101 Reykjavik is the city's compact historic core, built around Austurvöllur square and the Tjörnin pond and holding the postcode locals use as shorthand for downtown. Nearly everything a first-timer wants — Hallgrímskirkja, the harbour, the main museums and cafés — is within a short walk, which makes it the simplest base for a short trip.
You're steps from Austurvöllur, the parliament and city hall, with the reflective Tjörnin pond just south and Hallgrímskirkja a gentle uphill walk east. The streets are low-rise and colourful, busy with café life by day and quietly lively in the evening; the main going-out streets sit just to the east, so you get atmosphere without being in the thick of it.
Getting around
Everything central is on foot — Hallgrímskirkja, the harbour and museums are all within about 10–15 minutes' walk. The Flybus and airport coaches connect the city with Keflavík (KEF) in roughly 45–50 minutes, with a central terminal a short transfer from the core.
Before you book this area
- Vibe
- Historic, walkable and central without being a nightlife hotspot.
- Green space
- Tjörnin pond and its surrounding paths give a calm, scenic heart to the district.
- Watch out for
- Streets are narrow and parking is limited and metered, so a car is more hassle than help here.
Frequently asked
Do I need a car if I stay in 101?
No. The historic core is designed for walking, and airport coaches plus day-tour operators pick up centrally, so most visitors skip renting until they head out of town.
Is 101 too noisy at night?
The pond-and-square side is fairly calm, but the closer you are to the eastern edge the more you'll hear evening crowds, so check exactly which street you're on.
Comparing areas? See the full Reykjavik area guide →
An independent guide to 101 Reykjavik (Old Town / City Centre), Reykjavik — honest orientation, no invented data.