Is Reykjavik Safe? Surprisingly Low Crime Amidst Natural Wonders

Loaded question. According to our parents, the answer is no because they're instantly afraid we'll be caught in a volcanic eruption or freeze to death in the harsh Nordic winter. Ask the TripAdvisor or Reddit community, and the answer will usually be the same. If you're street smart, it's just as safe as walking around in your U.S. hometown – maybe even safer. So, which is it? Is Reykjavik safe or not?

My wife Sarah and I spent 6 nights in Reykjavik as first-time visitors. We're going to share 1) how we determined if Reykjavik felt safe for us and 2) our honest travel experience during our weeklong stay.

I am guilty.

When Sarah and I first considered Reykjavik, my thoughts (just like my parents) immediately went to the dramatic scenes of erupting volcanoes and treacherous ice-covered roads I'd seen on TV.

I am human after all, and Iceland does have its share of natural hazards.

But after seeing recent travelers' overwhelmingly positive experiences, we decided it was time to challenge this perception of danger and experience the world's most peaceful country for ourselves.

By the way, I'm a middle-aged traveler (yikes, I hate to admit this because in my mind I'm "29" forever, lol!) and have visited 6 continents and 32 countries from Cambodia to Zimbabwe to Chile. Sarah and I are both remote workers, which allows us to travel while keeping up with our day jobs. This trip to Reykjavik was a perfect blend of work and exploration for us.

My definition of risk in my 20s is much different than now. I offer this background, so you understand the person sharing this Reykjavik safety perspective.

Alright, let's quickly review the 3 safety factor checklist we used to determine if Reykjavik felt safe to visit.

Then we'll chat about why you probably landed on this post ... firsthand travel experience in the 7 most popular Reykjavik neighborhoods.

3 Safety Factors to Consider

01 - State Department Travel Advisory

If you don't know this already, the U.S. Department of State posts travel advisory ratings on all countries that range from 1-4.

1 = Exercise normal precautions (white)2 = Exercise increased caution (yellow)3 = Reconsider travel (orange)4 = Do not travel (red)

We only travel to destinations labeled 1 or 2.

It's important to know that different ratings can exist in the same country. For example, some countries have all the ratings ... 1, 2, 3, and 4!

Always look at the whole picture to make your decision. Even in my hometown city, there are places I would walk (and not walk) after dark.

Know your 1, 2, 3, and 4s!

When we looked at Iceland, we were pleasantly surprised to see it's labeled as Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions. This is the lowest, safest rating a country can get. In fact, Iceland has held the top position on the Global Peace Index for over a decade.

Stick to the peaceful Nordic island!

U.S. Department of State Check: PASS

02 - Latest News

It's always important to understand what's going on in a country financially, socially, and politically to help you determine if you should go or not.

Interestingly, Iceland has been in the news recently, but not for the reasons you might think. The country has been experiencing increased seismic activity and volcanic eruptions in the Reykjanes Peninsula. While this might sound alarming, it's actually a fascinating natural phenomenon that's been drawing tourists rather than scaring them away.

I also look for any news on crime targeting tourists. It's one thing if you hear about natural disasters, but it's an entirely different thing if you hear about tourists being assaulted in well-known tourist sections.

The latter situation would be a deal breaker.

For example, we drove all around Tulum, Cancun, and Puerto Morelos years ago and loved it! But recently, I heard news about tourists getting caught in the crossfire of drug cartel disagreements in touristy areas. That situation would need to change if we were to consider traveling to that area again.

I was surprised then when I found NO recent news of any hard crime against tourists in Reykjavik. The most "dangerous" thing I could find was a warning about carbon monoxide poisoning in some poorly ventilated accommodations. And yes, I am embarrassed to say I did buy a travel carbon monoxide detector for this trip "just in case." Yes, I am fully aware this could happen at any property in any city without proper ventilation.

Politically, Iceland has been relatively stable. There are elections coming up, but unlike some other countries, political transitions in Iceland tend to be smooth and peaceful.

Current News Check: PASS

03 - Community Forums

Recent traveler experiences are invaluable.

Although you can get "fake news" or trolls reporting false information, TripAdvisor Forum and Reddit communities are good sources to check on a fellow traveler's personal experience.

Always check to see if the person posting has other comments and reviews to gauge legitimacy. A one-time poster is always suspicious.

Now usually, you'll get the same answer if you ask if a place is safe in these forums. The common reply is to take all the normal precautions like you do back at home, and you'll be fine.

Occasionally though you'll have a traveler reporting a personal incident.

When we researched Reykjavik though, we couldn't find any negative incidents of personal harm. In fact, most travelers raved about how safe they felt, even when walking alone at night.

One traveler on TripAdvisor wrote, "As a solo female traveler, I felt incredibly safe in Iceland. The locals were always willing to help, and I never felt threatened, even when hiking alone."

Another Reddit user commented, "Reykjavik's nightlife is lively but not rowdy. I felt safe walking home at 2 AM, something I wouldn't do in many other capitals."

These positive experiences, combined with the lack of reported incidents, gave us confidence in Reykjavik's safety.

Community Forum Check: PASS

First Hand Experience in Reykjavik

Alright, now the juicy part. We felt we had researched enough to give us a sense Reykjavik was safe with the usual precautions.

Did our research match our experience?

Yes!

We spent 1 week in Reykjavik.

Here's our experience as first-time visitors to Reykjavik WALKING around (we walked almost everywhere!) and as passengers on public transportation.

Downtown Reykjavik (101)

Downtown Reykjavik, also known as 101 after its postal code, is the heart of the city. It's a vibrant area filled with colorful buildings, quirky street art, and a mix of traditional and modern architecture.

We stayed in a cozy Airbnb just off Laugavegur, the main shopping street. From the moment we stepped out, we felt at ease. The streets were clean, well-lit, and bustling with a mix of locals and tourists.

During the day, we explored the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, strolled along the picturesque harbor, and indulged in some seriously good coffee at Reykjavik Roasters. At night, we ventured out to experience the famous Reykjavik nightlife, stopping by Kaffibarinn for a taste of local beer.

Even in the wee hours of the morning, we felt completely safe walking back to our accommodation. The only "hazard" we encountered was almost being blown over by the strong Icelandic wind!

One evening, we accidentally left our camera at a restaurant. When we realized and rushed back an hour later, not only was it still there, but the staff had kept it safe for us. This level of honesty and care for others' belongings is something we rarely experience back home.

Is Downtown Reykjavik (101) Safe? YES

Vesturbær

Vesturbær, located west of downtown, is a quiet, residential neighborhood that gave us a glimpse into local life in Reykjavik.

We spent an afternoon here, mainly to visit the famous Vesturbæjarlaug swimming pool. Walking through the neighborhood, we were struck by how peaceful it was. Families were out and about, children playing in small parks, and there was a general sense of calm.

At the swimming pool, we experienced our first "cultural shock" moment. In Iceland, it's mandatory to shower naked before entering the pool. As awkward as it felt at first, we quickly realized that no one cared, and it was just a normal part of Icelandic swimming culture. This openness and lack of self-consciousness is part of what makes Iceland feel so safe – there's a strong sense of community trust.

After our swim, we grabbed a bite at Kaffihús Vesturbæjar, a charming local café. The barista, noticing we were tourists, struck up a conversation and gave us some great tips about hidden hot springs in the countryside.

Is Vesturbær Safe? YES

Hlíðar

Hlíðar is a residential area just east of downtown, known for its proximity to Klambratún Park and the Perlan museum.

We visited Hlíðar on a sunny afternoon, primarily to check out the Perlan. The walk from downtown was pleasant, taking us through quiet streets lined with colorful houses and well-maintained gardens.

At Klambratún Park, we joined locals enjoying the rare sunshine, having picnics, and playing frisbee. It struck us how relaxed everyone seemed, with people leaving their belongings unattended while they played sports or napped on the grass.

The Perlan itself was a highlight, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding nature. As we admired the view, a local family struck up a conversation with us, eager to share their love for their city and country. They even invited us to join them for a traditional Icelandic meal, an offer we regrettably had to decline due to prior plans.

As the day turned to the long Nordic summer evening, we walked back to our Airbnb, feeling completely at ease despite the late hour and unfamiliar surroundings.

Is Hlíðar Safe? YES

Laugardalur

Laugardalur, often called the "hot spring valley," is Reykjavik's recreational hub. We dedicated a full day to exploring this area, and it didn't disappoint.

We started our day early at the Laugardalslaug geothermal pool complex. Again, we encountered the naked shower rule, but by this point, we were pros! The pool was a fantastic place to relax and chat with locals, who were more than happy to share their favorite spots in the city.

After our swim, we explored the beautiful Reykjavik Botanical Gardens. We were amazed at how many people left their strollers (often with sleeping babies!) outside cafes and shops. It's a level of trust that's hard to imagine in many other cities.

In the afternoon, we visited the Reykjavik Family Park and Zoo. While small by international standards, it was charming and gave us insight into Iceland's unique wildlife.

As animal lovers, we were particularly impressed by the ethical treatment of the animals and the educational focus of the zoo. It's clear that Reykjavik's culture of care extends to all living beings.

Is Laugardalur Safe? YES

Kópavogur

Kópavogur, while technically a separate city, is part of the Greater Reykjavik area and is Iceland's second-largest city. We took a day trip here, curious to see life outside the capital proper.

Our first stop was the striking Kópavogur Church, which offers beautiful views over the city and the bay. As we admired the view, an elderly local approached us. Despite the language barrier, he managed to convey through gestures and a few English words the history of the church and the rapid growth of Kópavogur in recent decades.

We then visited the Gerðarsafn Kópavogur Art Museum, a small but impressive collection of Icelandic art. The museum staff were incredibly friendly, offering us insights into the artworks and even recommending a great local restaurant for lunch.

As we walked around the residential areas, we noticed how many homes had trampolines in their yards, often without fences. This open, trusting atmosphere really struck us as unique.

Is Kópavogur Safe? YES

Hafnarfjörður

Hafnarfjörður, known as the "town in the lava," is a charming port town that's part of the Greater Reykjavik area. We spent half a day exploring this unique place.

The town is built on an old lava flow, which gives it a distinctive, rugged character. We took a guided walking tour that explained the town's history and its connection to Icelandic folklore – Hafnarfjörður is said to be home to one of Iceland's largest colonies of huldufólk (hidden people or elves).

Our guide, a local named Björk, was full of entertaining stories. She showed us houses built around lava rocks that couldn't be moved for fear of disturbing the elves. Whether you believe in elves or not, it was fascinating to see how this folklore influences modern life and urban planning.

We ended our visit with a stop at the Viking Village restaurant, where we tried traditional Icelandic fare. The staff, dressed in Viking costumes, were more than happy to explain each dish and its historical significance.

Throughout our time in Hafnarfjörður, we felt a strong sense of community. People greeted each other (and us) on the streets, and there was a palpable small-town atmosphere despite being so close to the capital.

Is Hafnarfjörður Safe? YES

Seltjarnarnes

Seltjarnarnes is a small town on a peninsula west of Reykjavik, known for its beautiful coastal walks and the Grótta Island Lighthouse.

We visited Seltjarnarnes on our last day, saving this natural paradise for the end of our trip. We took a bus from downtown Reykjavik, and the journey itself was a pleasure – clean, punctual, and with helpful fellow passengers who made sure we got off at the right stop.

The highlight of Seltjarnarnes was undoubtedly the walk to Grótta Island Lighthouse. The path takes you along the coast, with breathtaking views of the ocean on one side and Mount Esja on the other. We timed our visit for low tide so we could walk out to the lighthouse itself.

As we walked, we noticed many locals out for jogs or bike rides. Several stopped to chat with us, curious about where we were from and how we were enjoying Iceland. One jogger, learning it was our last day, insisted on giving us his phone number in case we needed any help before our departure. This kind of genuine friendliness towards strangers is something we found throughout our stay in Reykjavik.

Near the lighthouse, we stumbled upon a small hot pot (a natural hot spring pool) right on the beach. Locals were happily soaking in the warm water, watching the waves crash nearby. They invited us to join, but we hadn't brought our swimsuits. Next time!

Is Seltjarnarnes Safe? YES

Reykjavik by Foot and Bus

Walking in Reykjavik

Walking was our primary mode of transportation in Reykjavik, and we felt completely safe doing so at all hours. The city is incredibly pedestrian-friendly, with wide sidewalks, plenty of pedestrian crossings, and drivers who actually stop for you!

During our week-long stay, we walked everywhere within the city center and never once felt unsafe. The city's low crime rate is evident in how people behave – we often saw locals leaving their bikes unlocked or their car windows open.

One thing to be aware of is the weather. Reykjavik's weather can change rapidly, and the wind can be incredibly strong. We learned quickly to always carry a waterproof jacket and to check the weather forecast before heading out for long walks.

Using Public Transportation

Reykjavik's public bus system, Strætó, was our go-to for longer trips within the city and to nearby towns. We found it to be safe, clean, and reliable.

The buses were always on time, and the drivers were helpful and patient with our questions. Many of the bus stops have digital displays showing real-time arrival information, which was incredibly convenient.

One evening, we took the bus back from Seltjarnarnes quite late. Despite the late hour, the bus was clean and well-lit, and we felt completely at ease. A local woman on the bus even helped us figure out the best stop for our Airbnb, going out of her way to make sure we knew where we were going.

We did use taxis a couple of times, mainly when we were running late for dinner reservations. We always used official taxis, which we found to be safe and professional. The drivers were friendly and often gave us tips about the city.

Driving in Reykjavik and Beyond

While we didn't rent a car for our city stay, we did rent one for a day trip outside Reykjavik. Driving in the city was straightforward, with well-maintained roads and clear signage.

However, we were glad we had checked road conditions before our trip. Iceland's weather can make driving challenging, especially in winter or in more remote areas. We also made sure to register our travel plans with SafeTravel.is before our day trip, as recommended for all travelers venturing outside urban areas.

Unique Safety Considerations in Reykjavik

Weather and Natural Hazards

Reykjavik's weather was our biggest safety concern, ironically. We visited in summer, but still experienced rapid weather changes. One moment it would be sunny, the next we'd be caught in a fierce wind with sideways rain.

We learned to always carry waterproof jackets and to dress in layers. The SafeTravel.is website became our go-to resource for weather updates and safety alerts.

We also had to be cautious around geothermal areas. While not in Reykjavik proper, many popular tourist sites near the city have hot springs and steam vents. These areas are well-marked with warning signs, and it's crucial to stay on designated paths.

Cultural Factors Impacting Safety

Iceland's culture significantly contributes to its safety. There's a strong sense of community trust and social cohesion. We were continually amazed by how trusting people were – leaving bags unattended, children playing unsupervised in parks, and homes often left unlocked.

The low crime rate has a lot to do with Iceland's social policies, education system, and lack of significant wealth disparity. It was refreshing to be in a place where social safety nets are strong and community well-being is prioritized.

Alcohol consumption is worth mentioning. While Reykjavik has a lively nightlife, especially on weekends, we didn't see the kind of rowdy behavior often associated with drinking in other cities. There's a more mature attitude towards alcohol, although it's worth noting that drinks are expensive, which might contribute to moderation.

Recommended Safe Itinerary

Based on our experience, here's a 3-day itinerary that will give you a great taste of Reykjavik while keeping safety in mind:

Day 1:

• Morning: Start with a walk around Downtown Reykjavik (101). Visit Hallgrímskirkja church and take the elevator up for panoramic city views.
• Afternoon: Explore the harborfront area and visit the striking Harpa Concert Hall.
• Evening: Dinner at Grillmarkaðurinn for a taste of modern Icelandic cuisine.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit the Perlan museum in Hlíðar for its excellent exhibits on Iceland's nature.
• Afternoon: Relax at Laugardalslaug geothermal pool in Laugardalur.
• Evening: Take a northern lights tour (in winter) or a midnight sun walk (in summer).

Day 3:

• Morning: Bus to Seltjarnarnes for a coastal walk to Grótta Island Lighthouse.
• Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Iceland to learn about the country's history.
• Evening: Food tour in Downtown Reykjavik to sample traditional Icelandic dishes.

Throughout this itinerary, remember to:

• Check weather forecasts daily and dress appropriately
• Use sunscreen even on cloudy days (the UV index can be high)
• Stay on marked paths, especially in natural areas
• Be respectful of nature and follow all safety guidelines at attractions

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In summary, did we feel safe in Reykjavik?

Absolutely yes!

Reykjavik isn't just safe – it's one of the safest cities we've ever visited. The combination of low crime rates, helpful locals, and excellent infrastructure made us feel secure throughout our stay.

However, as first-time visitors, we still followed some basic precautions:

• We were aware of our surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas
• We kept our valuables secure and didn't flash expensive items
• We checked weather forecasts daily and dressed appropriately
• We followed local guidelines and safety instructions, particularly at natural attractions
• We used official taxis and registered our travel plans for out-of-city trips

The main safety concerns in Reykjavik are related to nature and weather rather than crime. Being prepared for rapid weather changes and respecting the power of Iceland's natural environment is crucial.

Here are our top safety tips for visitors to Reykjavik:

1. Register with SafeTravel.is before your trip, especially if venturing outside the city
2. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions
3. Dress in layers and always carry a waterproof jacket
4. Stay on marked paths at natural attractions
5. Be cautious around geothermal areas
6. Use official taxis or public transport for late-night travel
7. Keep emergency numbers handy (112 is the general emergency number)
8. Respect local customs, especially at swimming pools and hot springs
9. Don't attempt to drive in conditions you're not comfortable with
10. Be prepared for high costs – financial stress can impact your trip's safety and enjoyment

Reykjavik is a city where you can relax and enjoy yourself without constantly looking over your shoulder. It's a place where natural wonders meet urban comfort, all wrapped in a blanket of safety that's hard to find elsewhere.

Our time in Reykjavik changed our perceptions of what a safe city can be. It's not just about low crime rates, but about a culture of trust, community, and respect for both people and nature.

If you're considering a trip to Reykjavik, especially if safety is a top concern, we wholeheartedly recommend it. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure along with your weather-appropriate gear!

Safe and happy travels!

About Us

Hey there! We're West and Sarah Parker, a middle-aged couple with a passion for food, travel, and finding those perfect win-win situations where amazing experiences meet practicality and safety. As graduates of Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration, we've spent the last two decades exploring the world, always with an eye for exceptional experiences and a deep appreciation for the hospitality industry.

Now, as resident writers for Town & Tourist, we're sharing our expertise with fellow travelers. West, often dubbed the "Architect of Extraordinary Journeys," combines his industry insights with a knack for uncovering those hidden gems that make a trip truly special. Sarah, with her background in cultural studies, brings a unique perspective on how to truly connect with local communities while traveling.

We believe that smart, safe travel doesn't mean sacrificing adventure or authentic experiences. Through our articles, we aim to help everyone – from solo travelers to families – explore the world with confidence, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the places they visit.

Our love for food often guides our journeys, and we're always on the lookout for those unforgettable culinary experiences that tell the story of a place. Whether it's a Michelin-starred restaurant or a hidden street food gem, we're there with our notepads (and appetites) ready!

By reading our articles, you're not just getting travel tips – you're getting a wealth of experience from two people who have made it their life's work to travel better, smarter, and safer. We hope our experiences help you craft your own extraordinary journeys!