This active coastal town, built on ancient lava fields, sits 10km from Reykjavik. Local cafes, unusual rock formations, and the Fjöruhús fishing museum reflect its community life.
Hafnarfjörður, Iceland's third-largest town, lies 10 km south of Reykjavík among black lava fields. You can walk through Hellisgerði Park's moss-covered lava formations, watch Viking battles at the annual summer festival, or swim in one of three geothermal pools. The town's rock bands like HAM and Sign have shaped Iceland's music scene since the 1980s.
Getting to Hafnarfjörður
Take Road 40 from Reykjavík for a 10-minute drive south, or catch Strætó Bus Number 2 from Kringlan to Hellisgerði. The town's location makes it an ideal stop between Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík, with regular bus connections to both cities.
The Viking Village and Festival
The Viking Village includes a restaurant called Fjörukráin in an 1841 building that resembles a Norwegian Stave church. Each June since 1995, more than 250 Vikings from Scandinavia, England, and Germany gather at Víðistaðatún park. You can watch battle reenactments, try axe throwing, learn archery, and browse market stalls selling leather goods, jewelry, and handcrafted items.
Hellisgerði Park and Local Folklore
Walk the natural paths between moss-covered lava rocks in Hellisgerði Park. Local stories tell of huldufólk (hidden people) and elves living in these rocks. The park contains Iceland's only collection of Japanese bonsai trees. In summer, you can join Hidden Worlds tours twice weekly to learn about the park's mythical inhabitants.
Museums and Art
Walk through centuries of town history at the Hafnarfjörður Museum, including its collection of antique toys. Near the harbor, explore Pakkhúsið, an 1865 store house with maritime artifacts, and Sívertsenshús from 1803. The Hafnarborg Institute presents contemporary art exhibitions and hosts concerts throughout the year.
Three Geothermal Pools
Swim in naturally heated water at three different locations. Suðurbæjarlaug has multiple outdoor pools, hot tubs, and a steam bath. Ásvallalaug includes lap pools and water slides, while Sundhöll Hafnarfjarðar has an indoor swimming pool with exercise facilities.
Local Music Scene
Listen to live music at Bæjarbíó, where local and national bands perform weekly. The venue's calendar includes rock concerts and jazz nights. Many Icelandic rock bands started in Hafnarfjörður, including HAM, Sign, and Jet Black Joe, making the town an important part of Iceland's music history.
