Shopping Map Overview
Reykjavík’s shopping areas are mainly concentrated in the city center and near the airport. The city center features boutique stores and designer brands, perfect for picking up local specialties, while the outlets near the airport offer significant discounts, ideal for budget-conscious travelers. In addition, several large shopping malls, such as Kringlan and Laugardalshöll, dot the outskirts of Reykjavík, providing a great mix of shopping and leisure.
In the city center, you can find handmade jewelry, woolen goods, and Icelandic beauty products, whereas the outlets stock more international brands and seasonal clearance items. It’s advisable to plan your route according to your shopping needs to avoid unnecessary detours and save time.
Sales Seasons and Tax Refunds
Iceland’s major sales periods typically fall in summer (June–August) and winter (December–January), with some brands launching promotions during holiday seasons. However, retail prices in Iceland tend to remain relatively stable, and discounts are often modest.
For tax refunds, Iceland is part of the Global Blue system, allowing cardholders to claim refunds on purchases above a certain threshold at participating stores. Keep in mind that tax refunds must be processed before departure, and some brands do not participate in the program. Before shopping, confirm whether a store offers tax refunds and retain your receipts.
Must-Visit Malls and Markets
Downtown Malls
1. Kringlan: Reykjavík’s largest shopping mall, home to numerous international brands and local boutiques—perfect for one-stop shopping.
2. Laugardalshöll: Combining sports and commerce, this complex features a large supermarket, clothing stores, and restaurants, making it ideal for family outings.
3. Smáralind: Located in the heart of the city, this mall highlights stylish independent labels and art-inspired goods, great for finding unique gifts.
Specialty Markets
4. Hafnarfjörður Market: Though just outside Reykjavík, it’s one of Iceland’s most famous markets, offering handicrafts, local foods, and traditional attire.
5. Reykjavík Farmers’ Market: Open every Saturday morning, this lively market brings together local produce, artisanal foods, and niche brands, offering an authentic taste of Icelandic life.
Outlets
6. Sólfar Outlet: Situated on the outskirts of Reykjavík, this outlet boasts deep discounts on international labels, especially popular for fashion and sportswear.
7. Vesturbæjarlaug: Close to the airport, this is one of Iceland’s most beloved outlets, featuring discount stores from well-known brands.
8. Bæjarhverfislaug: Another airport-side outlet with a wide range of products, perfect for quick shopping trips.
Other Recommendations
9. Icelandair Hotel Boutique: A duty-free shop within the hotel, handy for last-minute purchases.
10. Mjölnir Store: Located downtown, this store specializes in Icelandic brands like Mjölnir and Egilsstaðir.
11. Þingvellir Gift Shop: Near Þingvellir National Park, it sells souvenirs and local specialties.
12. Gröndalsskálar: A vintage-style boutique, ideal for discovering distinctive jewelry and accessories.
Must-Buy List
1. Icelandic Wool Products: Scarves, gloves, and blankets, priced roughly 1,500–3,000 ISK; best purchased at Kringlan or Mjölnir Store.
2. Icelandic Beauty Products: Blueberry face creams and seaweed serums, around 1,000–2,000 ISK; try Smáralind or Icelandair Hotel Boutique.
3. Handmade Jewelry: Silver pieces and amber accents, priced 1,000–3,000 ISK; seek out independent boutiques downtown.
4. Local Food Specialties: Fermented shark, dried cod, and rye bread, ranging from 300 to 800 ISK; available at Hafnarfjörður Market or supermarkets.
5. Souvenirs: Maps, keychains, and T-shirts, about 200–500 ISK; pick these up at Þingvellir Gift Shop or small downtown shops.
6. Local Alcoholic Beverages: Icelandic vodka and beer, 1,000–2,000 ISK; found at Sólfar Outlet or in grocery stores.
7. Icelandic Wool Carpets: Priced 3,000–6,000 ISK; consider Kringlan or Mjölnir Store.
8. Outdoor Gear: Hiking boots and waterproof jackets, 3,000–8,000 ISK; head to Sólfar Outlet or a specialized outdoor retailer.
9. Icelandic Crafts: Wood carvings and glassware, 500–1,500 ISK; look for these at Hafnarfjörður Market or independent studios.
10. Icelandic Coffee Beans: High-quality beans, 1,000–2,000 ISK; available at Reykjavík Farmers’ Market or local roasteries.
11. Icelandic Stamps and Postcards: Around 100–300 ISK; grab these at downtown post offices or gift shops.
12. Icelandic Books and Magazines: Travel guides and cultural overviews, 500–1,000 ISK; found at Kringlan or bookstores.
Daily Shopping Itineraries
Day 1: City Center Shopping + Market Experience
Morning: Head to Kringlan to buy woolens and souvenirs.
Lunch: Dine at Laugardalshöll and sample local cuisine.
Afternoon: Explore Reykjavík Farmers’ Market for food and crafts.
Dinner: Enjoy seafood or traditional Icelandic dishes at a downtown restaurant.
Day 2: Designer Brands + Tax Refund Prep
Morning: Visit Smáralind to browse independent-label finds.
Lunch: Have lunch at a downtown café.
Afternoon: Stop by Icelandair Hotel Boutique to process your tax refund.
Dinner: Sip Icelandic drinks at a bar or restaurant in the city center.
Day 3: Outlet Shopping
Morning: Make your way to Sólfar Outlet for discounted apparel and gear.
Lunch: Eat at the outlet’s on-site café.
Afternoon: Continue shopping or take a break.
Dinner: Return to the city and try a local eatery.
Day 4: Souvenirs + Food Shopping
Morning: Visit Þingvellir Gift Shop for keepsakes.
Lunch: Dine at a downtown restaurant.
Afternoon: Head to Hafnarfjörður Market to stock up on food and crafts.
Dinner: Enjoy a meal at a Reykjavík restaurant.
Day 5: Final Day of Shopping + Farewell
Morning: Stop by Bæjarhverfislaug for last-minute purchases.
Lunch: Eat at an airport-area café.
Afternoon: Proceed to the airport and complete your tax refund.
Customs and Baggage Tips + Budget Breakdown + Avoidance Checklist + FAQs
Customs and Baggage Reminders
Iceland imposes certain restrictions on imported goods, particularly food and plant products. Familiarize yourself with customs regulations beforehand to avoid bringing prohibited items. When shopping, keep an eye on your luggage weight to steer clear of excess-baggage fees.
Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
| Category | Amount (ISK) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 10,000–15,000 |
| Dining | 5,000–8,000 |
| Transportation | 3,000–5,000 |
| Shopping | 10,000–20,000 |
| Miscellaneous | 2,000–3,000 |
| Total | 30,000–48,000 |
Avoidance Checklist
- Don’t buy luxury goods from unofficial sources: To avoid counterfeits, stick to authorized stores or outlets.
- Check return policies: Some retailers don’t accept exchanges or refunds—confirm beforehand.
- Verify tax-refund eligibility: Certain brands aren’t part of the program; check ahead.
- Limit liquids: Airline security has strict liquid limits—transfer contents into smaller containers.
- Prepare for Iceland’s weather: With its unpredictable climate, pack windproof and waterproof layers for outdoor shopping.
- Avoid over-relying on online info: Store details may lag behind—confirm in person when possible.
FAQs
Q: Can I get a tax refund in Iceland? A: Yes, Iceland is part of the Global Blue system, so refunds are available at participating stores.
Q: Which items qualify for a tax refund? A: Most purchases are eligible, but some brands are excluded—check in advance.
Q: What documents do I need for a tax refund? A: You’ll need your purchase receipt, passport, and refund form—keep everything intact.
Q: How should I schedule my shopping time in Iceland? A: Aim for 2–3 hours per day to stay fresh and avoid burnout.
Information Verification Suggestions
- Official Tourism Board: Visit Reykjavik
- Mall Websites: Kringlan, Sólfar Outlet
- Mapping Platforms: Google Maps / Apple Maps
- Transportation Website: Flugfélag Íslands (Icelandair)
- Tax-Refund Info: Global Blue