Shopping in Iceland can come with a hefty price tag, but if you catch the largest flea market in the country open only on weekends in Reykjavik – you might be able to haggle a decent deal. Kolaportið Market has been around for almost 30 years, it offers a bit of everything that screams Iceland, all pieced together like the beautiful mosaic on the exterior wall.
If you’re looking for that iconic wool sweater, you’ll find it there.
A puffin beanie is an accessory you didn’t even know you needed.
There is plenty of lava jewelry to sift through, a more affordable option to remember your trip by, as well as a bit of local art.
Icelanders have a very mythical culture and there are many ‘hidden people’ such as elves and trolls lurking about. As you travel around the country you may learn the folktales of lake monsters and giants. One vendor sells objects related to these legendary people.
Some stalls at the market are present every weekend, others can be rented to sell antiques after a good spring cleaning.
You can spend hours perusing the used books, DVDs, and an array of knickknacks.
The best thing to do of all at Kolaportið is check out the food section! All sorts of authentic Icelandic fare is available and there are many samples to try – the best deal in the country.
The salmon and artic char was so incredibly fresh and delicious…the fermented shark was available as well for more adventurous palates.
Fish jerky and lava cheese made appearances too. Got more of a sweet tooth? So many different desserts to try like traditional sandwich cakes and fresh licorice, which the locals love.
If you have access to a kitchen you can purchase fresh seafood or sheep’s head jelly to prepare at home.
Food always makes a great gift, you can take home candies named midnight sun, puffin eggs, and Icelandic horse doo doo. In another corner of the market there is a genuine café where you can order and sit down, with food such as lamb soup, hot dogs, and dessert.
Good to know:
+The market is only open on weekends from 11-5.
+Many vendors only take cash, there is an ATM inside.
+Located downtown, it is close to the famous hot dog stand and Harpa concert hall.