Top 9 attractions in Reykjavik

While in Reykjavik, you always have a choice of many options for what to do. Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is surrounded by a picturesque landscape that adds a number of interesting and entertaining sightseeing routes. Below we provide a list of nine main attractions of the capital of Iceland.

Blue Lagoon

The famous Icelandic geothermal spa resort Blue Lagoon is one of the island's most visited attractions. The resort is located 40 minutes from Reykjavik and 20 minutes from Keflavik International Airport. Geothermal springs are located in solidified lava flows. The warm water of the springs is rich in minerals and minerals (such as sulfur and silicon dioxide) that help treat a number of skin diseases. Thermal springs are open to the public from early morning to late evening in any weather.

Shopping

Shopping for local crafts and designer shops is a great way to pass the time. The Kringlan shopping center is one of the largest in the Icelandic capital. You can also visit one of the 150 Icelandic souvenir shops. The best Icelandic fur clothes are sold at the prestigious "Eggert" on Sklavrdustgur 38. Remember that if you use the Norden Voyager Card, you can get a number of discounts in Iceland.

Whale watching

One of Iceland's most breathtaking natural experiences is whale watching on the high seas. In Reykjavik, you can find a number of offers to buy a whale watching tour. The whale watching season in Iceland lasts from the end of March to the end of October. Some tour operators may also offer high seas fishing, which will include whale watching.

Nightlife in Reykjavik

Nightlife in Reykjavik starts quite late (nightclubs and bars open mostly after midnight). The capital of Iceland has countless bars, nightclubs, pubs and nightlife restaurants where you can have fun.

Perlan

Perlan is a unique building located in Reykjavik. Perlan was built in 1988. Inside the building there is an artificial spouting geyser, a winter garden, as well as a number of premises for fairs, exhibitions and concerts. On the fourth floor of Perlan there is an observation tower, on the corners of which special panoramic telescopes are placed. Above the observation tower is a special glass dome, inside of which there is a revolving restaurant. Also on the fourth floor is a number of souvenir and gift shops. In addition, the Saga Museum, dedicated to the history of Iceland and the life of the ancient Icelanders, is also located on the territory of Perlan.

Museums in Reykjavik

Museums in Reykjavik are great for family visits. The National Museum and the Saga Museum will introduce you to the ancient history of the island in an interactive way, you can learn about the history of the Icelandic Vikings, their way of life and customs. At the Reykjavik City Museum, you can see a special outdoor performance dedicated to the life of the ancient Icelanders. The Reykjavik City Museum is the largest open-air museum in Iceland. The museum is dedicated to the history of Reykjavik and Iceland from ancient times to the present day. In addition to historical museums, you can visit the Reykjavík Art Museum, dedicated to visual art, as well as its Harbor House branches and the Sculpture Museum in Laugardalur.

Church of Hallgrímur

Hallgrimskirkja (or Hallgrímur Church) is a Lutheran church located in the center of Reykjavík. Hallgrímskirkja is the fourth tallest building in Reykjavik and can be seen from anywhere in the city. The height of the building is 74.5 meters. The name of the building comes from the name of the Lutheran preacher Hallgrímur Pétursson, who lived in Iceland in the 17th century. The construction of the church began in 1945 and was finally completed only in 1986. In front of the building there is a monument to the Scandinavian navigator Leif the Happy. Inside the church is a mechanical organ with more than 5,000 pipes.

Videy Island

Located near Reykjavik, the island of Videy is one of the most interesting historical sites in Iceland. The island is located a few minutes sail from the city. The island of Videy was inhabited at the beginning of the 10th century. During the Middle Ages, the island housed the monastery of St. Augustine, which served as an object of pilgrimage. The island is home to the oldest stone building in Iceland, the Videijarstofa House, built in 1755. The building houses a restaurant. The island is famous for its many walking paths and paths, as well as the abundance of nesting birds. In total, about 30 species of birds live on the island.

Embankment and Mount Esya

Reykjavik is located on the ocean and the promenade is a great place for walking, jogging, cycling or rollerblading.

Near the northern coastline, 10 kilometers from Reykjavik, there is a volcanic ridge or Mount Esja (Esja), which is a popular place among tourists and climbers. The height of Mount Esja is 914 meters, the mountain is famous for its almost year-round (except for summer) snow cover.