10 Unique Souvenirs To Bring Home From Reykjavik

The lopapeysa isn’t just an iconic Icelandic gift ﹘ it’s a national uniform, an outdoor survival tool, and a fashion statement all in one. Hand-knitted from Icelandic sheep’s wool, these sweaters are naturally water-resistant, windproof, and ideal for those blustery winter trips in Iceland. Icelanders have been wearing lopapeysa ever since the mid-20th century, and their unique circular pattern design around the neck make them instantly recognizable. It’s one of the best Reykjavik keepsakes you could bring home.

Best for: Anyone who feels the cold or wants to feel more Icelandic while exploring the country. Where: Head straight to The Handknitting Association of Iceland, which stocks sweaters knitted by the local members of the association.

Icelandic design is minimalist, yet full of character, drawing inspiration from the country’s dramatic landscapes. From lava-glazed ceramics and sleek candleholders to hand-thrown pottery, these pieces bring a touch of Nordic cool to any space. Whether it's a handcrafted vase, a sculpted coffee cup, or a statement bowl, these high-quality Icelandic crafts make stylish and functional souvenirs. Reykjavik’s downtown is packed with independent design stores, offering everything from contemporary homeware to traditional craftsmanship—perfect if you’re after some handmade Icelandic souvenirs.

Best for: Design-minded travelers and those who want to give their home some Nordic flair. Where: Try the gift shops at some of Reykjavik’s best museums such as the National Museum or the National Gallery, or the independent shops around the streets Laugavegur and Skólavörðustígur.

Icelanders don’t mess around when it comes to staying warm and dry, and its outdoor brands like 66°North make gear that’s built to survive volcanic hikes, Arctic winds, and the kind of rain that comes in sideways. This means some of the best souvenirs from Reykjavik are the ones you end up wearing rather than displaying.

Whether you need a warm fleece for a brisk Reykjavik walking tour or a heavy-duty wind and waterproof jacket for venturing out on a day trip from the city, Icelandic outerwear is as functional as it is stylish. Best for: Hikers and outdoorsy travelers who appreciate the quality gear Iceland has to offer. Where: 66°North's flagship store sits on Bankastræti in central Reykjavik, and there are several Icewear stores in the area as well.

Ever wondered why Icelanders seem to defy aging? It might have something to do with the country’s geothermal waters, Arctic botanicals, and volcanic minerals—all key ingredients in Iceland’s skincare scene. From silica-rich face masks to algae-infused serums, these products harness pure, natural elements for a little volcanic self-care. You’ll find exclusive skincare lines at Reykjavik’s hot springs. Each spa has signature products, which you’ll sample while soaking. Downtown Reykjavik also has plenty of beauty boutiques, making it easy to bring a piece of the country’s spa culture home with you.

Best for: Anyone who appreciates a bit of self-care.
Where: Both the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon sell their own products, as does Hvammsvik.

Iceland’s signature liquor, Brennivín (better known as “Black Death”) is a caraway-infused schnapps traditionally served with fermented shark (and a strong stomach). If you’re looking for a fun Reykjavik souvenir, it’s worth bringing home, if only to watch your friends' reactions when they take their first sip. Not into Viking-strength spirits? You can also learn about local distilling on a Flóki whisky tour, Iceland’s only whisky distillery, grab a bottle of Arctic gin infused with wild botanicals, or try one of Iceland’s local craft beers on a guided brewery tour.

Best for: Travelers who appreciate local spirits and craft beer. Where: Alcohol is heavily taxed in Iceland, meaning your best bet is to stock up at Keflavík Duty-Free before your flight home.

Icelanders don’t just live with their volcanoes—they turn them into accessories. Local jewelers craft rings, pendants, and earrings from polished lava rock and basalt, sometimes even incorporating ash from real eruptions. The result is striking, minimalist designs that feel as raw and powerful as the landscapes they come from. (And if you want to really feel the incredible volcanic power up close, consider booking a volcano tour from Reykjavik. For something extra special, look for pieces that combine lava rock with silver or gold, adding a refined touch to Iceland’s natural beauty.

Best for: Those who love minimalist, nature-inspired jewelry. Where:Aurum by Guðbjörg on Bankastræti is one of Reykjavik’s best-known jewelry designers working with Icelandic materials, and there are also plenty of boutiques along Laugavegur.

For a remote island adrift in the North Atlantic, Iceland punches well above its weight in the foodie department. Travelers with a taste for local flavors can pick up some cool Reykjavik souvenirs like hand-harvested Icelandic sea salt, smoked over birchwood or infused with lava, or traditional delicacies like smoked lamb, dried fish, and even Iceland’s famous hot dogs. And then there’s the candy. Icelanders are obsessed with licorice, and the sheer variety in local shops could fill an entire suitcase. Want to sample the country’s best flavors before you buy? A Reykjavik food tour is the perfect way to taste your way through the city.

Best for: Foodies and travelers who don’t mind their souvenirs being eaten before too long.
Where: You can find most Icelandic foodie goods in the local supermarkets at more affordable prices than tourist shops.

You know Björk and Sigur Rós, but Reykjavik’s music scene runs far deeper than these global icons. The grassroots scene in Iceland’s capital is impressive—it seems every other Icelander plays in a band or DJs on the side, with shows and performances taking place everywhere from cafés to basement bars.

For one of the more unique Reykjavik souvenirs, head to the local record shops, packed with vinyl from indie bands, experimental artists, and underground hip-hop collectives, all drawing inspiration from Iceland’s wild landscapes.

Best for: Music lovers and vinyl collectors in search of rare Icelandic records. Where:12 Tónar lets you listen to any album before buying, and it’s one of the best spots in town to catch live music.

Iceland has more published authors per capita than any other country in the world, a literary tradition that dates back to the early settlers huddled in turf homes, spinning tales of Viking heroes, vengeful trolls, and restless ghosts. In fact, one university study found that one in every 10 Icelanders will publish a book in their lifetime.
The Icelandic Sagas are the most famous, though they’re not exactly light reading. More digestible are Nordic crime thrillers, which have found a devoted following, or books on Icelandic culture, design, and folklore, where elves, sea monsters, and supernatural landscapes are just part of everyday life.

Best for: Bookworms, armchair travelers, and those interested in Iceland’s literary culture. Where: There are tons of premier bookshops to choose from, but The Old Bookstore, Penninn Eymundsson, Bókabúd Máls og Menningar, and Bokin are some of the best and most eclectic in the city.

Iceland’s landscapes are otherworldly, and while your phone might capture some of the magic and a Reykjavik photography tour might help improve your technique, a professionally shot print will do it the most justice.

From moody, windswept coastlines to Northern Lights dancing over volcanic peaks, Icelandic photographers have a way of making the country’s raw beauty feel almost surreal. Whether you’re after black-and-white glacier shots, ethereal waterfalls, or cinematic portraits of Reykjavik, these prints, postcards, and photo books make for stunning Reykjavik souvenirs.

Best for: Anyone who has space on their walls to fill with stunning Icelandic landscapes. Where: The store Iurie Fine Art sells the photography of Iurie Belegurschi, an award-winning nature photographer. Smaller prints are available at Fótógrafí on Skólavörðustígur.