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You needn’t stray from Laugavegur in order to find Iceland’s best shopping – all of Scandinavia’s biggest design labels are crammed along one boulevard. Just remember: You’ll likely pay twice as much for brands you can find in the U.S. or on the European mainland. Stores in Reykjavik are generally open weekdays from 9am-6pm; Saturdays from 10am-5pm (select shops shut their doors as early as 2 pm); and Sundays from 1-5pm.
3hœðir This hip tri-level store (it’s name means “three floors”) carries clothing, accessories, and house wares from lines like Vanessa Bruno and Comme des Garçons. Stop in their café to recharge. City Center; Laugarvegur 60; 011-354-511-3123
66° North If you didn’t pack enough warm clothing, stock up on rainproof gear, winter coats, and more at this Iceland-based purveyor of outdoor clothing. City Center; Bankastraeti 5; 011-354-517-6020; www.66north.is
GK Reykjavik This posh, no-nonsense boutique, hailed as one of Reykjavik’s finest, sports some of fashion’s biggest names (Burberry, Patrizia Pepe, Filippa K) in both men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. City Center; Laugavegur 66; 011-354-551-9009
Islandia If you’re dead set on finding that authentic woolen sweater or wooden Viking carving before heading home, you’ll probably get lucky in this specialty handicraft and trinket store. City Center; Bankastrœti 10; 011-354-534-9960
Kringlan Shopping Centre This massive 150-shop mall features the best Euro-chain stores (H&M, Whistles, Vero Moda, Next) under one roof. Most of the designer duds are available downtown, so if you don’t want to make the trek out to Kringlan, try your luck along Laugavegur first. Kringlunni 4-12; 011-354-568-9200; www.kringlan.is
Marimekko This popular Finnish line specializes in handbags, vibrant patterns (poppy print totes and bedding are some of their big sellers), and other women’s clothing and accessories. City Center; Skeifan 6; 011-354-568-7733; www.marimekko.com
Pilgrim The popular Danish jewelry line – modern pieces meld with costume-like garnishes – has a small Icelandic branch with a modest selection. City Center; Laugavegi 72; 011-354-552-5769; www.pilgrim.dk
Smáralind Located just outside Reykjavik in Kópavogur, this is the other major shopping center in the area. If all options along Laugavegur and Kringlan are exhausted, hop a bus to this three-floor mall. Kópavogur; Hagasmári 1; 011-354-528-8000; www.smaralind.is