Just 10 minutes from the Reykjavik city centre, Breidholt is made up of three neighbourhoods, Lower Breidholt, Upper Breidholt and Seljahverfi. The area is quickly gaining a reputation for its quirky counter-culture scene, and is eternally popular with local students, artists and musicians
Things to do in Breiðholt
For most people, Breidholt serves as a base for exploring Iceland’s enchanting capital. It’s just a stone’s throw from downtown Reykjavik, which means there’s easy access to the characterful Old Harbour, cavernous National Museum and ultra-modern Hallgrimskirkja cathedral.
Sitting just north of Breidholt, the Arbaer Open Air Museum offers a fascinating glimpse at Reykjavik’s history. It’s dotted with around 20 beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, including a turf-roofed church, stable, smithy, barn and boathouse.
If you’re interested in architecture, Upper Breidholt is home to one of Iceland’s quirkiest buildings. Measuring in at 320 metres in length and featuring 20 staircases, Langavitleysa is Iceland’s longest house.
Iceland is famously beautiful, and Breidholt is a great base for day trips to the country’s top natural attractions. It is a great area for those who want to experience the Solheimajokull Glacier Walk, Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa, Langjokull Glacier Snowmobiling and Golden Circle Day Trips.
Getting around Breiðholt
Reykjavík is powered by an excellent bus network, which makes it easy to travel to and from Breidholt. Taxis can be expensive, so it’s usually best to walk or take the bus. In downtown Reykjavík, the best way to explore the city and soak up the atmosphere is on foot. The Old Harbour is home to a handful of bike rental shops, which can be a great way to tour the city. From Breidholt, the taxi ride to Keflavík International Airport should take around 15 minutes.