Are you visiting Reykjavík for the weekend to attend Iceland Airwaves and not sure how to go about it? Let’s talk you through it step by step. It’s very easy, I promise.
STEP ONE – BOOZE
Let’s just state the obvious: it’s expensive to drink in Iceland. So start your preparation whilst making your way through Keflavík Airport by making sure to stop in the Duty Free to stock up on beers, wines and spirits. Surely you’d think something like ‘but I will be out all day and night!’ but rest assured there will be a point during the weekend where you’ll go to your accommodation to sneak a sip. Furthermore you’ll need to plan around business hours of the one liquor store in Iceland, which closes at 6 pm and doesn’t even open on Sundays. I know, crazy! Pro tip – download Grapevines Appy Hour app to see all the top places for Happy Hours in the city. Drinks will be nearly half the standard price.
STEP TWO – MAKE A PLAN
As with any music festival, Iceland Airwaves happens fast. So buckle up and make sure to plan well to make the most out of your weekend! Airwaves makes it easy for you with their app where you can make a plan for the whole weekend. But don’t miss the off-venue program as well. There are off-venue concerts in nearly every bar, restaurant and shop in the downtown area giving you a chance to see acts you missed the night before or even see them again if they’re that great! Grapevine has published a special issue all about Iceland Airwaves showcasing the best of the off-venue programme. You can pick up your copy when you pick up your wristband.
STEP THREE – EAT SOMETHING
It may help cure your hangover to occasionally get some food in your body. Here are our recommendations!
Visit Flatey for the most amazing pizza in Grandi or make your way to Hlemmur Food Hall for a selection of incredible food in an amazing atmosphere. You can count on Prikið to cure your hangover with their Hangover Sandwich or Hamborgarabúlla Tómasar for the best burger in town. However, if you’re in a hurry a quick stop by the infamous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur for a ‘hot dog with everything’ always works!
STEP FOUR – KEEP WARM
It’s November for crying out loud so dress accordingly! As the festival is spread all over the downtown area I personally recommend good (closed toe) shoes and a good coat to battle the weather whilst walking between venues. You can count on a storm, to at least some wind and rain, over the weekend. Although it never manages to dampen the mood in Reykjavík.
Now you’re all set to go have one heck of a time this weekend! Cheers!
Hi I’m Dagný Björg, a twenty-something Reykjavík-dweller, mother, designer and freelance journalist who loves getting lost in nature, coffee and easy Sunday mornings.
