Europe’s northernmost capital city is rapidly gaining a name for itself as a tasty holiday destination although it’s had to exert little effort to achieve this reputation. Mother Nature was kind enough to bless Reykjavik with unique and fascinating geological and geographical features such as hot spring and geysers, lively volcanoes, lava deserts and the midnight sun. There’s also a thriving evening entertainment scene, however, which many will say is an inherent part of the city’s appeal.
The old quarter of the city can be managed on foot and is home to interesting venues such as the National Museum and the Árni Magnússon Institute. Bars and other night spots transform this historic district into a veritable pleasure dome once evening arrives although with the sun setting as late as 12.05am in July and as early as 3.30pm in December, it can be difficult to know exactly when the evening starts.
The Blue Lagoon thermal baths are reached easily from Reykjavik and are well known for thermally heated and bright blue colored waters. With this natural phenomenon exploited to the maximum for human gain, the attraction has changing facilities and a modern leisure center. Visitors follow an informal program of natural spa treatments.
Highlights
Blue Lagoon: thermal waters and mud baths amid a lava rock landscape, what more could you ask for?
The National Gallery of Iceland: home to the country’s most significant collection of Icelandic artworks.
The National Museum of Iceland: home to a variety of artifacts including religious and folk relics and tools from the early days of the country’s settlement.
Botanical Gardens: lush greenery is in abundance at this popular greenbelt area that offers interesting indigenous flora, walking trails and water features.
Einar Jónsson Museum: several hundred pieces by the country’s most prestigious sculptor (now deceased) are on display at this fascinating museum.