Reykjavik Neighbourhoods, Locations and Districts

(Reykjavik, Capital Area, Iceland)

Predominantly situated on the beautiful peninsula of Seltjarnarnes, Reykjavik is deservedly the Icelandic capital and its many colourful districts are filled with character and interest. Reykjavik is a spreading city and the majority of its urban neighbourhoods and suburban districts are well planned, rarely being densely populated or overcrowded.

The region known as Greater Reykjavik comprises a number of small towns, which are so nearby that they are often considered to be suburbs of the city itself. However, due to their individuality and different locations, the districts and municipalities of Alftanes, Garoabaer, Hafnarfjörour, Kópavogur, Mosfellsbaer and Seltjarnarnes all have something quite unique to offer and are easy to reach using a range of public transport.

Alftanes District

The small village of Alftanes enjoys a peninsula setting and is located on the easterly side of Reykjanes and directly south of Reykjavik itself. Within Alftanes, the nature reserve is well worth visiting and regularly attracts both nature lovers and bird watchers, while for many, the scenic hiking trails next to the beach are not to be missed.

Garoabaer District

Iceland's number six town in terms of overall size, Garoabaer is considered to be a particularly trendy part of Greater Reykjavik and regularly attracts crowds of young people, with its numerous concerts and acclaimed Garoabaer Jazz Festival at the end of April. Also popular is the Icelandic Museum of Design and Applied Art, which is located along the Lyngás, and is filled with modern Icelandic craft works.

Seltjarnarnes District

Reykjavik's westerly Seltjarnarnes district is predominantly a residential area and is perhaps best known for its striking sunsets and large numbers of birds, both native and migrating. This Icelandic township was officially founded in the late 1940s and contains an important wildlife reserve, a large swimming pool and appealing coastal scenery. Seltjarnarnes lies just ten minutes from Reykjavik city centre, although during times of high tide, this area actually becomes completely separated from the city. The views across Faxaflói Bay are worth the trip alone.

Hafnarfjörour District

Situated on the very outskirts of Reyjkavik itself, the suburb of Hafnarfjörour is actually another prominent town and resembles a bustling city in many ways. Many inexpensive guesthouses and coffee shops are scattered all around Hafnarfjörour, although it is the Viking heritage and markets that are the main attractions here.

Kópavogur District

Iceland's second-biggest town and an important part of Greater Reykjavik, Kópavogur comprises mainly residential areas, although there is some interest for tourists. At the base of the Smáratorg Tower, one of the tallest of all Iceland's buildings, the centrally located modern Smáralind shopping mall can be found. Also within the town centre are plenty of shopping arcades and places to eat out. Kópavogur literally translates as 'Baby Seal Bay' and the town regularly uses a seal as a logo.

Mosfellsbaer District

Located just over 15 km / 9 miles to the north of central Reykjavik, the municipality of Mosfellsbaer is the region's ultimate location for recreational activities and various outdoor pursuits, including playing fields at the Varmá sports complex. Tourists come here to hike, play golf at the Kjolur Club, ride horses and cycle around the pathways on mountain bikes. Climb to the top of the Lágafellsklif for the best panoramas, enjoy coastal walks or stay at the Varmá camping site, close to central Mosfellsbaer.