Top 9 things to do in Reykjavik

Reykjavik might be best known as a starting point for enjoying Iceland’s stunning natural phenomena, but the capital is worth exploring on any trip to the island nation. Spend time in bars in downtown Reykjavik, known for its nightlife party scene; admire the city’s distinctive Hallgrímur Church, designed to mimic the basalt rock found throughout the country; or empty your wallet along Laugavegur street, a mostly pedestrianized area packed with high-end collectibles, woolen items, and minimalist boutiques.

Learn about the history of Iceland

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Reykjavik’s many museums offer insight into the country’s fascinating Nordic history. Start at the Saga Museum for an interactive way to learn about how the Vikings fought and celebrated – see wax figures depicting various scenes from the early days of the settlers (circa AD 874). The permanent exhibition of the National Museum, History and Heritage , shows more than 2,000 artifacts from the 9th century to the present. And for an even more tangible experience, live actors at the open-air Reykjavik City Museum – Arbaejarsafn – offer insight into how residents lived in the old days. It is the largest open-air museum in Iceland, and it traces the development of Reykjavik and Iceland from their inception to the present day.

Go shopping downtown

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It would be easy to buy a classic Nordic wool sweater, called a lopapeysa in Icelandic, and call it a day, but you would miss out on the country’s vibrant fashion and design scene. Spend time strolling down Laugavegur in Rekyjavik, the capital’s main street, and see nature-inspired minimal jewelry designs at Aurum; locally made knitwear at Geysir; and eclectic home goods at Myconceptstore, a web store that opened its first brick and mortar store in Iceland. Adventure travelers in particular should spend time in 66 degrees north, Iceland’s stylish and practical answer to the North Face. The outdoor equipment supplier began equipping the fishermen in 1926; Today, more than 90 percent of Icelandic residents trust the brand to keep them stylish, warm, and dry in the island’s unpredictable elements.

Relax in the Blue Lagoon

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While the Blue Lagoon is not located within the Reykjavik city area, this attraction is absolutely a must when traveling to or from Reykjavik. The mineral-rich hot springs are always perfect at 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and the silica and algae that color the water are said to improve skin and even cure psoriasis. The Blue Lagoon is located about 30 miles from Reykjavik, an hour’s drive depending on traffic.

Party until dawn

The city of Reykjavik is known for its colorful and entertaining nightlife. Note that in Iceland the party starts quite late (bars / clubs fill up after midnight)! People usually start the evening meeting at someone’s house before going downtown. There are countless bars, clubs, pubs and late-night restaurants in Iceland’s capital – you can spend the whole night visiting different places!

See the whales

For an exciting adventure at sea, try one of the many whale watching tours available from Reykjavik. The ocean around the city is a natural habitat for many types of whales (dolphins and seals are often seen as well). Tours also go through Puffin Island. The whale watching season runs from the end of March to the end of October. Another exciting option is to catch your own fresh fish on a sea cruise, now offered by some of the boat operators.

Eat at the pearl (the pearl)

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+354 562 0200

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Reykjavik’s landmark, the Perlan, is a unique piece of architecture, built in 1988. On top of the large tanks in which natural hot water is stored to heat the city, a glass dome has been built: under the dome there is a Revolving restaurant serving great cuisine! The dome also contains a café, while outside there is an observation deck with beautiful 360-degree panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Access to the viewing platform is free. Photo opportunity!

Sube a la cima de la iglesia de Hallgrímur (Hallgrímskirkja)

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Hallgrimskirkja Church can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. It is probably the most controversial building in Iceland. Its bell tower towers over all other buildings in Reykjavik and the church can hold more than 1000 worshipers at a time. It is named after the Icelandic poet Hallgrimur Petursson, and the grounds also house a statue of the first Viking who is said to have discovered America, Leifur Eiríksson. La Nave is open to the public every day; buy a ticket to visit the top of the tower for aerial views of the city.

Take a boat to the island of Videy

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Reykjavik’s Videy Island is a unique site that combines history, culture and nature, and is only a few minutes away by boat. Videy was inhabited until the 1940s and it is here that you can find Videyjarstofa, Iceland’s oldest stone building built for the Grand Sheriff in 1752. There are hiking trails around the island, which is famous for its varied bird life. . At least 30 species of breeding birds have been counted on the island. Videy also inhabits interesting sculptural works of art.

See the Waterfront & Sun Voyager sculpture

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Reykjavik is surrounded by the ocean, and the waterfront trails are perfect for a relaxing walk, jog, bike ride, or rollerblading. The city’s north shore is a popular area, overlooking Reykjavik’s iconic mountain, Mt. Esja Jon Gunnar Arnason’s eye-catching Sun Voyager sculpture is located here. It is a massive steel sculpture in the shape of a Viking ship. Stay with this sculpture during sunrise or sunset, at any time of the year, and enjoy an unforgettable moment.