Audio Guide of Laugavegur

As Reykjavík’s main open-air shopping street, it is accessible 24 hours a day all year round. However, most shops open from 10:00 to 18:00, while bars and restaurants often stay open until midnight or later on weekends.

Walking along Laugavegur is completely free, as it is a lively public street full of shop windows and activity. The only cost will be whatever you choose to spend in its exclusive Icelandic design boutiques, cafés, or on a full experience with our Iceland audio guide.

We suggest setting aside 2 to 3 hours to enjoy it at a relaxed pace, giving yourself time to browse the shops, take photos, and have a coffee. If you only want to walk from one end to the other without stopping, it will take about 40 minutes at an easy pace.

Its name literally translates as 'Wash Road' or 'Water Road,' because historically Icelandic women walked this route carrying laundry to the hot springs of Laugardalur to wash it. Today, it has gone from being a working path to the epicenter of Icelandic fashion and culture.

For shopping and a family-friendly atmosphere, weekday and Saturday afternoons are ideal; but if you want to experience Reykjavík’s famous nightlife (the 'runtur'), you should go on a Friday or Saturday night. In summer, the midnight sun gives it a unique and unmatched energy.

The main street is paved and has lowered curbs, making it generally accessible for wheelchairs, although it has a slight incline. Keep in mind that some shops in historic buildings may have steps at the entrance and, in winter, snow can make getting around more difficult despite municipal cleaning by Reykjavík.

From Laugavegur, you can walk up the famous Rainbow Street (Skólavörðustígur), which leads directly to the iconic church Hallgrímskirkja. You are also just a few minutes’ walk from the waterfront promenade, where the Sun Voyager sculpture stands.

Alcohol is expensive in Iceland, so we recommend downloading a Happy Hour app to find deals at Laugavegur’s bars in the afternoon. Also, if you buy wool clothing or souvenirs, always ask for the Tax Free receipt to recover approximately 14% of the value at the airport.