Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Bókakaffið - Books & Coffee
★4.8(294 reviews)Cafe
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy the garden center and outdoor spaces, while school-age children love browsing books and the café treats. Quieter atmosphere makes it ideal for families who want a calm, cultural experience.🧡 Saved by 80+ families
About
Bókakaffið is a charming Icelandic bookstore and café combo that offers families a cozy retreat with beautiful garden grounds to explore. Kids can browse children's books (including English titles), enjoy treats from the café, and explore the garden center while parents relax with Icelandic coffee. The seasonal activities and home goods displays make this a refreshing break from the typical tourist circuit.
Highlights
- ✓Cozy café serving Icelandic coffee and traditional pastries
- ✓Beautiful garden center with seasonal plants and flowers to explore
- ✓Children's book section with some English language options
- ✓Peaceful atmosphere perfect for a relaxing family break
- ✓Home goods and gift items showcasing Icelandic design
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Saturday for the earlier opening time (11 AM) and slightly longer hours, giving you more flexibility in your itinerary.
- 2.The café serves excellent Icelandic pastries and hot chocolate that kids love. Try the kleinur (Icelandic twisted donuts) for an authentic local treat.
- 3.Browse the English language section for children's books and Icelandic storybooks with English translations, perfect souvenirs that are lighter to pack than traditional gifts.
- 4.The garden center is particularly beautiful in summer months (June-August) when flowers are in full bloom and outdoor seating is available.
- 5.Selfoss is about 45 minutes from Reykjavik, making this a perfect stop on the Golden Circle route or South Coast drives.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday afternoons (Tuesday-Thursday, 12:00-3:00 PM) when it's quietest, or Saturday mornings right at opening for the freshest pastries. Summer months offer the most vibrant gardens and longest daylight for exploring the grounds.
What to Know
Note the limited hours (closed Sundays, opens at noon most days) and plan accordingly. Free parking is typically available. The café accepts credit cards, which is standard throughout Iceland.
Seasonal Notes
Garden displays are most impressive during summer months (June-August). Winter visits offer a cozy hygge atmosphere but fewer outdoor activities. Check ahead during Icelandic holidays as hours may vary.
Nearby Eats
Selfoss has several family-friendly options including Kaffi Krús (casual café with burgers and fish and chips) and Tryggvaskáli (traditional Icelandic restaurant with children's menu), both within 5 minutes' drive in central Selfoss.
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