Laugavegur Reykjavik
Reykjavik's vibrant main street, Laugavegur, is a shopper's paradise and a hub for cafes, restaurants, and unique vintage finds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better browsing
Laugavegur Reykjavik
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Reykjavik's vibrant main street, Laugavegur, is a shopper's paradise and a hub for cafes, restaurants, and unique vintage finds.
"If you could go to a single thrift store in Reykjavik this is the place you should visit. Spectacular collections!"
🎯 Explore Thrift Stores
Check out Spúútnik, Red Cross, and Wasteland for unique finds and souvenirs.
☕ Grab a Coffee Break
Numerous cafes along Laugavegur offer great coffee and pastries.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Laugavegur Shopping Street
Reykjavik City Center
Reykjavik's main artery, brimming with boutiques, cafes, and unique shops. A must-visit for urban exploration.
Spúútnik Vintage Store
Laugavegur
A beloved vintage haven offering '80s and '90s fashion. Find unique pieces and support sustainable style.
Lebowski Bar
Laugavegur
The Dude abides! Enjoy White Russians and burgers in this 'Big Lebowski'-themed bar.
Soup in a Bread Bowl
Svarfta Kaffi (Laugavegur 34)
Hearty, homemade soups served in edible bread bowls. A delicious and warming Icelandic experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Laugavegur's Charm
Thrifting Treasures & Local Finds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore Thrift Stores
Check out Spúútnik, Red Cross, and Wasteland for unique finds and souvenirs.
☕ Grab a Coffee Break
Numerous cafes along Laugavegur offer great coffee and pastries.
🍔 Try Local Eats
Sample Icelandic hot dogs or hearty soups in bread bowls.
🎶 Enjoy the Vibe
Laugavegur is great for people-watching and soaking in Reykjavik's energy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore Thrift Stores
Check out Spúútnik, Red Cross, and Wasteland for unique finds and souvenirs.
☕ Grab a Coffee Break
Numerous cafes along Laugavegur offer great coffee and pastries.
🍔 Try Local Eats
Sample Icelandic hot dogs or hearty soups in bread bowls.
🎶 Enjoy the Vibe
Laugavegur is great for people-watching and soaking in Reykjavik's energy.
🛍️ Support Local Designers
Many shops on Laugavegur feature unique Icelandic designs and crafts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for Laugavegur shops are mixed, with many praising the unique vintage finds and helpful staff, while others cite high prices and inconsistent customer service. Some visitors found the policies frustrating, particularly regarding returns, and noted that some establishments close earlier than expected.
"I really wanted to love this vintage store, but my experience was disappointing. I bought two sweatshirts that were very overpriced for what they were, and when I realized it, I tried to return them. One employee told me I could return them, but another employee said I could only exchange for store credit. They were unhelpful, slightly rude, and overall made the process frustrating. For the high prices they charge, I expected much better customer service and clearer policies. I won’t be shopping here again."
NC Instructor
"Great shop! Very happy with the jackets that Kris sought out for me. She was very helpful and has a amazing taste! Thank you!!!"
Frederic Vanwalleghem
"Wouldn’t ship an item even if I paid for shipping and extra for the item. Pretty low end on the customer service side. Absolutely ridiculous. Also closes early. Do better."
Sarah Martin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Laugavegur is Reykjavik's main street and is easily accessible on foot from most city center hotels. If you're arriving from Keflavik Airport, take the Flybus or a taxi directly to the city center. Many tours also start or end near Laugavegur.
Absolutely! Laugavegur is a pedestrian-friendly street, perfect for exploring on foot. You can easily spend hours browsing the shops and cafes.
Street parking is available but can be challenging and expensive. There are several parking garages nearby, such as the one at Hlemmur. Consider walking or using public transport if possible.
Yes, Reykjavik's public bus system (Strætó) has several stops along or near Laugavegur, making it easy to reach from other parts of the city.
Many city walking tours and food tours in Reykjavik include Laugavegur as a key part of their itinerary, offering insights into its history and culture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Laugavegur is a public street and there are no tickets or entry fees required to walk along it and enjoy the atmosphere.
Individual shops and restaurants on Laugavegur do not have entry fees. You only pay for items you purchase or services you use.
Opening hours vary, but most shops are open from around 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and shorter hours on weekends. Some may close earlier, especially thrift stores.
For popular restaurants, especially in the evening, booking a table in advance is highly recommended. Some smaller eateries operate on a walk-in basis.
Simply strolling down Laugavegur, window shopping, and enjoying the street art and architecture are free activities.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Laugavegur offers a diverse range of shops, including high-end boutiques, souvenir stores, bookstores, art galleries, and popular vintage shops like Spúútnik.
For unique souvenirs, explore the vintage stores like Spúútnik or shops featuring local Icelandic designers and crafts.
Prices can vary. While some boutiques are high-end, you can find more budget-friendly options in souvenir shops and especially in thrift stores, though some vintage items can be pricey.
Spúútnik is a highly recommended vintage store. Other popular options include Wasteland and the Red Cross Store.
Yes, you can find authentic Icelandic wool sweaters (lopapeysa) in many shops along Laugavegur, ranging from tourist shops to more specialized boutiques.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss trying Icelandic hot dogs from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, hearty soups served in bread bowls at Svarfta Kaffi, and delicious pastries from bakeries like Brauð & Co.
Yes, Laugavegur and its side streets are packed with restaurants offering various cuisines. Skál! is recommended for Arctic char, and Baka Baka offers pizza and wine.
Several cafes like Baka Baka and Brauð & Co. are perfect for morning coffee and pastries. Start your day with a cinnamon roll!
Yes, the famous Icelandic hot dogs are a budget-friendly option. Some cafes also offer affordable lunch specials, and all-you-can-eat soup deals can be found nearby.
Dining on Laugavegur offers a lively atmosphere, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. It's a great place to experience Reykjavik's culinary scene.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the colorful buildings, unique street art, bustling street life, and the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church visible from many points on Laugavegur.
Definitely! The vibrant streetscape, diverse architecture, and people make Laugavegur an excellent location for street photography.
It's generally polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside shops, especially if you're not purchasing anything.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Evenings can be atmospheric with the streetlights and shop displays.
While Laugavegur itself is the attraction, the colorful buildings, unique signage, and the proximity to Hallgrímskirkja provide great photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🛍️ Shoppers & Fashionistas
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Laugavegur: Reykjavik's Vibrant Heart
As you wander down Laugavegur, you'll notice the colorful corrugated iron buildings that are characteristic of Reykjavik's architecture. The street is a hub for fashion, with shops showcasing both international brands and local Icelandic designers. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the side streets, which often hide charming cafes and hidden gems. The street is particularly lively in the evenings, with bars and restaurants buzzing with activity.
For those interested in unique finds, Laugavegur is home to some of Reykjavik's most popular vintage and second-hand stores. These shops offer a treasure trove of '80s and '90s fashion, allowing visitors to find distinctive clothing and accessories. While some items might be priced higher than expected, the thrill of discovering a unique piece makes it a worthwhile experience for many.
Culinary Delights on Laugavegur
Bakeries are also a significant part of the Laugavegur food experience. Brauð & Co. is renowned for its incredible donuts and bagels, while Baka Baka offers both delicious pizzas and pastries, transitioning from a cafe by day to a pizza spot by night. These spots are perfect for a quick breakfast, a coffee break, or a light lunch.
For a more sit-down dining experience, Laugavegur boasts a variety of restaurants. Skál! is a popular choice for its Arctic char, and Lebowski Bar offers a fun atmosphere with burgers and its signature White Russians. Exploring the diverse eateries along Laugavegur provides a fantastic way to sample local flavors and international cuisine.
Thrifting and Unique Finds on Laugavegur
While thrifting in Reykjavik can sometimes come with a higher price tag compared to other destinations, the quality and uniqueness of the items often justify the cost. These stores are not just about buying clothes; they're about discovering treasures and embracing sustainable fashion. Many visitors find that a well-chosen vintage piece from Laugavegur makes for a memorable and personal souvenir.
Beyond vintage clothing, Laugavegur also features shops that support local designers and artisans. These boutiques offer handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and other unique items that reflect Icelandic culture and design aesthetics. Shopping here allows you to take home a piece of Iceland that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit