Wonders of Reykjavik! Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a destination like no other. An eclectic mix of world-class art, adventure activities, midnight sunsets, stunning nature, and rich history, this city on the southwestern coast of the island nation makes for an unforgettable trip. Reykjavik is a great starting point for exploring Iceland’s best attractions. From historic and architectural prowess to natural marvels, here’s how to plan a trip that does this bustling city and its magical surroundings justice.
Discovering the Heart of Reykjavik
Reykjavik exudes small-town vibes despite its many claims to metropolitan greatness. Start in the city centre, where colourful homes enrich the street scene and provide a cheery metropolitan mood for the visitor. Look for the tallest building, Hallgrimskirkja, considered an architectural icon of Iceland. Its design is based on the basalt formations of the country’s volcanoes. The top of the church offers a panoramic view of the city and the region that surrounds the town – from the mountains to the sea.
Take a wander down Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street. There, you’ll find a variety of high-end boutiques selling designer goods as well as more idiosyncratic local businesses selling novelty souvenirs, plus plenty of cosy cafés where you can stop for a cup of Icelandic coffee and cake.
Diving Into Reykjavik’s Culture | Wonders of Reykjavik
History and culture buffs will find plenty to explore in Reykjavik, too. The National Museum of Iceland traces the history of the country from the Viking settlers to today. The Reykjavik Art Museum boasts bountiful contemporary Icelandic art. Wonders of Reykjavik.
No trip to Reykjavik is complete without visiting the Harpa Concert Hall, a glass building on the waterfront that hosts concerts, exhibitions and performances that capture the artistic spirit of Iceland. Even if you don’t attend a show, the glass facade and colors reflecting the sky are worth visiting.
Savoring Reykjavik’s Culinary Delights
Reykjavik’s culinary scene is worth mentioning. Icelandic food relies heavily on local ingredients, especially seafood, and there are plenty of places to sample traditional Icelandic fare: Icelandic lamb, skýr (a dairy similar to yoghurt) or the catch of the day. Also, if you like to drink and dance, there’s plenty of Reykjavik nightlife to enjoy, with bars and clubs that stay open into the wee hours and the locals are friendly, so you won’t have any trouble making new friends. Wonders of Reykjavik.
Exploring Beyond the City Limits | Wonders of Reykjavik
One of my favorite things about Reykjavik was how close the city’s centre was to some of Iceland’s most striking natural sights. Just a short drive outside the city will bring you into the wilder parts of the country’s landscape, and while you can rent a car to get out and explore, it’s not necessary: guided tours from the centre of the city are a great way to see and learn about Iceland’s geological background, one of the main reasons so many travelers come to this strange land.
The Golden Circle, a 300km route just outside the city limits, is a stopover for many tourists. It encompasses Thingvellir National Park, a site where you can walk between tectonic plates; the legendary Gullfoss waterfall, which plummets with great force from 32 metres high; and Geysir, a bubbling hot spring that erupts nearly every hour, shoot dazzling columns of water up to 60 metres high. It is the sublime in full view. Wonders of Reykjavik.
For those who want to unwind, a visit to the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa on a lava field overlooking a steely-blue lake, provides soothing mineral-rich waters. Wonders of Reykjavik.
Best Way to Get Around Reykjavik
Reykjavik, moreover, is a very walkable city, and a rather rewarding one to explore on foot. It’s possible to stroll from one attraction to the next without much difficulty, and you never know what you’ll come across along the way. Most of the time, this works just fine, especially if your stopover in Reykjavik isn’t very long. When you need to cover a longer distance, get out of town, or go to the airport, it’s easy to take the city’s reliable and pretty straightforward public transportation. Buses shuttle around the main neighbourhoods of Reykjavik and, with the right apps or kiosks, it’s easy to buy a ticket. Wonders of Reykjavik.
If you intend to travel beyond the capital, renting a car is a must. Icelandic roads are well-developed and driving allows you to appreciate the landscape at your own pace, as there are plenty of places (waterfalls, volcanic craters, even whales) to stop and take a look at along the way.
Alternatively, you could join one of the many tours that depart from Reykjavik – this is the most convenient way to see some of the more remote areas without worrying about your onward journey, and you’ll be able to take in the scenery without having to concentrate on your satnav. Wonders of Reykjavik.
Final Thoughts
Reykjavik is a fantastic combo of culture, nature and adventure: wander through the city centre, partake in Icelandic cuisine and then get out of the city, hitting the road to explore the country on your own. Reykjavik is magical, so bring whatever keeps your magic alive.