Reykjavik’s shopping scene favors local makers, simple goods, and edible treats you can actually bring home. Shops and markets across the city sell work by potters, knitters, jewelers, and food producers rather than a single tourist strip.

This guide covers items commonly available around Reykjavik, not one store or street. The focus is on things that travel well, show local craft, and let you check quality before you buy.

1. Icelandic sea salt flakes

• Why it’s worth buying: Sea salt captures local ocean flavor and lasts a long time. It represents regional harvesting methods and is useful in the kitchen.
• Where to look: Find them at markets that sell local foods and artisanal salts.
• Price range: $6–$20
• How to spot a good one: Check for coarse, dry flakes and simple ingredient labels listing only sea salt.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Slide the sealed packet into a padded toiletry bag to prevent crushing.

2. Wool hat or mittens

• Why it’s worth buying: Hand-knit wool keeps its shape and shows traditional Icelandic patterns. These items are practical and warm on return trips.
• Where to look: Look in independent shops that carry local knitwear and wool goods.
• Price range: $25–$80
• How to spot a good one: Choose tightly knit fabric labeled 100% Icelandic wool or a wool blend with visible natural fibers.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Compress them in your suitcase or wear the hat on the plane.

3. Small studio ceramic cup

• Why it’s worth buying: Ceramics show local glazes and hand-thrown marks, useful every day. A small cup is personal and usually dishwasher-safe.
• Where to look: Available through galleries that represent local potters and studio ceramics.
• Price range: $20–$60
• How to spot a good one: Look for consistent glazing, a smooth base, and no hairline cracks.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Wrap in clothing and place in the middle of your bag for padding.

4. Handmade silver jewelry

• Why it’s worth buying: Local metalsmiths often use simple Nordic forms that age well. Small pieces are easier to carry and can be worn daily.
• Where to look: Often sold at galleries and artisan displays that handle silver and fine jewelry.
• Price range: $40–$250
• How to spot a good one: Inspect the clasp and stamp for sterling marks and even soldering.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Keep jewelry in a small pouch inside your carry-on to avoid tangles.

5. Art prints or postcards

• Why it’s worth buying: Prints capture local scenes or artist styles without taking up much space. Postcards are cheap and easy to mail home.
• Where to look: Pick up prints and postcards in small independent shops near cultural sites.
• Price range: $3–$50
• How to spot a good one: Check paper weight and ink sharpness; original prints often mention the artist and edition.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Slip flat between hardcover books or in a document sleeve for protection.

6. Packaged chocolate and licorice

• Why it’s worth buying: Icelandic treats often use local ingredients and unique flavors. They make easy gifts and travel well when sealed.
• Where to look: Buy packaged sweets in food halls or central markets.
• Price range: $4–$18
• How to spot a good one: Prefer sealed packages with ingredient lists and clear producer names.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Place in a zipper bag to protect from heat and spills.

7. Enamel camping mug with Icelandic motif

• Why it’s worth buying: Mugs blend outdoor culture and local design, and they’re sturdy. They’re practical for trips or everyday use.
• Where to look: You’ll see enamel mugs in co-ops and shops that stock local design goods.
• Price range: $12–$35
• How to spot a good one: Look for smooth rims and even enamel coating without chips.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Pack inside rolled clothing and cushion with a sweater.

8. Traditional wool sweater (lopapeysa)

• Why it’s worth buying: The sweater shows recognizable Icelandic patterns and excellent insulation. It’s a meaningful wearable souvenir.
• Where to look: Find them in local markets selling wool clothing and heritage textiles.
• Price range: $90–$300
• How to spot a good one: Seek dense, even knitting and labels stating the fiber content and care instructions.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Wear it on travel days or compress gently into a suitcase corner.

9. Leather coin purse or key fob

• Why it’s worth buying: Small leather goods offer long-lasting utility and can be made locally. They’re useful and low-weight.
• Where to look: Find leather pieces in artist co-ops that feature multiple local makers.
• Price range: $15–$60
• How to spot a good one: Check for even stitching, solid hardware, and full-grain or top-grain leather.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Store in a shoe or other sturdy item to avoid crushing.

10. Seaweed snacks or dried herbal tea blends

• Why it’s worth buying: These edible items showcase local coastal ingredients and unique flavors. They usually have long shelf life in sealed packaging.
• Where to look: Seaweed snacks and teas are sold in food halls that stock regional foods.
• Price range: $5–$20
• How to spot a good one: Prefer clear labels with producer names and simple ingredient lists.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Keep sealed and declare when packing liquids or large food quantities.

11. Small sea-glass or driftwood ornament

• Why it’s worth buying: Natural coastal finds get turned into small, affordable keepsakes. Lightweight pieces are easy to carry.
• Where to look: Market stalls near the waterfront and coastal markets often sell these crafted pieces.
• Price range: $8–$45
• How to spot a good one: Make sure bits are secured with proper glue or wire and finished edges.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Wrap individually in tissue and place inside a hard container.

12. Stationery and minimalist design objects

• Why it’s worth buying: Reykjavik designers produce clean, useful paper goods and small home items. They show current local design without heavy bulk.
• Where to look: Check out galleries and design-focused shops that stock printed goods.
• Price range: $6–$70
• How to spot a good one: Look for quality paper stock, clear printing, and maker credits.
• Easy-to-pack tip: Put flat items in a document sleeve or between rigid boards.

Quick buying tips for Reykjavik

• Carry small amounts of cash; most places accept cards but small vendors sometimes prefer cash.
• Haggling is not common in Reykjavik; expect set prices at most shops and stalls.
• For fragile packing, wrap items in clothing and place them in the center of your luggage.
• Many shops offer shipping availability for large or fragile purchases at checkout.
• Look for a “made locally” label, clear maker name, or storefront studio to confirm origin.
• Remember food or liquid packing rules for flights; sealed goods often pass, liquids may not.

Where to shop in Reykjavik

Shopping spreads across several parts of the city; you’ll find food, crafts, and design goods in different pockets rather than a single market. Walkable streets and market halls make it easy to browse a range of makers in a short time.

• Laugavegur shopping street for independent shops selling clothing, prints, and design items.
• Old Harbour waterfront for nautical crafts, sea-salt sellers, and coastal-themed goods.
• Kolaportið flea market for packaged foods, secondhand items, and local specialty stalls.
• Museum shops at major museums for curated design objects, books, and well-made souvenirs.
• City market halls for packaged foods, teas, and artisanal edible products sold by producers.
• Old town streets near landmarks for galleries with ceramics, jewelry, and art prints.
• Weekend craft fairs and seasonal markets in public squares for handmade jewelry and textiles.

What to skip (common tourist traps)

• Plastic keychains with city names — cheaply made and often imported, not local.
• Unlabeled “traditional” wool items without fiber content or maker information.
• Mass-produced trinkets sold in large quantities at the airport kiosks; they lack craft value.
• Bottled spirits without proper sealing or paperwork can complicate air travel.
• Poorly printed art reproductions claiming to be originals; check for artist credit.
• Low-cost “authentic” foods without producer labels or expiration dates.

If you only buy three things

Icelandic sea salt flakes — compact, locally flavored, and useful at home.
A wool hat or mittens — practical, light, and clearly tied to local craft traditions.
A small ceramic cup — handcrafted, durable, and easy to pack flat against clothing.

FAQ

What is Reykjavik known for making?
Reykjavik is known for small-batch crafts like wool textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Local designers also produce stationery and simple home goods.

What are the best edible souvenirs from Reykjavik?
Sea salt flakes, packaged chocolate or licorice, and seaweed snacks are reliable choices. They are shelf-stable and clearly tied to local producers.

Are souvenirs expensive in Reykjavik?
Prices vary; small items are affordable while wool sweaters or silver jewelry cost more. Expect higher prices for handmade goods and designer pieces.

What is the easiest souvenir to pack from Reykjavik?
Flat items like art prints, postcards, and stationery are simplest to pack. They fit in folders or luggage sleeves without bulky padding.

How do I know if something is truly local?
Look for maker names, “made locally” labels, or studio addresses on the tag. Ask the vendor where it was made and check material or production details.

Tip: Save your receipts, and keep fragile items in your carry-on.

About the Author 

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!

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