Reykjavík City Card

Unlock Reykjavik’s Cultural and Natural Treasures with the City Card

The Reykjavík City Card offers an appealing way to explore the Icelandic capital at your own pace. Priced at $39 per person, this flexible pass is valid from 1 to 3 days, making it ideal for short visits or extended stays. It grants free access to a wide selection of museums and galleries, all geothermal pools in Reykjavík, and unlimited bus travel within the city. Plus, it includes a ferry ride to Viðey Island, a highlight for those wanting to experience Reykjavik’s scenic surroundings.

This tour appeals especially to travelers eager to enjoy Reykjavík’s cultural scene and natural hot springs without the hassle of individual entry fees. While the card offers great value, note that geothermal pools outside the city, private museums, and some municipal galleries in surrounding areas are not included. Its ease of use and broad coverage make it a popular choice for those who want to make the most of their time in Iceland’s northernmost capital.

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Key Points

• Affordable price at $39 for up to 3 days of access
• Includes free entry to numerous museums, galleries, and the zoo
• Unlimited bus travel across Reykjavik city area for hassle-free movement
• Entry to 8 geothermal pools in the city
• Ferry ride to Viðey Island included with the card
• Discounts available for services, tours, and shops

Convenient Pick-Up at Multiple Reykjavik Locations

The Reykjavík City Card begins at one of several pick-up points, such as the Ásmundarsafn, Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or The Settlement Exhibition. Opening hours vary, but the process to swap a digital voucher for the physical card is straightforward. Travelers should plan to collect the card early in the day to maximize their time exploring Reykjavik’s attractions.

Once exchanged, the card grants instant access to all included locations and benefits. The activity ends back at the original meeting point, allowing flexible scheduling. The card is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.

Exploring Reykjavík’s Museums and Galleries

The museum lineup covered by the card features the National Museum of Iceland, The Settlement Exhibition, the Maritime Museum, and the National Gallery of Iceland. Each offers a unique glimpse into Iceland’s history, artwork, and maritime heritage. Notably, the Settlement Exhibition is praised for its engaging displays, and the National Museum offers a rundown of Icelandic culture.

The Reykjavík Art Museum is represented by three locations—Ásmundarsafn, Hafnarhús, and Kjarvalsstaðir—showcasing modern and contemporary art. The Culture House and Gerdarsafn Museum add further options for cultural exploration. Visitors can expect expertly curated exhibits, often with interactive elements, making museum visits both informative and enjoyable.

Enjoy Reykjavík’s Geothermal Pools

Access to all geothermal pools within Reykjavik is included in the card, offering opportunities for relaxation after a day of sightseeing. These pools feature thermal water, saunas, and sometimes even water slides. The pools are open with slightly different hours during weekdays and weekends, so planning ahead helps maximize their use.

The inclusion of 8 geothermal pools makes it easy to indulge in Iceland’s famous thermal bathing culture. The hottest pools, saunas, and relaxation areas provide a perfect break from walking around the city.

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The Ferry to Viðey Island: A Scenic Escape

A major perk of the Reykjavík City Card is the free ferry ride to Viðey Island. This peaceful island offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape, along with historical sites, art installations, and walking trails. The ferry runs regularly, and the ride itself provides a refreshing change of scenery from city streets.

Visitors can explore the island’s historic structures and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The ferry’s inclusion makes the card especially attractive for those looking to combine cultural activities with outdoor exploration.

Exceptional Value for Transit and Entry Fees

The unlimited bus travel is a standout feature, allowing easy movement across Reykjavík. Buses are well-integrated with Google Maps, facilitating efficient route planning. The bus system covers all major attractions, including museums, pools, and Viðey Island, making it simple to avoid walking long distances or relying on taxis.

The museum entries are free for those under 18, with small fees for children aged 6 and over when using buses, pools, or visiting family attractions like the zoo. The National Museum, Culture House, and National Gallery all offer 50% discounts for seniors aged 67+, adding further savings for older visitors.

Flexibility and Ease of Use

The card’s validity begins once you swap your digital voucher at a designated pickup point, opening the door for flexible planning. Valid for 1 to 3 days, the pass allows you to spread out activities across multiple days or concentrate them into a single packed day.

The easy-to-use system and clear transportation routes mean visitors can focus on exploring rather than logistics. Many reviews highlight how short waits for buses and multiple route options help optimize sightseeing plans.

Practical Tips for Maximizing the Card

To get the most out of the Reykjavík City Card, it’s advisable to pick up the card early in the day. Planning visits around museum opening hours and pool schedules enhances the experience. Since many museums and pools operate with different hours on weekends and weekdays, reviewing schedules beforehand helps avoid missed opportunities.

The ferry ride to Viðey is best scheduled during daylight hours, and combining it with visits to nearby attractions maximizes value. Using Google Maps for bus routes ensures smooth navigation, especially since some reviewers note the bus stops can be tricky to locate without a map.

Limitations and Considerations

While the card offers extensive access within Reykjavík, it does not include geothermal pools outside the city or privately owned museums and galleries in Reykjavík or surrounding municipalities. Travelers interested in out-of-town excursions or private museums should plan for additional tickets or tours.

The pickup locations are spread across the city, and some travelers find the hours of operation limited, particularly during holidays or special events. Also, admission fees for children ages 6 and older apply to pools and family attractions when purchased on-site, so budgeting for these extras is recommended.

Who Will Appreciate the Reykjavík City Card Most

This tour is perfect for cultural enthusiasts who want easy access to museums and galleries. It also suits families and budget travelers looking for value through bundled entry fees and transport. The ferry to Viðey adds a scenic touch, ideal for those wanting a break from museums.

Anyone planning to use public transportation extensively and visit multiple pools and attractions will find this card worthwhile. However, those mainly interested in outdoor adventures outside the city might need to purchase separate tickets for geothermal pools or tours outside Reykjavík.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Reykjavík City Card valid?
The card is valid for 1 to 3 days, depending on the option purchased. The validity period begins once you swap your digital voucher for the physical card at a designated pickup point.

What attractions are included in the Reykjavík City Card?
It includes free entry to 8 geothermal pools, several museums (including the National Museum of Iceland, Settlement Exhibition, Maritime Museum, and National Gallery), the Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park, and a ferry ride to Viðey Island. It also grants unlimited bus travel within Reykjavik.

Are there discounts for seniors or children?
Admission for children under 18 is free for museums, but fees apply at pools, bus rides, and family attractions. Seniors aged 67 and over receive 50% discounts on museum entries such as the National Museum, Culture House, and National Gallery.

Can I pick up the card at my hotel?
The card must be exchanged at specific pickup points such as Reykjavík Art Museum or City Museum locations. Some reviews mention it would be more convenient if available directly at hotels, but currently, you need to visit one of the designated spots.

What is the best way to use the bus system?
Buses are commonly used for transportation, with routes well-mapped via Google Maps. The bus drivers are helpful, but some travelers suggest using the Klapp bus app for better planning, especially since bus stops can be hard to find initially.

Is the Reykjavík City Card wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the card and bus system are wheelchair accessible, ensuring convenience for all visitors.

The Reykjavík City Card stands out as a cost-effective, flexible way to experience the city’s museums, geothermal pools, and scenic ferry ride. Its ease of use and broad coverage make it a smart choice for anyone looking to explore Reykjavik comprehensively while managing their budget.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby