Hafnarfjordur

The basics

If you’re looking for an alternative to Reykjavik, this is it. The walkable, amenity-rich harbor bustles with boat captains and anglers, locals and travelers, restaurants and museums; lava fields stretch out to thermal pools; and the Keflavik International Airport is about 30 minutes away. Though you’ll find plenty of culture here—it’s Iceland’s rock ‘n roll capital—for many travelers, the town’s main draw is access to nature. As the gateway to the Reykjanes Peninsula, there are nearly endless hiking, birding, whale-watching, and boating opportunities here. Tour operators in Reykjavik can usually accommodate travelers from Hafnafjordur as well.

Things to know before you go

• The harbor village is highly walkable, and hotels congregate in this area, making a rental car optional.
• The difference between a summer visit and winter is massive—in winter, you’ll get temperatures around freezing and very few hours of sunlight.
• The Blue Lagoon gets very crowded—know that Hafnafjordur has three thermal pools of its own.

How to get there

From downtown Reykjavik, take bus number 1 to Hafnarfjordur—it’s about a 20-minute journey. Companies like Flybus can also stop here from the airport, though sometimes a specific request is required. Otherwise, you can hail a taxi or easily drive here via Iceland’s Route 40 from Reykjavik.

When to get there

For most travelers, the only time to visit Hafnarfjordur would be June to August, when high temps hover around 55ºF (13ºC). That’s when you’ll get incredibly long days, too—around 21 hours. That being said, if you’d like to avoid crowds, get lower hotel rates, and nab a chance at seeing the northern lights, the closer you come to winter, the better.

Knowledge is power

Yes, you could skip Reykjavik if you wanted—there’s much to do in Hafnarfjordur. Consider exploring the bubbling mud pools at Hellisgerdi Lava Garden; gazing upon the ​​Snæfellsjökull glacier from the Keilir Golf Course; touring the Hafnarfjordur Museum; spending a leisurely day on the harbor (lots of family-run restaurants); and checking out the annual Viking Festival in June or the festive markets held over the winter holidays.

Ways to explore

Hafnarfjordur has varied attractions to keep your attention. Learn about local history at the Hafnarfjordur Museum, admire lava formations (said to be home to elves) at the Hellisgerði garden, or relax in the city’s geothermal pools. Lava caves, birdwatching spots, and northern lights viewpoints are just a few of the natural wonders nearby, and you can explore them on your own or with a guide. Tours from Reykjavik often offer pickup from Hafnarfjordur; popular experiences include whale watching in Faxaflói Bay, horseback riding through lava fields, and full-day Golden Circle tours.

Accessibility

While group tours are often not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain, it’s possible to book private accessible tours from Hafnarfjordur.

Age limits

Some outdoor tours have minimum age requirements for kids.

What to pack

Bring a camera to capture the picturesque landscapes near Hafnarfjordur, plus a swimsuit and towel to enjoy its geothermal pools and nearby hot springs.

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, and waterproof clothing are always recommended in chilly, often drizzly Iceland.

Not allowed

Rules vary by tour, but most don’t allow pets, alcohol, or smoking.

Address

Located in southwestern Iceland about 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) outside of Reykjavik, Hafnarfjordur is easy to reach from the country’s capital. Rent a car from the airport and drive to Hafnarfjordur, or get there on a quick bus or taxi ride from downtown Reykjavik.

Driving

From the Reykjavik airport, head south on Route 40 toward Hafnarfjordur—the journey takes about 15 minutes.

Public transportation

Bus number 1 can get you from downtown Reykjavik to Hafnarfjordur within half an hour. Get on the bus at Ráðhúsið, and get off at Fjörður along the harbor.

Best times to visit

Start your days in Hafnarfjordur early to allow plenty of time for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and excursions to nature reserves and national parks.

Best days to visit

Every day is a good day to visit Hafnarfjordur—just pay attention to daily weather conditions if you plan to do any outdoor attractions.

Best months to visit

For most travelers, the ideal time to visit Hafnarfjordur is from June–August, when Iceland experiences its longest days and warmest weather. For fewer crowds and the best chance of seeing the northern lights, November–March is best.

Special events

Hafnarfjordur’s Christmas Village dishes out Icelandic snacks and crafts in December, while June’s Viking Festival includes a multi-day market and family-friendly entertainment.