Dog-Friendly Attractions in Reykjavik

Reykjavik's most iconic landmark, the rocket-shaped Lutheran church of Hallgrímskirkja towers over the city from its hilltop position. The exterior plaza and the sloping pedestrian street leading up to it (Skólavörðustígur) are among the most photographed spots in Iceland, and dogs are a natural part of the scene here. Leashed dogs are completely welcome on the plaza. The view from the foot of the church back down toward the harbour and bay is spectacular. Dogs cannot enter the church itself but the exterior makes for one of the best landmark photos in the country.

The Harpa concert hall sits on the harbour front and is one of the most architecturally striking buildings in the Nordic countries — a honeycomb glass façade designed by Henning Larsen and Olafur Eliasson that reflects the sea and sky in constantly shifting colours. The waterfront promenade outside Harpa is one of Reykjavik's best walks: flat, scenic, and lined with public art. Dogs are completely welcome on the promenade. On summer evenings the harbour fills with tour boats, kayakers, and locals walking their dogs along the waterfront — it's the best possible introduction to the city.

One of the best things about seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland with a dog is that your dog is simply part of the experience. Both Öskjuhlíð hill (10 minutes on foot from the city centre) and the Grótta lighthouse peninsula (15 minutes by car) are among the best spots near Reykjavik for aurora viewing, away from the worst of the light pollution. On clear winter nights (October to March) with a Kp index above 3, both spots regularly deliver. Wrap up extremely well, bring a head torch for the trail, and let your dog make the night walk feel less cold. The aurora is best after 10pm when the sky is at its darkest.