Reykjavík City is a one of a kind destination. It is the northernmost capital of the world, a unique blend of metropolitan chic and country charm. Here you have all the hustle and bustle of a bigger city but add to that amazing nature that is only a stone’s throw away. From anywhere in the city you will have beautiful views of the deep blue sea or the magnificent mountains surrounding the city. We have made a list of 10 things you should not miss on your Reykjavík City Break.
1. Relax in a Geothermal Hot Tub
Swimming is very popular in the Icelandic culture and there are a many great swimming pools scattered around Reykjavík. Most of them are outdoors and swimming in the open air is a unique experience in all kinds of weather, no matter how cold it is. The pools are almost always fed with fresh, clear geothermal water and most of them also have one or more hot tubs and steam baths. Sitting in a hot tub, in the dark, during winter, when the temperature outside drops below zero, gazing at the stars, maybe spotting some Northern Lights, is an experience beyond compare. Locals also flock to the pools during summer to soak in the precious rays of sun. This is the cheapest spa experience you will get in Iceland.
2. Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church
The church is Reykjavík’s main landmark and the tower can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. This immense white-concrete building (1945-86) has been the star of many postcards and is probably the most photographed building in Reykjavík. Take the elevator up to the 74.5m high tower and enjoy the amazing panoramic view of the city and all the colourful houses. The church is named after pastor and poet Hallgrímur Pétursson (1614-1674) and the architecture is inspired by columnar basalt in the Icelandic nature, which you can for example see around Svartifoss, Dverghamrar, Gerðuberg and Aldeyjarfoss.
In front of Hallgrímskirkja you will find a statue of Leifur Eiríksson (Leif Ericsson), an Icelandic explorer regarded as the first European to land in North America, nearly 500 years before Christopher Columbus.
3. Go on a Whale Watching Tour
Whale watching tours are offered daily from Reykjavík harbour. These tours offer you a chance to see the great mammals of the sea in their natural habitat. The most common whales spotted include Minke Whales, White-Beaked Dolphins, harbor Porpoises and even the majestic Humpback Whales. These tours are educational and interactive and the experience is nothing short of amazing.
There are many interesting museums in Reykjavík. The National Museum is home to Icelandic historical treasures and displays artefacts from Settlement to the modern age. It gives an in-depth overview of Icelandic history, culture and heritage. If you are into more unconventional things, the Phallological Museum might spark your interest. This is a weird and wonderful place, especially if you are into eccentric and slightly creepy things. The museum is small, but it houses the world’s largest display of penises and penile parts. If your incline is more towards arts and beautiful things, you should visit the Reykjavík Art Museum.
5. Take a guided city walk
There are many interesting city walks offered in Reykjavík and you can pick the one that suits your needs. Having a local guide lead you through the city gives you a chance to get to know Reykjavík from a different angle.
There are many great restaurants in Reykjavík that offer an amazing fine dining experience. Many skilled chefs have specialised in turning local ingredients into taste explosions that melt in your mouth and bring tears of joy to your eyes. Still… the most popular restaurant in town is… well… a hot dog stand. There is something so Icelandic and amazing about the Bæjarins Beztu
hot dogs. They have even be name
The Best Hot Dogs In The World by the Huffington Post (so it must be true). Bill Clinton is probably one of the most famous clients to have visited Bæjarins Beztu. The stand is located in the centre of town and there are usually quite many people waiting in line for the delicacy. Be adventurous and ask for a ‘One With Everything’.
7.
Go on a shopping spree
Reykjavík is probably not at the top your list of the best cities to shop. That is because the city is probably the best-kept secret of the cosmopolitan enthusiast. Prices are usually on par with those in New York and when it comes to high fashion or designer wares, Reykjavík prices are usually more reasonable. The cities residents are quite fashionable and you will have no trouble finding avant-garde designer products to take home. Design could be considered a national obsession. Add to this the fact that all non-residents are entitled to a 15% tax-refund off a minimum purchase of ISK 4,000 in one store, making Reykjavík the perfect destination to quench your thirst for shopping.
8. Experience spectacular lights
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon, and to see them in Iceland will make your trip unique and unforgettable. These dancing streaks of light are visible in the dark winter months and the best place to view them in Reykjavík is by the seaside of Grótta Tidal Island. There you will be away from street lights and can enjoy the the show to the fullest. In Grótta you will also find a man made foot bath with warm water where you can soak your feet while watching the Northern Lights. It is an on-of-a-kind experience!
Spring brings brightness and unbelievable lights. The days grow longer day by day and the nights become shorter until there are 24 hours of sunlight in late June. During these bright summer nights you can experience the marvellous midnight sun.
9. Celebrate the hottest nightlife
The people of Iceland have mastered the art of partying and Reykjavík has become world-famous for its vivid and legendary nightlife. You could blame it on the long winter nights or the endless summer days, you could say it’s because of the remarkable quality of the locally produced beer and schnapps; but whatever the reason for this amazing Icelandic party talent, you should give it a go! Finding the right place to unleash your inner party animal should not be a problem as there are so many interesting places to visit.
10. Ride an Icelandic Horse
The Icelandic horse is a breed of horse developed in Iceland. Although the horses are small, they are not considered ponies. Icelandic horses are long-lived and hardy and they are so elegant, warm, cuddly and beautiful. An Icelandic horse has a strong personality and they are very charismatic. There are many riding tours offered from Reykjavík.
Thank you for reading our list of top things to do in Reykjavík. Hopefully you will be able to enjoy all these activities on your Reykjavík City Break or your Iceland Holiday. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you would like more information about the Land of Fire and Ice.
