Reykjavík Cruise Port
Skarfabakki Cruise Terminal
Reykjavík, Iceland Port
UN/LOCODE ISREY Port of call Homeport
Reykjavík Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Iceland |
| UN/LOCODE | ISREY |
| Contact | |
| Address | Skarfabakki, 104 Reykjavik, Iceland |
| Port phone | +354 525 8900 |
| Website | www.faxafloahafnir.is |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 64.14660, -21.94260 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The primary cruise terminal at Skarfabakki is located 4 km (2.5 miles) from Reykjavik city center, requiring a 10-minute taxi ride costing approximately 4,500 ISK (~$31.00 USD) or a 15-minute shuttle transfer. Located in the Capital Region of southwest Iceland, this ocean cruise port serves as the gateway to the North Atlantic's most dramatic landscapes. While the destination offers unparalleled natural access, you will notice that passengers frequently underestimate the logistical gap between the ship and the primary attractions. Within a 50 km (31-mile) radius, you will find the Blue Lagoon (45 minutes by road) and Thingvellir National Park (45 minutes by road), while the massive Gullfoss waterfall is approximately 115 km (71 miles) or a 1.75-hour drive inland. Reykjavik is an ocean cruise port situated on the southeastern shore of Faxaflói Bay, and your success here depends entirely on transit management. This destination rewards those who pre-book specialized transport and punishes those who expect a casual walk into a 'quaint' town from the Skarfabakki pier. Keep in mind that on days with four or more ships in port, taxi availability at the terminal drops by 60% after 9:30 AM. Choose this port for high-impact geology and museum-grade history; skip it if you are seeking a relaxed, low-cost stroll.
Reykjavík — Port Overview
History
Reykjavik’s identity is rooted in the 874 AD arrival of Ingólfur Arnarson, a Norwegian chieftain who named the site 'Smoky Bay' after seeing geothermal steam rising from the ground. While much of the city's current architecture is modern, the strategic importance of this location on Faxaflói Bay has remained constant for over a millennium. For centuries, Reykjavik was little more than a collection of farmsteads under the shadow of the Danish crown, which maintained a trade monopoly over Iceland. The turning point occurred in 1786 when the settlement was granted a municipal charter to encourage industrial development—a date often cited as the official birth of the city. During the mid-20th century, the British and American occupations in 1940 and 1941, respectively, transformed the infrastructure, leading to the construction of Reykjavik Airport and modern port facilities. This rapid expansion shifted the population from rural fishing villages to an urban center. Today, travelers can see the intersection of this timeline at the Settlement Exhibition on Aðalstræti, where the excavated remains of a 10th-century longhouse are preserved in situ. The city’s history is not found in grand cathedrals but in the resilience of its coastal planning and the innovative use of the volcanic terrain that surrounds it.
The Verdict
Reykjavik is a destination that rewards the prepared traveler who understands the logistical gap between the industrial pier and the cultural heart of the city. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. At Waterways Cruise, no two travelers want the same day ashore, especially in a landscape as diverse as the North Atlantic.
Things to Do & See in Reykjavík
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harpa Concert Hall | Landmark | Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík | +354 528 5000 | Daily 10:00 – 18:00 | harpa.is | Free |
| Perlan (The Pearl) | Museum | Varmahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík | +354 566 9000 | Daily 09:00 – 22:00 | perlan.is | USD 5,390 ISK |
| The National Museum of Iceland | Museum | Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík | +354 530 2200 | Daily 10:00 – 17:00 | thjodminjasafn.is | USD 2,500 ISK |
| Hallgrímskirkja | Landmark | Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík | +354 510 1000 | Daily 09:00 – 20:00 (Tower closes 19:45) | hallgrimskirkja.is | Free |
| The Sun Voyager (Sólfar) | Cultural Site | Sæbraut, 101 Reykjavík | Open 24 hours | visitreykjavik.is | Free |
Harpa Concert Hall · Landmark
FreeHarpa is more than a concert hall; it is a structural representation of the Icelandic landscape, designed in collaboration with artist Olafur Eliasson. The facade, inspired by the basalt column formations found on the coast, consists of over 700 glass blocks that reflect the changing light of Faxaflói Bay. Visiting is recommended even if you do not attend a performance. The building's survival after the 2008 economic collapse makes it a symbol of national resilience. Most visitors only see the ground floor, but visitors should take the elevator to the top floor for a panoramic view of the Old Harbour that rival those from much more expensive viewpoints. It is the perfect place to shelter during a sudden rain squall.
Austurbakki 2, 101 Reykjavík ·+354 528 5000 ·Daily 10:00 – 18:00 ·www.harpa.is
Perlan (The Pearl) · Museum
USD 5,390 ISKPerlan is situated atop Öskjuhlíð hill, built on six massive hot water tanks that store the city's geothermal supply. The 'Wonders of Iceland' exhibition is the most comprehensive nature museum in the country, featuring a 100-meter-long real ice cave built from 350 tons of snow. It is well established that this is the best alternative for passengers who cannot make it to the South Coast glaciers. The planetarium offers a Northern Lights show that is arguably better than trying to see them from a moving ship. It delivers a high-tech, educational overview of Iceland's volcanic and glacial power in a climate-controlled environment.
Varmahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík ·+354 566 9000 ·Daily 09:00 – 22:00 ·perlan.is
The National Museum of Iceland · Museum
USD 2,500 ISKThe National Museum provides the essential chronological context for your visit to Iceland. Starting with the Viking settlement and moving through to the modern era, the 'Making of a Nation' permanent collection houses over 2,000 artifacts. Waterways Cruise clients consistently rate this as the best educational value in the city. The display of drinking horns and early Christian art provides a stark contrast to the rugged landscape you see outside. Visitors should focus on the second floor, which details the grueling struggle for independence from Denmark. It is an honest, well-curated look at how a remote island survived against the odds.
Suðurgata 41, 101 Reykjavík ·+354 530 2200 ·Daily 10:00 – 17:00 ·www.thjodminjasafn.is
Hallgrímskirkja · Landmark
FreeVisible from almost everywhere in the city, Hallgrímskirkja’s 74.5-meter tower is Iceland’s most iconic landmark. Architect Guðjón Samúelsson designed the exterior to mimic the basalt lava flows of the Icelandic landscape. Inside, the design is strikingly minimalist, focusing on light and acoustics. While the tower offers the classic 'colorful roof' photograph of Reykjavik, consider that the real value is in the silence of the sanctuary. It is a working Lutheran parish, so respect the designated quiet zones. It delivers the definitive orientation point for any day spent in the capital.
Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík ·+354 510 1000 ·Daily 09:00 – 20:00 (Tower closes 19:45) ·www.hallgrimskirkja.is
The Sun Voyager (Sólfar) · Cultural Site
FreeOften mistaken for a Viking ship, the Sun Voyager is actually a 'dream hole' meant to symbolize the promise of undiscovered territory and the progress of the sun. Situated on the Sæbraut promenade along Faxaflói Bay, this stainless steel sculpture is the most photographed spot in Iceland. It is worth walking here from Harpa to get your bearings. The sculpture captures the Icelandic spirit of exploration perfectly. In high winds, the spray from the bay can coat the sculpture in a fine mist, which looks beautiful but makes the base treacherous. It is a quick, 10-minute stop that delivers the quintessential Reykjavik photo.
Sæbraut, 101 Reykjavík ·Open 24 hours ·visitreykjavik.is
Eating & Drinking in Reykjavík
Icelandic cuisine is defined by its isolation and the need for preservation. The regional identity centers on 'Plokkfiskur' (a hearty fish and potato stew) and lamb that has grazed on wild herbs and berries, giving it a distinct flavor profile found nowhere else. While tourists often seek out 'Hákarl' (fermented shark), locals rarely eat it; it is a ceremonial food rather than a daily staple. For a genuine drink, try 'Brennivín,' a clear schnapps flavored with caraway, often called 'Black Death.' You will find the best street food at the Grandi Mathöll food hall near the harbor, where locals gather for fresh fish and chips. One honest note: travelers expect to find an abundance of fresh fruit, but due to the climate, almost all of it is greenhouse-grown or imported, making it exceptionally expensive. Stick to the root vegetables and seafood for the best quality.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matur og Drykkur | Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík | +354 571 8877 | Wed–Sun 18:00 – 22:00 (Lunch occasionally seasonal) | maturogdrykkur.is | 9,500 ISK to 15,000 ISK (~$65.00 to $103.00 USD) |
| Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur | Tryggvagata 1, 101 Reykjavík | +354 511 0709 | Daily 10:00 – 01:00 | bbp.is | 700 ISK to 1,200 ISK (~$5.00 to $8.50 USD) |
Matur og Drykkur
9,500 ISK to 15,000 ISK (~$65.00 to $103.00 USD)Located in the growing harbor district, this restaurant takes traditional, sometimes 'peasant' Icelandic recipes and elevates them with modern techniques. You must order the fish soup; it is a rich, complex version of what Icelanders have eaten for generations. The atmosphere is sophisticated but unpretentious, utilizing the industrial heritage of the building. One honest limitation: reservations are mandatory, and they do not cater well to those in a rush. It delivers the most authentic high-end culinary experience in the city.
Grandagarður 2, 101 Reykjavík ·+354 571 8877 ·Wed–Sun 18:00 – 22:00 (Lunch occasionally seasonal)
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
700 ISK to 1,200 ISK (~$5.00 to $8.50 USD)Operating since 1937, this small red stand serves what many call the 'national dish' of Iceland. The hot dogs are made from a blend of Icelandic lamb, pork, and beef. Order 'one with everything' (eina með öllu) to get the classic combination of raw onions, crispy onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade. It is the cheapest meal you will find in Reykjavik and provides a genuine cultural touchstone. The queue moves fast, but there is no seating—be prepared to eat standing up in the wind.
Tryggvagata 1, 101 Reykjavík ·+354 511 0709 ·Daily 10:00 – 01:00
Matur og Drykkur
Located in the growing harbor district, this restaurant takes traditional, sometimes 'peasant' Icelandic recipes and elevates them with modern techniques. You must order the fish soup; it is a rich, complex version of what Icelanders have eaten for generations. The atmosphere is sophisticated but unpretentious, utilizing the industrial heritage of the building. The main downside is that reservations are mandatory, and they do not cater well to those in a rush. It delivers the most authentic high-end culinary experience in the city.
Try: Traditional Icelandic Fish Soup, Slow-cooked Cod's Head with Dulse
Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur
Operating since 1937, this small red stand serves what many call the 'national dish' of Iceland. The hot dogs are made from a blend of Icelandic lamb, pork, and beef. Order 'one with everything' (eina með öllu) to get the classic combination of raw onions, crispy onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, and remoulade. It is the cheapest meal you will find in Reykjavik and provides a genuine cultural touchstone. The queue moves fast, but there is no seating—be prepared to eat standing up in the wind.
Try: The Classic Hot Dog ('Eina með öllu'), Chocolate Milk (Kókómjólk)
Getting There & Around
The primary way to move around Reykjavik's city center is walking, as most landmarks are clustered within a 1.5 km (0.9 mile) radius of the Harpa Concert Hall. For longer distances, use the 'Strætó' bus system; a single fare is 550 ISK (~$3.80 USD). A 24-hour city card is available for 4,800 ISK (~$33.00 USD) at the tourist kiosk and includes bus travel and museum entry. While Uber and Lyft do not operate in Iceland, the 'Hreyfill' taxi app is the local standard and highly reliable. Bike rentals are available at the Old Harbour, and Reykjavik has invested heavily in paved cycling paths along Faxaflói Bay, making it very visitor-friendly for those with a few hours to spare. One navigation tip most guides omit: the city uses a color-coded house numbering system on some streets—look for the small blue plates for the official municipality number if the primary sign is obscured.
Getting back to the ship
For a standard 5:00 PM departure, you must leave the city center by 4:00 PM to guarantee return by the 4:30 PM all-aboard. A taxi from the Harpa taxi rank costs approximately 4,500 ISK (~$31.00 USD) and takes 10–12 minutes. The shuttle buses run every 20–30 minutes, but the 3:30 PM shuttle is notoriously overcrowded and may have a one-bus wait. If you are running late, contact the port agent number provided on your daily program immediately. The ship will generally not hold for independent passengers. Those who miss the ship in Reykjavik face a very expensive flight to the next port (often Akureyri or Isafjordur), which can cost upwards of $600 USD on short notice.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Reykjavík
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: May through September
8°C to 14°C (46°F–57°F). Rain occurs 15–20 days per month. Humidity is high, and wind is a constant factor off the bay.
What to wear: Layering is non-negotiable. Wear a base layer of wool or synthetic (no cotton), a fleece mid-layer, and a high-quality waterproof and windproof shell. Sturdy waterproof walking shoes with rubber soles are essential for the damp pavements and coastal paths. Even if it looks sunny through the ship's window, the wind at the Sun Voyager sculpture will be significantly colder than expected. Sunscreen is still necessary due to the high latitude reflection off Faxaflói Bay.
Weather risks: Gale-force winds can occasionally delay docking at Skarfabakki or prevent small-ship tenders at other Icelandic ports. Sudden sea fog can reduce visibility to near zero in the morning.
June and July offer the midnight sun, while September travelers may catch the earliest glimpses of the Northern Lights if the ship departs late.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June–August) | Mild with 24-hour daylight; temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F–59°F). High winds are common even on sunny days. | Wet maritime spray makes the metal surfaces of the Sun Voyager and Harpa plaza slippery. Dehydration is common as the cool wind masks sun intensity on the water. | Waterfront promenade (Sæbraut), Harpa Concert Hall exterior, and the Hallgrímskirkja viewing platform. | Wear windproof outer layers. Do not rely on umbrellas; the wind gusts often exceed 30 knots, rendering them useless and potentially dangerous. |
| Shoulder Season (May and September) | Rapidly shifting weather with frequent rain, sleet, and gale-force winds. Temps 3°C to 8°C (37°F–46°F). | Black ice forms on the shaded cobblestone alleys of the Old Town (Grjótaþorp) during early morning calls. | Aðalstræti, Fishpan alleyways near the harbor, and steep steps near the Einar Jónsson Museum. | Waterproof footwear with aggressive tread is mandatory. A significant increase in slip incidents has been measured on the smooth granite pavers of the Harpa plaza during rain. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Icelanders are direct and informal; a simple 'Góðan daginn' (Good day) and a nod are standard greetings. There is no formal hierarchy in social interactions. In restaurants, you generally pay at the counter or the waiter brings a portable card machine to the table—splitting dishes is entirely normal. Photography of children or private homes in the Grjótaþorp district without permission is frowned upon. Icelanders are strict about swimming pool etiquette: you must shower naked and thoroughly with soap before entering any geothermal pool; failure to do so is the quickest way to offend locals. Queueing is generally orderly, though in crowded shops, locals may be more assertive. Tipping is not expected and can sometimes be seen as confusing, as service is included in the price. A common mistake cruise passengers make is trying to pay with USD cash; while some shops in the harbor accept it at poor rates, Iceland is a digital-first society, and you should use a card for even the smallest purchases.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Spending the first hour at the Skarfabakki terminal gift shop. |
Buying bottled water in the city center. |
Attempting the full Golden Circle independently on a 6-hour port call. |
Underestimating the wind chill on the waterfront promenade. |
Practical tips
Iceland is almost entirely cashless; you will not need local currency for a single day in Reykjavik. If you must use cash, note that coins are rarely used. Tipping is included in all bills; do not feel obligated to add more unless the service was extraordinary. Learn these five phrases for goodwill: 'Takk' (Thanks), 'Já' (Yes), 'Nei' (No), 'Góðan daginn' (Good day), and 'Skál' (Cheers). Be aware of the 'distraction' scam near the Sun Voyager where individuals offer to take your photo then demand a 'cleaning fee' for the sculpture—this is rare but increasing. Always dress for a drop of 10 degrees when leaving the ship. The best time to visit Hallgrímskirkja is at 9:00 AM sharp to beat the tour buses. If you plan to visit the Blue Lagoon, book your time slot at least 3 months in advance or you will be turned away at the door.
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FAQ — Reykjavík
Can I see the Northern Lights during a summer cruise call to Reykjavik?
No, it is physically impossible to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik from late May through mid-August. This is due to the 'Midnight Sun' phenomenon where the sky never becomes dark enough for the aurora to be visible. The earliest sightings typically begin in late August or September, but only if your ship stays in port overnight or departs very late. For summer travelers, it is best to visit the Northern Lights show at Perlan, which uses high-resolution projections to simulate the experience. If you are on a September call, advice on the best deck locations for viewing as the ship leaves Faxaflói Bay can be obtained.
Are there puffins in Reykjavik city center?
You will not find puffins walking around the city streets. To see them, you must take a 1-hour 'Puffin Watching' boat tour from the Old Harbour, which visits the nearby islands of Akurey or Engey. These tours typically cost around 8,500 ISK (~$58.50 USD) and are only available from May through mid-August. After mid-August, the puffins migrate back to the open ocean. If you miss the season, you can see taxidermy specimens at the National Museum. For guaranteed sightings, book a harbor-based excursion to ensure you return before departure.
Is the Icelandic Phallological Museum worth the time for a cruise passenger?
Located near the Hlemmur bus station, this unique museum (Hafnartorg) houses over 200 specimens. It is a 15-minute walk from the Harpa shuttle drop-off. While it is a 'quirky' attraction, it is professionally curated and takes only 45 minutes to tour. Entry is 3,000 ISK (~$20.50 USD). It is worth the time if you appreciate offbeat, niche science, but skip it if you only have 4 hours and haven't seen Hallgrímskirkja yet. It is one of the few museums in the city that consistently stays open until 7:00 PM.
Do I need to carry Icelandic Króna for the public buses?
No, you do not need cash. While the bus drivers do not take cards directly, you can pay via the 'Klapp' app or buy a 'Klapp ten' card at any 10-11 convenience store in the city. Most cruise passengers find it easier to simply use a contactless credit card for a taxi or take the ship's shuttle, as the bus system requires a bit more local setup. For the most efficient transit, Waterways Cruise recommends sticking to taxis if you are in a group of three or more, as the cost is comparable to four bus fares.
Is there a duty-free shop at the Skarfabakki terminal?
Yes, there is a small duty-free outlet in the terminal building that is accessible to departing passengers. However, it is primarily focused on alcohol and tobacco. For Icelandic sweaters or high-end skincare (like Blue Lagoon products), you will find a much better selection and more competitive pricing at the specialized boutiques in the city center. Be aware that any alcohol purchased at the terminal duty-free will be collected by ship security at the gangway and returned to you on the final night of the cruise.
Is Reykjavik tap water really safe to drink?
Yes, it is some of the cleanest and most delicious tap water in the world, sourced from natural springs. Do not waste money on bottled water. In fact, buying bottled water is often mocked by locals. Every café and restaurant will provide free tap water upon request. When you turn on the cold tap, let it run for a few seconds to ensure it is cold; the hot water in Reykjavik is geothermal and has a slight sulfur (egg) smell, which is harmless but not pleasant to drink. Always use the cold tap for drinking.
How do I get to the Rainbow Street from the cruise shuttle?
The 'Rainbow Street' is actually Skólavörðustígur. When the shuttle drops you at Harpa, walk toward the city center (south) for 5 minutes until you reach the main Bankastræti intersection. Turn left, and you will see the street painted with a rainbow leading directly up the hill to Hallgrímskirkja. It is a 10-minute walk in total. This is a steep incline, so those with mobility issues should take a taxi directly to the top at the church and walk downhill instead.
Can I walk from the Skarfabakki pier to the Sun Voyager?
It is best avoided. The walk is 4 km (2.5 miles) through an industrial zone with heavy construction and wind exposure. It will take you at least 50 minutes each way, consuming nearly two hours of your port call just in transit. Use the shuttle or a taxi to get to Harpa, and then it is a pleasant 5-minute walk along the scenic paved promenade to the Sun Voyager. Your time in Reykjavik is too valuable to spend walking through a cargo port.
What is the best supermarket for Icelandic snacks near the harbor?
The 'Bónus' supermarket on Fiskislóð (near the Maritime Museum) is the best choice for affordable Icelandic chocolate (like Nói Síríus) and sea salts. It is recognizable by its yellow sign with a pink piggy bank. It is significantly cheaper than the '10-11' convenience stores or the terminal gift shops. If you are docking at the Old Harbour (Miðbakki), it is a 10-minute walk. If you are at Skarfabakki, it is easier to visit the Bónus on Laugavegur in the city center.
Are taxis in Reykjavik metered or flat rate?
All taxis in Reykjavik are metered. There are no flat rates from the port to the city center. A standard ride from Skarfabakki to Harpa should be between 4,500 and 5,500 ISK. Most taxis accept all major credit cards and contactless payments; you do not need to ask in advance. Tipping the driver is not required or expected. It is worth using the Hreyfill app if you need to summon a taxi from a location without a dedicated rank.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated October 8, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.