Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland and the northern most capital city in the world, has a laid-back atmosphere. From great cafes and restaurants to its night life and to its street art, Reykjavik has a quirkiness and uniqueness that is not seen in other national capital cities.
When you take a walk around Reykjavik you cannot miss the murals that adorns many of the city buildings. Whether you call it urban graffiti or street art, it has become a major tourist attraction in the city.
Illegal graffiti remains an issue in Reykjavik, just as it does in many cities around the world. Because of this the city spends a significant amount of money every year to remove illegal graffiti from city buildings, light poles, street signs and other city property. The art that you see on many of the buildings is not illegal graffiti. Street art is legal in Reykjavik if the property owner has given permission for it to be painted on their building.
Where to find the street art
A good place to start to spot street art in Reykjavik is the main tourist street of Laugavegur (as you can see from the above photos). There are a number of murals painted on walls in the street and in some instances entire buildings have been adorned with artwork.
The best way to see the street art is to simply explore the city on foot. You will be amazed at the amazing artwork you find.
Look for Smaller Pieces
Not all of the artworks cover full walls or buildings. While exploring the city, make sure you look for smaller pieces.
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Wow! Some of these pieces are extraordinary!
They really are Amy and they just seem to fit the city so well.
I love that street art is so universal!
Totally agree Kathryn. We love finding street art where ever we travel.
Wow love those street arts ..hope to see them in person someday
Hope you get to see it Madhu. Iceland is beautiful.
Loved street art of Reykjavik. It brings so much color to the city. Thanks for sharing.
It really is amazing isn’t it Anita
The street art here is very innovative I see. This is a wonderful insightful article capturing the street art scene of Reykjavik
Thanks Sinjana. The street art is definitely amazing.
Iceland doesn’t really appeal to me, but I could definitely visit for the street art. Stunning examples you’ve highlighted here, bringing a much needed colour burst to the city during the winter months 🙂
Reykjavik is definitely a colourful city Nicky!
Such a cool post! I wasn’t aware Reykjavik also has such a vibrant street art scene. I love Icelandic horses and planning on visiting Iceland at some point for a trail ride trip. Surely will go and have a look at the street art too!
Iceland is just so amazing Anna. From the street art to the waterfalls and of course the horses. A trail ride trip would be amazing.
Theres some really beautiful artwork!
The art work really is beautiful.
These are indeed some great places to visit to admire interesting street art. I love the selection! I’ll have to add these to my next visit to Reykjavik .
Thanks Loredana. The art is amazing.
I did not know about all of this. What beautiful art.
It is pretty amazing.
Stunning street art! Its funny years ago it was considered graffiti and everyone would cover it up. Now we love it…there are some amazing street artists around the world xx
We love finding street art Bree. And totally agree about the whole street art v graffiti. But it really does brighten the city.
What beautiful street art. This is one of my favorite activities now, looking for cool street art wherever I go. This is stunning. The one that takes over three whole house is spectacular, and you’re right, who doesn’t love a rainbow unicorn?!
We are the same Emma – finding street art is something we love doing.
Amazing street arts! Each has its own fantastic quality..thanks for the inspiration. Keep it up!
Thanks Elsa. They are pretty amazing aren’t they.
This is so cool! I hope to revisit Reykjavik at some point.
It’s very cool Taylor. Reykjavik and Iceland are absolutely amazing to visit.
Wow, these are stunning! I didn’t realise there was so much street art to be seen in Reykjavik!
Hannah | https://getlost.blog/
And this is only a small example Hannah.
Beautiful pictures. I enjoy street art so much – it has the potential to beautify anywhere. I love when the revitalization of an old city/town involves street art.
Thanks Emma. Reykjavik has definitely done an amazing job with its street art.