Browsing October tours is the best way to see just how dynamic an autumn vacation in Iceland can be with Reykjavik as your base. Mornings can start with strolls in the city, afternoons exploring crystal blue ice caves, and nights chasing the northern lights.
Visiting Iceland in October means stepping into a season of striking contrasts. The weather is crisp but generally milder than in midwinter. With ice caving adventures resuming and northern lights tours picking up across the country, late fall in Iceland invites you to embrace comfort with a twist.
If you love warmth against the cold and find beauty in the offbeat, October in Reykjavik will feel like home. This guide to the top things to do in Reykjavik in October offers everything you need to make the most of your visit.
Why Visit Reykjavik in October
For travelers looking to experience Reykjavik at its autumn peak, here are some key reasons for visiting in October:
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Smaller crowds make popular attractions, tours, and local hotspots more accessible and enjoyable.
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Seasonal Icelandic cuisine, from hearty lamb soups to freshly baked cinnamon buns, is at its most flavorful.
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Museums, galleries, and annual festivals showcase Reykjavik’s creative and cultural vibrancy.
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The soft autumn light enhances Golden Circle tours, coastal walks, and glacier hikes, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
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Longer nights increase the likelihood of spotting the northern lights.
From vibrant street art to magical northern lights, these are the 15 best things to do in Reykjavik in October. Many activities include helpful videos, plus links for further reading or conveniently booking tours and experiences.
15. Explore Reykjavik’s Street Art
Graffiti and street art in Reykjavik bring the city’s walls to life, brightening grey October days with color and creativity. As a perfect introduction to the best things to do in Reykjavik in October, these works set the tone for a city full of surprises.
While much of the art can be found along Laugavegur Street, you’ll also spot striking works near the Old Harbor, in the Grandi District, and scattered across quiet side streets where you least expect them. If you want more context, you can book a Reykjavik street art walking tour with a local guide who will share the stories behind the works and the artists who created them.
14. Browse Bookstores, Records, and Flea Markets
October is made for browsing indoors, and some of the best shops in Reykjavik are its bookstores, record stores, and flea market. You can browse new titles and sip coffee at Eymundsson, or flip through vinyl at Lucky Records, both perfect for slow October afternoons.
On weekends, wander Kolaportid Flea Market, where locals shop for wool sweaters, vintage finds, and quirky Icelandic snacks. It’s a great place to find unique Icelandic souvenirs, and it’s the kind of cozy, relaxed exploring that matches the city’s autumn mood.
13. Warm Up in Reykjavik Cafes
Many of the top cafes in Reykjavik are perfect for escaping the October chill and soaking up the city’s cozy, ever-changing atmosphere.
Hus Mál og Menningar and Prikið change throughout the day from quiet morning spots for coffee and reading to lively evenings with live bands or DJs. Kattakaffihúsið is home to friendly resident cats, and Café Babalú enchants with its eclectic, colorful decor and hammocks. At Te & Kaffi, visitors can enjoy expertly brewed coffee or tea while watching the city drift by.
These spots capture the warmth and charm that make Reykjavik in October so memorable.
12. Taste the Flavors of October
October in Reykjavik is a season for warming comfort foods and seasonal flavors that make the chilly days feel inviting.
Savor hearty Icelandic lamb soup, freshly baked cinnamon buns, or sample craft beers infused with autumn spices. Seafood lovers will find fresh catches like cod and langoustine on menus, and visitors can experience these tastes up close on a popular Reykjavik food walk tour.
Many affordable places to eat in Reykjavik also serve these autumn classics, making it easy to enjoy local flavors without stretching your budget.
11. Visit Reykjavik’s Most Unique Museums
Some of the best museums in Reykjavik are also the most unusual, making October a perfect time to explore indoors.
The Icelandic Phallological Museum offers a quirky glimpse into anatomy with specimens from various mammals, while the Icelandic Punk Museum, housed in a former public toilet, celebrates Iceland’s rebellious music scene. For a more interactive experience, book tickets to Perlan’s Wonders of Iceland, which includes a real indoor ice cave and panoramic city views.
10. Join a Ghost or Folklore Walk
For travelers who love a little spooky adventure, October is the best time to join a guided ghost and folklore walking tour in Reykjavik, which shares tales of elves, hidden folk, spirits, and historical oddities. It’s a cozy and thrilling way to learn more about Icelandic folklore and experience Reykjavik from a different, enchanting perspective.
9. Celebrate Halloween in Reykjavik’s Top Bars
Many of the best bars in Reykjavik offer playful, slightly spooky experiences on Halloween. From quirky LGBTQIA-friendly bars to atmospheric pubs, revelers can enjoy an evening of costumes, laughter, and music, all while soaking up the city’s offbeat charm.
Celebrating Halloween this way gives travelers a memorable, festive taste of Reykjavik after dark. Don’t miss it when looking for unique things to do in Reykjavik in October.
8. Experience Reykjavik Festivals
October brings a lively cultural energy to Reykjavik with annual festivals celebrating music, film, and art. Among the most anticipated is the Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF), one of the top film festivals in Iceland. It usually runs from late September to early October and showcases independent films in unique venues across the city.
Another highlight is the Sequences Art Festival, which focuses on cutting-edge contemporary art and draws international artists to Reykjavik every two years. The FAR Fest Afríka Reykjavík, which fills the city with the sounds and rhythms of African music and dance. If you’re looking for something edgier, Reykjavik Deathfest brings together metal bands from around the world in the intimate venue of IÐNÓ.
7. Watch World-Class Performances
With many of Iceland’s best venues for live music and performances located in Reykjavik, October becomes a standout month for cultural events.
The stunning Eldborg Hall at Harpa Concert Hall will host the Grand Kyiv Ballet, performing Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake on October 18 and 19, 2025.
Throughout the month, you can feel “Spectacular, Spectacular” when Moulin Rouge! The Musical takes the stage at Reykjavik City Theatre.
Opera Days also brings intimate performances of classical and contemporary works to unique venues across the city, adding to Reykjavik’s rich cultural offerings in autumn.
6. Relax in Pools and Saunas
October’s crisp air makes soaking in hot water especially inviting. For many locals, that means visiting some of the best swimming pools in Reykjavik. These heated pools, typically around 80°F–86°F (27°C–30°C), are perfect for warming up while watching steam rise into the cool autumn air.
Try Sundholl Reykjavikur, a historic pool with traditional saunas, or Laugardalslaug, the city’s largest complex with multiple saunas, hot tubs, and outdoor pools. For a more luxurious experience, visit one of the top day spas and spa hotels in Reykjavik. Sky Lagoon is a top choice, which offers an infinity-edge pool and ocean-view sauna.
5. Get Inspired by Local Stories
October in Reykjavik is also about community, awareness, and voices that inspire. Art Without Borders highlights creative work by disabled artists. There’s also TEDxReykjavík Women 2025, an event that brings together local and international speakers to share powerful stories and ideas. Even if tickets sell out, the talks are later made available online, so everyone can take part in the conversation.
During this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, landmarks across Reykjavik glow in pink. Individuals and businesses show solidarity by wearing pink and participating in Pink Ribbon Day. This citywide effort highlights Reykjavik’s spirit of empathy and resilience, offering travelers a chance to connect with the community on a deeper level.
4. Witness the Imagine Peace Tower Light Up
From October 9 to December 8, Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower shines as a column of light into the night sky from Videy Island. The tower, a tribute to peace and hope, is visible from the city’s waterfront and the light itself can be seen from miles away.
On crisp October evenings, its beam casts a serene, almost otherworldly glow as it cuts through the darkening sky. As the world’s only Imagine Peace Tower, it ranks among the best things to do in Reykjavik in October for music fans and those inspired by peace. You can admire it from the shore or join a combined whale-watching and Imagine Peace Tower tour for a closer view.
2. Go Whale Watching
October is still a good month for whale watching in Reykjavik, just off the city’s coast. Minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and porpoises are often visible on tours from the Old Harbor. The seas are colder and rougher than in summer, but the smaller crowds make for a more intimate experience. Also, guided whale-watching tours in Iceland feature knowledgeable staff who share insights about local marine life and add context to the adventure.
1. Chase the Northern Lights
A list of the best things to do in Reykjavik in October won’t be complete without chasing the northern lights, which mark the beginning of the prime aurora season in Iceland.
Long nights and clear skies often allow visitors to see the northern lights in Reykjavik, shimmering green and purple across the horizon. While you can sometimes spot the lights from the city itself, joining guided northern lights tours increases your chances and provides insights into the science and folklore behind this magical phenomenon.
Reykjavik in October Guide: FAQs for Travelers
Planning a trip to Reykjavik in October comes with unique opportunities and questions. From weather and packing tips to seasonal activities, these FAQs cover everything you need to know for an unforgettable visit.
What is the weather like in Reykjavik in October?
October in Reykjavik is crisp and often unpredictable. Average daytime temperatures range from 4°C to 7°C (39°F–45°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 3°C (32°F–37°F). Expect a mix of rainy, windy, and occasionally sunny days. You can monitor local weather using websites like the Icelandic Meteorological Office or weather apps to plan outdoor activities and maximize chances of seeing the northern lights.
Is Reykjavik cheap in October?
October is considered shoulder season in Iceland, so prices for hotels and accommodations in Reykjavik, including some tours, may be lower than in summer. Dining out and attractions can still be pricey compared to other European cities, but budget-friendly options exist, such as casual cafés, street food, food halls, and smaller museums.
Can you see the northern lights in Reykjavik in October?
Yes, October marks the start of the northern lights season in Iceland. Clear, dark skies increase your chances of seeing the aurora. You can check the aurora forecast to plan the best nights for viewing. While sometimes visible from the city, guided northern lights tours in Iceland offer the best opportunities and provide context about the science and folklore behind this magical phenomenon.
Can you see whales in Reykjavik in October?
Yes. Whale-watching tours operate year-round, and in October, you can often spot minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and porpoises. The seas are colder and rougher than in summer, but smaller crowds make for a more intimate experience. For detailed tips, routes, and what to expect, check out the ultimate guide to whale-watching in Iceland.
Can you see puffins in October in Reykjavik?
No, the puffin season in Iceland typically ends in August. By October, puffins have migrated to warmer waters, so they are not visible in Reykjavik during this month. However, other seabirds, such as Arctic terns, guillemots, and gulls, can still be seen around the coastline and harbor areas.
Birdwatchers may also spot migratory species passing through during autumn and can consult our complete guide to birds in Iceland for tips on the best places and times to see them.
What should I pack for a trip to Reykjavik in October?
For a comfortable trip to Reykjavik in October, pack layers to stay warm and dry. Essential items include a waterproof and windproof jacket, sweaters, scarves, gloves, hats, and sturdy waterproof shoes for wet sidewalks and coastal walks. Don’t forget a camera for northern lights sightings and comfortable clothing for indoor activities like cafés, museums, and thermal pools.
You can also refer to our article on what to wear in Iceland for a complete seasonal packing guide.
Discover Iceland’s Wonders from Reykjavik This October
The best things to do in Reykjavik in October are just the start of an unforgettable autumn adventure. To enjoy the full range of what Iceland in fall has to offer, plan your days in Reykjavik and beyond.
City breaks in Reykjavik provide ample opportunities to explore waterfalls, geysers, and glaciers under the soft autumn light. Golden Circle tours are among the most popular day trips from Reykjavik and shouldn’t be missed. Glacier hikes offer an unforgettable experience across icy landscapes with expert guides, perfect for adventurers.
For travelers who want to explore beyond the typical day trips, self-driving tours are an excellent option. Driving in Iceland in October offers a unique way to experience the country, moving between Reykjavik, geothermal areas, and breathtaking natural landmarks at your own pace. These trips let you enjoy the best things to see and do in Iceland while soaking in the golden autumn light and crisp fall air.
October in Iceland promises surprises at every turn. Begin planning your trip and discover both the comfort and the wild beauty of Iceland.
Which of these are you planning to try on your Reykjavik trip this October? If you’ve been to Iceland in the fall, did we miss any experiences that should be added to this list of things to do in Reykjavik in October? Share your thoughts in the comments!
