Shopping in Iceland: Best 8 Places to Shop in 2024!

Decorated by idyllic landscapes and all-around adventure, Iceland has many things to do. Still, it isn’t typically a destination you’d think of as a shopping hot spot. Known as the country of “Fire and Ice,” this beautiful region is home to a surprisingly exciting shopping scene. 

Whether you’re on a tight budget or shopping for luxe goods, Iceland seems to have a lot to offer. You’re in luck if you’re searching for the perfect unique travel memento! With this guide, you can ditch the tourist-targeted shopping spots and discover authentic Iceland shopping experiences. 

8 Iceland Shopping Experiences to Try!

With everything from handknitted Icelandic sweaters to unique glass crockery, Iceland is ample with authentic pieces. Let’s check out this in-depth guide to shopping in Iceland! 

8. Meander Through the Malls 

Shopaholics, unite! Iceland is home to an inventory of international and local department stores. You can find it all at the Kringlan or Eiđistorg Shopping Mall. Shoppers can get bargains on everything from skincare and electronics to clothes and food. 

Whether you’re searching for luxury shopping, department stores, or classic clothes shops in Iceland, a mall is the best place. You can find a mix of shopping experiences at these malls, so if you’re not sure what kind of shopping offers, a mall is an ideal place to start your Iceland shopping experience. 

Remember that this is only a slice of commercial shopping in Iceland. If you’re a traveler who’s after something more authentic, keep reading to find out where to go.

7. Step up Your Skincare Game 

Shopping in Iceland offers many pleasurable pursuits, and skincare is one you shouldn’t miss out on. As a country home to a wealth of bubbling hot springs and blissful geothermal pools, you can expect the natural skincare industry to thrive. 

Suppose you’re an eco-focused traveler who’s looking to keep it all-natural. In that case, you can shop ’til you drop for high-quality skincare products. Local favorites include seaweed specials and volcanic ash ingredients! ‍

6. Support Locals at the Vala Shop and Art Gallery 

Step into the splendor of Sólheimar and get down to the Vala Shop and Art Gallery. If you want an escape from commercial shopping in Iceland, this market has exactly what you’re after. Featuring recycled handcrafts from local vendors, this is the perfect place for travelers who are focused on sustainability. 

The Vala Shop offers candles, herbal soaps, local cosmetics, ceramics, art pieces, wooden ornaments, and hand-woven items. It’s a hub for the local creative scene, so don’t miss a chance to pop in when shopping in Iceland! 

5. Shopping in Southern Iceland 

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the central city, set out into the serene south for more Iceland shopping. Don’t miss the café that doubles as a glass workshop, Hendur í Höfn in Thorlakshofn. You’ll encounter glass crockery and unique ornaments serving as the perfect souvenir. 

Straddled further down south is the quaint and creative town of Selfoss. Here you can see local Iceland shopping in its prime. You’ll find clay and glass sculptures, carefully made jewelry, Icelandic knitwear, and locally-made artwork in various specialty shops that line the streets. 

This is a real hot spot if you’re interested in authentic handcrafts. 

4. Get Warm at the Handknitting Association of Iceland 

When traveling to Iceland, the weather can be a real deal breaker. Bundle up with authentic knitwear at the Handknitting Association of Iceland! You’ll find top-quality hats, mittens, scarves, gloves, and the traditional Icelandic sweaters known as lopapeysa. 

There’s even a giant wall that’s filled with colorful yarn. Perfect for your Instagram account! If you want to support the local community while shopping in Iceland, don’t miss a trip to the Handknitting Association of Iceland. 

3. Taste Local Produce at Frú Lauga’s Farmers Market 

If you’re a budget traveler, the prices in Iceland can be a bit overwhelming. Shopping for food is a challenge when trying to save pennies, especially if you want to try local flavors. But some things are worth saving up for!

In the capital city, Frú Luaga’s Farmers Market hones in on farmer-to-consumer products. This hot spot is replete with local Icelandic meat, dairy, chocolates, oil, and pasta, among many other items. If you’re looking for delicious, fresh ingredients to cook with or bring back home, don’t miss Frú Luaga’s Farmers Market when shopping in Iceland. 

2. Visit Reykjavik 

As the primary hub for shopping in Iceland, you can bet your bottom dollar that a stop at Reykjavik is in order. With a wide variety of stalls, you’ll find everything from local craft stores and high-end fashion to boutiques and handmade souvenirs. 

Stroll down the main street of Laugavegur for a slice of what’s on offer, and don’t be afraid to trail down the tight alleyways too. When shopping in Iceland, remember that this part of the city is tailored to tourism. If you’re seeking authentic products, knowing what you’re buying and where it was made is important. 

You can find local handcrafts and lopapeysa sweaters in the oldest store in Reykjavik, Thorvaldsens Bazar. This charity shop offers a unique slice of authentic products in the city center, so be sure to step foot in this gem. 

1. Haggle for Goods at Kolaportiđ Flea Market

Just a stone’s throw away from famous Reykjavik, Kolaportiđ Flea Market offers extensive goodies at budget-friendly prices. You’ll encounter eclectic sweaters, décor, books, and ornaments among the many available items. This is a real gem if you’re searching for local products when shopping in Iceland. 

As the city’s biggest flea market, Kolaportiđ comes to life on weekends. In fact, it’s the only spot where you’re allowed to barter for goods. If you’re a budget traveler searching for the best deals, head here late on a Sunday when stalls want to clear out their stock. Bargain hunting for the win! 

Overview: Top things to do while you're in Iceland!

With everything from soaring ice caves to colorful canyons, this fascinating country is decked out in awe-inspiring views. Over and above all the shopping opportunities, Iceland has many exciting experiences. 

1. Bathe in a Volcanic Crater

Take a trip around the Golden Circle, stopping at Thingvellir, Geysir Hot Spring, Gullfoss, and the Kerid volcanic crater. And end the day with a magical soak in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon!

2. See the Northern Lights

You can’t come to Iceland without seeing the Northern Lights! It’s a no-brainer and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity no traveler should miss!

3. Let Loose in the Nightlife

Get rowdy in Iceland’s nightlife scene. After a day of Iceland shopping or hunting for hot springs, take a load off and immerse yourself in the club culture of Iceland. 

Looking for more options to squeeze into your itinerary? Dive into the details with this article about Iceland’s top things to do.

Why Visit Iceland? 

Iceland boasts breathtaking landscapes and exciting adventures in every direction. From hiking glaciers to snowmobiling in style, this country is packed with opportunities. You can mix up the myriad of sightseeing with a simple step into the Iceland shopping world.  

Flaunting everything from authentic Icelandic sweaters to handmade art pieces, you’ll surely find something that recaps your trip perfectly. Whether it’s exploration or shopping you’re interested in, Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. ‍

Iceland’s Shopping Scene, and Beyond! 

Whether you want a souvenir for a loved one or your handmade scarf to wear in the cold, shopping in Iceland looks very promising. There’s no shortage of opportunities to adventure in this landscape.

If you’re looking to string a successful vacation together, get planning with Pilot today!