (sculpture and architecture).
Visiting all three Reykjavik Art Museum locations in one day is just one of the best things to do in Reykjavik in May. Start at Hafnarhus by the Old Harbor, continue to Kjarvalsstadir by Klambratun Park, and stop at a cafe, and finish at Asmundarsafn. Use the Reykjavik City Card for free or discounted entry and easy city bus access between sites.
The buildings themselves are also worth seeing. Asmundarsafn is housed in a striking dome-shaped structure, Hafnarhus sits right by the Old Harbor, and Kjarvalsstadir overlooks the green space of Klambratun Park. Make sure to plan around 40-50 minutes per site.
7. Eat Like a Local in Reykjavik
Reykjavik’s food scene balances tradition and creativity. To sample a wide range, head to food halls like Hlemmur Matholl or Grandi Matholl, where you can try everything from Icelandic lamb to fusion tacos.
For a quick bite, grab an Icelandic hot dog at Baejarins Beztu Pylsur, a small stand near the Old Harbor. It has been serving Icelandic hot dogs since 1937 and is a cultural institution in the capital. There are 7 branches around the city, but the main stall is located in Tryggvata 1, 101 Reykjavik.
Trying this famous Icelandic hotdog is one of the best things to do in Reykjavik. The classic order is "eina med ollu, takk," meaning one with everything, which includes crispy onions, raw onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade.
If you’re feeling adventurous, food and drink tours in Iceland are a fun way to discover Reykjavik’s unique cuisine. With a local guide, you'll sample everything from traditional dishes like fermented shark, to locally brewed beers and skyr.
You can also go on a sightseeing tour of Snaefellsness from Reykjavik, where you can try a homemade meal.
May is a great time for food and walking or culture tours, due to its longer daylight and lighter tourist traffic. If you're not sure where to eat or want a guided food adventure, food tours are one of the best activities in Reykjavik in May.
6. Explore Reykjavik on Two Wheels
Reykjavik is flat in many areas, which makes it easy to explore by bike or e-scooter. In May, paths are usually dry, and the long daylight gives you plenty of time to cruise around. Rentals are easy to find downtown and offer hourly or daily rates.
It’s one of the best and low-cost activities in Reykjavik in May, and it’s accessible! Plus, it’s a unique way to see Reykjavik’s attractions.
Biking tours in Iceland offer helmets, digital maps, and a local guide to help you. If you're traveling with friends or want to explore at your own pace, this is also a fun and easy choice. You can zip between major sites, wander into new neighborhoods, or follow the coastal trail out to Grotta Lighthouse.
Many cycling tours in Reykjavik typically stitch together the big hitters, such as Hallgrimskirkja Church, the Parliament, the Old Harbour, the University of Iceland, the Sun Voyager, and the calm waters of Tjornin Pond.
If you prefer a challenge, ride to Thingvellir National Park via Mosfellsbaer Town. You can also cycle along the Ring Road of Iceland, and May is an ideal time for this activity: it’s not too cold, the city is blooming, and traffic is light.
5. Spot Reykjavik’s Street Art
Reykjavik is one of Europe’s most colorful capitals, thanks to its explosion of street art over the last decade. From large-scale murals to tiny stencils and quirky tags, its streets double as an open-air gallery.
You don’t need a map, you’ll find standout pieces in neighborhoods like Grandi, Laugavegur, and the Old Harbor. This is a totally free way to enjoy Reykjavik attractions, especially for photographers and casual explorers. Stop by venues like Bar Ananas, Prikid, and Freddi Arcade to see commissioned work by local artists.
The art often changes with the seasons or gets replaced, so each visit brings something new. Pieces often reflect Icelandic culture, folklore, humor, or political commentary, making this an unexpectedly insightful way to connect with local perspectives.
Spring is a great time to explore the city’s streets on foot. May’s crisp air and bright skies make it perfect for exploring on foot or folding it into one of the broader sightseeing tours in Iceland. Combine your walk with a coffee stop or food truck visit to maximize your time.
4. Go Lava Caving Near Reykjavik
Just outside Reykjavik, travelers can descend into real lava tubes formed by past volcanic eruptions. Lava caving is one of the more adventurous things to do in Reykjavik in May, especially for travelers looking for something beyond the typical sightseeing.
Lava caving activities in Iceland are guided, beginner-friendly, and completely safe, with helmets, lights, and safety instructions provided on-site.
Top picks for caving include Leidarendi Cave, the untouched classic; the well-lit and spacious Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel; and Thrinukagigur, a dormant volcano with an elevator into its magma chamber. All are within an hour of Reykjavik and offer tour pickup or easy self-drive access.
Guided lava-cave tours in Iceland offer pickup from Reykjavik, or you can self-drive and meet your guide on site.
3. Visit Harpa Concert Hall and Reykjavik Waterfront
Harpa is Reykjavik's architectural jewel, known for its glass facade that catches the light in every season. Located on the waterfront, it’s a central point for concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events, and also serves as a quiet space to relax.
Walk inside Harpa, wander the lobby, admire the views, or check out the gift shop. The building's design is inspired by Icelandic basalt columns and was co-developed with Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson. In May, the light hits the building beautifully in the late evening, making it a great photo stop as well.
It’s located right by the Old Harbor and makes a perfect starting point for exploring nearby restaurants, museums, and coastal paths. You can also join a guided walking tour of Reykjavik landmarks with Harpa Concert Hall, for a deeper dive into its history. Otherwise, just enjoy the space, it’s one of the top Reykjavik places to visit, even without a ticket.
If you have time, check the event schedule and catch a performance. Harpa is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and Icelandic Opera, and has hosted international acts like Bjork and Laufey. It’s one of the top Reykjavik places to visit, even without a ticket.
2. Take a Golden Circle Tour
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route, and it’s easily done as a day trip from Reykjavik. The loop includes Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the erupting Strokkur Geyser, offering an unbeatable combination of geology, history, and scenic drama.
Many guided Golden Circle tours in Iceland typically include hotel pickup, transport, and a knowledgeable guide. In May, the roads are clear and daylight is plentiful, so self-driving activities in Iceland are also possible. Whichever you prefer, both types of activities ensure you don’t have to deal much with the logistics and planning.
The Golden Circle route begins just 45 minutes outside of Reykjavik, and the full loop takes about 6 to 8 hours. Each stop offers walking paths and excellent photo opportunities. Thingvellir, in particular, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a deeply important place in Icelandic history.
It’s a well-worn route for a reason. If you’re only doing one major day tour from the capital, this is the most efficient way to see Iceland’s greatest highlights.
1. Explore Hallgrimskirkja Church
Hallgrimskirkja is the tallest building in Reykjavik and a symbol of the city. Its design was inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns and volcanic formations, found at places like Svartifoss Waterfall, giving it a dramatic, almost futuristic look that you can see from miles away.
Church entry is free, but there’s a small fee to access the elevator to the tower. From the top, you’ll get sweeping views over Reykjavik’s colorful rooftops, Faxafloi Bay, and Mount Esja in the distance.
It’s centrally located near the top of Skolavordustigur Street, surrounded by boutiques, cafes, and galleries. You can visit anytime during opening hours, though early mornings or late evenings in May are usually quieter. To make the most of your city adventure, you can also join a Reykjavik walking tour of its highlights.
This is a must-visit for first-timers and a great way to orient yourself in the city. For iconic views and architecture in one stop, Reykjavik sightseeing doesn’t get better than this.
What to Wear in Reykjavik in May
May weather in Reykjavik can be unpredictable, sunny one moment and windy or rainy the next. Packing smart with layers will help you stay comfortable no matter the forecast.
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Thermal or wool base layer
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Light fleece or sweater mid-layer
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Windproof and waterproof jacket outer layer
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Hat and gloves
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Sunglasses
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Swimsuit for hot springs, pools or geothermal beaches
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Waterproof walking shoes or hiking boots for outdoor activities and day trips
FAQs about Reykjavik in May
Planning your spring trip to Iceland’s capital? This FAQ section covers the most common questions travelers have about visiting Reykjavik in May.
Is May a good time to visit Reykjavik?
Yes! May offers mild weather, long days, and fewer crowds. Nature is waking up, and most tours and attractions in Reykjavik are open.
What is Reykjavik famous for?
Reykjavik is known for its colorful buildings, Hallgrimskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, street art, geothermal pools, and proximity to Iceland’s natural wonders.
What are the best things to do in Reykjavik in May when it rains?
Visit indoor attractions like the National Museum, Perlan, Settlement Exhibition, or Saga Museum. Enjoy food halls or local cafes, or soak in a geothermal pool.
Can you see puffins in Reykjavik in May?
Yes! Puffins return in May and can be seen on dedicated puffin boat tours from the Old Harbor. You can also combine puffin watching with whale watching.
Are day trips from Reykjavik available in May?
Absolutely. May is perfect for Golden Circle tours, South Coast trips, lava caving, snorkeling in Silfra, and even relaxing visits to the Blue Lagoon or Secret Lagoon.
What should I pack for a trip to Reykjavik in May?
Waterproof jacket, warm layers, hat and gloves, swimsuit, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, sunglasses, and a daypack. Don’t forget your camera, as the scenery is stunning for photo ops.
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Reykjavik in May
Reykjavik in May offers the best of both worlds: spring energy and longer days, with fewer crowds. Whether you’re relaxing in a hot pool, heading out on a puffin boat tour, or exploring Iceland’s dramatic nature, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your days. With 25 top experiences to choose from, you’re sure to find something unforgettable.
Are you planning to visit Reykjavik in May? What’s on your itinerary? If you’ve already visited the city, share your favorite Reykjavik activities or day trips in the comments. We’d love to hear what made your trip unforgettable!
