What To Do During Your Time at Iceland Airwaves

Words Eben Goode

September 29, 2025September 30, 2025

From unforgettable live shows with Iceland’s rising artists to a stroll up the colourful Rainbow Road and a refreshing morning soak at Sky Lagoon, this is everything you’ll want to experience before diving into your Iceland Airwaves weekend.

Set in the vibrant town of Reykjavík, Iceland Airwaves is more than a music festival, it’s a gateway into the city itself. Between the energy of live performances, the late-night glow of the northern lights, the irresistible flavours from streetside food and world-class dining, every corner of downtown helps make Airwaves a journey through music, culture and pure Icelandic magic.

And getting here is easier than ever. Thanks to Icelandair – the official festival partner and the best travel option for reaching Reykjavík – your Airwaves adventure can begin the moment you step on board. Once you land, FlyBus by Icelandia offers a seamless ride straight into the city, where Center Hotels provide the perfect base for your stay – just steps away from the music, the nightlife, and everything that makes Iceland Airwaves unforgettable.

Find out more about Iceland Airwaves here.

BÆJARINS BEZTU PYLSUR

Tucked in the heart of downtown Reykjavík, hot dog stand Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur is a cultural landmark. Locals and visitors have lined up here for what many claim to be the best hot dog in the world, served with crispy onions, creamy remoulade and the all-important ‘eina með öllu’ (one with everything). Beloved by everyone, from Icelanders grabbing a quick lunch to celebrities like Kim Kardashian, this little red stand has become a must for anyone visiting the city, the perfect place to fuel up before diving into a night of music with Iceland Airwaves.

PRIKID

Nicknamed Reykjavík’s “café that parties after dark”, Prikið has been a base for the city’s nightlife for decades. By day, it’s a laid-back spot for coffee, but once the sun dips, the energy shifts and transforms into one of the most electric venues in town. Prikið is where you’ll find the true vibrance of the local music scene. With a cold Icelandic beer, prepare to be swept up in live sets from rising artists like Inspector Spacetime, Alaska1867 and CYBER, each bringing their own flavour to the night. For festival-goers, an evening at Prikið is an essential Icelandic experience that lingers long after the music stops.

SKY LAGOON

After a night of music and dancing, there’s no better way to reset than with a rejuvenating morning at Sky Lagoon, Reykjavík’s oceanside spa. Perched on the edge of the North Atlantic, its steaming volcanic-heated waters offer not just a soak, but a moment of serenity with panoramic views. The spa’s signature Seven-Step Ritual takes the experience even further: from a cold plunge to a cleansing mist, a sauna overlooking the sea and a mineral-rich body scrub, each step is designed to awaken your senses and restore balance. A ritual that blends Iceland’s bathing culture with modern wellness, leaving you refreshed, glowing and ready to dive back into the energy of Iceland Airwaves.

SEABARON

Down by Reykjavík’s harbour, Seabaron has earned a reputation as a must-visit for food lovers. Its rich and flavourful lobster soup is a local favourite, warming to cut through the crisp Icelandic air. For the more adventurous, the menu also offers a taste of tradition with the infamous fermented shark – an Icelandic delicacy that’s not for the faint of heart.

Marvaða

Step into Marvaða’s exhibition space, where art, sound and experimentation blend with Iceland Airwaves. Bringing together artists from Marvaða’s creative community, to transform the space into live performances that invite discovery. A meeting point of sound and style, it’s a must-see for anyone looking to jump headfirst into Reykjavík’s cultural experiences.

FISCHERSUND

Indulge into the world of Fischersund, where Icelandic fragrances become a journey through memory and imagination. Crafted by local artists and perfumers, each scent is designed to evoke childhood moments, nostalgic stories and the raw beauty of Iceland’s landscapes. More than just perfume, it’s an immersive experience that stirs emotion through the power of scent.

TOWN CENTRE

In the heart of Reykjavík, a stroll up the colourful Rainbow Road offers one of the city’s most vibrant experiences. The walk leads you to 12 Tónar – the beloved record shop at the centre of Iceland’s music scene – where shelves are lined with vinyls from both local talents performing at Iceland Airwaves and global artists. Here, you can sink into the cozy atmosphere as you flip through records and discover new sounds. It’s the perfect blend of culture, music and leisure: an ideal way to spend the day before the energy of Iceland Airwaves takes over.

HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA

No visit to Reykjavík is complete without a stop at Hallgrímskirkja, the city’s iconic cathedral that towers over the skyline with its architecture. Step inside to admire the outstanding interior, then take the elevator to the observation tower for the views of the city, colourful rooftops and the surrounding volcanic landscapes.

SMEKKLEYSA

Step into Smekkleysa, Reykjavík’s legendary creative hub and live music venue where icons like Björk have made their mark. Known for its intimate atmosphere and performances, Smekkleysa is the perfect place to dive into Iceland’s music scene. Whether you’re catching a local act or soaking in the artists who’ve shaped the city’s sound through the vinyl display, a visit here is a must to get your festival spirit ready for Iceland Airwaves.