Region
Capital Region
Directly borders Reykjavik to the south
Kopavogur Iceland: Second Largest City Guide
Iceland's second largest municipality—a modern residential city in the Greater Reykjavik Area with excellent shopping and family amenities.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~38,000
Capital Region • Second largest municipality
Kopavogur is a thriving residential city that seamlessly blends with Reykjavik to form Iceland's main metropolitan area. Known for its excellent services, Iceland's largest shopping mall, and family-friendly neighborhoods, it offers a quieter alternative to the capital while remaining well-connected.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Kopavogur is part of the Greater Reykjavik Area and shares most services and attractions with the capital.
Sources to check
Population
~38,000
Iceland's second largest municipality
Character
Residential suburb
Modern city with excellent family amenities
Top Attractions in Kopavogur
Smaralind Mall
Iceland's largest shopping center with 90+ stores
Kopavogur Art Museum
Contemporary art in a striking building
Natural History Museum
Iceland's geology, wildlife, and nature
Kopavogskirkja
Modern church with distinctive architecture
Kopavogssundlaug
Excellent geothermal pool complex
Elliðaárdalur Valley
Green valley with walking paths and salmon river
How to Get to Kopavogur
From Keflavik Airport: Take the Flybus or Airport Direct to Reykjavik, then bus or taxi to Kopavogur (total about 55 minutes).
From Reykjavik: Regular Strætó buses connect the cities. By car, it's about 10 minutes from central Reykjavik.
Best Time to Visit Kopavogur
As part of the Greater Reykjavik Area, Kopavogur is a year-round destination. The swimming pools are enjoyable in any weather, and Smaralind offers indoor activities regardless of conditions.
Planning help
Kopavogur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.