Selfoss Old Town
Explore a unique reconstruction of historic Icelandic buildings, now a vibrant hub of shops, cafes, and eateries in South Iceland.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Selfoss Old Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a unique reconstruction of historic Icelandic buildings, now a vibrant hub of shops, cafes, and eateries in South Iceland.
"Selfoss Old Town: a must-visit for its unique renewal project and culinary delights on the South Coast."
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking makes exploring Selfoss Old Town a breeze. :car:
🍽️ Diverse Dining Options
From casual bites to upscale meals, the Old Dairy Food Hall and surrounding eateries offer something for everyone. :forkandknife:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Selfoss Old Town Reconstruction
Town Center
Step back in time with 50 recreated historic Icelandic buildings, now vibrant with modern shops and eateries.
The Old Dairy Food Hall (Mjólkurbúið Mathöll)
Old Dairy Building
A bustling hub with diverse food stalls offering everything from quick bites to fine dining experiences.
Ölfusá River Walk
Riverfront
Enjoy scenic views along the Ölfusá river, offering a peaceful escape and pleasant strolls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Just Drive Through!
Timing is Key for South Coast Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking makes exploring Selfoss Old Town a breeze. :car:
🍽️ Diverse Dining Options
From casual bites to upscale meals, the Old Dairy Food Hall and surrounding eateries offer something for everyone. :forkandknife:
🚶♀️ Stroll the Colorful Streets
Wander through the charming, colorful streets of the reconstructed old town. :rainbow:
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
The unique architecture and vibrant colors make for fantastic photo ops. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking makes exploring Selfoss Old Town a breeze. :car:
🍽️ Diverse Dining Options
From casual bites to upscale meals, the Old Dairy Food Hall and surrounding eateries offer something for everyone. :forkandknife:
🚶♀️ Stroll the Colorful Streets
Wander through the charming, colorful streets of the reconstructed old town. :rainbow:
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
The unique architecture and vibrant colors make for fantastic photo ops. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Selfoss Old Town is appreciated for its unique architectural reconstruction and as a convenient base for exploring South Iceland. Visitors enjoy the diverse food options at the Old Dairy Food Hall and the pleasant river walks. However, some find the town's main road detracts from its charm and note that beyond the Old Town and food hall, tourist activities are limited.
"Selfoss is a good base for anyone wanting to explore the sights of Golden Circle by car. The centre has some nice shops and a food court, and the river offers some nice views. There is also a development project ongoing in the centre for expanding the pedestrian area . The main road through southern Iceland runs through Selfoss centre ruining the most pleasantness."
Viliina Lilja
"Excellent little town outside Reykjavík. The town has really embraced Christmas and you feel it with the lighting and decor instantly. There is plenty of free parking and decent variety of food options."
Travelling Gillespie
"It a cozy looking town but not much that can be done if you’re a tourist. You can visit The Old Dairy Food Hall - Mjólkurbúið Mathöll Mjólkurbúið Mathöll, and that’s basically it. It’s in the process of rebuilding so by the 2030 (I believe) it could really be a go to place."
Lea Miletić
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Selfoss Old Town is easily accessible by car, located about a 45-minute drive southeast of Reykjavik. If you're on the Ring Road or exploring the Golden Circle, it's a convenient stop. Public transport options include buses, though driving offers the most flexibility for exploring the South Coast.
Yes, Selfoss is an excellent base for exploring the Golden Circle attractions like Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. It offers a good range of accommodations and amenities.
Absolutely! The Old Town area is designed for walking, with colorful streets and pedestrian-friendly zones. It's a great place to explore on foot.
While the main road through southern Iceland runs through Selfoss, the Old Town area is a distinct section that requires a slight detour from the main Ring Road path. It's easily accessible from the Ring Road.
Yes, the Ölfusá River walk offers pleasant and easy strolls suitable for families with young children. It's a great way to enjoy the natural surroundings without strenuous hiking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting and exploring the streets of Selfoss Old Town is free of charge. You only pay for purchases within the shops and restaurants.
The town itself is always accessible. Individual shops and restaurants within the Old Town have their own operating hours, which typically align with standard business hours, often extending into the evening.
There is no entrance fee to enter the Old Dairy Food Hall. You can browse the various food stalls and decide what you'd like to purchase.
Selfoss hosts events like the 'Summer in Selfoss' cultural festival. It's worth checking local listings for any ongoing events during your visit.
The town center has undergone development to expand pedestrian areas, suggesting improved accessibility. However, it's always a good idea to check with specific venues for detailed accessibility information.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful, reconstructed historic buildings themselves are prime photo spots. The Ölfusá River also offers scenic backdrops. Look for unique architectural details and vibrant street scenes.
Yes, Selfoss is known for its festive Christmas decorations and lighting, making it a wonderful place for holiday-themed photos.
Drone regulations in Iceland can be strict. It's advisable to check current local drone laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over Selfoss Old Town.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for the colorful buildings. Midday offers bright, clear light for capturing details.
The entire concept of the 'New Old Town' is photogenic. Pay attention to the unique facades of the reconstructed buildings, especially those housing shops and cafes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Selfoss Old Town, particularly the Old Dairy Food Hall, offers a wide variety of options, from casual sandwiches and drinks to more upscale dining experiences.
While specific menus vary, the diverse food hall setting usually provides multiple stalls, increasing the likelihood of finding vegetarian or vegan choices. It's best to inquire at individual stalls.
Prices can vary depending on the stall and the type of meal. You can find budget-friendly options like sandwiches and pastries, as well as higher-end dining.
Mars restaurant has been specifically mentioned for fantastic food. The Old Dairy Food Hall itself is a collection of eateries, offering a great variety.
Yes, numerous cafes and food stalls within the Old Town and the Old Dairy Food Hall offer coffee, pastries, and other light refreshments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a relaxed outing, the Ölfusá River walk is a great option for an easy, scenic stroll suitable for young children. The town also offers plenty of free parking, which is always a plus for families traveling with kids. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
As a day trip destination from Reykjavik, it offers a unique glimpse into Icelandic architectural heritage combined with modern amenities. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the Old Town, enjoying lunch at the Old Dairy Food Hall, and taking photos before continuing your journey.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are no entrance fees for the town itself, be mindful of costs when dining or shopping. Utilizing the free parking also saves money compared to paid lots in larger cities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Concept of Selfoss Old Town
The project involves around 50 historic buildings, each carefully rebuilt to its former glory. These structures now house a diverse array of businesses, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and cultural spaces. This approach not only preserves architectural heritage but also creates a unique and visually appealing destination for both locals and tourists. The colorful facades and preserved styles offer a distinct aesthetic that sets Selfoss apart.
This innovative approach has been praised for its creativity and its contribution to the town's identity. It provides a tangible connection to Iceland's history while fostering a dynamic contemporary environment. Visitors can experience this blend firsthand by strolling through the streets and patronizing the businesses housed within these beautifully restored buildings.
Culinary Delights at the Old Dairy Food Hall
Visitors can expect a wide range of choices, from quick snacks and coffee to more substantial meals and even fine dining. Whether you're craving traditional Icelandic fare, international cuisine, or simply a good cup of coffee and a pastry, the Old Dairy Food Hall aims to satisfy. This makes it an ideal place for groups with varied tastes or for anyone wanting to sample different flavors.
The food hall's popularity stems from its convenient location within the Old Town and its ability to cater to different budgets and preferences. It's a place where you can easily spend a few hours, enjoying a meal, a drink, and the general ambiance. The presence of restaurants like Mars, noted for its fantastic food, further enhances its reputation as a culinary destination.
Selfoss as a Strategic Travel Hub
Being a larger town, Selfoss offers a good range of amenities, including ample free parking, which is a significant advantage for road-trippers. This convenience, combined with its diverse food options and the unique charm of its Old Town, makes it more than just a transit point. It provides a comfortable and practical place to rest, refuel, and explore before or after visiting natural wonders.
For those planning to visit the Golden Circle, Selfoss provides a convenient starting point or a place to stay overnight, allowing for early access to popular sites and avoiding the peak crowds. Its proximity to attractions like Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss means less driving time and more time for sightseeing.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit