Laugavegur Shopping Street, Reykjavik - Image 1
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Laugavegur Reykjavik

4.2
·118 reviews·Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavik's vibrant main street, Laugavegur, is a shopper's paradise and a hub for cafes, restaurants, and unique vintage finds.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, better browsing

CrowdLow
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Laugavegur Shopping Street, Reykjavik - Image 1

Laugavegur Reykjavik

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, better browsing

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.2
(118 reviews)

"If you could go to a single thrift store in Reykjavik this is the place you should visit. Spectacular collections!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Laugavegur Shopping Street

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

Spúútnik Vintage Store

Laugavegur

A beloved vintage haven offering '80s and '90s fashion. Find unique pieces and support sustainable style.

Lebowski Bar

Lebowski Bar

Laugavegur

The Dude abides! Enjoy White Russians and burgers in this 'Big Lebowski'-themed bar.

Soup in a Bread Bowl

Soup in a Bread Bowl

Svarfta Kaffi (Laugavegur 34)

Hearty, homemade soups served in edible bread bowls. A delicious and warming Icelandic experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Laugavegur's Charm

Laugavegur is Reykjavik's vibrant main street, buzzing with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's the heart of the city, perfect for a stroll and soaking in the atmosphere. Be prepared for it to be busy, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Thrifting Treasures & Local Finds

Discover unique souvenirs and fashion at Reykjavik's thrift stores, like Spúútnik and Wasteland. While prices can be higher than expected, these spots offer a chance to find one-of-a-kind items and support local designers. Check opening hours as some close early.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, better browsing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, bars buzzing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

wait for it 🥹 #snowmobiling #bucketlist #iceland #glacier #reykjavik #travel #icelandadventure #goldencircle #icelandtravel #icelandtrip
@ab.2000x
114.2K likes • 1.2M views

🎯 Explore Thrift Stores

Check out Spúútnik, Red Cross, and Wasteland for unique finds and souvenirs. Reddit

☕ Grab a Coffee Break

Numerous cafes along Laugavegur offer great coffee and pastries. TikTok

🇮🇸 9 best things to do in Reykjavik ⬇️⁣ ⁣ ❄️ 1. Perlan Museum⁣ Walk through a real ice cave, marvel at the Wonders of Iceland exhibit + catch the sunset from the restaurant that has a rotating floor!⁣ ⁣ 🍕 2. Lunch at Ráðagerði⁣ A sensational Italian restaurant right near the Grótta Lighthouse. Deffo get a peach spritz and their delicious pepperoni and hot chilli honey pizza.⁣ ⁣ 💦 3. Sky Lagoon⁣ T...
@kelseyinlondon
18.5K likes • 519.4K views
The perfect place to hang out with your dudes! 😎 Step inside this bar on Reykjavik’s main shopping street, Laugavegur, and you’re immediately transported into the world of ‘The Big Lebowski’ 🎬 🎳 Lebowski Bar serves more than 20 variations of The Dude’s favorite drink, White Russian ✨🥃✨ It’s also a great place to grab a burger and some tasty side dishes such as jalapeno poppers and mozzarella st...
guidetoiceland
1K likes • 49.4K views

🍔 Try Local Eats

Sample Icelandic hot dogs or hearty soups in bread bowls. TikTokInstagram

🎶 Enjoy the Vibe

Laugavegur is great for people-watching and soaking in Reykjavik's energy. Instagram

9 locations, each with a unique vibe and awesome employees. 🫶 Frakkastígur 16 Austurstræti 17 - (Just opend) Laugavegur 180 - Coffehouse/drive-thru Nýbýlavegur 12 - Coffeehouse Fákafen 11 Hrísateigur 47 Bíldshöfði 18 Melhagi 22 Akrabraut 1 #Bakery #braudogco #iceland #reykjavik #bakerylove #croissant #bread #sourdough #bakedgoods #bakeryshop #coffehouse #coffeeshop
braudogco
305 likes • 10.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Thrift Stores

Check out Spúútnik, Red Cross, and Wasteland for unique finds and souvenirs. Reddit

☕ Grab a Coffee Break

Numerous cafes along Laugavegur offer great coffee and pastries. TikTok

🍔 Try Local Eats

Sample Icelandic hot dogs or hearty soups in bread bowls. TikTokInstagram

🎶 Enjoy the Vibe

Laugavegur is great for people-watching and soaking in Reykjavik's energy. Instagram

🛍️ Support Local Designers

Many shops on Laugavegur feature unique Icelandic designs and crafts. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.2
(118 reviews)

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

Spectacular vintage collections
Helpful staff
Unique souvenirs

What People Dislike

Overpriced items
Inconsistent customer service
Early closing times

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. TikTok

Absolutely! Laugavegur is a pedestrian-friendly street, perfect for exploring on foot. You can easily spend hours browsing the shops and cafes. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

Individual shops and restaurants on Laugavegur do not have entry fees. You only pay for items you purchase or services you use. TikTok

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. Reddit

For popular restaurants, especially in the evening, booking a table in advance is highly recommended. Some smaller eateries operate on a walk-in basis. Instagram

Simply strolling down Laugavegur, window shopping, and enjoying the street art and architecture are free activities. TikTok

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

Laugavegur offers a diverse range of shops, including high-end boutiques, souvenir stores, bookstores, art galleries, and popular vintage shops like Spúútnik. TikTokInstagram

For unique souvenirs, explore the vintage stores like Spúútnik or shops featuring local Icelandic designers and crafts. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

Spúútnik is a highly recommended vintage store. Other popular options include Wasteland and the Red Cross Store. Reddit

Yes, you can find authentic Icelandic wool sweaters (lopapeysa) in many shops along Laugavegur, ranging from tourist shops to more specialized boutiques. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTokInstagram+1

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. TikTok+1

Several cafes like Baka Baka and Brauð & Co. are perfect for morning coffee and pastries. Start your day with a cinnamon roll! TikTokInstagram+1

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. TikTok+1

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. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the colorful buildings, unique street art, bustling street life, and the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church visible from many points on Laugavegur. TikTokInstagram

Definitely! The vibrant streetscape, diverse architecture, and people make Laugavegur an excellent location for street photography. TikTok

It's generally polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside shops, especially if you're not purchasing anything. TikTok

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Evenings can be atmospheric with the streetlights and shop displays. TikTok

While Laugavegur itself is the attraction, the colorful buildings, unique signage, and the proximity to Hallgrímskirkja provide great photo opportunities. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Laugavegur offers a lively environment for families. Kids will enjoy browsing the colorful shops and perhaps finding a fun souvenir. The Lebowski Bar, while a bar, has a unique theme that might entertain older children with its 'Big Lebowski' movie connection. Instagram Consider stopping for pastries at Brauð & Co. or a hearty soup for a family-friendly meal. Instagram+1 Keep in mind that some shops may have limited space, and it can get crowded during peak times.

💰 Budget Travelers

Laugavegur can be explored on a budget by focusing on free activities like window shopping and people-watching. TikTok For affordable eats, the famous Icelandic hot dogs are a must. TikTok Look for cafes offering lunch specials or consider the all-you-can-eat soup deals found nearby for a filling and economical meal. TikTok Thrift stores like Spúútnik offer unique clothing at potentially lower prices than new items, though some vintage pieces can be surprisingly expensive. Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers & Fashionistas

Laugavegur is your prime destination for shopping in Reykjavik. Explore high-end boutiques, discover unique Icelandic designer wear, and hunt for vintage treasures at stores like Spúútnik. TikTokInstagram Don't miss the chance to find authentic Icelandic wool sweaters. TikTok The street offers a curated selection of fashion, art, and design, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate style and unique finds.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Laugavegur: Reykjavik's Vibrant Heart

Laugavegur is more than just a street; it's the pulsating core of Reykjavik, Iceland's capital. This bustling thoroughfare is lined with a captivating mix of independent boutiques, quirky souvenir shops, cozy cafes, and diverse restaurants. It's the go-to destination for both locals and tourists looking to experience the city's unique urban vibe. Whether you're hunting for the perfect Icelandic wool sweater, a one-of-a-kind piece of art, or simply want to soak in the atmosphere, Laugavegur offers something for everyone. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokReddit

Culinary Delights on Laugavegur

Laugavegur and its surrounding streets are a culinary playground, offering a taste of Iceland's diverse food scene. From iconic street food to cozy cafes and innovative restaurants, there's no shortage of delicious options. A must-try is the famous Icelandic hot dog from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, often hailed as the best in Reykjavik. For a truly unique experience, seek out restaurants serving hearty, homemade soups in hollowed-out bread bowls – a warming delight, especially on a chilly day. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

Thrifting and Unique Finds on Laugavegur

Laugavegur is a haven for vintage enthusiasts and those seeking unique souvenirs. Spúútnik is a standout, known for its extensive collection of '80s and '90s clothing and accessories. It's a popular spot for finding distinctive fashion pieces that tell a story. Other notable thrift stores include Wasteland, offering an eclectic inventory, and the Red Cross Store, which supports a good cause while providing a range of pre-loved items. TikTokReddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram