Reykjavik

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Reykjavik

This guide is packed with information to help you make the most of your trip to Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more adventures, Reykjavík offers a unique blend of Icelandic history, culture, and natural beauty.

Things To Know Before You Go:

• Currency: The Icelandic króna (ISK) is the official currency. While most places accept credit cards, it’s wise to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors or tipping.
• Language: Icelandic is the official language, but English is widely spoken and you’ll have no trouble navigating in English.
• Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather! Reykjavík experiences all four seasons, even within a single day. Pack layers for warmth, waterproof clothing (always!), and a warm hat even in summer.

Getting Around Reykjavik:

• Walking: Reykjavík is a very walkable city, with most attractions within easy walking distance from each other. Explore the charming city center on foot and enjoy the vibrant street art, cafes, and unique architecture.
• Public Transportation: Reykjavík has a reliable bus system (Strætó) that can take you to most parts of the city and its outskirts.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Reykjavík but can be expensive.
• Bus Tours: Consider booking a guided bus tour for a convenient way to see the main sights, including the option to explore the Golden Circle (Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area) on your own or with Reykjavik Excursions.

Getting the Most out of Your Visit:

• Time of Year: Reykjavík is beautiful year-round but each season offers a unique experience.

  • Summer (June-August): Enjoy long days, vibrant nightlife, and the chance to see the midnight sun.
  • Winter (September-May): Witness the Northern Lights, go ice skating, explore snowy landscapes, and soak in geothermal pools.

• Icelandic Culture: Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture through:

  • Music: Experience the vibrant music scene with live performances at Harpa Concert Hall and Festival, a renowned cultural hub in Reykjavík.
  • Art: Visit galleries like the Reykjavik Art Museum or the National Gallery of Iceland for a taste of local art.
  • Food:

Explore Icelandic cuisine through traditional dishes like: * Skyr: This creamy dairy product is similar to yogurt and a staple in Icelandic diets. * Hákarl (fermented shark): A unique delicacy for the adventurous foodie.

• Art & Culture:

• Public Art:

Take a stroll through Reykjavík’s city center and discover vibrant street art murals adorning buildings, adding a splash of color and creativity to the urban landscape.

• Museums & Galleries:

  • National Museum of Iceland: Immerse yourself in Icelandic history and culture.
  • Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre: Explore this architectural gem and its diverse cultural offerings.

• Culture:

Learn about traditional Icelandic festivals, music, and art experiences.

Reykjavík:

• History & Culture:

Explore the city’s rich history through its historic sites:

• Hallgrímskirkja Church: This iconic church offers stunning views of the city from its tower.

• Historic Walking Tour:

Take a self-guided tour of Reykjavík’s historical landmarks, including: * The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center: An architectural masterpiece that showcases contemporary Icelandic design.

• The National Museum of Iceland: Learn about the history and culture of Iceland.

Things to Do in Reykjavík:

Reykjavík offers a vibrant mix of activities for all types of travelers:

Art & Culture:

• Visit Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre: Explore this architectural masterpiece and its stunning glass facade, which is inspired by the geometry of glaciers and basalt columns.
• Explore the Icelandic Opera House: Immerse yourself in the world of music and opera with a performance or tour.
• Discover the National Gallery’s Architecture:

Explore the unique architecture of the building itself: * The National Museum of Iceland (Þjóðmenningarhúsið): This iconic building, a former granary, now showcases Icelandic art and history.

• Immerse yourself in the Harpa Concert Hall’s Architecture:

Culture & History:

• Explore the City Centre: Take a walking tour to see the colorful buildings and appreciate the charming architectural blend of old and new.

• Discover the Reykjavik Art Museum (Listasafn Reykjavík):

  • Art Exhibitions: Immerse yourself in the diverse exhibitions, including contemporary art, Icelandic art history, and unique installations.

• Explore the National Museum’s exhibits on:

  • The Settlement Exhibition:

The intriguing story of Iceland’s first settlers.

• The Saga Museum:

Immerse yourself in the saga of the Vikings with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.

Museums & Galleries:

• National Gallery of Iceland: Immerse yourself in the history and evolution of Icelandic art, from traditional paintings to modern sculptures.
  • The National Museum of Iceland (Þjóðminjasafn Íslands): Explore a variety of exhibitions showcasing Icelandic culture and history.

Culture & History:

• National Museum of Iceland:

Delve into the story of Iceland’s Viking heritage:

• The Icelandic Saga Museum: Experience the history of Iceland through interactive exhibits, historical reenactments, and captivating storytelling.

• Museums:

The National Museum of Iceland (Þjóðminjasafn Íslands): Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Icelandic history and culture.

• The Settlement Exhibition (Reykjavík 871 - Vikingaheimar): Discover the history of Viking settlement in Iceland through archeological artifacts.

Things To Do:

• Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church: Enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavík from its towering spire.
• Explore the Reykjavik Art Museum:

Wander through their various exhibitions and admire the diverse Icelandic art scene.

• Experience the geothermal pools: Relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Other Activities:

• Whale Watching Tours: Embark on a boat tour to witness the majestic whales that inhabit the waters around Iceland.
• Northern Lights Tour:

Join an organized tour or venture out on your own to experience this natural wonder.

• Visit the Culture House: This museum offers a unique perspective on Reykjavík’s cultural history and heritage.
• Explore the Icelandic National Museum of History:

Discover the rich tapestry of Icelandic history:

• Museums:

Travel Tips:

• Embrace the weather: Pack for all conditions, including rain, wind, snow, and sunshine.
• Enjoy the natural beauty: Reykjavík is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Rent a car to explore the surrounding area and experience these natural wonders.

Experience the Northern Lights:

• Visit during the winter: The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is between September and April.
• Go on a clear night:

You can see them from the city’s outskirts.

• Use a light meter app:

To determine the ideal light pollution levels for viewing the Northern Lights.

Visit the National Gallery of Iceland (Þjóðminjasafn):

Experience Icelandic art and culture in a stunning setting.

• Northern Lights Tours:

Consider these additional tips:

Explore the Northern Lights:

• Get away from city lights: Find a dark spot with a clear view of the northern sky.
• Check the aurora forecast: Use a website or app to see when and where the Northern Lights are most visible.
• Visit the Icelandic Museum of Natural History:

Discover the fascinating world of Icelandic geology, flora, and fauna.

Experience Reykjavik’s Culture:

• The National Museum of Iceland:

Focus on the history of the northern lights:

• Join a tour:

A guided tour is a great way to experience the beauty and wonder of them in a safe and enjoyable way.

• Visit a museum:

Explore museums dedicated to the history of Icelandic Viking culture.

Learn about the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis):

The Aurora Borealis, or northern lights, is a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere.

• Experience the unique architecture: Discover the vibrant art scene and explore architectural gems:

Travel:

• Consider a bus tour: To visit the city’s iconic museums and cultural sites.

Photography & Photography Tours:

Use a flashlight to illuminate the subject of your photograph while avoiding light pollution.

• Visit during the winter season: For the best chance of seeing the aurora borealis.

Explore the history:

• Go for a walk: Take a stroll through the city center and enjoy the sights.
• Visit the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center: A modern architectural masterpiece that houses several museums.

Learn about Iceland’s history:

You can also visit the Icelandic Museum of Photography for information on the history of photography in Iceland.

Photography Tips:

• Use a tripod to stabilize your camera.

• Take a wide-angle lens to capture the aurora borealis and its vastness.

• Bring a flashlight: For illuminating the subject of your photograph, but avoid shining it directly at the sky:

• Use a wide-angle lens: To capture as much of the aurora’s beauty as possible.

Beyond the Northern Lights:

• Whale Watching & Tours: While Iceland is known for its stunning Northern Lights displays, exploring the country offers a variety of experiences.
• The Harpa Concert Hall: This architectural marvel offers a unique way to experience the Icelandic landscape.

Enjoy breathtaking views:

• Golden Circle Tour: Explore the iconic Golden Circle route and experience its natural wonders firsthand.

For a deeper dive into the cultural heritage of Iceland:

• Explore the Saga Museum: Located in Reykjavík, this museum offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Iceland through interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.
• The Icelandic Sagas:

Learn about the history of Iceland’s first settlers with a focus on the everyday lives:

• Golden Circle Tour: Visit Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
• The Blue Lagoon:

For a glimpse into the natural beauty of Iceland, consider a visit to the:

• Blue Lagoon: A world-renowned geothermal spa located in a lava field.

Galleries & Museums:

• National Museum of Iceland: A museum showcasing Icelandic history and culture from ancient times to modern day.
• Reykjavík Art Museum (Listasafn Reykjavíkur): Explore the art of contemporary Iceland with exhibits on everything from painting and sculpture to design and architecture.

Other Ideas:

• Visit the National Library of Iceland: This is a great place to learn about the history of Icelandic literature and culture.

• Explore the National Museum of Iceland (Reykjavík):

• The Icelandic National Museum:

Learn about Icelandic art:

• Gullfoss Waterfall: A stunning natural wonder that is a popular destination in Reykjavík.

• Take a trip to Þingvellir National Park: This park showcases Iceland’s unique geology and history,

including the site of the first Icelandic parliament.

• Experience the Northern Lights: Visit during the winter months (September - April) for optimal viewing.

• Visit the Harpa Concert Hall & Conference Center: Enjoy a variety of exhibitions and learn about:

• The National Gallery: Explore Icelandic art history,

including the Icelandic Natural History Museum’s collection of artifacts from the Viking Age.

• Explore Iceland’s Culture & Nature:

Take a look at these ideas:

• Visit the Blue Lagoon: It is a geothermal spa located in a lava field.
• Icelandic National Museum: Immerse yourself in the history of Iceland:

Travel Tips for Iceland:

• Visit during the summer: To experience the midnight sun, a unique phenomenon where the sun shines 24 hours a day above the Arctic Circle.
• Explore the Icelandic landscape:

Visit natural wonders like glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs:

• Hallgrímskirkja: The iconic church in Reykjavík, known for its stunning architecture.

Embrace the city’s vibrant nightlife: Experience live music venues, bars, and pubs.

• Visit a local coffee shop: Enjoy some delicious Icelandic pastries and a cup of coffee while you enjoy the scenery.

• Take a guided tour: Explore the history and culture of the country through the expertise of local guides.

Learn about Icelandic history & Culture:

• Explore Reykjavik’s museums:

• Visit the National Museum of Iceland: Discover Icelandic history and culture, from its Viking roots to modern-day culture.

• Explore the National Museum of Iceland: Explore a variety of exhibits on the history of Iceland, including:

The Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa with stunning views: The Blue Lagoon: A unique experience in Reykjavík.

Enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders:

• Golden Circle: The National Museum, the National Library of Iceland, and the National Museum of Art (Listasafn Íslands) are great places to start.

Explore the History of Reykjavik:

• The National Gallery of Iceland:

• National Museum of Iceland:

Visit the National Museum of Iceland:

• Blue Lagoon: a geothermal spa in Iceland

• Learn about the history:

• The Icelandic Sagas: Discover a wealth of information on the history and culture of Reykjavik.

Explore the Golden Circle:

• Visit the Blue Lagoon:

Enjoy breathtaking views and the unique experience of bathing in geothermal waters, a popular attraction for tourists visiting Iceland.

• Visit the National Museum: Explore the Icelandic Saga Museum

• Visit the National Library: to explore Reykjavik’s history and culture.

• The Gullfoss Waterfall:

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in Iceland, offering stunning views of the landscape.

Things to consider for your trip:

• Explore the city: Enjoy the vibrant cultural scene of Reykjavik.

• Visit the National Museum:

Learn about Icelandic history and culture through its exhibits on the Vikings.

• Experience the natural beauty: Explore the breathtaking waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes outside the city.

• Consider a guided tour: For a safe and comfortable experience.

• Weather:

Pack for all types of weather: it can be sunny one minute and snowy the next!

For a truly Icelandic experience:

• Blue Lagoon: Learn about its history and significance as a geothermal spa, a unique feature of Iceland’s landscape.

• Visit the Reykjavik 8: A popular tourist destination.

• Explore the National Museum of Iceland:

• Enjoy the beauty of the Northern Lights:

A guided tour:

is essential for seeing them safely and getting the most out of the experience.

Visit the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center:

• Experience a unique Icelandic history exhibition:

The Golden Hour:

• The Icelandic Sagas,

• Explore the National Museum:

Reykjavik’s history is intertwined with the Icelandic spirit.

• Take a look at Reykjavik’s history: Explore museums like the Saga Museum and the National Museum of Iceland.

• Weather:

Prepare for unpredictable weather conditions:

• Pack a hat, gloves, scarf and warm, waterproof clothing to

enjoy the vibrant cultural scene and the natural beauty outside the museum

• Be ready to experience the Northern Lights in their entirety.

• Explore the history and culture of Iceland’s capital:

Take advantage of the opportunity for a guided tour:

• Explore the Icelandic Sagas:

Enjoy the breathtaking views,

• Consider the Reykjavik 8:**

for a variety of experiences that showcase the beauty of the natural world.

Remember:

• The National Gallery of Iceland:

A renowned institution showcasing Icelandic art and history.

• The Reykjavik 8:

• The Blue Lagoon is a popular tourist destination, offering a unique experience:

• Explore the gallery:

• Learn about the artists:

Discover the stories behind the paintings and sculptures in the museum.

• Experience Iceland’s natural beauty:

The Icelandic National Museum showcases history and culture through art.

• National Museum of Iceland:
• Explore a variety of exhibits: showcasing Icelandic history, including artifacts from the Viking Age.**

Visit the Blue Lagoon:

• Enjoy the geothermal waters:** Remember to book your tickets in advance!
• Learn about the history:

The Icelandic Saga:

The Harpa Concert Hall and the Icelandic Sagas:

Take a trip to experience them yourself:

• The Icelandic National Museum:

Experience the unique beauty of Reykjavik’s natural world.