Selfoss Old Town - Image 1
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Selfoss Old Town

4.5
·109 reviews·Selfoss, Iceland

Explore a unique reconstruction of historic Icelandic buildings, now a vibrant hub of shops, cafes, and eateries in South Iceland.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Selfoss Old Town - Image 1

Selfoss Old Town

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a unique reconstruction of historic Icelandic buildings, now a vibrant hub of shops, cafes, and eateries in South Iceland.

4.5
(109 reviews)

"Selfoss Old Town: a must-visit for its unique renewal project and culinary delights on the South Coast."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Selfoss Old Town Reconstruction

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)

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

Ölfusá River Walk

Riverfront

Enjoy scenic views along the Ölfusá river, offering a peaceful escape and pleasant strolls.

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Planning Your Visit

Don't Just Drive Through!

Selfoss Old Town is more than a pit stop. This unique project recreates historic buildings, now housing modern eateries and shops. Plan to spend a few hours exploring its colorful streets and unique atmosphere.

Timing is Key for South Coast Exploration

Selfoss is a strategic base for exploring the Golden Circle and South Coast. Beat the crowds by visiting popular attractions early or late. The town itself offers a pleasant respite with free parking and diverse food options.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, dining
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Is Selfoss in your travel plans for Iceland? 🚗✨🏘️ If you’re road-tripping along the South Coast, Golden Circle, or Ring Road, don’t just pass through—stop and explore! 👀 📍 Selfoss New Old Town is a must-visit! This unique renewal project is recreating 50 historic Icelandic buildings, now home to modern restaurants, cafés, and shops. 🛍️ Stroll the colorful main street, browse local boutiques, and p...
@guidetoiceland
22.9K likes • 1.5M views

🚗 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:

Is Selfoss in your travel plans for Iceland? 🚗✨🏘️ If you’re road-tripping along the South Coast, Golden Circle, or Ring Road, don’t just pass through—stop and explore! 👀 📍 Selfoss New Old Town is a must-visit! This unique renewal project is recreating 50 historic Icelandic buildings, now home to modern restaurants, cafés, and shops. 🛍️ Stroll the colorful main street, browse local boutiques, an...
guidetoiceland
2.1K likes • 72.6K views
Welcome to Selfoss 🇮🇸 Selfoss is a pretty town in the Southwest of Iceland. It sits on the banks of the Ölfusá river and every year hosts the cultural festival Sumar á Selfossi (Summer in Selfoss). There are around 6500 inhabitants. The Old Dairy is a three-floor reconstruction of the town's former dairy and is now home to a bustling food Hall with a variety of different dishes served. 🥘 To vi...
leisurelypaice
10 likes • 422 views

🚶‍♀️ 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:

New old houses = New Town Centre! 🏘️🇮🇸🏠 We visit one of the main towns of South Iceland; Selfoss. In Selfoss the past connects with the present in unique way. Thirty-five historic buildings that had been fire damaged or had fallen into disrepair now have a new life. The locals reconstructed the buildings to serve as a new beautiful cultural center in the downtown area. Do you love the architectur...
icelandtravel
461 likes • 11.3K views

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

4.5
(109 reviews)

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

Unique old town reconstruction
Convenient base for tours
Diverse food hall options

What People Dislike

Main road impact
Limited tourist activities

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Selfoss hosts events like the 'Summer in Selfoss' cultural festival. It's worth checking local listings for any ongoing events during your visit. Instagram

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

Yes, Selfoss is known for its festive Christmas decorations and lighting, making it a wonderful place for holiday-themed photos. Reddit

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. TikTok

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for the colorful buildings. Midday offers bright, clear light for capturing details. Instagram

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Mars restaurant has been specifically mentioned for fantastic food. The Old Dairy Food Hall itself is a collection of eateries, offering a great variety. Reddit

Yes, numerous cafes and food stalls within the Old Town and the Old Dairy Food Hall offer coffee, pastries, and other light refreshments. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Selfoss Old Town offers a pleasant and manageable experience for families. The reconstructed old town streets are easy to navigate on foot, and the colorful buildings can capture children's imaginations. The Old Dairy Food Hall provides a variety of food options, making it easier to find something picky eaters will enjoy. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

Selfoss Old Town is an ideal stop for road trippers exploring Iceland's South Coast or Golden Circle. Its location makes it a convenient place to break up a journey, grab a meal, and stretch your legs. The ample free parking is a significant advantage for those on the move. TikTokReddit

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. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Selfoss Old Town can be budget-friendly, especially if you focus on its free attractions. Exploring the colorful streets and walking along the Ölfusá River costs nothing. TikTok The Old Dairy Food Hall offers a range of food prices, allowing you to find more affordable options like sandwiches or pastries if you're watching your spending. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Concept of Selfoss Old Town

Selfoss Old Town is a fascinating urban renewal project that breathes new life into historic Icelandic architecture. Instead of demolishing fire-damaged or dilapidated old buildings, they have been meticulously reconstructed to serve modern purposes. This initiative has transformed the town center into a vibrant cultural hub, blending the charm of the past with the functionality of the present. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

Culinary Delights at the Old Dairy Food Hall

The Old Dairy Food Hall (Mjólkurbúið Mathöll) is a central attraction within Selfoss Old Town, offering a vibrant culinary experience. Housed in a reconstructed former dairy building, this bustling food hall brings together a variety of food vendors under one roof. It's a perfect spot for travelers looking for diverse dining options in a lively atmosphere. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Selfoss as a Strategic Travel Hub

Selfoss is strategically positioned as a key town in South Iceland, making it an excellent base for exploring the region's most famous attractions. Its location along the main route makes it a natural stopping point for those traveling the South Coast, the Golden Circle, or the Ring Road. This accessibility is a major draw for tourists looking to efficiently cover ground. TikTok

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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