Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital and one of its most open-minded — a small, creative city where LGBTQ+ culture is seamlessly integrated into everyday life, the midnight sun illuminates summer Pride festivities, and the extraordinary natural landscape of geysers, waterfalls, and the Northern Lights provides an otherworldly backdrop for queer travel.

Reykjavik Pride

Reykjavik Pride takes place in early August and is extraordinary in scale — the parade draws around 100,000 people to a city of only 130,000. Tourists and Icelanders from across the country attend. The festival week features parties and outdoor events under the midnight sun or long summer light.

The scene

Kiki Queer Bar is the city's dedicated gay bar and a lively hub. Laugavegur, the main bar street, has multiple welcoming venues. Iceland's small population means the scene is integrated rather than geographically concentrated — most of Reykjavik's nightlife is broadly LGBTQI+-friendly.

Nature and adventure

Reykjavik is the base for Iceland's extraordinary natural attractions: the Golden Circle, the South Coast, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and northern lights in winter. The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is 45 minutes away. The city itself has excellent museums, the iconic Hallgrímskirkja, and a vibrant food and coffee scene.

When to visit

Summer (June–August) brings near 24-hour daylight and Pride in August — peak tourist season. Winter (November–February) offers the best chance of seeing the northern lights. There is no bad time to visit Iceland, only different experiences.

Getting there and around

Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is about 50km from Reykjavik; the Flybus connects in 45 minutes. Reykjavik is walkable in the centre. A car is strongly recommended for exploring beyond the city.

Safety information