*Panoramic city views from the observation deck at Hallgrímskirkja.*

Iceland’s vibrant capital is often considered a mere landing pad for those traveling onwards, but Reykjavík is well worth a night or two. Its seaside location lends itself to picturesque walks—the perfect antidote to inevitable jet lag—as well as striking water views from the top of Hallgrímskirkja, Iceland’s iconic Lutheran church. There are charming bakeries and coffee shops galore alongside Michelin starred chefs preparing delectable dishes created from locally sourced meats, seafood and vegetables. Along Laugavegur, shoppers can browse everything from vintage clothing and books to fashionable winter wear from the Icelandic brand 66°North. Here’s how to enjoy a weekend.

FRIDAY

2 pM: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

History buffs will appreciate the deep dive into Iceland’s development as a nation—from Viking settlors all the way to modern day—at this small, but robust museum. The collection features roughly 2,000 artifacts including the Valthjófsstadur Door, engraved with scenes from the knight’s tale.

*Colorful street art adorns many buildings in the city.*

4 PM: Hallgrímskirkja

Commissioned in 1937, architect Guðjón Samúelsson designed an iconic landmark with a cascading design intended to mirror the “organ pipe” basalt columns found in Iceland’s natural waterfall formations such as those at Svartifoss. Inside the church, gaze at the beautifully arched ceilings, light a candle and try to catch a musician practicing on one of the two pipe organs. Then take the elevator up to the observation deck, which offers 360 degree views over Reykjavík.

7 pm: DINE AT Fiskmarkaðurinn

A low buzz fills the air of this sleek subterranean restaurant. The space is smartly designed with a mix of Icelandic stone and Asian plants to reflect the menu—heavy on local seafood with a contemporary Asian flair. Highlights include craft cocktails, classic sushi and lightly salted cod plus a selection of oysters and caviar.

*Guðjón Samúelsson’s iconic church stands 244 feet tall.*

Saturday

8 aM: PERK UP

Drag your jet lagged self over to Reykjavík Roasters. Caffeinate first before heading across the street to Brauð & Co., a pint-sized bakery where you can pick up an array of pastries. Pro tip: get there early for the cinnamon buns.

*Cycling around Iceland is quite arduous, but the small capital city is the perfect locale for two wheelers.*

10 aM: Walk along the harbor

Take advantage of the morning sun to walk along the harbor. Begin at Harpa and walk east towards the Sun Voyager statue. After capturing an obligatory photo or two of the stainless steel landmark, continue on until you reach the sunny looking Höfði lighthouse. Keep going for another mile and then loop around at the Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum before walking back towards the city center.

*Water views from inside Harpa Concert Hall.*

12 pm: Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

You’d be remiss to visit Reykjavík without popping by the world’s most famous hot dog stand. This tiny outpost, whose name is translated to “the best hot dog in town,” has been frequented by the likes of Bill Clinton and Kim Kardashian. Order yours plain or with “the works”—ketchup, mustard, raw onion, crispy onion and remoulade.

*A latte and avocado toast at Reykjavík Roasters.*

1 pm: Kolaportið

On the hunt for a traditional Icelandic wool sweater? Save your pennies and try your luck at Kolaportið flea market. Down by the harbor, this warehouse features vendors selling everything from clothing and shoes to electronics and jewelry. You’ll have to dig and haggle some, but it’s worth a look around.

3 PM: Stroll Laugavegur

No hidden treasures at the flea market? Don’t fret. Head to Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s primary shopping street. Charming boutiques, vintage shops and cafes abound. Perk up with a latte in the back garden at Cafe Babalu before browsing the wares at Spúútnik and the latest collection at 66°North.

*Spúútnik offers an array of secondhand street wear.*

6 PM: dinner at DILL

If you’re lucky enough to secure a reservation at Dill, Iceland’s first ever Michelin starred restaurant, be sure to bring an open mind along with your appetite. The seven-course menu conceptualized by chef-owner Gunnar Karl Gíslason features innovative Nordic style preparations of local ingredients. Think: winter dried wolffish, fermented tomatoes, salt baked roots, anis meringue and pickled rhubarb chocolate. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated.

Sunday

11 aM: BRUNCH at SNAPS BISTRO

Omelette or moules frites? The choice is yours at the French inspired Snaps Bistro where classics such as eggs benedict and brioche french toast also grace the menu. Sun drenched tables accented by wooden chairs and a plethora of green flora give the place a fresh and airy vibe.

*Enjoying the sunlight on the back patio at Cafe Babalu.*

ACCOMMODATIONS

101 Hotel is a sleek boutique with a cozy firelit lounge, lots of black and white art and Aveda amenities. We are especially fond of the Double Balcony room with views over the city.

*The infamous Rainbow Street in downtown Reykjavík.*

Art deco fans will appreciate the sophisticated facade at Hotel Borg, a 4 star landmark on Austurvöllur Square in the heart of the city. All rooms feature Molton Brown toiletries, heated bathroom floors and access to the spacious spa downstairs.

One of the city’s newest properties, the Reykjavík Edition, offers a five-star luxury experience in a modern building along the water. Book a Terrace King to enjoy a private cocktail overlooking Harpa Concert Hall and the harbor. Bathrooms are a standout—oversized with rainfall showers and custom Le Labo amenities.

36 Hours in Reykjavík.