Reykjavik

 

Reykjavík is the exciting capital of Iceland and is a city of daring contrasts. It has that cosmopolitan feel yet still has the charm of a small town. The city has many world class museums and attractions to visit as well as a great café scene that makes this city’s vibe become ever so vibrant. In the evening the air is filled with people coming out to eat and enjoy the many restaurants, which serve fresh seafood, lamb and wild game.

Located in a historical house close to the harbour, the Saga Museum will show you everything about the history and culture from the Viking times with life size replicas of figures based on descriptions from the Sagas to the most intricate of details.

The Hallgrímskirkja Church sits at the top of Skólavörðustígur Street and seems to effortlessly tower over the city. The architecture was inspired by the power of the Icelandic nature with hexagonal basalt columns that rise from the outside in, and which look like an erupting Geyser. The Church offers fantastic views over the city from the top floor.

The Perlan Museum is a must see museum, sitting at the top of Öskjuhlíð Hill. Here you will find exhibitions that include all of Iceland’s diversity including the natural landscape, volcanos, glaciers and geothermal energy. While at the museum you can enjoy an immersive short film on the Northern Lights and using VR tools you can actually walk inside an artificial ice cave. From the observation deck you will be afforded some stunning panoramic views over the city.

Reykjavík City Hall is situated in one of the most beautiful areas of the city, virtually balanced over a small lake. The City Hall has a fascinating 3D map of the entire island, approximately the size of a volleyball court. This handmade map is located on the ground floor and is open to the general public.

The Harpa Concert Hall dominates the outskirts of Reykjavík with its glass panelled façade and is home to the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. The building features a distinctive coloured glass façade, which was inspired by Iceland's basalt landscape.

A visit to the Whales of Iceland Museum lets you explore the gentle giants of the oceans. The whales migrate every summer surrounding the country. The museum has an exhibition dedicated to everything about their anatomy, swimming patterns and mating habits. With the help of a VR headset you can observe the whales in their natural habitat.

Located by a lighthouse one of Reykjavík’s best kept secrets is the Seltjarmames geothermal pool, which overlooks the water. There are stunning views over the Faxaflói fjord, the mountains and the lighthouse making for a romantic panorama that can be enjoyed whilst immersing yourself in the warm waters.

Sun Voyager is undoubtable the most popular piece of artwork in Reykjavík. A sculpture made from shining steel that forms the shape of a boat. If viewed from the right angles it looks as if it is floating above the land and sea and makes Mount Esja a perfect background.

Located at the famous Old Harbour the Kolaportið Market is a curious market in the city where you can find some unique treasures antiques, toys, clothes, food and sweets.

The Blue Lagoon with its stunning blue hot springs in Grindavik is one of the most visited attractions. Set in a picturesque black lava bedrock, the geothermal pools off massages, silica masks and a swim-up bar, they are easily accessible from Keflavik Airport or by bus from your hotel in Reykjavík.