Top Things to Do in Reykjavík on Rainy or Windy Days

Iceland, including its charming capital, is famous for its unpredictable weather. But just because downpours are a common feature doesn’t mean you should just hole up in your hotel room when it starts to pour. Expect loads of fantastic rainy day activities in Reykjavík. 

The city features indoor activities, cultural experiences, and cozy establishments that make cloudy days just as memorable as clear ones. From immersive museums to geothermal pools, here are useful things to do in Reykjavík when it rains.

1. Discover Iceland’s Wonders at Perlan

When the wild Icelandic weather draws a curtain over the landscapes, Reykjavík offers the perfect indoor escape: Perlan – Wonders of Iceland. 

In this immersive science museum, you and the family can experience the country's glaciers, volcanoes, and wildlife. This is no ordinary museum — it even lets travelers literally walk through a real, man-made ice cave! You can also witness the Volcano Show, which includes stunning footage of Iceland's most recent eruptions.

Interactive displays and the Áróra northern lights show make Perlan a top indoor attraction in Reykjavík. Don't miss the 360-degree observation deck either. It overlooks sweeping panoramic views over Reykjavík and the coastline, a beautiful vista that cuts through the clouds.

2. Hit the Reykjavík Museums

Rainy days are the perfect excuse to dive into Iceland’s fascinating history, art, and culture. The stunning diversity of Reykjavík museums will keep you entertained even when the weather goes wild.

• National Museum of Iceland: Journey through Iceland's history and cultural heritage, from the Viking Settlement era to the present day.
• Reykjavík Art Museum: Discover Iceland’s largest art institution, spread across three locations (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn). The museum showcases modern and contemporary works, highlighting Icelandic masters like Erró and Kjarval.
• Saga Museum: This museum brings the captivating Icelandic Sagas to life using detailed, life-like wax figures depicting major historical figures and events.
• The Settlement Exhibition (Aðalstræti): Built around the actual ruins of one of Reykjavík's first Viking longhouses, this interactive museum explores the lives of Iceland's first settlers.
• Reykjavík Maritime Museum: Situated in a former fish freezing plant by the harbor, this museum explores the local history of fishing and seafaring.
• Reykjavík Museum of Photography: Housing a vast collection of photographs, this museum exhibits Icelandic and international photography from the 1870s to the present. 
• The Einar Jónsson Museum: This was the first art museum in Iceland, dedicated entirely to the works of Iceland's pioneering sculptor, Einar Jónsson. His dramatic bronze casts are displayed both inside and in the surrounding garden.

These Reykjavík museums offer reliable indoor activities when the weather is unpredictable.

3. Admire the Stunning Harpa Concert Hall

Even blustery days can’t dim the shimmering facade of Harpa Concert Hall Reykjavík on the waterfront. Rain or shine, its intricate weave of glass panels stands out as one of the city’s most stunning architectural landmarks. 

Inside, take a guided tour, browse the gift shop, or check the schedule for concerts and cultural events. Beyond the sheer beauty of its facade, exploring Harpa is among the most popular rainy day activities Reykjavik has to offer.

4. Warm Up in a Geothermal Pool

Embrace the wet weather with a quintessential Icelandic tradition: a hot soak. Geothermal pools in Reykjavík are a cornerstone of Icelandic life, and even rain can’t dampen the experience. It’s unexpected, to be sure. But relaxing in a warm swimming pool while it’s drizzling is one of the unique things to do in Reykjavík when it rains.

Try Laugardalslaug, the capital’s largest swimming complex. It features hot tubs, steam baths, and water slides, making it a fun day out for the whole family. 

5. Soar Above the Scenery with FlyOver Iceland

For a thrill without getting soaked, FlyOver Iceland offers an unforgettable simulated flight over the country’s spectacular landscapes. The state-of-the-art ride combines comfortable motion seats, sweeping visuals, and wind and mist effects for an ultra-realistic experience. It makes you feel as if you are actually soaring over Iceland’s mountains, glaciers, and volcanoes! 

When outdoor adventures are on pause, it’s truly one of the best rainy day activities Reykjavík has to offer.

6. Meet the Ocean’s Gentle Giants at Whales of Iceland

Step into the tranquil world beneath the waves at Whales of Iceland, a massive exhibition in the Grandi harbor district. This is Europe's largest whale museum. It features 23 life-sized models of various whale species found in Icelandic waters, including the colossal blue whale.

The lighting, underwater sounds, and life-like models create an immersive and relaxing experience. It's the perfect escape for a drizzly afternoon and a memorable addition if you’re exploring indoor attractions in Reykjavík.

7. Shop and Café-Hop Along Laugavegur Street

Just because it's raining doesn't mean you can't explore the heart of the city! Reykjavík’s main shopping thoroughfare, Laugavegur, is lined with boutiques, Icelandic design stores, and cozy cafés that provide warm indoor stops. 

It’s one of the most delightful things to do in Reykjavík when it rains. Shoppers can dip in and out of shops to browse for Icelandic woolens, local crafts, or unique souvenirs.

For the ultimate cozy hideaway on a slow, rainy afternoon, head to a famous hideaway like Mál og Menning. The bookshop-slash-café is a comfy spot where you can enjoy a warm drink and people-watch until the sun reappears.

8. Enjoy Icelandic Cuisine Indoors

Rainy days are the ultimate excuse to savour Iceland’s comfort foods. Reykjavík’s restaurants provide instant warmth and rich flavor with dishes like plokkfiskur (fish stew) and kjötsúpa (traditional lamb soup). When hunting for indoor attractions in Reykjavík, look no further than these culinary havens.

Try an upscale spot like Apotek for fusion cuisine on a stylish night out. Alternatively, visit a local favorite like Íslenski Barinn for authentic Icelandic food with a twist.

9. Escape to a Modern Shopping Mall

For maximum retail therapy and weather protection, head to one of the capital’s modern shopping malls. Kringlan and Smáralind are two of the largest, providing a complete indoor city experience under one roof. They house everything, from international fashion brands and local design stores to large food courts and cinemas. Kringlan even includes a branch of the Reykjavík public library.

10. Learn About the Northern Lights at Aurora Reykjavík

At Aurora Reykjavík, the northern lights come to life indoors. Explore interactive exhibits, photography galleries, and a breathtaking HD projection show that explains the science behind the aurora. It’s one of the most enchanting indoor attractions in Reykjavík and a guaranteed way to see the lights, no matter the weather.

Plan Your Rainy Day in Reykjavík

Rain and wind are simply part of Iceland’s charm. Luckily, with so many engaging indoor attractions, you’ll never run out of things to do in Reykjavík when it rains.

Start your morning exploring a museum, grab lunch by the harbor, and finish your day at Perlan Wonders of Iceland. Exhibits dedicated to Icelandic phenomena and 360-degree views from the observation deck make this dome-shaped marvel the ideal place for winding down. 

Just make sure to book a Perlan ticket early to secure your visit. Truly, with a little planning, even the stormiest days can turn into memorable adventures.

FAQs

Does it rain a lot in Reykjavík?

Reykjavík experiences highly unpredictable weather. The city often experiences frequent, short rain showers and strong winds rather than prolonged, heavy rainfall.

What is the rainiest month in Iceland?

October is typically the rainiest month in Reykjavík, with other winter months also seeing high precipitation.

What are the top rainy day activities in Reykjavík?

Popular rainy day activities include visiting Reykjavík museums, exploring indoor attractions like Perlan Wonders of Iceland, or relaxing in the geothermal pools.

Where can I see the Northern Lights if it is cloudy?

You can experience simulated recreations of the aurora borealis by visiting the dedicated, indoor exhibits and shows at Perlan Wonders of Iceland or Aurora Reykjavík.