The largest city in Europe’s northernmost nation, Reykjavik is also a very small one, with a population of just under 120,000, which actually accounts for the vast majority of all people in the country. Yet despite its scale, the city is a highly unique destination, much like the country in fact, as one would expect from a nation built on a volcanic rock.
Reykjavik, given its small size, can easily be discovered on foot or by bicycle. Numerous well-maintained cycle paths, both inside the city and also along the stunning coastline make cycling very easy.
A great place to start exploring this marvelous town is the Old Town district, notable for its distinct homes with their bright colors. Sights to see include the National Cathedral, the oldest church in the country, and the Perlan Hotel, which is the city’s tallest building and the best place to get a panoramic view.
The parliament building, Alpingi, is another interesting place, found in the city center close to a very large pond, while the National Museum of Iceland is the best place to see some old Viking relics and learn about how they came to populate this once uninhabited island.
Iceland - Famous for Green Areas
Tjornin Lake offers a relaxing escape from the city, where both young and old come to walk their dogs and feed the ducks, passing by the old Reykjavik City Hall on the way. The City Zoo is also a popular attraction for families, with more than 150 different species of animal living there, and it’s adjoined by the city’s only leisure park, which offers funfair rides, a rollercoaster and swimming.
The best place for clothes shopping is Laugavegur Street, where the many small boutiques display a mix of Icelandic and better known European and American labels. Skólavörðustígur is a better place to go for those hunting souvenirs however, and is where most tourists come to do their shopping.
Entertainment options are plentiful in Reykjavik, if somewhat slightly different to what’s on offer in most Western capitals. Being such a small place, the countryside is easily accessible for a day trip, which makes hiking, the Icelander’s national pastime, a very realistic option. Additionally, the more adventurous will find plenty of opportunities for mountain climbing near Reykjavik, while horse riding is also popular.
Fishing and More
Reykjavik Harbor also offers up its own activities, such as whale watching and sea angling trips, which can be booked at one of the companies based there. Life of Whales is one of the biggest and most tourist-friendly operators, offering three hour tours for a reasonable 45 Euros per person.
Surprisingly, Reykjavik’s nightlife is also highly acclaimed – indeed many European celebrities come here just for a night out on the town, with its bars and clubs regularly staying open to 7 in the morning, blaring out live music. For a truly unique evening out, head to the Ice Bar in Restaurant Reykjavik, where the bar and all its furniture are made from real ice – if this isn’t a cool place then we don’t know what is.
Main attractions: Alþingishúsið , The Culture House, Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, Blue Lagoon, the Center for Icelandic Art , Hallgrímskirkja, Heiðmörk, and many more.
Currency: Icelandic króna (ISK)
Official language: Icelandic
Area: 777 km2 (300 sq mi)
Population: 120,165
Electricity:
- Voltage: 220-240 Volts (U.S./Canada are 110-120 Volts)
- Primary Socket Type: Europlug, Schuko
- Multi-voltage appliances (laptops, etc.)
- 110-120V electronics: Plug adapter + step-down transformer
- Hair dryers, curling irons, etc.: Plug adapter + voltage converter
Other places to see & things to do: Höfði , Kringlan, Laugavegur, National and University Library of Iceland, University of Iceland, Sæbraut, and others.
Images courtesy:Johanna, Wikipedia
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