1. Reykjavik’s History Is Fascinating
Its charm and bright colors are unparalleled with a fascinating history to boot (read more about that here). Visiting Reykjavik should be the first stop on your Icelandic adventure! Reykjavik was thought to be the first permanent settlement in Iceland, named such by a viking called Ingolfur Arnarson after seeing the steam rising from the natural hot springs. The word translates to “Smokey Bay.
Visit Reykjavik: The land of vikings, slaves, and exiles
Iceland was initially discovered by accident when ships veered off course north. It was founded by Norwegian Vikings fleeing from their king and the Celtic slaves they picked up in Scotland and Ireland during the late 9th century. Life was obviously tough due to infertile soil, high winds, and a harsh climate, let alone being so separated from the rest of the world. Thankfully, trade formed thanks to “The Father of Reykjavik,” a Danish man Skuli Magnusson, who established the first wool workshops there.
In 1798, the Icelandic Parliament was moved to Reykjavik from Pingvellir (for details on snorkeling the Silfra Fissure/Continental Divide in Pingvellir National Park, click here). After much struggle with Danish rule, in 1918, Iceland became a sovereign country under the Crown of Denmark. During WWII, the U.S. and British took over Iceland to keep trade open in the North Atlantic, finally granting Iceland independence in 1944.
When U.S. President Ronald Reagan and Gorbachev visited Reykjavik to discuss Cold War terms in 1986, the city sprang to life a new tourist destination.
After the economic and banking crisis of 2008-2011, Iceland’s stock market fell 95% and nearly all businesses went under. However, they miraculously managed to recover and improve their GDP higher than ever before. Along with fishing and iron smelting, tourism is now one of the top income sources for Iceland, providing about 30% of its income. MILLIONS visit Reykjavik and explore Iceland each year, with many using the country as a “stopover” destination on their way to Europe or the U.S.
2. Spas, Hot Springs, And Pools — Oh My!
Due to the near-constant level of sunlight there in the summer, Reykajavik is known to be a party-happy city in June, July, and August. It is also known for its plentiful swimming pools (18 in the greater region alone!), so stopping by one is a must-do if you’re visiting in summertime. Or if you’re looking for something a bit more natural, soak in the geothermally warmed water by Reykjavík beach, Nauthólsvík, for a small entry.
Visit Reykjavik’s swimming pools
Visiting Sundhöll Reykjavíkur, the oldest pool in Reykjavik (dating back to 1937) just behind the sight-worthy Hallgrímskirkja Church, is a great choice if you’re staying centrally located. Renovated in 2017 with new hot tubs and a sauna, it’s a great place for families with a children’s pool as well. Vesturbæjarlaug, the swimming pool in the west part of the city, is another option. The largest pool in Reykjavik is Laugardalslaug, within the recreational centre, Laugardalur. Here you’ll find a sports hall, botanical garden, zoo, spa (Laugar Spa), skating rink, and more.
The world-renowned Blue Lagoon Hot Springs and Spa
If you want to see the awe-inspiring Blue Lagoon Spa and hot springs, we’d fully recommend it (just a half-hour out from Keflavik International Airport). With scientifically proven healing properties, soaking in the water here is one of life’s most luxurious experiences. Plus, a free drink and mud mask comes with your ticket. Here’s the lowdown and why seeing the Blue Lagoon is a MUST-DO while in Iceland.
3. Most Unique Award: Hallgrímskirkja Church (Don’t Miss The Views From The Tower!)
Hallgrímskirkja Church stands guard over Iceland as both a parish church and a national sanctuary. Named after 17th-century clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson, author of Hymns of the Passion, Hallgrímskirkja is an Evangelical-Lutheran church. The building has been named the 19th most beautiful building in the world by Architecture Digest magazine, as well as one of the “top strangest” by popular website contests.
Architecture inspired by basalt columns
The unusual yet gorgeous architecture is worth mentioning, as we had never seen a church (or building for that matter!) built like this. Inspired by the beautiful basalt columns of the Svartifoss waterfall in South Iceland, the church was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, one of Iceland’s most well-known architects, and opened in 1986. A giant, noble statue out front pays tribute to explorer Leif Eriksson.
It also and houses the largest concert organ in Iceland, which is a massive 14 feet tall, has 5,275 pipes, and weighs 5,511 lbs!
Pay for entry into the church tower for the best aerial views of Reykjavik
Thousands visit daily, and admission is free. However, if you want some of the best views of the city, PLEASE don’t skimp and pay the $10 USD (ISK 1000) fee to climb the tower and look out over Iceland’s brightest, happiest city and ocean-scape. It’s 100% worth it.
4. Did You Say Shopping? Reykjavik Has A Store For EVERYONE With Artisan Items!
Whether you’re looking for Nordic nick knacks, 100% Icelandic wool sweaters, tea towels with puffins, viking drinking horns, or quality home goods, Reykjavik has the stores for you.
Clothing and home goods
Outdoor companies like 66° North, Cintamani, Zo-On and Ice Wear (similar to North Face or Patagonia) sell all kinds of extreme cold-weather gear, or fashion companies like Verslun Guðsteins Eyjólfssonar, GK, Aftur and Jör are known for their clothing. We enjoyed Geysir and Farmers Market (Farmers and Friends) for quality, durable clothing and home goods to take back to the states (like a wool blanket for instance).
If you want a simple souvenir T-shirt for your collection, there are numerous places to choose from. Don’t fret if you don’t find your perfect shirt; just keep looking! Nearly every shop has options (the same goes for pins, patches, coffee mugs, etc.)
Try their food!
We wanted a “taste of Iceland,” so we made ordering the lunch buffet at Restaurant Reykjavik a priority. (You can do a dinner buffet if you want to try more exotic meats like shark, but we didn’t want the additional cost for the fancier options.)
We also tried the Viking Restaurant, various Icelandic beers, and coffees from cafes. Once you mentally prepare yourself for the bill (Iceland is not a budget destination), it’s a wonderful experience for your taste buds.
You ABSOLUTELY must try the Icelandic hot dogs. Sold in nearly every gas station very affordably, they are a staple here and are different from hot dogs in the U.S. Don’t be afraid to get “the works” to experience their full flavor.
The Neighbourhood of the Gods
Some neat neighborhoods are worth exploring, too, like the “Neighbourhood of the Gods” (Þingholtin), which is the streets between Hallgrímskirkja church and the city pond. These streets are all named after the Nordic religion and include treasures like Odin’s Street (Óðinsgata), Thor’s Street (Þórsgata), and Loki’s Path (Lokastígur).
Reykjavík harbour hosts a flea market with lots of odds and ends for sale, including local treats worth trying (we heard shellfish is excellent!) Bargains are to be had on weekends from 11:00 to 17:00 on Saturdays and Sundays.
Check out Rainbow Road for a burst of color
Don’t miss out on Rainbow Road either if you’re looking for a colorful photo-shoot spot! In the center of the action and located near all the tourist shops, it’s easy to find. Cute bikes line the road, which runs downhill. Talk about picture-perfect!
5. A Cat-Lover’s Haven!
Central Reykjavik is known for their cats — yes, cats just perusing downtown like they own the place! Felines are a very common pet here, so you’re likely to spot more than one.
After about 2 hours, we found such a princess named Ophelia (with a rhinestone-lined pink collar) waltzing down a tourist-filled road, showing off her luxurious long fur and purring like she didn’t have a worry in the world. I gasped at her beauty, dropped my passport, and could only manage to point at her with wide eyes. Luke of course turned on a dime, snatched her up into his arms, and proceeded to lovingly stroke her. Soon a small crowd gathered, and a young boy tugged on his mom’s arm to hold the cat.
Ophelia decided she had enough of the attention and jumped down — momentarily shocking and terrifying us — while trotting carelessly into the nearest tourist shop. She went straight through the open doors and jumping onto the first table of hats. Horrified, we followed her and snatched her up, apologizing to the store clerk. He seemed unfazed, leading us to wonder… does this happen often here?
In case you need further evidence to prove Ophelia’s majestic beauty and wild spirit, here’s what we managed to capture. Yes, #LifeGoals indeed.
