14 Best Places to Shop in City Center West, Reykjavík

Co-owned by Jónsi, vocalist for the Icelandic post-rock band Sigur Rós, along with his sisters Lilja, Sigurrós, and Inga Birgis, this might be the most unique shopping experience in Reykjavík. Draped in a dark color palette, Fischer is a whole mood from the moment you walk through its doors. Every moment in Fischer is a kind of lesson, from the scents of the room sprays, candles, and perfumes to the story behind the jewelry pieces.

This ceramic gallery and studio showcases the work of Kolbrún Björgólfsdóttir, an artist who has been creating pottery since the mid-1970s. Her work is characterized by small drawings etched into the vessels and other forms.

Walking into the Nordic Store is like stepping into a giant ball of wool. Everywhere you look, you'll find wool sweaters, blankets, socks, scarves—if you can wear it and it's made from wool, you'll find it here. In addition to clothing, the Nordic Store also has a solid selection of outdoor wear and gear, like running shoes, winter coats, and thermal accessories.

If you're on the hunt for a book, chances are Penninn Eymundsson Austurstræti has what you need. As Iceland's oldest bookstore (established in 1872), it has a tried-and-true reputation for well-stocked shelves, carrying the latest Icelandic publications in translation, as well as international releases, classics, magazines, and coffee-table books. The collection is spread out over three floors, but there is a coffee shop on-site to let visitors refuel mid-browse.

This boutique is a haven for fashion enthusiasts seeking unique, handcrafted pieces. The store showcases the designer's signature blend of playful sophistication, featuring garments with bold textures and vibrant colors and patterns.

This clothing shop designs slow fashion that’s as timeless as it is sustainable. Though it launched with minimalist designs for children's clothes crafted from eco-friendly materials that were built to last and grow with your child, it offers a full line of clothing for men and women as well. The store doubles as a design studio, offering a serene space to explore luxurious knitwear, heirloom-quality accessories, and cozy textiles. Each piece tells a story of craftsmanship. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking thoughtful, long-lasting fashion with a conscience.

In summertime Austurstræti sometimes fills with the stands of outdoor merchants offering everything from woolen items, records, and books to vegetables, fruit, and bread. During evenings and weekends, the food wagons set up shop to sell their wares. Be on the lookout for the waffle vendors in the yellow and blue van—their waffles, topped with jam and cream, are addictive.

This sleek fashion boutique offers a curated selection of high-end brands like Samsoe Samsoe, Ganni, and Rotate. Known for its minimalist aesthetic and timeless pieces, the store curates both casual and formal styles. It's a favorite among Reykjavík's fashion-forward crowd.

A vibrant design store run by female artists, Kirsuberjatréð offers a curated selection of handmade Icelandic crafts, including fish skin bags, ceramics, jewelry, and music boxes. Many items are crafted from locally sourced or upcycled materials. The store’s intimate vintage setting invites visitors to explore unique creations while engaging directly with the artists.

During the weekend, this lively and colorful flea market is open in an old ground-floor warehouse by the harbor (look for the big banner). Here you'll find treasures from local vendors, as well as handmade crafts.

This cozy independent bookstore offers a curated selection of new and gently used books in both Icelandic and English.

Is there any clothing item as quintessentially Icelandic as the lopapeysa (wool sweater)? Established in 1901, Thorvaldsens Bazar has been selling lopapeysur and other wool products all knit by hand by local women. All items are tagged with the name of the knitter who produced it and all proceeds go to a charity benefiting children in need.

This kitchsy yet fun souvenir shop is perfect if you're looking for a fluffy sheep key chain, Game of Thrones mug, or punny Iceland T-shirt.

Alcohol is not widely sold in grocery stores in Iceland—you have to visit government-run liquor stores. They're usually open no later than 7 pm on weekends, and that's where the planning comes in. There are a number of locations around Reykjavík and throughout the country. Just be warned: alcohol in Iceland is not cheap.