The Reykjavík Guide to Shopping

Reykjavík is probably not at the top your list of the best cities to shop. That is because the city is probably the best-kept secret of the cosmopolitan enthusiast. Prices are usually on par with those in New York and when it comes to high fashion or designer wares, Reykjavík prices are usually more reasonable. The cities residents are quite fashionable and you will have no trouble finding avant garde designer products to take home. Design could be considered a national obsession. Add to this the fact that all non-residents are entitled to a 15% tax-refund off a minimum purchase of ISK 4,000 in one store, making Reykjavík the perfect destination to quench your thirst for shopping.For the best shopping experience we recommend you check out the downtown area of the city, where you will find most of the shops and boutiques concentrated in a fairly small space. The city centre provides you with souvenirs, unique designer ware, restaurants, cafés, brand names, obscure fashion, second hand shops and, art studios, convenience stores and more.

In Reykjavík you will also find two quite large shopping malls.

The best places to shop in Reykjavík:

1. Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur Streets

Laugavegur is the main shopping street in Reykjavík, and it is also the oldest. It has a collection of wonderful and interesting shops and exclusive stores, old and charming little houses and many great restaurants. Laugavegur is popular among tourists and locals alike.

Skólavörðustígur is a very chic street, one of the most attractive ones in Reykjavík. It runs from the corner of Laugavegur and Bankastræti up to the distinguished Hallgrímskirkja Church. This is the place to go if you are looking for Icelandic design, exotic arts and crafts, gourmet stores, jewellery, a furrier, woolen goods or beautiful photographs of Iceland. Opening hours: Most shops are open Mondays-Fridays 10am-18pm and Saturdays 10:00-16:00.

2. Kolaportið Flea Market

This weekend market is located in an industrial building the old harbour area and it has become somewhat an Reykjavík institution. Here you can shop for vintage clothing, used books, DVDs, knick knacks, woolen goods and more. This is also the best place to buy Icelandic delicacies such as rúgbrauð (rye bread), hákarl (putrefied shark), dried fish and the freshest licorice you can get your hands on. Most vendors only accept cash, but there is an ATM located in the building. Opening hours: Saturdays and Sundays 11:00-17:00.

3. Kringlan Shopping Centre

The Kringlan Shopping Centre is located around 4km from the historic Reykjavík downtown area. Here you will discover more than 150 quality shops, a wide range of restaurants and services such as banks and a multiplex cinema. In Kringlan you will find all major international brands such as Diesel, Hugo Boss, Karen Millen, Levi’s, Mac, Next, Oasis, Topshop, Vero Moda and many more as well as Icelandic quality outdoor brands 66North and Cintamani. Opening hours: Monday-Wednesday 10:00-18:30
Thursday 10:00-21:00
Friday 10:00-19:00
Saturday 10:00-18:00
Sunday 13:00-18:00

4. Smáralind Shopping Centre

Smáralind is Iceland’s largest shopping centre, located in Kópavogur Town around 9km from downtown Reykjavík. Smáralind welcomes you with over 100 shops and businesses on three floors. The architecture is modern and beautiful, the lighting comfortable and you can navigate the shops with ease. Here you will find all major international brands along with a range of restaurants, a movie theatre and an amusement park. Smáralind offers free shuttle services May through August, leaving from Reykjavík Tourist Office. Opening hours: Monday-Wednesday 11:00-19:00
Thursday 11:00-21:00
Saturday 11:00-18:00
Sunday 13:00-18:00