Vegan and Vegetarian Guide to Reykjavik, Iceland

• Getting There: Flights and Transportation

• Accommodation: Our Self-Catering Apartment

• Navigating Reykjavik's Veggie-Friendly Food Scene

• Grocery Shopping: Stocking Up for Self-Catering

• Suggested 6-day itinerary

• Travel Tips!

Getting There: Flights and Transportation

Our Icelandic adventure began with a direct flight to Keflavik Airport, facilitated by a convenient flight and car rental package. This option streamlined our travel logistics and offered significant cost savings, allowing us to allocate more towards exploring Iceland’s wonders. Upon arrival, picking up our rental car was seamless, providing us the freedom to explore Reykjavik and beyond at our own pace.

Driving in Iceland is a remarkably rewarding experience. The country's well-maintained road network and stunning landscapes make for an enjoyable journey between destinations. Reykjavik, being the capital, serves as an excellent base from which to explore the southwestern region of Iceland. The convenience of having a rental car enabled us to visit popular sites such as the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and the South Coast at our own pace, unencumbered by the constraints of public transportation schedules.

Accommodation: Our Self-Catering Apartment

For our 6-day stay, we opted for a self-catering apartment just a 10-minute drive from Reykjavik’s bustling centre, booked on www.booking.com. With a fully equipped kitchen, we enjoyed preparing hearty breakfasts before our adventures and packing nutritious lunches to eat on the go. The flexibility of having a self-catering setup meant we could return from long days of exploration and enjoy a relaxing dinner at our own pace, without needing to stop by a restaurant. Fresh ingredients from local supermarkets like Bonus, similar to Aldi, ensured our culinary adventures were delicious, nutritious and budget-friendly.

Choosing a self-catering apartment in Reykjavik was undoubtedly a wise decision. It balanced cost-effectiveness with comfort and convenience, making it an ideal base for our Icelandic adventure. The ability to prepare our meals, combined with the apartment's strategic location, contributed greatly to the success and enjoyment of our trip.

Navigating Reykjavik's Veggie-Friendly Food Scene

While we savoured the convenience of our apartment kitchen and the local supermarket, Reykjavik’s vibrant food scene beckoned. We indulged in traditional Icelandic rye bread, known locally as "rúgbrauð," slow-baked in geothermal heat. This dense, slightly sweet bread paired perfectly with optional butter, providing a taste of Iceland’s rich culinary traditions.

For those craving a cozy meal, we recommend Flatey Pizza, who offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, where the quality of ingredients and cozy atmosphere make for a memorable dining experience.

Reykjavik Chips, a local favourite, is a delightful lunchtime or late-night treat, with their crispy perfection and flavourful variety of fries, alongside a selection of delicious vegan sauces.

Grocery Shopping: Stocking Up for Self-Catering

To fully embrace our veggie-friendly self-catering experience in Reykjavik, we packed staple foods such as pasta, wraps, pitta, and rice. These non-perishable items provided a convenient base for a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. However, fresh produce was essential for creating nutritious meals, prompting us to discover a local grocery store called Bonus.

Similar to discount grocery chains like Aldi, Bonus became our go-to for sourcing fresh vegetables, fruits, and other essentials. We were delighted by the supermarket's extensive range of fresh produce, from leafy greens to vibrant root vegetables, all offered at reasonable prices. This variety allowed us to incorporate a diverse array of nutrients into our vegetarian meals, ensuring a balanced diet throughout our stay.

In addition to fresh produce, Bonus stocked essential vegan and vegetarian foods such as plant-based milk, tofu, and vegan cheeses, which complemented our pantry staples perfectly. The affordability of these items was a significant advantage, enabling us to enjoy wholesome and satisfying vegetarian meals while adhering to our budget. Shopping at Bonus was not only economical but also convenient, with multiple locations scattered across Reykjavik. This accessibility made it easy to replenish our supplies as we explored the city, ensuring we always had fresh ingredients on hand.

In summary, choosing Bonus for our grocery needs during our Reykjavik stay was a practical and sustainable choice for veggie-friendly travel. It empowered us to create a variety of delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes while embracing Iceland's culinary offerings, enhancing the overall enjoyment and authenticity of our trip.

Suggested 6-day itinerary

This 6-day itinerary offers a well-rounded experience, balancing the urban charm of Reykjavik with the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Iceland's landscapes.

Day 1: Arrival and Reykjavik Exploration

• Arrival: Fly into Keflavik Airport and pick up your rental car. Check into your self-catering apartment, conveniently located a short drive from Reykjavik's city center.

• Exploration: Spend the evening exploring Reykjavik. Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church for its stunning architecture and panoramic views from the tower. Nearby, don't miss the Sun Voyager sculpture along the coast.

Day 2: Golden Circle Adventure

• Golden Circle Tour: Depart early for the Golden Circle, a renowned route showcasing Iceland's natural wonders. Don't forgot to take a packed lunch, alongside snacks, teabags, soup sachets and hot water!

• Thingvellir National Park: Explore the historic site where two tectonic plates meet.

• Laugarvatn Fontana: Experience traditional rye bread baked underground and relax in the natural hot springs.

• Geysir: Witness the powerful Strokkur geyser erupting.

• Gullfoss Waterfall: Admire the majestic double cascade before returning to Reykjavik.

Day 3: Reykjavik Museums, Culture, and City Exploration

• Hallgrímskirkja Church: Explore the iconic church known for its striking architecture. Ascend to the tower for panoramic views of Reykjavik and its surroundings. Discover the interior and learn about its cultural significance.

• Perlan Museum: Engage with interactive exhibits showcasing Iceland's natural wonders and environmental issues. Enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck, offering a different perspective of Reykjavik.

• Cultural Exploration: Wander through Reykjavik's streets filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, bars and local art galleries. Visit cultural landmarks like Harpa Concert Hall, renowned for its modern architecture and vibrant events.

Day 4: Relaxation at the Blue Lagoon

• Blue Lagoon: Enjoy a day of relaxation at the geothermal spa. Soak in the mineral-rich waters known for their therapeutic benefits and try natural face masks included in the package.

Day 5: South Coast Exploration

• South Coast: Drive along Iceland's stunning South Coast, known for its dramatic landscapes and waterfalls.

• Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss: Visit these iconic waterfalls. Walk behind Seljalandsfoss for a unique perspective.

• Optional: Depending on weather, consider visiting the volcanic landscape of Fagradalsfjall or other nearby attractions.

Day 6: Farewell

• Departure Preparation: Pack and prepare for your departure. Reflect on your adventures in Reykjavik before heading back.

Evenings:

• Northern Lights: Don't forget to spend the evenings hunting for the Northern Lights! Drive to popular spots such as the Grotta Lighthouse for a chance to see this natural phenomenon.

Travel Tips!

• When planning a trip to Reykjavik, Iceland, a package deal that includes both flight and car rental can offer greater convenience and often better pricing. This approach not only simplifies your travel arrangements but also ensures you have reliable transportation for exploring beyond the city limits. Reykjavik is an excellent base for your Icelandic adventures, but to truly appreciate the country's diverse landscapes, day trips are essential.

• Accommodations can significantly impact your travel budget. Opting for a self-catering apartment is a practical choice, providing the flexibility to prepare your meals and reduce dining expenses. Local supermarkets, such as Bonus, offer a variety of affordable groceries, making it easy to stock up on essentials without breaking the bank. This approach allows you to enjoy Iceland's culinary offerings while still managing your expenses effectively.

• Pack or buy essential dry foods such as pasta and rice, which you can use as the basis of your home-cooked meals. Take cereal bars, nuts, teabags and soup sachets with a handy thermos flask for enjoying hot tea and soups, while exploring Iceland's chilly winter landscapes.

• Reykjavik itself has a wealth of attractions, from its historic landmarks to vibrant cultural scene. However, the true allure of Iceland lies in its natural landscapes. Make sure to allocate time for day trips to iconic sites like the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and the South Coast. These excursions will give you a deeper appreciation of Iceland's unique geology and stunning scenery.

• Northern Lights! Use the Aurora app to maximise your chances of witnessing this mesmerising natural phenomenon from optimal viewing spots.

• Given Iceland's unpredictable weather, packing appropriately is crucial. Layered clothing is recommended to adapt to varying temperatures and conditions. A good quality, waterproof outer layer will be invaluable, as well as warm hats and gloves. Comfortable and sturdy footwear is essential for both urban exploration in Reykjavik and trekking through natural sites. With the right preparation, you'll be ready to fully enjoy all the wonders that Iceland has to offer.