Is Reykjavík Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Reykjavík with its population of 200 000 inhabitants is the capital and largest city of Iceland.

It is a center of culture, history and the focal points of tourism in Iceland.

The city center is full of colorful houses and restaurants offering great food and drink.

Once coming to Reykjavík, you can enjoy the deserted landscapes in a place where crime is almost non-existent.

Warnings & Dangers in Reykjavík

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Even though Iceland can be seen as the safest country and it is almost impossible to see homelessness and drugs, some petty theft may happen, especially around bars. Tourists are advised to avoid leaving valuables lying around in Reykjavík and take sensible precautions and pay attention not to get involved in fights that break out on the street on weekends. Nevertheless, Reykjavík is still safer than the larger capitals of other countries.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Reykjavík has a public bus system that is clean and reliable, and there are no reports of crimes related to it. You can drive here with your license and there is no need for an International Driving Permit. If you rent a car, make sure that you are familiar with all the regulations and costs, since car breakdown recovery prices in remote areas can be very high. Roads are narrow and winding, and speed limits are low, so take particular care and reduce your speed when driving in winter.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

When it comes to pickpocketing and purse snatching, you can relax when in Reykjavík, but do not rely always on that. You need to keep an eye on your belongings as in any other major city.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

The country is located in an active seismic zone and has active volcanoes, so further volcanic eruptions are possible and there is the potential for sulfur dioxide and other volcanic gases to be emitted during eruptions.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

As well as pickpocketing, mugging and kidnapping risks are also at a very low level. You need to be cautious, but this is not the risk that might destroy your journey.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

The threat of terrorism exists globally and is increasing in Iceland. It cannot be ruled out, so you should be careful in public areas. To minimize your risk in case a terrorist attack happens, you need to follow the advice of authorities.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

The fact that the crime rate is so low makes Reykjavík a perfect holiday destination. There are almost no scams except for some thieves that might use strategies to rob you.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Because many women travel safely, it can be said that Reykjavík is a great city for solo female travelers. There is not a lot of violence here and you can walk in most places alone without worrying about being harassed, which makes it one of the safest places on earth. People are friendly and helpful, but women should remain watchful and aware of their surroundings.

So... How Safe Is Reykjavík Really?

Iceland is stunning and it can be said that every part of it was designed by nature’s hand to completely amaze you.

Plus being incredibly safe, it is a paradise for tourists.

If you are traveling solo for the first time, Iceland truly is a perfect choice.

Crime almost does not exist and 70% of all crimes committed are traffic offenses.

Even petty thieves are only rarely seen.

Austurvöllur Park is the only part of the city that should be avoided at night since it is a popular place for drunk people.

Another danger is natural disasters risk since numerous volcanoes are active here.

Do not hesitate to visit this amazing city, since there is nothing to discourage you.

How Does Reykjavík Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Citizens of the countries that belong to Schengen do not need a visa to enter Iceland for stays of up to 3 months. For longer staying, visas are obligatory and your passport should be valid during your stay.

Currency

The official currency is the Icelandic króna. ATMs can be found everywhere and credit cards are accepted. You should not give tips and bear in mind that Iceland is an expensive country. Exchange your money into Icelandic krona only in banks.

Weather

The weather changes all the time and one of the biggest surprises in Iceland is that the weather can change quickly and cause hazards, so tourists should pay attention to forecasts and road conditions, especially if they are traveling in the winter. The temperatures are not very high in the summer, but they do not go much below zero during winter. January is the coldest month with some snow, but summer is the best season to visit Reykjavík.

Airports

There are two main airports in Iceland and they are the Reykjavík Airport and the Keflavik International Airport. Keflavík International Airport is located 50 km southwest of Reykjavík, in the town of Keflavík and it operates with international airlines.

Travel Insurance

If you have decided that you are going to travel to Reykjavík, make sure that you got travel insurance in case of medical problems, theft, and loss of personal items.

Reykjavík Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Iceland - Safety by City