Top 8 Things To Do in Reykjavik in April

Plan your trip around the best things to do in Reykjavik in April. This month is ideal for combining city sights with day trips into Iceland’s changing spring landscapes. Read on to learn more about how to make the most out of your visit during the month!

April brings longer daylight hours, melting snow, and fewer crowds than summer. Early in the month, you may still see the northern lights, while by late April, puffins begin to return to the coast. Many April tours and spring tours take advantage of this transition, offering a mix of winter landscapes and early summer wildlife experiences.

In Reykjavik, you can explore landmarks, museums, hot springs, and cafes. Reykjavik walking tours are a popular way to discover the city, whether through food, art, or folklore. A walking tour of Reykjavik’s history and culture offers deeper insight into Icelandic traditions.

Beyond the city, guided Reykjavik tours give access to Iceland’s natural highlights. The best day trips from Reykjavik include the Golden Circle, the South Coast, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, all of which show Iceland at its best in April.

Keep reading to find out how to have an excellent April visit with detailed guides to Reykjavik’s attractions, tours, events, and travel tips.

Key Takeaways

• April is a transition month with 32 F to 45 F (0 C to 7 C) temperatures, long daylight hours, and fewer crowds.

• You may still see the northern lights early in the month, while waterfalls surge with snowmelt and puffins return by late April.

• Top things to do include visiting landmarks and museums, soaking in hot springs and pools, joining food tours, and taking day trips to the Golden Circle, South Coast, Reykjanes Peninsula, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

• April events include Easter celebrations and the First Day of Summer parade in downtown Reykjavik.

• Stay 4 to 5 days in the capital, base yourself in Downtown Reykjavik, pack layers and a swimsuit, and book popular tours like the Blue Lagoon in advance.

Why Visit Reykjavik in April?

Here are the main reasons to visit Reykjavik in April:

• Longer daylight hours: At the start of April, Reykjavik has about 13 hours of daylight, and by the end of the month, it grows to almost 17 hours. This gives you more time for sightseeing and day trips. Sunrise and sunset are beautiful, especially at Tjornin Lake or the Old Harbor.

• Fewer crowds than summer: Summer is the busiest season in Iceland, but in April, the streets and attractions feel calmer. You can visit Hallgrimskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, or the Blue Lagoon without waiting in long lines. Hotels in Iceland are easier to book, and prices are usually lower compared with July or August.

• Last chance to see the northern lights: April is the final month to see the northern lights in Reykjavik. The best chance is in early April, when the sky is still dark enough. You can join a guided northern lights tour from Reykjavik or check the aurora forecast.

• Transition into spring weather: April weather in Reykjavik changes quickly. Snow melts during the day, Iceland’s waterfalls swell with spring water, and roads become safer to drive. At the same time, mornings can still be icy, and locals talk about the Easter Cold Spell when winter seems to return for a few days.

List of the Top Things To Do in Reykjavik in April

The best things to do in Reykjavik in April range from cultural landmarks to outdoor experiences. You can explore Reykjavik’s museums and churches, stroll through colorful streets, join food and drink tours, and relax in geothermal pools and hot springs.

The map above highlights where to find these experiences. Each pin may include opening hours, descriptions, and travel tips to help you plan your visit.

8. Walk Around Downtown Reykjavik in April

Exploring downtown is one of the best things to do in Reykjavik in April. The city center is compact, and most attractions are only a short walk apart. Longer daylight hours mean you can take your time, and there are plenty of Reykjavik cafes along the way where you can warm up between stops.

Laugavegur and Rainbow Street in April

Strolling along Rainbow Street is one of the top things to do in Reykjavik in April. The colorful path runs through downtown and ends with one of the most famous photo angles in the city. The rainbow design was first painted for Reykjavik Pride and is now a permanent symbol of the capital.

The street is lined with cafes, bakeries, and local shops. Cafe Loki is known for its rye bread ice cream and traditional Icelandic dishes, while Sandholt Bakery is a favorite spot for pastries and coffee. You’ll also find clothing stores like 66°North and smaller boutiques selling Icelandic souvenirs. For dinner, Kol Restaurant is a great choice for modern Icelandic cuisine.

At the top of the street stands Hallgrimskirkja Church, Reykjavik’s most iconic landmark and one of Iceland's tallest buildings. Its design was inspired by Iceland’s basalt lava columns, and a large pipe organ fills the interior with powerful sound. Visitors can take an elevator up the tower for views over the city, Faxafloi Bay, and nearby mountains.

Tjornin Lake in April

Walking along Tjornin Lake is one of the most relaxing things to do in Reykjavik in April. The small lake sits in the city center, just behind Reykjavik City Hall, and is surrounded by colorful houses and quiet walking paths. It is often called “the pond” by locals.

The paths around Tjornin are easy to walk on and connect to nearby attractions. You can continue toward the Free Lutheran Church on the shore or head to Austurvollur Square, where locals gather in spring. City Hall also has free exhibitions and large relief maps of Iceland, which are worth a quick look.

Kolaportid Flea Market in April

Kolaportid Flea Market is a popular weekend stop, and exploring it is one of the most local things to do in Reykjavik in April. The market is held indoors near the Old Harbor, which makes it a good choice on windy or rainy spring days.

Inside, you will find stalls selling Icelandic lopapeysa sweaters, secondhand clothes, books, and antiques. Food vendors offer local treats, from dried fish to licorice candy, and there are tables stacked with Icelandic music and handmade crafts. The market is open only on weekends, from 11 AM to 5 PM, and entry is free.

Reykjavik Waterfront Walk in April

A walk along Reykjavik’s waterfront is one of the simplest and most enjoyable things to do in April. The path stretches from the Old Harbor toward Harpa Concert Hall and continues along Faxafloi Bay, with open views of the Atlantic Ocean and Mount Esja in the distance.

Along the route, you will pass the Sun Voyager Sculpture, a steel artwork shaped like a Viking ship. It is one of the most photographed landmarks in Reykjavik and looks especially striking in April when the low spring sunlight reflects off the water behind it.

Harpa Concert Hall is another highlight. Its glass walls shimmer in changing light and reflect the colors of the sky and sea. The building is free to enter, with open staircases, bright balconies, and views of the harbor. It also hosts concerts, plays, and cultural events throughout the year.

7. Explore Reykjavik’s Museums

If you are planning what to do in Reykjavik in April, the city’s museums are a great place to start. You can visit famous buildings, explore exhibitions, or choose indoor activities when the weather turns cold. Highlights include Perlan, the National Museum of Iceland, and exhibitions about whales and the northern lights.

Perlan Museum in April

Exploring Perlan is one of the top activities for travelers planning what to do in Reykjavik in April. Its exhibitions and viewing deck balance indoor learning with outdoor panoramas, which is ideal in shifting spring weather.

Inside, you will find exhibitions about Iceland’s glaciers, volcanoes, and wildlife. A highlight is the Perlan ice cave, a recreation of a natural cave made from real ice. If April clouds block the aurora, you can also experience it indoors at the planetarium’s northern lights show.

A viewing deck circles the dome and offers one of the best panoramas of Reykjavik and the nearby mountains. In April, the long daylight hours give you a wide view across the bay. The deck is often windy and cold, so dressing extra warm is recommended.

National Museum of Iceland in April

The National Museum of Iceland is a must-see for visitors interested in culture when exploring Reykjavik in April. It gives an overview of the history of Iceland while offering a warm indoor option on chilly spring days. The museum sits near the University of Iceland and is easy to reach on foot or by public Reykjavik buses from downtown.

Exhibitions here cover more than 1,200 years of history, from Viking settlement to modern times. A visit usually takes one to two hours, and the layout is easy to follow. Audio guides in English are available if you want more details. The cafe and gift shop provide a good place to warm up and relax.

Settlement Exhibition in April

The Settlement Exhibition is a fascinating stop if you are curious about early history while exploring Reykjavik in April. It is built around the remains of a Viking longhouse discovered in the city center, giving you a direct link to Iceland’s past.

This exhibit has been extended in recent years and now connects to the Adalstraeti Exhibition, which traces the history of Reykjavik to the modern day. The ticket includes access to both.

In April, the exhibitions are especially appealing as an indoor activity. Families also find it engaging, as the hands-on exhibits are designed for both children and adults. Plan for about an hour here, and combine it with a walk to nearby landmarks such as Reykjavik City Hall or Tjornin Lake.

Whales of Iceland in April

Whales of Iceland is a good choice for travelers looking for family-friendly things to do in Reykjavik in April. The exhibition features life-size models of the 23 whale species found in Icelandic waters, from blue whales to orcas.

A Whale of Iceland ticket will give you access to the spacious hall filled with whale models suspended from the ceiling and displayed on the ground. Touch screens and audio guides explain the biology and behavior of each species, and the soundscape of whale calls makes the experience more immersive.

In April, whale watching tours also begin to see more activity in Faxafloi Bay, so visiting the exhibition can be a good way to prepare for an actual boat trip. If the weather is poor or you prefer to stay indoors, this museum offers a comfortable way to learn about the same animals you might spot from the harbor.

Aurora Reykjavik in April

Visiting Aurora Reykjavik is one of the best things to do in Reykjavik in April if you want to learn about the northern lights. The small museum explains the science and legends behind the aurora borealis and offers a way to experience it even on cloudy nights.

Inside, you can watch time-lapse films of the lights displayed on a wide screen and try interactive exhibits. Local stories and folklore are included alongside practical tips for seeing the northern lights. A favorite feature is the “northern lights selfie booth,” where visitors can take photos with a simulated aurora in the background.

6. Join Food and Drink Tours in Reykjavik in April

Joining a food tour is one of the best things to do in Reykjavik in April. These tours let you taste Icelandic dishes while walking between restaurants with a local guide. You can focus on street food, seafood, sweets, or traditional meals, and there are also beer and distillery tours for travelers who want to try local drinks.

Here are some top-rated options:

• Reykjavik Food Walk: Visit a mix of restaurants and cafes for Icelandic lamb, seafood, and hot dogs. A popular introduction to local cuisine.

• Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour: Similar to the previous tour, but it includes hakarl (fermented shark), a traditional dish many visitors are curious about.

• Reykjavik Beer Tour: Sample craft beers at local bars and breweries during an evening walk.

• Private Traditional Icelandic Food Tour: A private option where you set the pace and enjoy a more intimate food experience.

• Icelandic Sweet Tooth Tour: For dessert lovers, with tastings of pastries, chocolates, and candy.

5. Attend Festivals and Events in April in Reykjavik

Here are the main festivals and events in Reykjavik in April that you should know about:

• Easter in Reykjavik: Easter is a festive time in Iceland. Locals celebrate with Paskaegg, large chocolate eggs filled with candy and a message inside, sold in supermarkets and bakeries. Travelers should expect closures during the holidays, though supermarkets and some restaurants usually stay open.

• First Day of Summer Parade in Reykjavik: Celebrated on the first Thursday after April 18, this parade marks the start of summer on Iceland’s traditional calendar. In Reykjavik, brass bands march through the city center, and families gather for this unique seasonal tradition.

• Stockfish Film Festival in Reykjavik: Taking place in late March or early April, this international festival showcases independent and arthouse films, many with English subtitles. Screenings and Q&A sessions bring visitors into Iceland’s cinema scene.

• Reykjavik Children’s Culture Festival: This family-friendly event in April features workshops, performances, and interactive activities across the city. While designed for children, many events are enjoyable for adults too.

4. Go Whale Watching in Reykjavik

April is one of the best months for whale watching in Reykjavik. Longer daylight hours mean more time at sea, and more marine life gathers in Faxafloi Bay, giving you a higher chance of sightings compared to winter. Tours depart directly from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, so it’s an easy activity to add to your trip without extra travel.

The most common whales seen in Reykjavik in April are minke whales and humpback whales. Harbor porpoises and white-beaked dolphins are also regular sightings. As spring brings richer feeding grounds, sightings are more frequent than in the winter months.

By mid-April, puffins return to nest on nearby islands, and you can join a tour that combines whale watching with puffin spotting from Reykjavik. You may also see seabirds such as guillemots, gannets, and kittiwakes along the bay.

Whale Watching Tours From Reykjavik in April

Reykjavik has many whale watching tours in April, all leaving from the Old Harbor. Boats range from large vessels with indoor seating to smaller yachts and fast RIB boats.

Here are some of the best options:

• Classic Whale Watching Tour: The standard 3-hour tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor. Includes warm overalls and a free rebooking if no whales are seen.

• Horse Riding and Whale Watching Tour: Combine a morning ride on Icelandic horses with an afternoon whale watching trip from Reykjavik.

• Whale Watching and Northern Lights Combo Tour: Spend the day at sea spotting whales, then head out at night for an aurora chase.

• ATV and Whale Watching Adventure: Combine a morning ATV ride outside Reykjavik with an afternoon whale tour for a land-and-sea experience.

• Lava Tunnel and Whale Watching Tour: Visit a volcanic lava tube in the morning and head to the bay for whale watching in the afternoon.

3. Relax in Reykjavik’s Pools and Nearby Hot Springs in April

Soaking in hot water is one of the most relaxing things to do in Reykjavik in April. Swimming pools and hot springs are part of daily life in Iceland, where locals use them to meet friends and unwind. Public pools are affordable and family-friendly, while spas and hot springs offer more luxurious settings.

April is a comfortable month to enjoy this tradition. The cool air makes the hot water feel even better, and longer daylight hours let you soak outdoors well into the evening. Remember that Icelandic pools have strict rules: you must shower without a swimsuit before entering.

Blue Lagoon Day Trip in April

The Blue Lagoon is the country’s most famous geothermal spa and one of Iceland’s most iconic attractions. Its milky-blue water sits in a black lava field, creating a surreal landscape you won’t find anywhere else. Steam rises from the surface, and the minerals in the water leave your skin feeling soft after a soak.

Entry to the Blue Lagoon in April is especially comfortable. The cool spring air makes the hot water feel even warmer, and daylight lasts late into the evening. You can float with a silica face mask, order a drink at the swim-up bar, or try the on-site restaurants and luxury spa treatments.

Many travelers choose to visit on their way to or from the airport, since it is only 45 minutes from Reykjavik and close to Keflavik International Airport. Tickets must be booked in advance, as walk-ins are not allowed.

Sky Lagoon in April

A Sky Lagoon ticket grants you access to a modern geothermal spa, designed to feel close to nature even though it’s about 15 minutes from Reykjavik. The infinity pool stretches toward the Atlantic Ocean, so you can float while looking at open sea views and distant mountains.

The highlight of the Sky Lagoon is the seven-step ritual. You move between hot and cold pools, a sauna with floor-to-ceiling ocean windows, a cold mist room, and a steam bath. The cycle leaves you refreshed and turns a simple soak into a full wellness experience.

Hvammsvik Hot Springs in April

A ticket to the Hvammsvik Hot Springs offers one of the most scenic geothermal experiences near Reykjavik. Located about 45 minutes from the city, the resort sits in a quiet fjord surrounded by mountains, with pools built right into the shoreline.

In April, the Hvammsvik Hot Spring is especially peaceful. The fjord often feels empty, with only birds and the sound of waves in the background. The changing spring light shifts quickly, moving from golden sunsets to long blue evenings, which makes the views unforgettable.

Laugardalslaug Swimming Pool in April

Laugardalslaug is Reykjavik’s largest public swimming pool and one of the best places to experience local bathing culture. The outdoor pools are heated, and there are several hot tubs, a steam bath, and even a small waterslide. In April, you can swim outside while the air is still crisp, which makes the hot tubs especially inviting.

2. Take the Best Day Trips From Reykjavik in April

The best day trips from Reykjavik in April let you see Iceland’s dramatic landscapes without the summer crowds. Longer daylight hours and easier road conditions make it possible to visit waterfalls, geysers, volcanoes, and coastal cliffs in a single day.

Popular routes include the Golden Circle, the South Coast, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Each offers unique natural sights that are especially striking in April, from powerful waterfalls fueled by snowmelt to steaming geothermal fields and fresh volcanic terrain.

Here are the top day trip options:

• Minibus Golden Circle Tour: A small-group minibus tour offering flexible stops and comfortable travel to Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir Geothermal Area.

• South Coast Full Day Tour by Minibus: Covers the best attractions like Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Skogafoss Waterfall, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

• Reykjanes Active Volcano and Blue Lagoon Tour: Visit a volcanic eruption site in Reykjanes and end the day in the Blue Lagoon.

• Snaefellsnes Peninsula Bus Tour: A full-day tour across the peninsula, which includes the Djupalonssandur Beach, Mt. Kirkjufell, and charming towns of Hellnar and Arnarstapi.

1. See the Northern Lights in Reykjavik in April

Yes, you can see the northern lights in Reykjavik in April, but only during the first half of the month. By mid-April, the nights are too bright for reliable viewing. If seeing the aurora is a priority, visit in early April and allow several nights, since clear skies and solar activity are both needed.

The best places to see the northern lights in Reykjavik are Grotta Lighthouse, Oskjuhlid Hill, and Klambratun Park. These areas are darker than the city center and give you a clearer view of the night sky. Plan your outing between 10 PM and 1 AM. Always check the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s aurora forecast for activity levels and cloud cover.

Northern Lights Tours From Reykjavik in April

Joining a guided northern lights tour from Reykjavik is one of the most reliable ways to see the aurora in April. Many tours leave from the capital in the evening and head to darker areas where conditions are better. Most include free rebooking if the lights do not appear.

Here are some of the best options:

• Northern Lights Bus Tour: An affordable tour that takes you out of Reykjavik to the countryside for a classic aurora hunt.

• Northern Lights Tour by Boat: Cruise into Faxafloi Bay and watch the lights from the sea, away from city lights. The skyline of Reykjavik adds a unique backdrop if the aurora appears.

• Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour: A small-group adventure in a 4x4 super jeep. The driver can access rougher tracks and more remote viewing spots.

• Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour: A full-day experience that covers Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir Geothermal Area during the day, then ends with a northern lights chase in the evening.

• South Coast & Northern Lights Tour: Combine South Coast highlights such as Skogafoss Waterfall, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, and Reynisfjara Beach with an evening northern lights hunt before heading back to Reykjavik.

Practical Travel Tips for April in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is easy to explore in April, but planning ahead makes your trip smoother. The city is walkable, day trips are popular, and conditions improve compared to winter. Here are the most useful tips for first-time visitors:

• How many days to stay: 4 to 5 days if you want to explore Reykjavik and take day trips to the Golden Circle, South Coast, or Blue Lagoon. A shorter 1 to 2-day stay works if you plan to focus only on the city.

• Best area to stay: Downtown Reykjavik is the most convenient base. You can walk to landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja and Harpa, enjoy the city’s cafes and shops, and join most tours that pick up from central hotels or bus stops in Reykjavik. Staying downtown is more expensive, but you save time and transport costs.

• Transport and driving: Reykjavik itself is walkable, and local buses cover the rest of the city. For day trips, you can opt for rental cars or join guided tours.

• Packing list: Bring layers, starting with a thermal base, then a fleece or sweater, and a waterproof outer jacket. Sturdy waterproof boots are useful for wet or icy ground. Accessories like gloves, a scarf, and a hat help with the wind. A swimsuit and a quick-dry towel are essential for hot spring and public pool visits.

• Currency and discounts: The currency is the Icelandic Krona (ISK). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, so you rarely need much cash. Tourists can claim VAT refunds on purchases over a set amount, which is easiest to process at the airport before departure.

• Internet: Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and even buses. Mobile data is reliable across most of Iceland, so buying a local SIM or using roaming works well.

• Language: Nearly everyone in Reykjavik speaks English, but learning a simple greeting like takk (“thank you”) is appreciated.

FAQs About Reykjavik in April

Here are answers to the most common questions travelers ask when planning a trip to Reykjavik in April.

Is April a good time to visit Reykjavik?

Yes. April is a good month to visit Reykjavik because it combines lighter crowds with longer daylight hours. Roads are easier to drive compared to winter, and you still have a chance to see the northern lights early in the month.

Can you see the northern lights in Reykjavik in April?

You can sometimes see the northern lights in early April on clear nights. By late April, daylight hours are too long for sightings. Evening tours outside Reykjavik give the best chance.

What is the weather like in Reykjavik in April?

Average temperatures are 32 F to 45 F (0 C to 7 C). Expect rain showers, coastal winds, and occasional icy mornings. The month is a transition from winter to spring, and melting snow makes April the start of waterfall season.

How many hours of daylight are there in Reykjavik in April?

Around 13.5 hours at the start of the month and nearly 17 hours at the end. Early April sunrise is about 6:45 AM with sunset at 8:15 PM; by late April, sunrise is near 5:00 AM and sunset is after 10:00 PM.

Can you go whale watching in Reykjavik in April?

Yes. Whale watching tours leave daily from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor in April. You may see minke whales, humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and even puffins arriving from mid-April.

What to pack for Reykjavik in April?

Bring layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy waterproof boots, and warm accessories like gloves and hats. A swimsuit is essential for hot springs and public pools.

Are there festivals or events in Reykjavik in April?

Yes. Reykjavik April events include Easter, the First Day of Summer Parade, the Stockfish Film Festival, and the Children’s Culture Festival.

Is Reykjavik expensive in April?

Yes, Reykjavik is generally expensive year-round. You can save by eating at bakeries or supermarkets, using VAT refunds for shopping, and booking tours early for better deals.

Is April a good time to drive in Iceland?

Driving in April is easier than in winter, but icy patches can still appear in the mornings, especially outside the city. Always check the road conditions before starting a trip.

Make the Most of the Things To Do in Reykjavik in April

April gives you the best of both seasons in Reykjavik. Early in the month, you may still glimpse the northern lights, while longer daylight hours let you enjoy landmarks, museums, and day trips without rushing.

Fewer crowds and easier travel conditions make April an ideal time to explore. You can stroll through colorful downtown streets, relax in geothermal pools, and join excursions along the Golden Circle or South Coast. Each experience shows a different side of Reykjavik in April, giving you plenty of reasons to visit during this unique time of year.

Have you visited Reykjavik in April, or are you looking forward to a spring trip soon? Share your experiences or plans below!