Are you planning a trip to Reykjavik and unsure which area to stay in?

Reykjavik is a capital city on a human scale, pleasant to explore on foot, but not all neighborhoods are equal for a tourist stay.

In this article, we review the different sectors of the capital, their atmosphere, their accessibility and their safety.

This way, you will discover which neighborhoods to choose to be close to the main attractions, restaurants and departure points for excursions, while enjoying a pleasant, calm and safe environment.

Is Reykjavik a safe city?

Iceland, and Reykjavik in particular, is regularly cited as one of the safest destinations in the world for travelers.

According to the latest Numbeo data, the crime rate in Reykjavik is very low with a crime index of around 24,47. Violent crime in the city is exceptionally rare, compared to that of major European capitals such as Paris , London or Rome where it is significantly higher.

However, the Office of Overseas Security (OSAC) notes an increase in pickpocketing and certain street crimes, often attributed to drug users, homeless people or… tourists themselves.

So, even though Reykjavik is a very safe city, it is useful to know the areas where you need to be a little more careful and the particularly pleasant neighborhoods for staying in peace and quiet.

Some slightly unsafe areas of Reykjavik to avoid

In the Icelandic context, talking about a "dangerous neighborhood" remains very relative, but certain areas of Reykjavik deserve more vigilance.

1. Breiðholt (large residential area on the southeastern outskirts) It's a working-class area associated with a slightly higher crime rate (petty offenses, social problems). The atmosphere remains generally calm during the day, but it's not the most sought-after area for a tourist stay, and accommodation options are limited.
2. Surroundings of the bars and nightlife in the city center (around Laugavegur and Austurvöllur) The heart of the city center (bars, clubs, busy squares) is where most of the nighttime disturbances occur: drunkenness, arguments, minor fights, and thefts of bags or phones. Austurvöllur Park is an area to avoid late at night due to the presence of intoxicated individuals.

Neighborhoods to prioritize for a tourist stay in Reykjavik

Several neighborhoods in Iceland's capital combine a very high level of safety, a pleasant atmosphere, and easy access to major tourist attractions. Here are the best neighborhoods to stay in Reykjavik for tourists:

1. Miðborg / 101 (City Center) Ideal for a first visit! You're within walking distance of Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa, the Old Port, Laugavegur (shopping), and numerous restaurants. It's a very safe, lively, and convenient area for bus tours (Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, etc.), with most tours picking up guests at hotels or central bus stops.
2. Old Harbour / Grandi – Old Harbour A maritime atmosphere, seafood restaurants, whale watching cruises and boat trips departing from the port. It's a quiet neighborhood close to the center, appreciated for its local and safe vibe, while remaining within walking distance of the main attractions.
3. Vesturbær A residential area west of the city center, known for being very peaceful and family-friendly, with geothermal pools and quiet streets. It's a good choice if you're looking for a more local atmosphere, while still being easily accessible from the center by bus or on foot, depending on the location.
4. Þingholt A charming central area with old houses, galleries and museums, close to cultural sites. Very convenient for walking everywhere and enjoying cafes and restaurants in a safe and pleasant environment.

Reykjavik city centre hotel

For a tourist stay, a good compromise between safety and location is to stay in or in the immediate vicinity of Miðborg (101), close to Laugavegur and the old port.

I highly recommend staying at the Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre.

• Location: Right in the city center, in a very safe area, a few minutes' walk from Laugavegur, Harpa, the old port and many restaurants.
• Advantages: Comfortable and modern hotel, ideal for couples or solo travelers, very highly rated for safety and the neighborhood environment (solo travelers highlight the feeling of safety when walking out).​
• Tourist interest: Perfect for easily reaching excursion meeting points (most transfers pick up directly from central hotels or nearby tourist bus stops).​

What to visit in or from Reykjavik?

To explore the city and its surroundings safely while optimizing your time, organized guided tours are an excellent option.

Here are some suggested tours with links for booking:

• Reykjavik city tour by minivan
  • Panoramic tour of the city with stops at the main sites of the capital (Harpa, Höfði, Hallgrímskirkja, historic center, Perlan…).​
  • Reservation : https://www.civitatis.com/fr/reykjavik/bus-touristique-reykjavik/​
• Excursion to the Golden Circle
  • An unmissable tour to Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geyser and the Gullfoss waterfall, departing from Reykjavik with transport included.
  • Guided excursion led by a professional guide, ideal for limiting the constraints of driving and weather.​
  • Reservation : https://www.civitatis.com/en/reykjavik/golden-circle-tour/​
• Excursions departing from Reykjavik with a French-speaking guide
  • Civitatis offers private excursions from Reykjavik, including to the Reykjanes Peninsula or on the Golden Circle circuit, with a French-speaking guide depending on the options.
  • Pick-up directly from your accommodation, convenient for stress-free travel. See on https://www.civitatis.com/fr/reykjavik/excursion-privee-reykjavik/​
• Other activities in Reykjavik
  • To complement your trip with other experiences (whales, northern lights, Blue Lagoon, etc.), you can consult the full range of activities offered: https://www.civitatis.com/fr/reykjavik/​

By combining accommodation in the centre or near the old port with this type of excursion, you benefit from an excellent level of safety, easy travel without a car and direct access to the main tourist sites of Iceland.