Sightseeing in any major city can be a very time-consuming process and there is always the possibility of missing something, even in a country as small as Iceland.

That is why a hop-on hop-off bus tours of Reykjavík is your best bet to get a feel of the city and its history.

The great thing about these bus tours is that you can get off at any stop to explore museums or other attractions in the area, before continuing to the next destination when you are ready.

Hop-on hop-off bus tours are also a very practical and budget-friendly way of getting around in the city, without getting lost.

Here is everything you need to know about hop-on hop-off bus tours, one of the most fulfilling sightseeing tours in Reykjavík.

What are the best hop-on hop-off Reykjavík bus tours? What are their prices?

City Sightseeing Reykjavík Hop-On Hop-Off

The only available hop-on hop-off bus service in Reykjavík is provided by City Sightseeing. There are 16 stops around the city covering many of the important landmarks, with audio commentary in eight languages.

Route

The hop-on hop-off bus tour in Reykjavík begins at the Harpa Concert Hall & Conference Center, with the first stop being at the Old Harbor. Aside from the possibility of spotting a whale or dolphin, the area stands out with its colorful buildings.

The next few stops – at the Reykjavík Maritime Museum, the Whales of Iceland natural museum and the Reykjavík City Museum – are ideal if you have a taste in history.

These high-tech museums offer interactive multimedia experiences that present the country's rich history and culture. After the museums, you can hop off at Lækjargata and see some of the oldest houses in the country.

After a wander around Laugavegur Shopping Street and the Reykjavík Art Museum - Kjarvalsstaðir, you can stop at Hallgrímskirkja, the largest church in the country. Perlan is up next and not to be missed, as there is a viewing deck with telescopes and a panoramic view of the city.

Laugardalur Valley, also known as Hot Spring Valley, should be on your agenda if you would like to swim in the outdoor heated pools. These operate all year long, regardless of the weather. During the summer, there is also a stop at Skarfabakki Harbor.

The final stop on hop-on hop-off bus tour in Reykjavík is at Höfdi House, a historic landmark where major steps were taken to conclude the Cold War.

Timetable

You can catch this hop-on hop-off bus in Reykjavík every day from 9:30 AM to 4:15 PM, and the service runs every 45 minutes. The entire tour across the city takes about an hour to complete.

Tickets

Hop-on hop-off bus tickets in Reykjavík can be valid for 24 or 48 hours. Additionally, there are tour packages that also include a guided Northern Lights Tour or a visit to the Golden Circle.

24-hour ticket

The basic hop-on hop-off bus ticket is valid for 24 hours and stops at all the major sights in Reykjavík. During the bus tour, you can also listen to an audio guide which is available in eight languages. These tickets cost US$35.90 per people aged 16 and above. Tickets for children aged 6 to 15 cost US$17.95.

48-hour ticket

The 48-hour ticket follows the same route and costs about US$43 for over 16s and US$21 for children aged 6 to 15.

Northern Lights Tour and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus ticket

This ticket combines 24-hour access to the Hop-On Hop-Off buses in Reykjavík and a ticket for a 3.5-hour guided Northern Lights Tour. The cost for adults is about US$91, while for children aged 6 to 15 it is US$46.

Golden Circle and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus ticket

This combined ticket includes a 24-hour Hop-on Hop Off ticket in Reykjavík and a day tour of the Golden Circle. Tickets for adults and over 16s are around US$92, while for children aged 6 to 15 US$46.

How do hop-on hop-off bus tours in Reykjavík work? What is included?

Hop-on hop-off buses in Reykjavík are easy to use and get around in the city. You can get on board at any stop you wish and get off at any stop that interests you.

There is no limit to the times you can use the ticket, which can last for 24 or 48 hours. This makes them a very budget-friendly way to explore the city at your own pace.

During the bus journey, there is audio commentary provided in 8 languages (including English, Spanish and Japanese) about the city’s history and its landmarks.

Are there any combined tickets including hop-on hop-off bus tours?

Yes, there is a combined hop-on hop-off bus tour of Reykjavík with a visit to the Golden Circle.

These will typically begin with a guided tour of the Golden Circle, where you will visit Geysir geothermal area, the Gullfoss Waterfall and the Thingvellir National Park, among others.

When your visit to the Golden Circle concludes, you can continue on with your hop-on hop-off tour bus exploration of Reykjavík.

Travel tips

The weather can get quite cold and shift dramatically, especially during the winter months, so dress warm.
If your tour includes any visits to outdoor areas, make sure to wear a pair of sturdy shoes or boots, as the terrain can be uneven.
Eating out can be expensive, so make sure to bring along some snacks if you would like to avoid restaurants.

Hop on Hop off Bus Tours in Reykjavík