things to do in iceland, reykjavik

Reykjavk is at its most charming around this pond in the centre of the city. The outdoor artwork by lf Nordal invites people to climb to the top and enjoy the view of downtown Reykjavk on the other side of the harbor. Relax at the Blue Lagoon, take a day trip to Gulfoss waterfall, or spot the Northern Lights on a nighttime excursion. There is a multitude of snowmobile tours that use Reykjavik as their departure point: you can traverse the Golden Circle, ride over seemingly never-ending glaciers, and cover far more ground than you otherwise would in a touristy minibus. The Best Things to Do in Iceland, From Puffin Spotting to Bread Baking Relaxing in a hot spring river, snorkeling between tectonic plates, and exploring lava tube cavesthere's enough to do in. Prague isn't the low-cost destination it once was, but there are still some amazing things to do for free. Even in the heart of the city, the landscapes are jaw-dropping, and its the perfect home base to venture out on some truly spectacular day trips. You can also add to the fun with a wine tour. At the tourist-favorite Perlan Museum & Viewpoint, visitors can learn all about glaciers, volcanoes and wildlife; the local ecosystems at risk as glaciers melt; experience what -10 C feels like; and soak in panoramic views of the Snaefellsjokull glacier and Reykjavik. With a 24- or 48-hour ticket, youll also have access to audio guides in multiple languages, explaining the details and history of the iconic sights as you pass them. Telling the story of Icelandic punk from the 1970s, youll see equipment, old-school tour tickets, instruments, pink jackets, and more displayed peculiarly in bathroom stalls. 875 Tours & Activities Why you are seeing these recommendations Reserve Now & Pay Later Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon Including Admission & Kerid Volcanic Crater 1,856 Reviews Reykjavik, Iceland Share Save to Wishlist From $219.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Select Date and Travelers Check Availability Reserve Now & Pay Later Alternate between hot and cold water, steamy saunas and cooling mists, as you put your senses on high alert. This is one of many fascinating artefacts in the permanent Making of a Nation exhibition, which has over 2,000 objects and 1,000 photographs, beginning with a longboat and ending with a modern airport. of His art is infused with drama and depicts contemporary figures and historic and mythological Icelandic and Nordic heroes. Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach - Devour a good book or play some music while grabbing some rays. 1 - Visit the Iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church The largest, most breathtaking church in the country, the Lutheran Hallgrimskirkja Church looms over Reykjavik in a beautiful way. * FUN TO DO: Whale watching (summer). Discover the capital's marvelous Harpa concert hall and conference center from all angles. The Reykavk Grapevine is Iceland's biggest, best and most widely read English-language publication. As an award-winning piece of architecture, just seeing the exterior is reason enough to stop by! Whats not to love? Whos hungry! Get to know Prague with this guide to the city's best experiences. After the steady walk up the spiral stones, youll find the small wooden shed with some drying fish inside a nod to typical Icelandic traditions. Hot tip: dont forget to head to the back of the museum to see the boundary wall, the oldest known human structure in Reykjavik! No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. With so many of its main attractions within or in striking distance of Reykjavik, the colorful capital is teeming with excitement, adventure, and learning opportunities. The architecture in Iceland is primarily low-rise two- to three-story buildings with pitched roofs. Hteigskirkja Church. Icelandic horses are small, gentle and smooth, and suitable for beginners. Read our Privacy Policy. Stand-up paddleboarding is becoming more popular around the world due to its ease of use and immense fun, so why not give it a go while in one of the worlds most beautiful cities? From the beautiful, idyllic mountains on the South Coast to the dancing Northern Lights, cute cliffside villages, snow-capped volcanoes, and bizarre museums (youll see what we mean), its fair to say thats theres no shortage of things to do in Reykjavk! Looking to kill two birds with one stone? 8. With over 3,000 species of all different colors, textures, and origins located in this scenic plant oasis, Reykjaviks Botanical Gardens are a surefire delight for outdoor enthusiasts and botanists. FlyOver Iceland. Beyond this youll have to be clear of the city, to avoid light pollution, either on a boat, on the coast or out in the countryside. Reykjavk is one of the best places in Iceland to see whales, as the city is couched in the Faxa Bay, a gathering point for a wealth of species in summer. Guided tours tend to depart from Reykjavk at 08:00-10:00 and 12:00-14:00 and return by the evening. Located on the fields of a former prominent Reykjavik farm, the Arbaer Open Air Museum showcases 20 wonderfully maintained buildings in the style of a recreational village with craftsmanship exhibits and vintage cars to boot. Discover the south coast with a guided visit to the famous Blue Lagoon for a hot swim in an ice-cold climate, or take a whale-watching boat tour. The undisputed highlight, however, is the stunning aurora that often dances above! Take a walk around the island, and explore its history and outdoor art, including Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower. You may have seen the 1990 hit movie 101 Reykjavk, which put the city on the map for partygoers. Flanking the 74.5-metre tower are cascading columns intended to evoke Icelands basalt landscapes, all giving the impression of a rocket taking off. Also on permanent show at Kjarvalsstair are pieces by Err and the sculptor smundur Sveinsson. #1 Northern Lights tour in Iceland from Reykjavik with PRO photos. One of the best places to visit in Iceland is the Vatnajokull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. Gullfoss is a sensational double waterfall, 32 metres high, while the Haukadalur valley has host springs, mud pots and geysers like Strokkur, which erupts every 5-10 minutes. Chances are high youll get to see a humpback or minke whale breaching, but theres more to look out for: Most trips will take you past Akurey, which has a sizeable puffin population. Activities 12 of the . The relief in the pine wood echoes the story of Yvain, the Knight of the Lion, a Medieval Arthurian romance. The Perlan building sits on top of skjuhl, a wild green area in the heart of the city. A brand new museum filled with treasures from Spains state-owned royal collection is set to open in Madrid in June. Go whale watching. The first museum inside opened in summer, and Perlan is rolling out new exhibitions and attractions into 2018. Next door to the Maritime Museum in the Grandi area is a waxwork attraction that brings famous figures from Icelands history back to life. Framing the city from the sea, Esjan can be done using public transport. All rights reserved. With a remarkable 95% chance of seeing whales in the summer and an 80% chance in the winter, theres no reason to avoid hopping on a wildlife sightseeing cruise. The changing rooms are very well maintained and supervised but do . 1 of 10. Sundhllin in the city center is an establishment sought after for its rooftop hot tub and the 2.75 m diving board. Or, to really make the most of your trip, consider any of the 2, 4, or 8-day adventures! One of the most unique diving locations in the world, the Silfra Fissure in the Thingvellir National Park holds the special title of beings the spot where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. It's also easily reachable by bus No. Simply put, the Snfellsnes Peninsula has it all: intimidating volcanoes, cliffs that hang over the sea, beaches of golden and black sands, the basalt pillars of Hellnar, Kirkjufell mountain, and dramatic fjords created over millennia. In conclusion, Reykjavik, Iceland in April offers an exciting . Head here for avant-garde and experimental temporary exhibitions by the leading lights of the contemporary art scene. Try happy hour at cozy bars like Veur, Port 9, or in sunny weather, the rooftop bar Petersen svtan. Iceland's capital city is the launching point for nature walks and mountain hikes, but it also offers ample opportunities to take it slow, walk around downtown Reykjavik is a destination in its own right with nature walks, mountain hikes, museums and nightlife to explore. While itineraries can vary a little depending on which operator you choose, the experience is always family-friendly. rbjarsafn was founded on an abandoned farm in 1957 to preserve a piece of old Reykjavk amid the intense construction taking place in the city at the time. Whales of Iceland. Reykjavik Family . One for the shopaholics, take an afternoon to browse and window shop down Laugavegur Street, stopping into delicious restaurants, renowned boutiques, and, if you havent already, the Punk Museum and Phallological Museum. Titled Wall Poetry, these murals are either inspired by individual songs by the likes of Mercury Rev, John Grant or Gus Gus, or are genuine collaborations between the street artist and music artist. This gives no hint of the marvels that are in store inside, laid out over two floors. Conceived in the early-1940s by Gujn Samelsson, the church was 41 years in the making and was finally consecrated in 1986. Riders a bit more advanced should try the tlt, a special and particularly soft gait. These ruins can be dated so precisely because of an eruption in 870 at Torfajkull that left a fine layer of tephra as far as Greenland. One of the most entrancing and unique things to see in Reykjavik was built in commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the city's being officially founded in 1786. Find a tour from the city that will take you to the dark night skies, where seeing the dancing aurora borealis up close is likely. One of the biggest and most famous artworks in the Reykjavik area, the grass mound and no-frills accompanying hut on fa Hill is a popular tourist spot for some, because of its comedic resemblance to, well, make your own judgment; for others, its the beautiful views of the ocean from the top! Discover the Slheimajkull Glacier. Dance your heart out at Kiki Queer Bar, or enjoy the quiet atmosphere and excellent craft beers at Olstofa Kormaks og Skjaldar. Feel the thrill as you cruise through the waves, breathe in the fresh sea air, admire the sea birds' skills in catching fish and watch Reykjavk grow smaller as you head out into the open ocean. While Iceland isnt renowned for its food, that doesnt mean it has nothing to offer quite the contrary, in fact. What is the Reykjavik Grapevine? One of them, Viey, is accessible by a 5-minute ferry ride. Just in front is a statue of Leif Eriksson, the Norse explorer credited as the first European to set foot on American soil at the turn of the 11th century. The adventure begins when a private driver-guide picks you up from your Reykjavik hotel. Keen to check out the Valley of The Thousand Rivers? It makes up 8% of Iceland's landmass with countless stunning ice caves, each a marvelous feat of nature. 1. With beautiful golden sand, the Nauthlsvk Geothermal Beach is replenished by the sea and has its own geothermal waters, so its temperature is a few degrees higher than the open water. Theres a blacksmiths house, a stable, a labourers cottage with an exhibition about life in the Great Depression, a general store, a drill used for gold mining and much more. There is an array of events for people of all ages, concerts and street food. See Tripadvisor's 602,779 traveler reviews and photos of Reykjavik rainy day attractions If you're in the city center, walk up Sklavruholt to Hallgrmskirkja church and take the elevator up to the tower for a fantastic view of the city's colorful houses. The capital is known for its array of outdoor sculptures. Picking crowberries and bilberries is a seasonal ritual for Icelanders young and old. Many will have a stage for live music, and the only times youll have to pay a cover charge is when theres a band playing. See Tripadvisor's 602,779 traveler reviews and photos of Reykjavik free attractions Theres even a bar in homage to the Coen Brothers movie, the Big Lebowski. Thats right, head to this converted public bathroom for what might just be the most unique museum youll find in Reykjavik (and that includes the Phallological one). There are so many cool things to do in Reykjavik, from the Sky Lagoon to Perlan to the Northern Lights! The Great Geysir (true to its name) is the first water feature in the world to bear the name that inspired those internationally. If you're traveling with kids, there's plenty of family fun to be had. Set in a warehouse in the old harbor, the charming Kolaportid Flea Market is full of bizarre souvenirs and edibles: from vintage clothing to fermented fish, candies, and second-hand homewares, youre sure to find something that piques the interest. here are the best things to do in Greece. More Best Things To Do in Reykjavik. The Elding ferry service has regular crossings to Viey, unmissable for its historical architecture and modern culture. For more freedom you can rent your own car. Discover the best top things to do in Reykjavk. Just catch the 15 from the Hlemmur bus terminal, and then at Hholt in Mosfellsbr change for the 57, which will deposit you at the hiking centre at the foot of the mountain. But believe it or not, youre mere minutes from the center of town! Natural Wonders, Free, . 6. Other noteworthy festivals include Reykjavk International Film Festival, the famous Iceland Airwaves music festival in the autumn, and the biennial Reykjavk Arts Festival. National Theatre of Iceland. This is the ultimate guide to visiting Iceland in October! Man soaking in natural hot springs surrounded by nature Sam Spicer / Getty Images, The 15 best things around Reykjavk from hot springs to nightlife. If everything goes your way and youre in the right place youll be treated to one of the great natural spectacles, when swirling bands from pale green to pink, yellow and blue float across the sky. Crowd-averse people can even leave at night in summer, and witness these sights lit by the midnight sun before camping in the ingvellir National Park. For those spending more than one day in Reykjavik check our list of the best things to do in Reykjavik! Reykjavik Maritime Museum. 57, respectively. And with plenty of great restaurants and bars not to mention a renowned flea market -, its easy to step into the shoes of an Icelander while youre here! Popular things to do. Keep your eyes peeled the area is also home to countless exotic birds, like Gannets, Auks, and Arctic Terns. While the waters will be a little chilly (dont fall in! Opened in 1937 down by the harbor, this iconic establishment offers fresh lamb sausages (sampled by none other than Bill Clinton), with a variety of condiments and localremolai sauce. Through animatronics and eerily lifelike displays, the Saga Museum brings a wide Icelanding timeline to life, spanning from the earliest settlers to the Vikings and up to the modern day. There's also a campsite in the valley, so you never have to leave! For the most in-depth experience, be sure to pick up an audio guide! There are a few routes to the top or around the slopes and these are labelled for difficulty by a boot icon, ranging from one to three. Tours depart daily from the Old Harbour mostly on small vessels with a personal touch. But chance plays a big role because above all else youll need a clear night. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Find the geothermal pools where Reykjavk inhabitants did their laundry before washing machines and have a coffee at the family-friendly Dalur Caf at the HI Hostel. On a typical day you can go in for the cafe, restaurant and shop, catch a free exhibition and watch the 15-minute 360 movie about Icelands natural wonders in the Iceland Expo Pavilion. Built around the ruins of an ancient Viking longhouse, the Settlement Exhibition walks visitors through the heritage sites and life of the areas first settlers, showcasing amazing innovative exhibits that dive into archaeology, culture, and lesser-known stories. At Dillon, the DJ is Iceland's beloved "rock and roll grandma". It details all the hardships like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and disease that would have been suffered during the islands settlement from the 9th century AD. The museum is open June to August, but has a special Christmas programme in December. Sea angling is an exciting sport: Drop the line to the ocean floor and wait for a fish to take the bait. The stately white mansion you'll see here was built in the mid-18th century and now serves as a caf in summer. And while nearly every major city boasts a botanical garden, few can deliver the rare diversity of this one, thanks purely to its position so far above the equator. What better way to relax after a long flight than a visit to the Blue Lagoon hot springs! Horseback riding is of course more of a rural pursuit, but there are at least ten stables on the outskirts of Reykjavk offering one-off lessons, heathland hacks or multi-day adventures. Its GPS coordinates are 64.1466 degrees North and 21.9426 degrees West. At Vatsmrin, under 10 minutes on foot from the centre of Reykjavk, is the Nordic House, a cultural institution established in 1968 to support Icelands ties with other Nordic nations. On the fourth floor is an outdoor observation deck set up with telescopes and information panels, where you can see a glacier, the Atlantic, mountains and volcanoes. Its a unique way to see Icelands natural beauty, thats for sure. Discover less visited places and hidden treasures in the charming 5 municipalities of the Reykjavk city area. He saw his buildings as a Gesamtkunstwerk (all-encompassing art-form), and with his wife Elissa, took charge of the finest details like fittings, furniture and decoration. Some journeys also include stops in the stunning town of Akureyri. Remember to grab a bite to eat, perhaps at one of the gastropubs, like Public House or Kex Hostel. The Blue Lagoon is 31 miles (50 kilometers) southwest of Reykjavik. Walk where Jon Snow met with the White Walkers at a UNESCO World Heritage site; witness the gate of the Eyrie; explore a village that inspired the Wildlings lodgings, and check out where Daenerys dragon eats a goat through a waterfall! Admission is charged for the platform, but it's included in a ticket to the museum. 12 of the best free things to do in Prague: Czech out our budget favorites, Treasures from Spains royal dynasties go on display in Madrid's new museum, 17 of the best free things to do in Boston, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. From its drum-like stone base the beam rises as high as four kilometres on a clear night. Just outside the city center lies the Domkirkja Krists konungs, or the Cathedral of Christ the King a near-100-year-old church that is as stunning as it is significant. Locals love to come there for picnics and BBQ, play beach volleyball, make castles in the sand and sunbathe when warm enough. Or splurge a little and try out Michelin-starred meals at Dill, from reindeer tartar to fish stews. Tours run from Reykjavk by Viking Horses or Slhestar often include Rauhlar, pseudocraters with spectacular red lava. . For a perfect end to a day in Laugardalur, go for a swim in Laugardalslaug, try its thrilling slide, and have a "hot dog with everything" afterward. The tower itself is made of lights shooting into the night sky from a white stone monument carved with Imagine Peace in multiple languages. 25 Best Things to Do in Reykjavk (Iceland), Source: Vladimir Korostyshevskiy / Shutterstock.com, Source: Polina Shestakova / Shutterstock.com, Source: b-hide the scene / Shutterstock.com, Source: Roman Tiraspolsky / Shutterstock.com, Source: Roberto La Rosa / Shutterstock.com, Source: Jekurantodistaja / Shutterstock.com, 15 Best Things to Do in Marseille (France). Hallgrmskirkja, the main tourist attraction in Reykjavk Hallgrmskirkja is one of the most iconic buildings to visit in Reykjavk. Sea swimmers come all year round to swim in the frigid sea around the heated cove and soak in the hot tub afterward. * WHERE TO STAY: $$$$ Canopy by Hilton $$$ Midgardur by Center Hotels $$ Guesthouse Galtafell. Be amazed at not only its size 32 meters, to be specific but at how fast the water can flow through the Hvt river canyon. In VIP style, your driver will be waiting for you at the airport and share all kinds of fascinating tidbits en route to your hotel. And, of course, a glass (or three) or wine comes included. As what is officially the nations largest and deepest glacial lagoon, as well as the gateway to the Atlantic Ocean, theJkulsrln Glacier Lagoon is a natural wonder in every sense of the term. At these spots, every bite is an experience! Reykjavik has endless opportunities for adventure, from a vibrant art and music scene to a treasure trove of world-renowned cultural and historical attractions. Dont take cabs to get around (at least upon arrival)! Sun Voyager. Put down the books and stop searching the web theres no better way to learn about the former living conditions and social lives of the locals than by seeing it recreated here, especially when decked out in themes like Christmastime. And in between hikes, dives, and camping trips, you can explore ancient history, check out aquatic artifacts, or sample the wares at some marvelous breweries. Take a stroll down Laugavegur Street 3. But theres a lot of technology in play, like an interactive station where you can track whales movements in real time. Explore the Golden Circle. Be sure to catch a viewing of our solar system at the planetarium and stroll through the simulated ice tunnel before sipping on some warm drinks! "The Complete Iceland Travel Guide 2023 (Part 1)" guarantees an immersive exploration of Reykjavik's historical treasures, natural wonders, and cultural marvels. 612. As the most popular trail in Iceland, it should come as no surprise that Laugavegur is regarded near and far as one of the worlds top 20 hiking spots. The cozy Coocoo's Nest is popular for brunches the sourdough bread is definitely worth a visit and the Grandi Mathll food hall offers a view of the harbor.

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