Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant and picturesque capital city, is celebrated not only for its iconic landmarks but also for its rich and inviting café culture. From cozy historic spots to modern cafés brimming with local charm, exploring Reykjavík’s cafés by rental car from Blue Car Rental offers you the perfect blend of convenience and authentic local experiences.
Here’s your ultimate guide to Reykjavík’s best cafés, each accessible by car, paired with parking tips, driving suggestions, and recommended sightseeing stops nearby.
Why choose a rental car to visit Reykjavík’s cafés?
Reykjavík is compact and pedestrian-friendly, but renting a car offers the advantage of exploring multiple neighborhoods effortlessly, especially when weather conditions change suddenly. With your rental car, you can comfortably combine café-hopping with visits to famous landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja or leisurely drives around the scenic Reykjavík Harbor.
Reykjavík’s top cafés accessible by car
To make your Reykjavík café-hopping adventure even more enjoyable, we’ve put together a curated list of the city’s must-visit cafés. From cozy hidden gems to trendy hotspots, you’ll find their locations, unique highlights, and fun facts that will add a delightful touch to your Iceland road trip. So grab a coffee, hit the road, and explore Reykjavík’s vibrant café scene—one sip at a time!
1. Mokka Kaffi: Step back in time
Location: Skólavörðustígur 3A
Established in 1958, Mokka Kaffi is Reykjavík’s oldest café, and stepping inside feels like traveling back in time. Its timeless charm, complete with vintage décor and wooden furniture, provides an authentic Icelandic café experience.
- What to try: Their delicious waffles served with whipped cream and homemade jam, paired with a perfect cappuccino.
- Parking: Street parking available nearby; spots can fill quickly, so arrive early.
It's a great opportunity to combine your café visit with a stop at nearby Hallgrímskirkja. A stunning landmark offering panoramic city views.
2. Café Babalú: Colorful and cozy
Location: Skólavörðustígur 22A
Bright, vibrant, and eclectic, Café Babalú invites travelers with its quirky interior and welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for relaxing after exploring Reykjavík’s streets.
- What to try: Homemade soups, savory crepes, vegan cakes, and comforting hot chocolate.
- Parking: Limited street parking; alternatively, park near Hallgrímskirkja and enjoy a short walk.
3. Reykjavík Roasters: For the coffee connoisseur
Location: Kárastígur 1
If you’re a coffee enthusiast, Reykjavík Roasters is a must-visit. Known for artisanal coffee roasting and a minimalist Scandinavian interior, it provides a genuine taste of Iceland’s thriving coffee culture.
- What to try: Expertly brewed coffee made from beans sourced worldwide, along with freshly baked pastries.
- Parking: Street parking nearby; arrive earlier for easier access.
4. Te & Kaffi: Iceland’s own coffee experts
Location: Laugavegur 27
Te & Kaffi is Iceland’s beloved local coffee brand, known nationwide for its commitment to quality coffee sourced sustainably. Their modern downtown location on bustling Laugavegur is perfect for coffee breaks during shopping or sightseeing.
- What to try: Their seasonal espresso blends, Icelandic-style cappuccino, and delicious pastries.
- Parking: Street parking on Laugavegur can be challenging; opt for nearby parking garages or side streets.
Pair your visit with shopping along Laugavegur Shopping Street—known for its variety of local boutiques and souvenir stores.
5. Stofan Café: Cozy vintage comfort
Location: Aðalstræti 7
At Stofan Café, vintage charm meets cozy comfort. With plush sofas and antique furniture, it feels more like a welcoming living room than a café.
- What to try: Homemade cakes, craft beer selection, and hearty sandwiches.
- Parking: Parking garages conveniently located nearby, ideal for exploring Reykjavík’s historical downtown.
6. Sandholt Bakery: Icelandic artisan bakery
Location: Laugavegur 36
Sandholt Bakery is an essential stop for pastry enthusiasts. This family-run bakery delights visitors and locals alike with fresh bread, pastries, and a warm atmosphere.
- What to try: Traditional Icelandic cinnamon buns, freshly baked bread, and premium coffee.
- Parking: Limited street parking; use nearby parking garages or side streets to avoid inconvenience.
Tips for enjoying Reykjavík’s café scene by rental Car
- Parking in Reykjavík: Many city-center streets offer metered parking. Carry small change or download Icelandic parking apps to simplify your parking experience.
- Dress in layers: Icelandic weather changes rapidly. Be prepared by checking our blog on What to Wear in Iceland.
- Combine Café Visits with Sightseeing: Utilize your rental car’s flexibility by pairing cafés with nearby landmarks and attractions to maximize your Reykjavík visit.
Recommended café and sightseeing itinerary:
Morning:
- Visit Mokka Kaffi for breakfast waffles, then walk up to Hallgrímskirkja for stunning city views.
Afternoon:
- After shopping along Laugavegur Street, enjoy lunch at Te & Kaffi.
- Continue exploring the city center, then relax at Stofan Café with a delicious homemade cake.
Evening:
- Wrap up the day with coffee or dessert at Sandholt Bakery. Finish with a scenic drive along Reykjavík Harbor, especially beautiful during sunset.
Why Rent Your Car from Blue Car Rental?
Choosing Blue Car Rental means freedom, flexibility, and comfort. The fast delivery and premium service ensures you can cruise through Reykjavík’s charming streets, café-hop like a local, and uncover hidden gems you might otherwise miss. Whether you're sipping a velvety cappuccino in a cozy corner or indulging in a warm Icelandic pastry, every stop becomes part of the adventure. So, fuel up (on coffee and excitement), hit the road, and let Reykjavík surprise you, one café at a time!
If you like to learn more check out see how you can discover Reykjavik with rentals cars or our guide to Iceland's must-try foods for the road.
