Learn more about the best indoor things to do in Reykjavik and turn any rainy day into a memorable part of your trip. The city’s museums, galleries, spas, and cafes reveal Iceland’s creative heart, offering comfort and culture no matter what the weather brings.
Many travelers use the capital as a base before joining tours in Reykjavik, but there’s no need to wait for sunshine to enjoy the city itself. When the clouds roll in, explore the city’s indoor scene, visit art exhibitions, browse local shops, or plan your next self-drive adventures with a rental car.
If you’d rather slow down, there are countless ways to relax without stepping outside. From stylish hotels to modern apartments, accommodation in Iceland offers comfort and warmth after a day of exploring. Travelers who love to save on tours and rentals can also join the Iceland VIP Club for exclusive discounts and special offers during their stay.
Rainy days in Reykjavik are not a setback. They’re an invitation to experience the city from a different perspective. Indoors, you’ll find creativity, culture, and connection in every corner.
Key Takeaways
Rainy days in Reykjavik create the perfect opportunity to explore the city’s indoor attractions.
Top experiences include visiting museums, art galleries, and exhibitions that highlight Iceland’s culture and creativity.
Locals love spending time in cozy cafes, bakeries, and indoor pools that combine relaxation with authentic Icelandic life.
Harpa Concert Hall, Whales of Iceland, and Bio Paradis stand out as must-visit landmarks for indoor culture and entertainment.
Shoppers can enjoy Kringlan, Smaralind, and Laugavegur Street for Icelandic design, crafts, and warm spaces to browse.
From live concerts to spa visits, Reykjavik offers endless indoor activities that make every day enjoyable, rain or shine.
What to Know About Indoor Experiences in Reykjavik
Reykjavik’s charm doesn’t fade when the weather turns wild, as it simply moves indoors. The city has mastered the art of staying cozy, offering countless ways to enjoy yourself without stepping into the rain.
Cultural tours, geothermal pools, cafes, and creative venues become the heartbeat of the city when the skies turn gray.
You’ll quickly notice how locals embrace the weather rather than fight it. On any given day, people gather in steamy pools, meet friends over strong coffee, or spend hours exploring art galleries in Reykjavik and boutique shops. These everyday rituals reflect the Icelandic way of life, warm, creative, and centered around community.
Even in midwinter, Reykjavik feels bright and welcoming. Thanks to clean geothermal heat, every building glows with warmth, and indoor spaces feel like small havens against the elements. For visitors, it means that even a rainy day can become one of the most memorable parts of your trip.
Top 11 Indoor Activities to Enjoy in Reykjavik
Reykjavik has a way of making gray skies feel golden. When the weather changes, life in the city moves indoors to cozy cafes, warm pools, and lively cultural places. The smell of fresh coffee fills the air downtown, music plays softly in local bars, and art galleries shine with light while the rain falls outside.
Here are the top 11 indoor things to do in Reykjavik that show the city’s true warmth and creativity, no matter the weather.
11. Take a Wool Workshop
When rain sweeps across Reykjavik, step indoors and experience one of Iceland’s most comforting traditions. Local studios and craft spaces invite visitors to learn the art of working with Icelandic lopi, a soft wool that has kept Icelanders warm for generations.
You can join small workshops in knitting, weaving, or felting, led by artisans who share stories about Icelandic life and culture. These sessions offer a relaxed way to connect with locals and enjoy a creative break from sightseeing.
For a fun twist, try the private wool monster workshop in Gardabaer, a short drive from Reykjavik. It’s a playful experience where you can craft your own Icelandic creature while discovering how folklore and craftsmanship blend in this cozy tradition.
10. Go See a Movie (Like a Local)
Watching a film is a classic way to spend a rainy day in Reykjavik and one of the most authentic local experiences you can have. The city’s movie scene is lively, affordable, and loved by residents who often head to the cinema to unwind after work or on weekends.
Most films are screened in their original language with Icelandic subtitles, so you can easily follow along. Movie screenings here also include a short intermission, a nostalgic touch that adds to the relaxed, community feel of Icelandic cinema culture.
You’ll find several great cinemas across the capital region. Laugarasbio, near Sundahofn Harbor, is a local favorite showing the latest international films. Sambio also has multiple branches, with the one inside Kringlan Shopping Mall being the easiest to reach from downtown.
For a larger, more modern experience, head to Smarabio inside Smaralind Shopping Mall in Kopavogur. Those seeking something more intimate can visit Bio Paradis on Hverfisgata Street in downtown Reykjavik, an arthouse cinema that screens Icelandic and international films in a cozy setting with its own small bar.
9. Play Darts in Reykjavik’s Game Bars
Rainy days are perfect for gathering friends or family for a game of darts at one of the city’s lively bars. This mix of social gaming, good food, and drinks is perfect for a cozy indoor day.
You can go to Oche Reykjavik or Bullseye Reykjavik. These venues give you the chance to test your aim, enjoy good company, and stay entertained indoors.
Oche (pronounced ockey) is an all-in-one playground on the top floor of Kringlan Mall in Reykjavik. Here, you’ll find 15 high-tech dart booths, shuffleboard tables, and even private karaoke rooms. You can throw darts, enjoy pizzas, burgers, and cocktails delivered to your booth, or try shuffleboard and private karaoke rooms.
Meanwhile, Bullseye Reykjavik takes things to another level as the largest darts bar in the world. With more than 40 dartboards spread across three floors, it’s a dream for big groups. Its “Blue Hall,” open on weekends, has 24 boards, plus party game modes, sports on screen, and plenty of beer and bar food to round out the experience.
You can also spot dartboards in many of Reykjavik’s best bars. In these places, darts are more of a side activity than the main event, adding to the fun of a night out. It’s one of the more relaxed indoor things to do in Reykjavik, perfect for enjoying the game while exploring the city’s nightlife.
8. Catch an Icelandic Show
When the weather turns stormy, one of the best indoor things to do in Reykjavik is to explore the city’s thriving entertainment scene. Reykjavik’s nightlife stays alive no matter the forecast, with cozy venues that offer comedy, live music, and fun social events throughout the week.
On any given night, you might wander into a comedy club, a drag show, a pub quiz, or even a rowdy karaoke session. It’s a quirky, lively way to mingle with locals and get a taste of Reykjavik’s after-dark energy.
A hotspot for laughs is Gaukurinn, which hosts regular stand-up nights and other weekly events. Gaukurinn is a versatile venue: one night a metal concert, the next a drag show or open-mic comedy hour.
Speaking of drag shows, Reykjavik’s drag scene has exploded in recent years. Places like Kiki Queer Bar, the city’s main gay club, and Gaukurinn regularly host fabulous drag performances that are welcoming to all.
It’s a joy to watch talented drag kings and queens lip-sync and dance the night away, a rainbow-colored antidote to grey skies.
For something interactive, join a pub quiz (trivia night). Icelanders love their pub quizzes, and you’ll find them at bars like Lebowski Bar on various nights.
Finally, don’t underestimate the entertainment value of karaoke on a stormy night. Reykjavik has a few karaoke bars, such as Elly Bar, which offers sessions every Friday and Saturday and sing-alongs on Wednesdays, or Prikid, which sometimes offers late-night sessions.
Oche also has private karaoke rooms if you’re traveling with a group of friends and want to sing in your own circle. Belting out “Bohemian Rhapsody” while the rain in Reykjavik pounds the roof can be surprisingly therapeutic!
7. Catch Reykjavik’s Live Concert
Reykjavik’s live music scene is diverse and full of energy. No matter the weather, the city’s bars and venues come alive with local talent and visiting artists who fill the night with rhythm and warmth. Music is central to Icelandic culture, and there’s always something to enjoy.
For an intimate vibe, pop into venues like Lemmy or Iðnó. They often host bands and artist showcases ranging from indie rock to jazz. Most bar shows are free or come with only a small cover charge.
Among the best indoor things to do in Reykjavik is discovering live performances at local hangouts like Kex Hostel or Loft Hostel. These spots often host acoustic nights and singer-songwriter sessions that pair perfectly with coffee or craft beer while the weather rages outside.
For bigger acts and a unique setting, check what’s on at Harpa Concert Hall. Home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra, Harpa also hosts classical concerts, pop and rock shows, and special events throughout the year. Check out the Harpan schedule to see what’s going on during your visit.
Even if you don’t usually listen to classical music, hearing a symphony while rain hits Harpa’s glass facade can feel magical. Fans of contemporary music can also catch concerts by famous Icelandic artists like Björk or Sigur Rós side projects, as well as international touring bands.
Don’t forget Iceland’s rich folk and indie scene. You might catch an impromptu jam in a bar or even hear a choir singing in a church. Spots like ÆGIR 101 on Laugavegur Street even have folk-music sessions, where you can enjoy traditional Icelandic music, food, and drinks.
So grab a friend or make a new one and head out for a night of live music. These concerts are some of the best indoor activities in Reykjavik, offering warmth, energy, and the chance to discover a new favorite band.
6. Visit Harpa Concert Hall
One of the most impressive indoor things to do in Reykjavik is stepping inside Harpa Concert Hall, the city’s striking glass landmark by the harbor. Its multicolored facade glows even through rain and fog, turning gloomy days into something magical.
Stepping inside Harpa on a gloomy day is like entering a geode. The angular glass panels, inspired by basalt columns, reflect light in all directions, surrounding you in a kaleidoscope of color. And the best part? It’s free to wander inside, warm and dry.
Spend some time exploring Harpa’s interior spaces. Walk up the sweeping staircases, check out the harbor views through the geometric facade, and snap some photos. Harpa is an Instagrammer’s dream on a rainy day, with dramatic lighting that feels just right.
It’s home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra, among other institutions. If you plan ahead or even check last-minute, you might score tickets to a concert, opera, or one of the many events hosted here, from rock shows to conferences.
But even without attending a performance, it’s worth spending time inside Harpa. Relax in the ground-floor restaurant, find Icelandic design in the Rammagerdin store, and gaze at rain-lashed boats in the harbor. Kids will love the open space, which beats being stuck in a hotel room.
If you’d like to pair culture with adventure, visit the Volcano Express at Harpa. This virtual reality show takes you inside an immersive screening of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes. Tickets are available here.
Fun fact: Harpa’s distinctive glass design was partly created by Ólafur Elíasson, a renowned Icelandic-Danish artist. The building has won numerous architecture awards and even had a cameo in the Netflix series Black Mirror. So you’re literally walking inside a work of art.
5. Dive into the Whales of Iceland Exhibition
If rough seas lead to whale watching trips being canceled, visit the Whales of Iceland exhibition in Reykjavik’s Grandi Harbor. It’s a fantastic option for what to do in Reykjavik when it rains, since everything happens indoors in an immersive, museum-like setting.
This indoor museum features 23 life-size whale models, including a blue whale you can walk beneath. Immersive lighting and sounds recreate the calm, dark ocean depths as you wander among them.
Daily guided tours by knowledgeable staff are available and included with admission, usually in English at 11:00 and 15:00. There’s even a cozy cafe on-site (the Big Little Whale Cafe), so you can grab a coffee or hot chocolate and a whale-themed treat after your tour.
Whales of Iceland is just a 15–20 minute walk from the city center, in the trendy Grandi district, and accessible by public bus. A stroll along the harbor (when the rain lets up) will get you there, or you can hop on a city bus for a couple of stops – there’s free parking if you drive.
You can book your Whales of Iceland tickets here in advance. This is especially useful on a stormy day, as you can secure a time and avoid any queue.
4. Go Swimming Like a Local
Swimming is one of Iceland’s favorite pastimes, and it’s also one of the best indoor things to do in Reykjavik when the weather turns cold or rainy. Locals visit their neighborhood pools year-round to exercise, relax, and catch up with friends.
The oldest and most iconic pool in the capital is Sundholl Reykjavikur, located right in the city center. Its Art Deco architecture dates back to the 1930s, and it offers indoor and outdoor hot tubs, steam rooms, and a relaxing sauna. The atmosphere is calm and authentic, far from the tourist crowds.
Another popular choice is Laugardalslaug, Reykjavik’s largest public swimming pool. It features multiple hot tubs, a cold plunge, and a large indoor pool perfect for a few leisurely laps.
If you’d like to combine swimming with wellness, try Arbaejarlaug or Vesturbaejarlaug. These community favorites have warm indoor pools, soothing geothermal water, and friendly local crowds. They’re also close to cafes and walking paths, perfect for a cozy Reykjavik day.
For travelers who want to explore Iceland’s bathing culture beyond the capital, there are many relaxing geothermal spas in Iceland and hot spring tours that reveal how deeply rooted this tradition is. You can visit the world-famous Blue Lagoon or the newer Sky Lagoon for a luxurious twist on Icelandic bathing culture.
3. Explore Reykjavik’s Cozy Cafes & Bakeries
There’s nothing better than finding a warm cafe when it’s raining in Reykjavik. The city is full of cozy coffee houses and bakeries where you can sip a latte, share a pastry, and watch the streets glisten outside.
Start your cafe crawl at The Laundromat Cafe, a lively downtown spot filled with books, color, and chatter. It’s perfect for brunch or a long coffee break on a grey afternoon. Another local favorite is Te & Kaffi, one of the oldest and most popular cafes in Reykjavik, known for its smooth espresso and cozy city vibe. It has multiple locations throughout the Capital Region.
For bakeries in Reykjavik, stop by Sandholt, a long-standing favorite on Laugavegur Street, where the smell of freshly baked bread fills the air. You can also visit BakaBaka, a stylish bakery-restaurant serving artisan breads, pastries, and comforting brunch dishes.
If you’re caught in a sudden downpour while exploring downtown, step into the Eymundsson bookstore on Austurstraeti Street. Its top floor has a cozy cafe surrounded by shelves of books, including a wide selection in English, making it the perfect place to wait out the weather.
Cafes and bakeries in Reykjavik are more than just places to refuel. They’re warm, social spaces that invite you to slow down and soak up local life. On a rainy day, a cozy corner, a strong coffee, and something sweet might be all you need.
2. Go for Indoor Shopping
Photo from Kronkron. No edits were made.
Rainy days are the perfect excuse to explore Reykjavik’s shops and boutiques. From stylish malls to cozy local stores, the city offers plenty of places where you can stay warm while discovering Icelandic fashion, design, and craftsmanship.
Kringlan Shopping Mall is one of the best places to browse under one roof, with more than 170 shops, cafes, and restaurants to choose from. You’ll find everything from outdoor gear and home decor to Icelandic brands and handmade gifts.
Laugavegur Street is lined with inviting indoor spaces that make shopping in Reykjavik enjoyable, even when the weather turns wet and windy. Many boutiques feature warm interiors and Icelandic-made products like woolen scarves, ceramics, and locally designed clothing.
For those who want an even bigger selection, Smaralind Mall in Kopavogur is Iceland’s largest shopping center. Strolling through its indoor walkways is one of the most enjoyable indoor things to do in Reykjavik, especially when the rain sets in.
Local craftsmanship shines in places like the Handknitting Association of Iceland, known for its handmade wool sweaters, and shops focused on Icelandic design, where ceramics, jewelry, and art pieces reflect the country’s natural beauty.
Shopping in Reykjavik isn’t just about finding souvenirs. It’s a comfortable way to experience the city’s creative side while staying warm and dry indoors.
1. Visit Museums & Exhibitions in Reykjavik
A rainy day is the perfect time to explore Reykjavik’s museums and exhibitions. The city is filled with fascinating indoor attractions that celebrate Iceland’s culture, art, and nature. Here are some of the best places to visit when you want to stay warm and dry:
Perlan – Wonders of Iceland: Inside a striking glass dome, you’ll find a walk-through ice cave, interactive volcano and glacier exhibits, and a planetarium that shows the northern lights in vivid detail.
National Museum of Iceland: A must-visit for anyone interested in Iceland’s past. The exhibits cover everything from Viking settlements to modern times, with artifacts that tell the story of the nation’s culture and development.
Adalstraeti and Settlement Exhibition: Built around the remains of a Viking-age longhouse, this underground museum lets you step back into the 9th century. Interactive displays make it especially engaging for visitors of all ages.
Saga Museum: Famous for its lifelike wax figures, this museum brings to life dramatic moments from the Icelandic sagas, Viking history, and medieval times. It’s both educational and entertaining for families.
Reykjavik Art Museum: Spread across three locations, this museum showcases Icelandic and international art, from classic works to modern installations. It’s a creative escape from the city’s chilly weather.
These museums are some of the most engaging indoor things to do in Reykjavik, offering everything from art and history to science and storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Indoor Things to Do in Reykjavik
To help you make the most of your time indoors, here are answers to some of the most common questions travelers ask.
What are the best indoor things to do in Reykjavik on a rainy day?
Some of the best indoor things to do in Reykjavik include visiting museums like Perlan and the National Museum of Iceland. You can also relax in local pools such as Sundholl Reykjavikur, where the water stays warm year-round. Cozy cafes, bakeries, and live music at Harpa Concert Hall add even more ways to enjoy the city indoors.
What’s the best place to relax indoors in Reykjavik?
For relaxation, locals love indoor pools such as Laugardalslaug or Sundholl Reykjavikur, both offering geothermal water, saunas, and hot tubs. You can also unwind at Sky Lagoon or visit a cozy cafe like Te & Kaffi for a quiet break.
Is there an indoor activity that’s great for families in Reykjavik?
Absolutely. Families enjoy the Whales of Iceland exhibition, with its life-size whale models and interactive lighting. Perlan’s Wonders of Iceland also offers a great experience with its walk-through ice cave and planetarium.
Where can I find live indoor entertainment in Reykjavik?
Reykjavik has a lively entertainment scene year-round. You can watch live concerts, comedy shows, drag performances, and pub quizzes at venues like Gaukurinn, Kiki Queer Bar, or Harpa Concert Hall.
Are there affordable indoor things to do in Reykjavik?
Yes. Many affordable options include watching a movie at Bio Paradis, visiting smaller art galleries, exploring free museum exhibits, or simply spending an afternoon at a cafe or darts bar.
Can you go swimming indoors in Reykjavik during winter?
Absolutely. Indoor swimming is part of daily life in Iceland, and the pools stay open all year. Locals frequent Laugardalslaug, Arbaejarlaug, and Sundholl Reykjavikur, all kept warm with geothermal energy.
Where can I shop indoors in Reykjavik?
For indoor shopping, head to Kringlan or Smaralind Mall for Icelandic fashion, design, and souvenirs. Laugavegur Street also has inviting boutiques where you can shop for handmade jewelry, ceramics, and wool products.
What cultural experiences can I enjoy indoors in Reykjavik?
You can explore Icelandic history at the Saga Museum, admire art at the Reykjavik Art Museum, or watch Icelandic documentaries at Bio Paradis. Each experience offers insight into the country’s art, storytelling, and creativity.
Should I book indoor activities in Reykjavik in advance?
It’s a good idea to book tickets for popular attractions such as Perlan, Whales of Iceland, and Harpa Concert Hall ahead of time, especially on rainy days. However, many smaller venues welcome walk-ins without reservations.
Embrace the Charm of Indoor Things to Do in Reykjavik
Exploring indoor things to do in Reykjavik is one of the best ways to experience the city’s heart, whatever the forecast. Rain or snow only adds to the atmosphere as you move between warm cafes, world-class museums, relaxing pools, and lively cultural venues.
Reykjavik proves that adventure doesn’t stop when the clouds roll in; it simply changes shape. Whether you spend the day at a concert or wandering through art galleries, you’ll feel the city’s creative energy everywhere. Enjoying a quiet coffee by candlelight shows that the city’s warmth shines brightest indoors.
Have you tried any of these activities during your visit? Share your favorite cozy spots or tips for enjoying Reykjavik on a rainy day in the comments below.