The Reykjavik City Card is a convenient way for visitors to explore Iceland’s capital. Offering a 48-hour pass, it provides free access to top attractions, thermal pools, and public transportation. With high ratings and a range of benefits, this card can be a smart choice for efficient sightseeing. However, its suitability may depend on one’s travel style and preferences. Considering the card’s features and user experiences can help determine if it aligns with your Iceland exploration goals.
Key Points

- The Reykjavik City Card is a 48-hour pass that provides free admission to top attractions, museums, and public transportation in Reykjavik.
- The card offers a cost-effective way to explore the city, with discounts at restaurants and entertainment venues.
- Visitors can redeem the digital voucher for a physical card at designated redemption points, such as the City Museum and Settlement Exhibition.
- The card caters to travelers of all abilities, with wheelchair accessibility, stroller-friendly options, and allowance for service animals.
- While the 48-hour validity may not suit all visitors, the card is best suited for those planning to visit multiple attractions in a short timeframe.
Overview of the Reykjavik City Card

The Reykjavik City Card is a 48-hour pass that offers visitors to Iceland’s capital free admission to top attractions, public bus use, and a ferry ride to Viðey.
Costing from €48.80 per person, the card provides discounts at restaurants and entertainment. It includes admission to museums, access to thermal pools and a family park/zoo, and all fees and taxes.
The digital voucher must be swapped for the City Card at various locations in Reykjavík. The card is wheelchair accessible and available during set hours daily.
With an average rating of 4.6 from 21 reviews, it’s ideal for those planning to visit multiple attractions.
Want to see more of Reykjavik? Here are other city tours we've reviewed
Featured Attractions and Services
With the Reykjavik City Card, visitors can access an array of top attractions and services throughout the city.
The card provides free admission to museums like the Reykjavík Maritime Museum and Reykjavík Art Museum, allowing cardholders to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Plus, the card grants access to thermal pools and the family-friendly Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park.
Public transportation is included, enabling easy navigation with the city’s buses, as well as a ferry ride to the picturesque island of Viðey.
All fees and taxes are covered, making the Reykjavik City Card a convenient and cost-effective way to experience the best of the city.
Redeeming the City Card

To redeem the Reykjavik City Card, visitors must swap their digital voucher for the physical card at various redemption points around the city. These include:
- The City Museum
- The Settlement Exhibition
- Other designated locations
The card provides free access to top attractions, public transportation, and discounts at restaurants and entertainment venues.
It’s important to note that the card is valid for 48 hours from the time of activation.
Visitors are advised to plan their itinerary carefully to maximize the benefits and ensure a seamless experience during their stay in Reykjavik.
Accessibility and Inclusivity

Reykjavik City Card’s accessibility and inclusivity cater to a wide range of visitors. The digital voucher can be easily swapped for the physical card at various redemption points throughout the city.
The city card is wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, with service animals allowed. Ticket holders can enjoy seamless access to public bus transport and a ferry ride to Viðey, ensuring mobility for all.
The card’s operating hours, from 6 AM to 10 PM daily, accommodate early birds and night owls alike. The Reykjavik City Card prioritizes inclusivity, making the city’s attractions and services accessible to travelers of all abilities.
User Experiences and Feedback

Travelers have largely praised the Reykjavik City Card for its ease of use and the extensive access it provides to the city’s top attractions.
Reviews highlight several positive aspects:
-
Convenience of the digital voucher that can be swapped for the physical card at various locations around Reykjavik.
-
Valuable discounts on restaurants, entertainment, and transportation, making the overall experience more cost-effective.
-
Seamless access to popular museums, thermal pools, and other must-see destinations, allowing visitors to maximize their time.
While some users noted the complexity of bus routes, the majority found the Reykjavik City Card to be an excellent way to explore the city.
- Reykjavik Food Walk – Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland
- Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates – Meet on Location
- South Coast Adventure From Reykjavik
- Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour Including Pick up From Reykjavik
- Golden Circle With Kerid Volcanic Crater Day Trip From Reykjavik
- The Lava Tunnel Tour – Raufarhólshellir
Benefits of the City Card

One of the primary benefits of the Reykjavik City Card is the comprehensive access it provides to the city’s top attractions.
The card grants free admission to several renowned museums, including the Reykjavík Maritime Museum and Reykjavík Art Museum. Plus, it allows for the use of public transportation, including a ferry ride to the picturesque Viðey island.
The card also offers discounts at various restaurants and entertainment venues, making it a valuable tool for those seeking to make the most of their time in Reykjavik.
The all-inclusive nature of the card simplifies the experience, allowing visitors to explore the city with ease.
Limitations and Considerations

Although the Reykjavik City Card offers a convenient way to access the city’s top attractions, it may not be the best fit for all visitors.
The card’s limitations include:
-
Time constraints – With a 48-hour validity, the card may not be suitable for those with shorter stays or a more relaxed pace.
-
Route complexity – Some users found the public bus system confusing, limiting the full utilization of the included transportation.
-
Insufficient time for museum visits – While the card provides admission, the time allotted at each museum may feel rushed for some travelers.
Ultimately, the Reykjavik City Card is best suited for those planning to visit multiple attractions within a short timeframe.
Alternative Options to the City Card

For travelers not keen on the constraints of the Reykjavik City Card, there are several alternative options to consider.
One option is to pay individually for each attraction, which may be more flexible but less cost-effective.
Another is the "Hop-on Hop-off" bus, providing a convenient way to explore the city at one’s own pace.
Plus, some visitors prefer to create their own itinerary, using public transportation or private tours.
Ultimately, the choice depends on the traveler’s priorities, budget, and travel style.
Understanding these alternatives can help ensure a satisfying Reykjavik experience, regardless of the card’s suitability.
Frequently Asked Questions
The city card can be shared among multiple travelers. The digital voucher must be swapped for a physical card, which can then be used by different members of the group to access the included attractions and services.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using the City Card?
The Reykjavik City Card doesn’t have any age restrictions. It can be used by travelers of all ages, making it a convenient option for families and groups. The card’s discounts and access to attractions benefit both adults and children.
Can I Purchase Additional Days Beyond the 48-Hour Pass?
Yes, you can purchase additional days beyond the 48-hour Reykjavik City Card pass. The card is available in 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour options, allowing you to extend your access to the included attractions and services.
Do I Need to Activate the City Card at a Specific Time?
The 48-hour Reykjavik City Card doesn’t need to be activated at a specific time. Travelers can start using the card anytime during the 48-hour period to access the included attractions and services.
Can I Use the City Card to Book Guided Tours or Activities?
The Reykjavik City Card can’t directly book guided tours or activities, but it provides discounts at many attractions and services in the city. Users can use the card to access these offers and enhance their overall experience.
The Sum Up
The Reykjavík City Card provides a convenient and cost-effective way for visitors to explore the city’s top attractions. With free admission to museums, thermal pools, and public transportation, as well as discounts at local venues, the card offers excellent value. However, it may not be the best choice for travelers seeking a more leisurely pace, as the 48-hour timeframe encourages a more fast-paced experience.
More Tour Reviews in Reykjavik
- Iceland: 2-Day Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon & Northern Lights
- Iceland: 3-Day Tour with Golden Circle and South Coast
- Reykjavik: Glacier Lagoon, Boat Ride & Diamond Beach Tour
- 7-Day Small Group Journey Around Iceland
- Reykjavik: Golden Circle Tour & Laugarás Lagoon Entry
- Iceland: 4-Day Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon & Northern Lights
Still browsing? Here are more Reykjavik experiences we've covered recently
- The 4 Top Lunch Experiences In Reykjavik: Which Is Best?
- Reykjavik’s 6 Top Food Tours (With Prices)
- You’ll Love These 12 Spa & Hot Springs Experiences In Reykjavik
- 14 Best Tours In Reykjavik (With Prices)
- The 10 Most Popular Walking Tours In Reykjavik
- We Rank The 14 Best Tours & Experiences In Reykjavik
- Which Reykjavik Photography Experiences To Choose? We Rank The 13 Best
- Reykjavik’s 5 Top Massage & Relaxation Services
- Reykjavik’s 5 Best Full-Day Tours (With Prices & Reviews)
- 14 Fantastic Hiking And Trekking Tours In Reykjavik
- 9 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Reykjavik (With Prices)
- The Top 7 City Tours In Reykjavik
